News from Africa
DOUALA
I arrived back here in Douala but I have so very many problems on every side. Please do not forget me and please pray for me.
Bro. Walter
KOMPINA
We have some French brothers and we need the following books: ‘Heraut du royaume,’ Bibles for the new contacts, one Bible Dictionary and one Concordance for the Ecclesia’s use. Our postage system here is very difficult: any time you want to send us Gospel News, please send us some envelopes.
About the Sisters’ Class in Southern Cameroon; recently we were at the Douala Ecclesia and studied Rahab the prostitute, who hid the two spies, which resulted in them making a covenant not to destroy her family. Three months later, Jochebed, the mother of Moses was the topic at the Bula-Tole Ecclesia. When Moses was born he was hidden for three months, and after that the boy was put into a small ark and placed in the Nile and Pharaoh’s daughter made him her son. (Exodus 2:10)
I thank God who gave our brothers and sisters the sense of oneness to support the classes. May God, who knows the thoughts of men, keep providing and comfort your hearts till we rejoice together in the kingdom.
Sis. Patrisia Elumba
Sis. Patrisia Elumba
WEH
Our Lord is taking control of all our problems, for it is only on Him we rely, no-one else. As for Brother Peter, he is now in good health as we continue to struggle together to see that the Ecclesia moves on as God is in control of everything.
We are very happy to announce another three Brethren who were baptised here – Brethren Mue Dicksonchon, Douala Kpwe and Kpwe Samson Chou. We thank God for these newly baptised ‘babies’ in the Name of His Son and pray that God will guide them in their new life in the Lord, as they join us to carry on his work in the Ecclesia. We patiently wait the return of Jesus Christ here on earth, as he will wipe away all tears from our eyes because of the suffering and hardship of this world’s life.
Brother, it is good to hear from you that you now have your first grandchild, and we pray that God will continue to take good care of this child, and that she will one day become a follower of the Lord. Brother, kindly give Cindy and Duncan my congratulations and tell them to continue to copy the example of our father Abraham and Sarah by always being patient in any situation that comes their way, being one in the Lord Jesus Christ. I am sure this is just what has been happening, as they rejoice in their new Ecclesial Hall. Thanks to the group from England for their wonderful help. May you continue to preach the message of God in your country, as we do our best here.
Could you please send me some leaflets to give to passersby, as the few you sent me are finished. I will be very happy if you could send me some.
Brother, I was in CBM Mbengwi on last year to help two new students for recruitment this year, and so spent three days with the Brothers and Sisters there.
Thank you for all your help.
Bro. Kum Donatus Cheghe
Thankfully, I acknowledge your letter of condolence for my accident. May the grace of the Almighty be with the brothers worldwide. I don’t know how to express my thanks and praise to you, but may God bless you all.
Bro. Peter Kum
On this occasion of another year, 2010, I take this opportunity to convey to all of you our best wishes. 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.
Brother Kim's Mukambilwa
AHERO
Kenya is experiencing much famine and the government has announced a famine disaster. There is a lack of food and water and we need seeds badly, thus we need much help from anywhere, be it water or something to eat. I fell sick and I could not cope and am still weak and reading in my bed. The weather change, decline in crop output and decline in moral standards in the world are all signs of the last days when the Bible tells us that Christ, as our Saviour will come.
Bro Nelson Anyals
BUNGOMA
Receive my warm greetings in the Lion of Judah. We were displaced and only recently have I been able to resume my education and return back here. My spiritual life has benefited from what you have done for me; please continue to guide me. We have remained watchful for our Master and we fully understand that our endeavours will be revitalised by Him.
Bro. Wycliffe Wasike
I greet you in the Lord. Thank you for your letter, which I got recently. You said that you intend to delete me from the list of those who receive Gospel News. Perhaps as you have not heard from me for some time you may think that I don’t like the magazine. I like it very much and it is through me that you get many readers from this end. I therefore still need Gospel News to enable me to preach the Word of God to others.
Bro. Clement Fwamba
My family and I are enjoying life happily in our King, Jesus Christ. Many, many thanks for the books I have received. I am happy and looking forward to learning more about the Gospel. In our homeland of Kenya life is becoming harder, for example, the cost of 2 kg of maize flour is 100 khs. The government has tried to reduce this price but up to now this has not been possible. I hear that price increases have also occurred in many other countries. In America people voted for change and they know that they have succeeded but I know that things are still becoming harder and this shows that the coming of our Saviour, Jesus Christ, is near. As we are expecting Him to come we need to learn more about the Bible so, brother, please help us.
Bro. Maina George Wabwile
Bro. Wabwile with his friend Moses.
Recently we had a Bible School where we learnt some wonderful lessons about the growth of ecclesias composed of brothers and sisters, young and old, who have been called and chosen to serve God. We read in 1 Cor.3:1-4, 16 &17 of the qualities we should be trying to demonstrate in our ecclesias such as the following:-
After baptism we should endeavour to grow from being babes in Christ to become a holy temple of God and try to keep it pure in every way.
We should have a strategic plan and vision for the ecclesia.
Young and old, brothers and sisters should all make a faithful stand in our mission work and preach the gospel to bring people to the Kingdom of God.
Bro. Boniface Juma
In Kenya now, the harvest of food crops is good in my area and we thank God for that. Even though there are great reports of malaria in the country at present, I hope that with Christ’s help we can pull through all this; the sooner the better. I do not lose heart in the preaching field and exhort you also not to lose heart. I would particularly request some reference cards and cards on biblical topics and maybe some magazines and pamphlets relating to preaching sessions and conferences on biblical topics to guide us on our way to the coming Kingdom of our Heavenly Father. I now have trouble reading my Bible due to eyesight problems caused by typhoid fever last year so I would be grateful for some reading glasses.
Bro. Martin Situma
Bro. Martin Situma
CHWELE
We were so glad to receive your informative letter and really appreciate the help extended towards our group project, which will help us to build up some stores and also to sustain our project in future. We are praying to God always to give you good health and long life as you keep on helping us spiritually and materially while Christ tarries. His Kingdom shall be for ever and the righteous shall leap with joy when they see Him. We are courageously preaching the good news to many we are meeting every day and we have a good response and hope they will turn from darkness to light and so will receive the crown of life at His coming.
Sisters: - Jackline Wanjala, Doricus Manasseh and Emily Walwanda
DAGO
The Devil and Satan are thorny subjects here in Africa, where the majority of people and even some so- called Christian sects are still not aware of the truth on this subject and believe it to be a very big force competing with God in all aspects. The book you sent me has reached me at the right time to help in correcting people’s beliefs on what the Bible actually teaches on this subject. 2 Timothy 3:16-17.
Bro. Raphael Joni Aimo
KATITO
I am pleased to inform you that I have returned to the rural area, although I am homeless and still reside with a brother. The situation here is tense as there is unemployment, famine and drought of an unprecedented scale. Our weathermen predicted El Nino phenomenon rains all over Kenya but they are not accurate and many areas do not even see a day of rain.
The language of the Bible is often misinterpreted to mean different things and to ultimately alter the root meaning and its usage. However, the Greek word, which was the language of the times, for baptism, is ‘baptiso’, and plainly means to dip, immerse or sink. It is a symbolic act in itself whereby one is identified with death and resurrection. Under the water the sinful body is ‘buried’ or crucified with Christ, and ‘raised’ or resurrected with Christ when the believer comes forth to newness of life as God’s child. In this regard truly professed followers should teach and emulate what Christ and his followers taught. Changes of names had their significance in the past, e.g. Abraham (Gen.17:5), Jacob (Gen.35:10) etc. In this context we are very grateful to our Christadelphian pioneers for having studied the original language in which our Bible was copied i.e. Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek.
Bro. Lawrence K. Owiti
KIBERA
I have just come to realize that most of the people who want to join us in the service of the Lord don’t do so because they say that our church is too boring. The sermons are okay but there are no musical instruments to accompany our singing. There is a need to praise the Lord with songs accompanied by musical instruments. David, a young shepherd, praised the Lord using his harp. Anyway, this is one of the things we could rectify, in order to keep the church from losing some great people, and at the same time, make a service livelier. Typewriters are not in use currently because computers have been introduced in the world today. We should also change with the present current system of communication and version too. For this, I am requesting our brothers and sisters, wherever they are, if they are in a position to assist us in any way possible, to get musical instruments in our churches. I, myself, want to do an outreach of the Word of God but don’t have a microphone and other items needed in this work.
Bro. Samuel Maruta
Comment: There are a number of ecclesias who would like some musical instruments; if anyone has any surplus instruments, we would be delighted to have them. MH
Bro. Maruta with his three children, Ram, Liz and Tony
MIWANI
A slip of the tongue can be revealing and instructive. We were reading in Matthew ch. 7 for family devotions, when we came to verse 16, “Ye shall know them by their fruits.” The person reading accidentally substituted the word “faults” for “fruits”. It seemed funny at the time, but as I pondered the misstatement, I began to think that there might be more significance to it than it seemed at first.
Try this experiment: take a list of your ecclesial members and take a moment to think of each one in succession. Notice the first thought that comes to your mind for each one. Is it a fault or a fruit? If we emphasize each other’s fruits, it will foster appreciation for the brotherhood, it will make it easier to encourage each other and we will be more likely to follow their good example.
However, if we focus on each other’s faults, we will become cynical and eventually we will consider everyone a hypocrite. We will become discouraged as we become more and more disillusioned with the ecclesia. James writes, “confess your faults one to another”. While we do have a responsibility to be sensitive about sin in the ecclesia we must not become too critical about each other. All of us will have some faults as long as we are on this side of eternity. Let us know our brothers and sisters by their fruits, not by their faults, because it is more fruitful to be fruit finders than fault finders.
Bro. Peter and Sis Jane Omuny
MOMBASA
If God hears prayers, why is it that many times we pray sincerely for help in a matter and do not get it? Paul earnestly besought the Lord thrice that he might be delivered from the thorn in the flesh inflicted upon him, but his prayer was not granted, (2 Cor.12:8). He was informed that the thorn was necessary, (2 Cor 12:9). His action was an example for us – that is why for Christ’s sake he delighted in weakness, insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties, for when he was weak, then he was strong. (2 Cor.12:10).
If therefore, our prayers are not granted, we should conclude that their denial is part of our needed preparation for a place in that glad morning when “sorrow and mourning will flee away” (Rev.21:4). “I reckon”, says Paul, “that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that shall be revealed in us”. (2 Cor.4:17).
Brethren and sisters, we must train ourselves to take this view completely; sufferings are needful (Heb.12:7-11). “And we have the word of the prophets made more certain and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star arises in your hearts (2 Pet.1:19). This word of prophets states as follows, “The redeemed, without exception, will come out of great tribulations” (Rev.7:14, Acts 14:22). The tribulations will differ in different cases and different times, but tribulations are tribulations and are needful with moral objects in view. They may be “grievous”, as Paul allows, but if because they are grievous, we ask for them to be taken away, and they are not taken away, shall we dare conclude that our prayers are not answered? Not at all.
John gives us the answer to the question at hand – “This is the assurance we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will he hears us” (1 John 5:14). If we know that he hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have what we asked of him”, (1 John 5:15) for we could never wish God to give us anything that was not “according to His will”. Even our elder brother Jesus Christ has given us an example on the subject. He prayed earnestly to be spared of his terrible ordeal, “yet not what I will, but what you will” (Mark 14:36). Sufferings and prayers are to be answered by God. In this case they are part of the prayers of preparation, the necessity for which on that day we will see clearly. (2 Cor.13:12).
Bro Walter Wanyama Wasike
NAIROBI
It has been a long time since I last communicated. I have many Bible questions, I will try to pass them to the next visiting brothers we have.
Bro. Zachary Oluoch
NAROMORU
I have enjoyed the office work that I have been doing on a temporary basis since leaving school. I am looking for suitable employment, which uses my secretarial skills and gives me the opportunity of developing them as in bookkeeping or sales promotion.
Sis Angelo Chege
NDHIWA
We met with the Kenya Committee and did the elections for the South Nyanza region and now we have a new committee. I was elected as welfare sister. This year has been the toughest year I have ever seen single-handedly. I am glad I received some colouring books from Bro. Walker, as I have 100 pupils who therefore need a lot of materials.
Earth has no sorrow that heaven cannot heal. Having someone who understands is a great blessing for us. Each one of us is God’s special work of art; He works with whoever fears Him. Though our feelings come and go, God’s love for us does not. In time we can accept a great loss if we have somebody to bring us through it. God sends friends and companions to love and support us. Thus I believe that one day, with the struggle with the Acocks Green children, God will answer my prayers and the children will rejoice in Him.
For the joyful birds prolong the strain,
Their song with every Spring renewed
And the air we breathe and falling rain,
Each softly whispers God is good.
When faith is strong, troubles become trifles. There can be comfort in sorrow because in the midst of mourning, God gives a song, so I believe that God will give a song and joy.
Taken separately, the experiences of life can work harm and not good. Taken together, they make a pattern of blessing and strength, the like of which the world does not know. So I call on you, O God, for you will answer me, keep me in the shadow of your wings.
Finally love-
Where there is love the heart is light,
Where there is love the day is bright
And where there is love there is a rejoicing song
To help where the things are going wrong.
Sis. Emmy Aseyo
We thank you for the books you have continued to send through Sis. Millicent and we do need some copies of the Kiswahili Bible Basics. We are always pleased to receive one ecclesial copy of Gospel News and wish to request an extra copy. Please send us leaflets, newsletters and books that will strengthen the brothers and sisters of Ndisi Ecclesia.
Bro. Ukiru Jacktone
SINDO
I have enjoyed your service since 1999 and I do appreciate and pray for the Gospel News magazine to continue doing the work of God’s message until the coming of Our Saviour, Jesus Christ, to establish the Kingdom and award us eternal life. The Bible promises us eternal life so we must therefore continue to live with Christ till we die in Him. We must follow the patriarchs of faith in Hebrews ch.11. They died in the Truth so that we, the Gentiles, can be glorified together, Heb.11:13,39,40, Romans 2:7. Mark 16:15,16, Titus 1:2, John 20:31. Unless we acknowledge the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ,there is no eternal life, salvation or immortality, John 17:3.
I will talk about example as the best teacher. Our Saviour, Jesus Christ, is the head of Christianity and he won victory over sin and death. He is the author of our salvation, the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world. He is our mediator and advocate. Rev.1:18. He died and was raised to life, given immortality and power over the earth and heaven. We were baptized into His Name with a hope of being like him when he comes to rule and reign on earth.
The book “The Real Christ” teaches us to test whether we follow the right Gospel or we worship God or Baal. When you are baptised in the water you come out of false or fake Jesus and come to the real Jesus, the Truth – John 14:6. Acts 10:38. “God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him.” V.42, “And he commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one appointed by God to be Judge of the living and the dead.” We must follow the real Jesus who put away sin by the sacrifice of himself – I believe in the Real Jesus who destroyed the works of the devil, human nature. He fulfilled and made the impossible possible by doing the will of the Father. Jesus is the founder and perfecter of our faith.
Bro. John Owalo Onani
SUNA MIGORI
I am taking this opportunity to thank you so much for the magazines I received indicating the signs of the times and also the cards, which are of much importance to me. I wanted to know from you if I can answer the questions and send to the address shown, or to you, or if I just read them for my biblical strength?
Bro. Samuel Masara
Oh! Brothers and sister, be aware of sin, because if we look back at the Israelites’ lives we see that the Lord had a reason for letting enemies stay in Canaan. The Israelites needed to learn how to fight in war, just as their ancestors had done. Each new generation would have to learn by fighting the Philistines and their fine rulers, as well as the Canaanites, the Sidonians and the Hivites, who lived in Lebanon. As in the present world God has left bad people to tempt us, because although God has the power to destroy bad people, they are left so that we may know that the first followers of God were trained to overcome temptation. So my brother, be glad, even if you have a lot of trouble. You know that you learn to endure by having your faith tested.
Bro. Nicholas Odhiambo
Bro. Nicholas Odhiambo
I am doing fine preaching the gospel to the needy. I have moved to a nearby hospital, where the work is a bit much but I am settling down slowly. Thank you for your supportive prayer together with my brethren who had heard what had happened to me during the past violence in Kenya. Finally, I was very happy to read my article in Gospel News together with those from other brethren all over the world. Pray for me to gain more strength to overcome the devilish waves of this perishing world.
Bro. Benjamin M. Mwatu
TONGAREN
I always thank God for what He does in our lives. It is good that Tongaren ecclesia is now a lightstand for God’s truths and I pray that God may continue to guide us in his truths so that we may attain that coming Kingdom. My letter is only to notify you that Box 259 now no longer exists so all letters etc. should be addressed to me at Box 83 Tongaren.
Bro. Isaac Kapa
TURBO
I am very thankful for all your godly efforts of enriching me with spiritual food and I will be happy to receive more selected books and also some more copies of Bible Basics and some Bibles both in English and Swahili. We have had the opportunity to learn about the following subjects with Brothers Peter, Trevor and David at the Kanukuywa Ecclesia- The Signs in John’s Gospel, Who are the Christadelphians? and The Unity of the Brethren. These teachings changed my mind and the whole of our Ecclesia. Therefore, our brothers and sisters at Turbo Ecclesia hereby urge the brothers who taught these subjects to send us copies of the whole lectures, notably on “The Signs of John’s Gospel, “Who are the Christadelphians?” and “The Unity of the Brethren”. Also we require, if possible, “Wrested Scriptures”, and books on Timothy and Titus, for our ecclesia.
Bro. Emmanuel Milimo
I am very happy as one of your students, whenever I find a problem in the Bible. But please, if there is another study available, let me have some to continue my study.
Nelson Agyemang
We’re delighted to announce the baptism of Brothers PAUL, GERALD, DELYSON, BEBI-SABI, STANLEY, INNOCENT, JIMMY and Sisters SALOME and FLORA, all currently staying at the Dzaleka Refugee Camp. They are originally from Congo and Burundi. May the Lord be with them all the journey through, to His Kingdom.
Photos: The constant search for firewood and water takes up the lives of many women and children in the refugee camps.
I decided not to attend any church until I could start our Christadelphian group on 31 October 2009. Our Mission is to proclaim the good news about the Kingdom of GOD here on earth. I was once serving as an elder with the Jehovah’s Witnesses that is why I enjoy preaching despite the condition of poverty /refugee I am in. I believe God is answering my daily prayers. Thank you so much for your kindness and generosity towards the poor in spirit.
Bro. Innocent
CHIWALO
Adam and Eve sinned because they disobeyed God by eating of the tree of knowledge of good and evil and so eventually died. If we believe the Truth, we should strive to obey God’s Word and in God’s mercy we will be granted a place in His Kingdom. By grace we will rejoice together in the Kingdom – may it be soon.
Bro. J. H. Momola
Bro. Momola
EMBANGWENI
I request that you do not delete my name from the mailing list, as I wish to regularly receive Gospel News and the magazines you have been sending me for some considerable time.
I agree with you that due to advancement in technology many people are using the internet and emails. However, in my case, I don’t have access to this but am now using our Ecclesial secretary’s mobile phone (Bro Morton Mkandawire).
I have enclosed a photo of members of our Ecclesia.
Bro. Cleverson Ngulube
Mbawa Ecclesia
GONDA
Thank you for sending me ‘Present Day Events’ and other magazines which I feel are essential. They help us to know more about events in these last days and things which are happening in the world, - especially in Israel. Please do not give up sending me these magazines, which increase our spiritual knowledge.
Could you please send me Bible Basics in Chichewa.
Bro. Diverson Folley
As of now I feel better and still keep taking the T.B. tablets until I finish the number of days I was told to use them, and not to work hard: this will be accomplished soon, God willing.
I am very thankful for your note concerning the increasing costs of postage, which is stimulating more people to use the internet. I would like to use this method, but I am unable to do this as I have insufficient money each year. If God will bless me with more money I could do this, and I know that with God everything is possible, according to His will.
Bro. Robert Folley
MITUNDU
I thank you very much for your letter asking me to confirm if I wish to continue being sent the Gospel News. In the Lord Jesus Christ, I hereby confirm this. Please continue to send me the Gospel News – do not delete my name from the mailing list. Being one of the members of Badwa Ecclesia, where I gather with other brothers and sisters, we find the Gospel News is of great help to us.
We wish you every blessing on your work as we all wait for the appearing of our great Brother Jesus Christ.
Bro. Ralph Jickie
MZIMBA
The photo shows where I preached the Word of God together with my family team.
But here I am facing a lot of challenges: I always go out evangelizing door-to-door, visiting the patients in hospital, those in prison and many people are coming to hear of Jesus through that method. I do go far away from my home. Sometimes I sleep in the field due to lack of transport.
Thank you for sending me a book and Gospel News. I want to say how we appreciate the wonderful ministry that has made a difference in many lost hearts.
Here in Malawi we are eager to preach in many ways; open air fellowship, crusades, door-to-door evangelism and home calls, but we don’t have enough material such as books and free gospel tracts which could make the ministry go further. So please assist us.
Bro. Alfred Josi Kondowe
Alfred Josi and family
SALIMA
We have been going through the book of Proverbs, amongst other books. It is full of guidance on what we should do to live a practical life on this earth. Emphasis is given on the need to ask for wisdom, Prov.1v.1-5, 4v.1-6, 5v.1-6, 7v.1-5. Also we are advised to avoid indolence, Prov.6v.6-11, 10v.4, 13v.4, 11, 19v.15-16. Solomon says a great deal on the upbringing of a child, of the dangers of being a tale-bearer etc. In short, king Solomon is playing back what he asked God to give him in 2 Chron 1v.8-10. God approved of what he requested and added to him riches, wealth and honour (2 Chron.1v.12). Even a Gentile King like Hiram was convinced that the Lord made heaven and earth, and loved His people (2 Chron.2v.11-12). Maybe it was the wealth that made king Solomon acquire so many wives and concubines, which was an abuse of wealth.
Another abuse of wealth is with us right now. We hear of global economic downturn or melt-down, or credit crunch. It has so many interesting names. Could it be that those in the world didn’t ask for the right wisdom first? Or is our wealth causing man to react as in the prophecy in Luke 21 v.25-26?
Bro. Ignatius Maluwa
SUNA
Well I am fine under the Lord’s guidance and very much happy to thank you for the book The Real Christ I received from you, indeed it is good, we do discuss the topics with my family. Thanks a lot. We realize we are short on the English Bibles, could you please kindly send us two English for adults and two for the Sunday School. God bless thee abundantly. My postal address Bro. SAMWEL MASAWA. P.O. Box 1040. SUNA-40400. KENYA.
TSANGANO
We enjoy Gospel News and it helps us to change our bad habits. By this magazine we feel we are together with you. Because of your letters and other gifts which you sent us, we feel stronger, as we know that any problem we face we can ask other people who will help us, by God’s grace. Please forgive me for my poor communication.
Bro. Peter Mbingwani
The Mbingwani Family
ULONGWE
Agines, Jasiteni & Alranfe Chifundo
ZOMBA
I am glad since I have received a new bicycle from my friend who lives in the United States of America. You can see him in the picture standing together with me.
I believe that everything is possible because of your prayers. I also thank God because you have sent me Gospel News.
Bro. Nathan and Lameck
I believe, and with faith in God, trust you are feeling fine.
I would like to thank you for the books you sent me: Bible Basics, a study manual and Revision Studies. I am happy with your teachings. I declare that from now onwards, I am a member in your ministry. I went to the mission and we discussed my baptism, which is a very crucial thing in my life.
Brother, I would like to ask you if it is possible to send Bible Basics in Chichewa language? Here I have four people who want to work hand in hand with me spreading the gospel through our Christadelphian Church, and they do not know how to speak or read English.
I have sent a picture to you of when I was in the city of Zomba. I am on the left of the disabled person, to whom I was giving soap. I just want to tell you about this man – he uses two rods to propel his bicycle.
Bro. Lameck Niwawala
Bro. Lameck Niwawala and Mwabwino
Health and blessings in the Name of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who will return as promised 2,000 years ago, to reign as King, High Priest and rewarder! I hope and pray that you are quite well. I suffered greatly in the past. I had hypo glycaema, the level of sugar was lower than normal. I stayed in hospital for 9 days, was given insulin while various tests were being done. Sometimes I became unconscious and fell down. We do not fear tomorrow, for God is already there.
We are already well into another year. The bygone year was disastrous. Flu, Aids, Cancer or other viruses are present to decimate us. Live in the Lord, die in the Lord! “When you are in distress and all these things have happened to you, then in later days you will return to the Lord your God and obey Him, for the Lord your God is a merciful God; He will not abandon or destroy you.” (Deut 4:30-31).
Bro. Lilkan Ancharaz
Greetings to you in the hope we, as brethren and sisters, share together. In the time when you live alone and very isolated, there is nothing more precious than to have a visit or letter from a Christadelphian brother or sister. I write this to inform you that all your letters have reached my hands, but truly things are hard for me.
Last year I requested you to send me Portuguese Bible Basics, but suddenly you stopped giving other material, as previously in Zimbabwe. This envelope I am sending someone to post via Zimbabwe, not here in Mozambique, where it is very difficult to post paid envelopes. It is a year and nine months now without my having a breaking of bread with my family in Christ, and no communication with my family in Zimbabwe.
In terms of preaching work, Mozambique has not received much attention from the Christadelphian brotherhood for various reasons. The campaign in 1975 which removed the Portuguese colony from power, was followed by war and Civil war between factions that lasted until the end of 1992, and it was really unsafe to go there.
In the days of Jesus’ ministry he was asked by his disciples, ‘Why speakest thou to them in parables?’ The background to Matthew 13 is the second year of Jesus’ ministry. There are great numbers of people coming to see and hear him, but without any understanding of what he was about, or any real faith in him. The Pharisees and leaders of the people sought to catch him in his words and in his actions at every opportunity. In this series of parables, Jesus begins his teaching of the Kingdom of heaven. Abundant sowing, scanty growth, as one commentator puts it.
Moses made a request of God, ‘Show me thy Glory’ (Exodus 33:18). The Lord responded, ‘I will make all my goodness pass before thee, and I will proclaim the Name.’ Hidden in a cleft of a rock, Moses saw and heard the character of God proclaimed: ‘Merciful and gracious, longsuffering, abundant in goodness and truth, keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity, transgression and sin, and will by no means clear the guilty.’ Exodus 34:5-7.
Bro. Emmanuel Maugente
ABA
I am your sister in Christ ELIZABETH C.OJIKE, I am requesting the Bible Basics book just to improve in my studies about the Bible. Actually I was baptised on 19th of November 2009.
Sis. Elizabeth
I have received all the correspondence you sent me and I appreciate and also thank God for his maximum protection and knowledge He bestowed on you like Aholiab and Bezaleel, to whom He gave wisdom to work on the tabernacle. I am interested in the books you send me and I still need them, more especially the English Bible Basics for the proclamation of the Gospel message.
Bro. Elijah Eze, Jnr.
Aba Ecclesia
ENUGU
Thank you for the booklet you sent, it helped me to understand more precisely the issue of miracles these days. In Nigeria, if a church is not performing miracles and healing people, or even distributing anointing, as they call it, nobody will worship there. What people like these last days is where their problems will be completely solved. I thank God for the understanding we have concerning God and His Word in the Bible.
I am negotiating seriously with a local radio station to start our preaching. Very soon it will take off. I personally need your prayers for me to activate this because our people listen to and enjoy radio programmes more than television. When it takes off, I will inform you. I will need preaching materials from you.
I need an explanation of Daniel 10 v.12-13. I brought out the question at our last fraternal gathering held at Enugu, but the answer wasn’t satisfactory. So help! I also need information about the first and second resurrection.
My first son, a medical student at University, was immersed last month: the second son at University equally is studying hard for immersion. Please pray for them – their names are Obinna and Chinwendu Iweha.
Bro. Emmanuel Iweha
IJU-ODO
We received your letter, but it was almost two months before we did so. But it is not bad, whether late or not. Iju-Odo brothers and sisters say Hello to you, and to the brethren.
About the friend you mentioned to us here, we are quite close and near to that friend, although I don’t know him. I wrote to him with our address and phone number, but we have received nothing from him since, either by phone or letter. But everything is in God’s hand.
Bro. Joseph Kummi
ISIALA
I am your younger beloved brother Chika. We have about 23 members at Isiala, including five brethren, but I am the only presiding brother in our Ecclesia.
We have no books that will help us to teach our friends in our outreach gospel work, and should be glad if you could send us some material.
Bro. Onyeri Chika
OMAFIA
It is such a pity that we have to face all that we are passing through in this life, but we know that ‘when he shall appear we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.’ (1John 3:2). ‘And God shall wipe away all tears from our eyes, pain and sickness will be no more.’
I so much thank God for hearing our prayers and thank Him again and again for your recovery.
Thank you so much for the books you sent, and there is still a need for more.
Bro. Uka Egwu
| news from sao tome and principe | |
Here my dream is to open a PO Box and interest the local people here in studying the Bible through the correspondence course. I am in contact with some brothers in Cameroon still.
Bro. Victor Offiong
Greetings and regards from the Christadelphian Bible Mission, Wanjama. As our first year of communicating with you, please kindly help us with some Biblical materials for the Ecclesia’s use, like:
- Bible Concordance
- Bible Basics
- Gospel magazines and journals – for Sunday School use
- My Book of Bible Stories, etc.
Please, the above listed materials are greatly needed in this ecclesia. As you know, the coming of Christ Jesus is getting closer and everybody was charged with this responsibility of learning more about the Truth and preaching (Mark 16:15).
Bro. Lansona Foday
Comment: Whilst we send out as much literature as we can, the CBM also sends out secondhand Christadelphian books via Bro. Malcolm Cross, Grange Farm, East Cottingworth, York, YO42 4TB, U.K. Sunday School material is available from Christadelphian Sunday School Union, 1400 Warwick Road, Knowle, Solihull, B93 9LG, U.K. & Christadelphian Sunday School Association, P.O. Box 261, Enfield Plaza, SA 5085, Australia.
Bro Roger & Sis Pauline Lewis, visit to South Africa from New Zealand. STANDING: Bro Leon & Sis Joan Shuker,, Bro Moiloa Matshane, Bro Martin Munyangai, Bro John Shez,), Bro Sandy Smith, Bro Roger & Sis Pauline Lewis (NZ), Sis Leonie & Bro Paul Verster, Bro Emmanuel Mpambo, Sis Berdene Sinclair, Bro Pradeep Kana, Bro Jacob Lewis (NZ). KNEELING: Bro Zechariah Mulozhedzi, Yvonne Muller, Bro Travis Sinclai.
LUGUFU
Things were so bad at the Lugufu refugees camp, as we were not permitted to go out of the camp as usual. Finally it was closed in September 2009 and we were all transported and relocated to the Nyarugusu camp. I shall post you some material for printing in Gospel News.
Bro. Isidore Mwibeleca.
TANZANIA PREACHING CAMPAIGN
A few brothers and sisters from Kenya joined up with some from Tanzania on a house-to-house preaching witness.
Contacts in Tanzania: left Bro. Michael Juma, holding the CBM manual.
Top left: Bros. John and Michael of Tanzania – seated left Bro. S. Masarra.
Bro. Michael Juma, Johana and others of Kitembe sharing their copies of Bible Basics.
SINZA
A happy family in Sinza:
Sister Anna with her four-year old, Marilyn, and right, Winnie aged 14.
Nancy standing with Marilyn seated
BUSIA
I would like to mention two issues: you told me that if I am connected to the internet I will find much interesting information which can be read and downloaded from Carelinks Ministries Website, www.carelinks.net: Secondly, alas I do not have a computer and the internet café and printing is very expensive.
I qualified as a secondary school teacher with a diploma in education, but up to now I am not employed. It is seven years since I qualified. The problem in Uganda is that people with diplomas are not considered in the job market. That is why I wanted to go for a degree course at the University. I am leading a miserable life because of this.
Bro. Ojara Dennis.
Comment: We gather in Uganda many with apparently good qualifications are unable to get a job as most jobs seem to go to the relations of top people irrespective of qualifications. This makes me wonder if it is always worth the sacrifice and struggle of going to University. MH
DOKOLO
We are very grateful for the hard work you are doing in spreading God’s word all over the world. We have dozens of students in our area preparing for baptism and we need more literature to help in their instruction and so I am asking you for lots of Bible Basics to help meet this demand, so that they may obtain salvation – any help would be really appreciated.
Bro Paskweli Odur.
KAMPALA
I hope that everything is well with you. We are still OK, only praying for the quick return of our Master, Lord Jesus, to restore peace in the world, which is full of problems brought about by human governments.
I requested you to send us three books, one for me and others for the members of the ecclesia. I therefore wish to thank you for the books which we have received. In the near future if needs be, I may request some preaching materials.
I really want to thank God for the tremendous work you are doing in spreading His word.
Bro. Stephen Ogenga
KABERAMAIDO
Thank you again for your word of encouragement to us. As a parent to his children whom he loves very much, I have understood that it is good to have an email address and it is the quickest way of communication, rather than the post office. So I enclose for you my email address – please make it known worldwide. Email: opbosco@yahoo.com
Please pray for us – we have started a group in our Ecclesia with a few members (10 people) to preach the gospel. We use the book, ‘Where there is no doctor.’ It is helping us very much to reach our community through preaching: we teach the gospel, the Word of God, to give spiritual guidance and also help with the physical needs of the people. In addition to that, could you please help us to get more teaching material?
Bro. Opio Bosco
KIGANDALO
We live in a world of staggering religious diversity. One recent survey identified 19 major faiths and some 1,000 smaller religions worldwide. This variety offers people unprecedented religious choices, so it matters which religion you choose. Some people say that different religions are like different roads leading up to a mountain – to them it does not matter which road they choose, since all lead to the same place. They reason that there is only one God so this means that all religions ultimately lead to him.
But do all roads lead to God? Jesus Christ said to his disciples, “Enter in through the narrow gate, for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction and many enter through it. But narrow is the gate and difficult is the way that leads to life, and there are few who find it” (Matt.7:13-14). Was Jesus really saying that some religions lead to destruction? Or was he teaching that only unbelievers are on the broad road, while those who believe in God are on the narrow, ‘difficult’ road that leads to life?
Immediately after Jesus had said that there are only two roads, he said to them, “Be careful of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but really they are dangerous like wolves” (Matt.7:15). Later he said, “Not everyone who calls me ‘Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of my Father in heaven” (Matt.7:21).
If someone is called a prophet or claims that Jesus is Lord, it is reasonable to think that he is a religious person, not an unbeliever. Clearly then Jesus was warning that not all religions are good, and not all religious teachers should be trusted. So it’s the right time, brothers and sisters, to look carefully at the religions which are growing up every day. But note their actions, their beliefs and their examples. God bless you all.
Submitted by Bro. Samuel Onyango
Bro. Samuel Onyango
MBALE
Accept the greetings of all members from the Ecclesia who have found Bible Basics of great value. They are really pleased with the truth they have learnt from that book. It has really surprised those who thought they were Christians and from such I get very many requests from friends who need the book.
I am happy to inform you that the literature you have been sending has done a lot of good to God’s people. The used literature sent to me has really helped many and there is still a need, if God will kindly help you with this.
I was pleased to receive the parcel of Bible Basics, and I am happy when I read the book entitled ‘The Real Christ,’ which I am still studying.
Bro. Boniface Buyeyi Masakala
Mbale Photo Captions:
Bro. Teeka from Kenya speaking at Butitu
Baptism of Bro. Dismas in Lutagso Stream
Sisters attending the blessing service for the new baby of Sis. Robin Nandutu.
Brethren Boniface Masakala, Francis Makosia and Paul Boyd at a workshop.
NSAMBIA
Jesus said, “I am the door; if anyone enters by me he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture” (John 10:9). ‘Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth and the life; no-one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). “Therefore I said to you, that you will die in your sins, for if you do not believe that I am He, you will die in your sins” (John 8:24). I am very happy because I am going to Jinja for our youth camp.
‘And having been perfected, He became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey him’ (Heb.5:9). ‘For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified freely by this grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus’ (Romans 3:23-24). ‘Therefore he is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He ever lives to make intercession for them’ (Heb.7:25). ‘Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved’ (Acts 4:12). ‘For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ’ (1 Thess.5:9). ‘But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God – and righteousness and sanctification and redemption’ (1 Cor.1:30).
‘(Jesus) gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for himself his own special people, zealous for good works’ (Titus 2:14). ‘We give thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light. He has delivered us from the power of darkness and translated us into the kingdom of the son of His love, in whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins’ (Col.1:12-14). ‘For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost’ (Luke 19:10).
‘We must walk in love as Christ also has loved us and given himself for us, an offering and sacrifice to God for a sweet smelling aroma’ (Eph.5:2). ‘And they sang a new song, saying: “You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain, and have redeemed us to God by your blood out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation”’ (Rev.5:9).
Bro. Mangeni Rogers
Bro. Mangeni Rogers
CHAMBISHI
I would like to let you know that Innocent Kalyoka Ng'ambi was baptized by Bro.Denis of Ndola recently. We pray, God willing we will work together and form ecclessia in Chambishi soon
Bro Christopher Mwewa
I have received 28 copies of the Bible Basics books and thank you very much for your evangelism and your words of hope; please may it continue. My prayer is to God in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ that He will control all things according to his purpose. My wife Ann greets you and wishes you the best of health. Please give my regards to all who are called to the coming Kingdom of our Lord Jesus.
Bro. Kalyoka Ng’ambi
CHINGOLA
My living has become worse since I last wrote. The fact is, that since I was evicted from the house that I was renting I have not yet found another house for renting because of lack of money. My family is not with me at all as my wife and children have gone to her parents and I am with my young brother in the flesh.
Bro. Pinoty Chimbele
CHINSALI
“The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to show unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John: Who bare record, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw. Blessed in he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things that are written therein: for the time is at hand.” Rev. 1:1-3. The book of Revelation is a prophecy written by Jesus. As such it follows on from the previous prophecy given by Jesus, the Mount Olivet prophecy. In Matt. 24 and Luke 21, these chapters deal with the fall of Israel in AD 70 and the times of the Gentiles. Revelation deals with the times of the Gentiles until the return of the Lord Jesus. Note that by “the times of the Gentiles” we mean the period during which the land of Israel is occupied by the Gentiles. This is still continuous today.
Bro. Edwin Mfula
From right to left – Bro. Charles Kayula, Chinkumba Ecclesia, Bro. Edwin Mfula, Mandona Ecclesia, left, holding a sheep, a shepherd, at Fringilla Bible School, 30th July – 3rd August 2004.
CHIPATA
We are all waiting patiently for peace to come on this evil, violent world, even come now Lord! I hope this letter finds you well. Thank you very much for the letter that you sent which contains good news and encouraging words. My wife Diana and I are still enjoying your magazines, which others are borrowing; please continue sending them to me, together with any other spare books and pamphlets, like “The Fruit of the Spirit”. As you know, I had plenty of books but when Chinsali ecclesia started, I left most of them and shifted to Kapiri Mposhi and then again when I came to Chipata.
Just to think about some of the Scriptures, we have to study them carefully otherwise we will go astray. Let us try to build, not to destroy. Our Bible teaches us to ENCOURAGE one another, 1Thess.5:18. In v.14 it says in my version, “Now I exhort you brethren, warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all.” In v.15 we read, “See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all. We are all on a journey, like the Israelites, and we have to check in our heart if we are reacting to circumstances as they did. If anyone is, is it our duty to push him or to pick him up and encourage him? Hebrews 10:19-25 will tell us what to do because THE DAY IS APPROACHING.
Diana, my wife, and I, together with my children, Caroline, Beatrice, Junior and Phillimon, late Nelson’s last born, have joined me to send spiritual greetings through the Lord’s love.
Bro. Alfred Bwalya
FRINGILLA
Greetings in the hope of Israel we share. I have received the book about a sustainable organic farming course and a dictionary. I would like to have a book on vegetables and rabbits because as you know our economy is biting if you have no employment so if I find some funds I may start a project. These days I am not in good health as I am suffering with asthma.
The period in which we are living is in the last days, read 2 Tim.3:1-5. As real Christians we have already started seeing the signs, hence we need to avoid or challenge these times as we see things happening exactly as it is written. However, as Christians it is our humble duty to preach the Word of God everywhere and serve the spiritually dying people. Let us spiritually uplift our neighbours, friends, schoolmates and everyone. If we do what God expects us to do then we will have fought a good fight. Let us fear the one who kills the soul rather than the one who only kills the body. Lastly, I would like to announce to brothers and sisters and especially those who are interested to know my phone number, which is 0978 288 188 and my PO Box No. 63, Fringilla, Zambia. The code number for Zambia is +026.
Bro. Ignatius Chilekwa
GARNETON
I am sending warm greetings in the name of Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Please do not delete me from the Gospel News mailing list as I am so interested in it and I want you to continue sending the magazine every time. The magazine means a lot, not only to me but also to my family members, especially my wife, who is a Bible student and I am her tutor. She is happy when she reads the news from brothers and sisters around the world and how Christadelphians are carrying the word of God around the globe. This all encourages her and she is asking for baptism and, God willing, one of the C.B.M. representatives will come and interview her.
Finally, the New King James version Bible I was using has been stolen so I would be grateful if you could send me another Bible, as I do not now have one.
Bro Emmanuel Mubanga
KABOMPO
Warmest greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is love in Christ to allow me to translate the book “Introducing Bible Basics” from the English language into the Luchazi language. Such love in the Lord has overwhelmed me and it is like medicine and oil poured on me, the least of the least in our brotherhood, for I did not expect you would even consider me to undertake this noble task. Yes I know I can, for there is nothing impossible with God. His mighty hand will guide me. Pray for me my beloved brother for I hope, God willing, to complete translating the book in three months time and then send the translated materials to you for printing as we are doing the Birmingham statement of faith.
The Sunday School is going on well but I have not yet received Sunday School materials from the CBM. U.K. In this respect I need especially Sunday School books with pictures to tell Bible stories to help them to understand, since I teach them in Luchazi. When sending these they should use my address, not any other, for it appears that some materials meant for Malolwa Bible students have been diverted elsewhere, so they may have been used at someone else’s address.
Many thanks for your love in Jesus Christ even to the people at Malolwa. There is no government school yet at Malolwa but a community school, run by the community, from grade 1 to grade 4 and I am one of the people who organized assistance from the government in the form of education materials. This is therefore an opportunity for me as it is the same pupils that I teach the Scriptures to on Saturday and Sunday. They are aged from 6 to 10 years and are doing well in understanding the Scriptures. Pray for me that this work is blessed.
Soon, when the Lord returns from heaven and sets up his Kingdom, we shall no longer suffer diseases; even the mortal population we rule will enjoy its health benefits – no hospitals, no war, no famine, but abundant good health, abundant food, etc. I have put the Latvian project names on my prayer list to enable me to pray for them on a daily basis. May the Lord bless them all.
It is sad that there is growing in the United Kingdom a strong anti-Christian flavour in many of the political decisions made in the country which are really part of the time of trouble spoken of by the prophets and the Lord Jesus Christ. This is in fact true because even the number of people attending churches is dropping in contrast to those attending football matches and musical dances here in our country. This is a time like the days of Noah and Sodom. The Lord said that many are called but few are chosen. Happy are we, brother, because our names are written in the Book of Life in heaven.
On the issue of setting up a stall, I am pleased to inform you that I have set up a stall at Malolwa at the farm for essential commodities, such as soap, detergents, salt, sugar and mealie meal as well as cooking oil. I have obtained a stall licence from the local council and it would be a good idea if you could post more materials for free distribution so that as the boy sells items, he also gives at least a leaflet to each customer or selected customers who are able to read or write English. I have been doing this already but am faced with the problem of photocopying. God willing, it is my desire and prayer that the Lord will provide me with a photocopier machine and also a computer and printer so that I may even be connected to the internet. Pray for me that God our Father gives me strength to work hard and diligently to save money to buy these machines fit for the last age we are in. Nothing is impossible with God.
Bro. Reuben Musole Kaambeu
KABWE
I received the parcel on 26th October 2009 and it was nice also to find that my photo appeared in the Gospel News and also to have the book “The Real Christ”. Continue sending me more books to read if it is possible for you to do so.
Bro. Greenwell Kunda
KAFUE
I would like to inform you that I do not have internet or e-mail therefore you need to use my postal address. For sure, I would like to receive regular “Signs of the Times” and doctrinal information and “The Teaching of Jehovah’s Witnesses” and to assist, where you can, with preaching material.
Bro. Josiah Siame
KALOMO
Thank you for your continued effort in spreading the good news through Gospel News and other Bible literature. We are benefiting from your tireless efforts and may Our Omniscient God continue to bless the work.
Bro. Alfred Mututwa
KAMUCHANGA
Let us see what is happening around the continent. It is really terrible to see what is happening in the world and it is telling us that the hand of God is at work and everyone should accept this. To prove this we should accept what Paul wrote in 2 Tim.3:1-4, where he mentions some very important issues, the daily activities of mankind. He says, “Understand this, that in the last days there will be times of difficulty, for people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, slanderers, without self control, brutal, not loving God, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasures rather than lovers of God”. This is what is happening; all prophecies are being fulfilled. Jesus said, “Truly, I say unto you, that this generation shall not pass away till all these things be fulfilled.” Matt.24:34.
In 2 Tim.3:4, says “lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God”. If we look and see what is happening today around the world we see this is the case. I give an example in my own country; it is very sad to see at a shopping complex or centre there are many bars or taverns, you cannot walk past 3 or 4 shops without finding a bar or some sort of pleasure house. You find these places fully occupied with different kinds of people, men, women and young ones. Many people have chosen to go to these places rather than to a church. Again we see around the world, from the T.V. how people go to watch football, spending their time and money there, being lovers or pleasures rather than lovers of God.
In Matt.24:36-39 we read of Jesus saying to his disciples, “But concerning that day and hour, no man knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the son, but the Father only.” Warning them again he said, “As were the days of Noah, so will be the coming of the Son of man. For as in the days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day Noah entered the ark and they were unaware until the flood came and swept them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.” Surely many people will be caught unaware because they feel free and give much of their time to pleasure which God does not want. Surely the time of Noah is almost the same with us today. What can we do now? We should run away, the Day of the Lord is at hand, because we are seeing many things happening to human life that have been foretold. Jesus says in Matt.24:42, “Watch therefore, for ye know not what hour your Lord is coming.”
In Gen.7:11, we read, “In the six hundredth year of Noah’s life, in the second month, the seventeenth day of the month, the same day were all the fountains of the great deep broken up, and the windows of heaven were opened.” All living creatures, including man, were swept away, except Noah’s family (because they did not love the pleasures as those did). Even today many shall be caught up with pleasures, unaware that Christ’s coming is at hand. Therefore we are warned by Christ Jesus finally in Matt.24:45-51, “Who then is a faithful servant and wise, whom his master has set over his household, to give them their food at the proper time? Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes. Truly, I say to you, he will set him over all his possessions. But if that wicked servant says to himself, my master is delayed and begins to beat his fellow servant and eats and drinks with drunkards, the master of that servant will come in an hour he does not know and will cut him in pieces and put him with the hypocrites. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”
Bro. Katongo Davies Mulenga
KAPIRIMPOSHI
Warm greetings of peace and love in the Lord. It was great to hear that you have received my letter and all the photos I have sent to you so that you can see how the servants of the Lord are doing as the day of his coming approaches. In the last letter I wrote to you we requested three English Bibles, NIV version. There are some brethren in our exhortation plan who do not have Bibles so it is very difficult for them to prepare some topics without reference chapters.
Bro. Chisosa Ostine
Bro. Chisosa Ostine’s house and his wife, Sis. Aginess
KASAMA
Please help me by finding out the syllabus from London City and Guilds for my son Joshua Willie Ilananye, as he is keen on building engineering and would like to do a building engineering course. I send my love and appreciation for your support.
Bro. Joshua Mushili
LIVINGSTONE
Warmest greetings of love and peace in Christ. I am sorry for being silent for a long time due to difficulties I am facing in this present world; however, God is in control and I am back indeed strong in the Lord, the only certain hope in life. I have to express my sincere thanks to you for granting my request and I look forward to receiving some notes on my questions and other spiritual material. I really appreciate all the wonderful things sent to me about the Bible, through our Lord Jesus Christ. The events of today are a sign that this world is not perfect; nearly everyone wants to be rich and be proud of his wealth.
In the past God blessed some of his servants with material wealth, King Solomon being a good example of that, (1 Kings 10:23). Solomon lived in luxury and that sort of life always endangers a person’s relationship to God. That is why God warned him to be careful how he lived from then on and wanted him to remember that obedience to His commandments is more important in His sight than all the best and biggest things one can have, (1 Kings 9:3-5). He blesses those who please Him, (Prov.10:22). Jesus taught that narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life and there are few who find it, (Matt.7:14). Our task is to grow from the natural ways of men to spiritual principles (Col.3:16). We must trust in God’s promises and we shall be blessed and empowered to gain the good things of this life and rewarded as well as we look forward to Christ’s return.
With sadness, but in the hope of the resurrection, we inform you of the falling asleep of Bro. Elijah Zulu. After his baptism he was active in ecclesial work.
Bro. Cephas Sikanyika
I was delighted to receive a letter of thanks from Brother Caphes Sikanyika for the carpentry book that I sent via yourself. He enclosed a photo and I hope that you receive it with this e-mail. I shall reply to him and I hope that we can create a relationship. With love in the Truth, Bro. Roy Soffe.
Bro. Caphes Sikanyika
LUSAKA
Thank you so much for the endless support you have shown me. My prayer is that we can continue to labour together for Our Master and do everything in the interests of our brothers and sisters as they continue to read and write more articles. I am well, despite struggling to find a job which I will call my stepping stone as I try to make a living and I hope that the God I serve will never disappoint me even though I am unstable until now. Please continue to send me books that will help me to stand firm in the Lord. Please include me in your prayers so that I may find a job. I thank CAT for the King James Bible, which has helped me to understand some of my studies.
Bro. Stephen Siamabi
MUFULIRA
Greetings in the same hope we have in Christ. Thank you for your letter and also for the book “The Real Christ”, which Bro. Duncan has written and was sent to me. Also thank you for that letter which you sent for me to Bro. Graham Clements and the two coupons.
Bro. Charles M. Daka
NDOLA
Thanks to the Lord for your letter and the parcel and I pray for His good hands to be upon you up to the end of time. In Zambia we are all well but the bad thing is that unknown people entered into my room and got away with my shoes and clothes and my book “Where there is no Doctor”.
I thank the CBM Zambia for giving me the opportunity to accompany Bro. Arnold Kunda of Lusaka, Matero Ecclesia to visit Bro. James Kahjinga of Mwinilunga who reported that he had 20 students. To our surprise on arrival at The Boma we did not meet one of those students for three days. It was a disappointing journey as it was fruitless.
I was also given another opportunity to visit brothers and sisters in Kabompo and I accompanied Bro. Denis Kombe of Ndola. It was a fruitful journey but we lost one of our brothers in the Lord, Bro. Charles Muhupu, who has fallen asleep in the Lord. As we read in 1 Thessolonians 4:13-15, “But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.” And v.18 says, “Wherefore comfort one another with these words.” The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all, Amen.
Bro. Harris Ndong’a Mulongesha
BANKET
Congratulations to Duncan and his wife Cindy for having a baby girl. I am very pleased to learn that the meeting hall at Latvia, which holds seventy people, was completed. We thank our Heavenly Father for providing guidance and protection.
We are with you all in our prayers, though separated by long distances. Thanks to God for your quick recovery from your hospitalisation. Once again I would like to thank you very much for your invaluable help. I have received the book, ‘The Real Christ.’ May God bless all your efforts to bring the news to all nations.
Bro. David Banda Yelulani
BINDURA
I thank God for His calling. I received God as my personal Saviour in 1998 at Muriel Mine. God called me to the Truth and I responded – the darkness which was in me was outshone by the light that shone and lifted me high to become a child of God. I have helped many people to shun the darkness, and then suddenly the mine closed and God directed me to Redwing Mine, Penhalonga in Mutare.
This was not a natural transfer but it was a spiritual one between me and my God. Before I accomplished my teaching ministry there was another call at Mazowe mine. At Redwing I stayed for three weeks. Now at Mazowe it’s been nine years and God has used me in winning some to the Truth, and has even shown me that I can do more in the teaching ministry. If we stick to God’s Word, He will never forsake us.
Now God has called me to Bindura for a purpose; after I went to Ngezi area for greener pastures, when I thought physically that it was ripe, spiritually God diverted me to Bindura where I am set to live, God willing.
I am now meeting regularly with Bro Cliff Madziyo and Brother Joseph Wlucheri for fellowship. May God bless my new home. Remember we were commanded to preach the gospel to all nations. As Mashonaland Central Co-ordinator I have planned to visit all the brothers and sisters in the province, God willing. I know that with God nothing is impossible.
Bro. John Wise
Bro. John Wise & family members at Mazowe.
BULAWAYO
Why at the time of the last Supper, when Jesus washed his disciples’ feet, were the women not washed on that day?
A Students question
Comment: There is no mention of Sisters being present at this meal. Jesus said, ‘Ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you’ (John 15v.3). Paul refers to the Word of God as the cleansing agent in our lives, ‘That he might sanctify and cleanse it (the church) with the washing of water by the Word’ (Eph.5v.26; Heb.10v.10-22). All races, male and female, are united to Christ through belief and water baptism (Gal.3v.27-29). So, you have, as it were, already been washed by your acceptance of the Word and baptism (1 Cor.6v.11). MH
CHEGUTU
I would like to thank you very much for the great work all your people are doing in spreading the word. Meanwhile, I have regained my health and I am endeavouring to find employment and work for the upkeep of my family. I pray that God willing I will accomplish this mission
Bro. Richard Phiri
The Gospel has been going on well here, although things are not yet stable at the moment. I have been trying very hard to do my best to spread the Word so that people in our area know who are the Christadelphians.
The message that Paul wrote to the Corinthians was true, (1 Cor 11v.17-34)
and it’s happening in our meetings. Also when I look at how some of us take the emblems, it seems to be in a wrong way. We overlook the message and at the end, why do we blame someone? Verse 17, ‘In the following directives I have no praise for you, for your meetings do more harm than good. In the first place, I hear that when you come together as a church, there are divisions among you.’ v.19 ‘No doubt there have to be differences among you to show which of you have God’s approval.’ Yet why take the emblems when there is a dispute among us, be it socially or at our meeting? We are quick to think that the emblems will make us pure, when in our hearts there is hatred. First we must purify our hearts, then we are able to face the Lord’s Table.
Verse 27: ‘Therefore whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord’. This verse makes me tremble when I come to face the table and my mind runs around to see if I have any black spot that will make me unsuitable to take the emblems v.28: ‘A man ought to examine himself before he eats of the bread and drinks of the cup.’ It is our duty first to see to it that we are pure, and then take the Supper. But do we do that, or do we carry on because we don’t want to be seen not taking the emblems by the brother or sister next to us? Rather, let us remember that God sees us. v.29-30: ‘For anyone who eats and drinks without recognizing the body of the Lord, eats and drinks judgment on himself. That is why many among you are weak and sick, and a number of you have fallen asleep.’ The Word says it all, but do we actually want to do what it says? Now let us heed the warning given by Paul, first examine ourselves, repent and pray for forgiveness and then partake in a worthy manner of the emblems of the body and blood of our Saviour Jesus.
Bro. Farai Phiri
CHIPINGE
Greetings in the sure hope of the Kingdom of God here on earth.
I am sorry this letter is short, but please see the enclosed photos of our Village Bible Education Centre.
Bible students pause for photography. We normally do our Bible studies under the trees because we don’t have a good place to use as a study room.
Left to right: Sis. Evelyn and a Bible student who has been marvelous in her Bible studies, following Bible Basics and is now waiting for her interview.
This is how we show people what we are offering, and our aim is to make our beliefs known throughout the village.
We are building a two-roomed house which, once finished, I will move into from the thatched house, and use the 2nd room as a study, God willing.
The Truth meets with small success here as elsewhere. As brethren of Christ I think we should cease to hide our light under a bushel, so that men might be attracted by the glimmering and be drawn to the blessed light of life. I always ask myself this question, “Can I expect to get into the Kingdom if I do nothing and live like the rest of the world?” Our duty is to let the truth be known and leave the rest to God, who gives the increase.
Bro. Moses Dhlakama
As I was preparing to go to Rimbi, I was shocked to hear the sad news, that my grandmother, who was at a fragile age of 104 years had died, so felt I must go to help my father with everything wanted for the funeral. We had a great loss with my grandmother’s death.
Bro. Farai Makandeni
Bro. Makandeni, his wife Florance and their daughter.
CHIREDZI
I want to thank the Lord who gave me this chance of sharing the good Word. How are you all, Brothers and Sisters in Christ worldwide? I do hope and pray all are OK and your families, in the mercy of our loving God.
‘The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth.’ One day He will fulfil the desire of those who fear Him. He will also hear their cry and save them, that is, if we remain faithful to Him like Abraham, Noah and others in the Bible who remained humble to Him. These were His good, faithful friends who feared Him, so let’s be like them. Read Psalm 18:18-21.
We are naturally sinful, Brothers and Sisters: why do we break God’s law? Breaking the law means we are living in sin. If we can shun sin, then we can keep God’s law and then we will have grace and mercy, so as to live as Jesus Christ did. Jesus was tempted and yet did not sin, and so he kept God’s law: he then received grace and is now living in God’s presence. Why not us? Although we are of sinful nature, let us conquer it by keeping God’s law and praying for strength to do so and forgiveness where we fail.
Nowadays people are worried about what they will eat or drink, about sleep or clothing. Read Matt.6:25-34 and you will get the answer. Matt.18:8-10: let’s not be caught in this way because we will be judged. If we live like the Apostle Paul, surely all will enjoy life in the Kingdom at the last day. I could say more, but the word I would like to leave with everybody is, let us pray to God each day, for one day we will meet in the capital of the world, Jerusalem, when the world will be ruled by our sinless Immanuel, Jesus Christ.
Here in Triangle ecclesia we are OK and would like to thank the CBM for their help. Thank you, Brothers and Sisters in Christ for the good being done. Currently the situation in Zimbabwe is calm, but there is a problem still with cash – we are using foreign currency USD, which is at times very difficult to obtain.
Bro. Mobie Siziba
CHISHUMBA
Brothers and Sisters in Christ, we must praise God because He is the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords, and His grace stands for ever. He is the Creator of the heavens and the earth. By God’s grace we are given morning, evening and night; and the moon and stars at night to light the whole earth. The Lord God is our Saviour – we must praise Him. If we look in our Bibles at Psalm 136, we see such words.
Brothers, please send me Gospel News. Here in Chishumba our ecclesia is growing. I was baptized on 16th August 2009, and I praise God. We shall meet together in Christ.
God the Creator made us and the creatures great and small. When I think about God’s love I am afraid of getting lost: I pray to God in the morning, evening and at night because the Bible is my guide. That’s why I praise God, for giving us His Son and allowed him to die for us to take away our sins. How great is God’s love, Brothers and Sisters! These are the last days, and we pray for all Christians to be happy.
Sis. Rangi Mauzhent
May I first thank God for sparing our lives. In Chishumba Ecclesia two brothers and one sister fell asleep, namely Bro. Patrick Hwakwani, Bro. Norman Kamutikaoma and Sis. Mercy Mbirimi. We held memorial services for them all. ‘Thank you’ to the Brothers and Sisters who volunteered to feed the people on every occasion.
On the other hand, we have had nine baptisms, namely Bro. David Mapfungautsi, Sis. Chenai Chikwata, Bro. Sebastine Chikwata, Sis. Edzai Kanyoro, Bro. Isaac Mbirimi, Bro. Tarasika Shambamuto, Sis. Winnet Mapfungautsi, Rejoice Chikwata, and lastly Mobie Ziwera. Now after all these baptisms we thank the late Bro. Norman for having taught most of these new brothers and sisters.
To all Brothers and Sisters: we should always remember it is the Spirit that gives life, the flesh is of no avail.
Bro. Lamiel Mazvaramhaka
CHIVI
Thank you for your letter and spiritual encouragement you sent me. I did wrong by marrying outside the fellowship: yes this is bad and such a sin that even removed the Jews from the face of the Lord. Brother, help me, what can I do to regain my spiritual strength, which I used to have? – as I feel that to be disfellowshipped one loses out on faith and truth. I feel lost and wandering. I am meeting others each time, but feel discomfort in my mind and strength.
I have sinned against God and all my fellow brothers and sisters. I do not want to live like Saul: I have discovered that Saul remained as king after his sin, but the spirit of God departed from him and an evil spirit tormented him. (1 Sam.16v.14). So I do not want to be tormented by being outside the fellowship for so long. My wife is learning the Truth and I think, with help from God, I shall be happy one day, when the Lord answers me.
My brother, life is hard and each time things are bad I pray to God, so that He will help me. What I think is that God wants me to be very honest and gain His spiritual food.
Dzingai Sumburera
Comment: We are thrilled that Dzingai has been received back into fellowship and his wife has now been baptized. MH
HARARE
All the Bible Basics and other books were received safely. But the first book received called ‘The Real Christ’ is the book which adds to some Christians’ Biblical knowledge, is food for the spirit and is a book that everyone who is seeking the truth should read and understand. It is not a book such as a novel, but a book carrying God’s Word, therefore it takes time to read it carefully and understand it.
In my reading I’m selecting the most difficult parts for me – just to mention a few, e.g. ‘Did Jesus create the earth?’ ‘The Real Cross Today’; ‘Finding Meaning in everyday experiences,’ and also ‘Who was Melchizedek?’ To me these parts and others are very useful.
Since I met Bro. Duncan in 1988 I have only seen him on three occasions in Zimbabwe, but to date I can still recall his face, though it was in his mid-youth, and his preaching is well remembered.
My health these days is just pain clinging in my legs, backaches and other parts of my body. In 2004, Brother Swain brought me some tablets for these cramps and pains and they stopped until the beginning of 2009. As the cost of living and health care is hard to obtain, I’m just really in the Lord’s care. I have been missing fellowship with others for about nine months. Things are not settled, and though people are talking about it, I know it will never fully settle unless the Lord Jesus Christ comes to earth soon to establish the Kingdom of God.
Bro. Maxwell Mlakah
With sadness we learnt of the death of our beloved Brother Fred Milburn who is now asleep in the Lord. We shall be with him when Christ returns, but we greatly miss him. His illness and death came as a big shock to the Truth’s community in Zimbabwe.
I did enjoy reading some literature which you sent some time ago. I handed some of the booklets to our brothers and sisters and they also enjoyed reading them. But now since I am left with almost nothing to read except my Bible, can you please send me some literature if you have any spare? I would be happy indeed.
We all have to put the cares of this world aside and put God first in our lives.
Bro. Alexio Kajowe
MUTARE
Thank you so much for the educative papers and Present Day Events and their meaning. I was pleased to hear that the article which I sent to you will soon be published in Gospel News.
Bro. Gilbert Tevere
TRIANGLE
I am very eager to study the Bible to prepare for the second coming of our Lord here on earth. Our journey to that destination is full of obstacles, but what it needs is a devoted heart to God, which will overcome them. Our only hope is in Jesus.
We have a big class of students at our local Secondary School. I used to visit them frequently, doing lessons and Bible discussion. Now there are thirty-seven students who are willing to commence the 40-lesson course.
Bro. Tavaremba Mugova
ZUMBA
I am delighted to report the baptisms of the following brothers: Never Larghton, Munyardzi Msitell, Evans Ridi and Amidu Gopore.
Zumba Ecclesia is growing larger: we thank our Heavenly Father who is making the harvest possible. Preaching is going very well. We can sing almost all the songs in the CBM Yellow book. We want to bring many people to God through singing. With God and faith nothing is impossible.
Zumba Ecclesia has 8 brothers and five sisters. Our new brothers need prayers so that they can be strengthened for their travel to the Kingdom of God. The following magazines are of great value for preaching and daily learning of God’s principles: the Gospel News; the Christadelphian Magazine; Glad Tidings; the Bible Missionary; the Testimony; Faith Alive and Bible Basics. May the Lord bless those who are contributing toward the publication and distribution of this literature. My last message is the following poem:
It’s good to read the Word of God, rather than moral-corrupting newspapers and novels;
It’s good to listen to the Word of God rather than to rumours and gossip;
It’s good to sing hymns of worship, rather than immoral songs;
It’s good to dance to the Lord, rather than to the ways of the world;
It’s good to be with those who mourn, rather than with those who are partying.
Bro. Obert Wiki
