Encouraging Words

by Charles H. Spurgeon

           "Encourage Him" (Deut. 1:38)

           God employs his people to encourage one another. He did not say to an angel, "Gabriel, my servant Joshua is about to lead my people into Canaan--go encourage him." God never works needless miracles; if His purposes can be accomplished by ordinary means, he will not use miraculous agency. Gabriel would not have been half so well fitted for the work as moses.
           A brother's sympathy is more precious than an angel's embassy. The angel, swift of wing, had better known the Master's bidding than the people's temper. An angel had never experienced the hardness of the road, nor seen the fiery serpents, nor had he led the stiff-necked multitude in the wilderness as moses had done. We should be glad that God works for man by man. I t forms a bond of brotherhood, and being mutually dependent on one another, we are fused more completely into one family.
           Brethren, take the text as God's message to you. Labor to help others and especially strive to encourage them. Talk cheerily to the young and anxious enquirer; lovingly remove the stumbling blocks out of his way. When you find a spark of grace in the heart, knell down and blow it into a flame. Leave the young believer to discover the roughness of the road by degrees, but tell him of the strength which dwells in God, of the sureness of the promise, and of the charms of communion with Christ. Aim to comfort the sorrowful, and to animate the desponding. Speak a word in season to him that is weary, and encourage those who are fearful.
           Imitate divine wisdom, and encourage others

Taken from Power For Living, November 19, 2006 issue, p. 7

A letter from the pastor

by Pastor Felizardo Abanto

           And after many prayers, fasting, expenditures, and blessings I'm now her in America. Not to stay here for good but to ask for additional blessings from the Lord for the work and family.
           Again, I'm on a grand vacation because I do nothing here but sleep, eat and tour around. Sometimes I could preach and witness. I already led one to accept Christ, he is Rudolph Gloria, bro. Tony's friend. I f he is really saved, imagine, I even need to go here to America for him to be saved by the Lord. Amen! That alone is enough blessing, right? There are three of them whom I have already witnessed to: pastor Charlie's mother-in-law, ang a friend of Ghia, bro. Tony's daughter.That's why even a child of God is in another country or anywhere, the Lord can still use him!
           That's why I told Sis. Gemma, bro. Tony's wife, that I thank them because of their true kindness and that she must go soul-winning with bro. Tony every Saturday. The problem is no one took care of Gem to disciple her since she came here to U.S. more than ten years  ago. The same with Sis. Tess [Garcia], our former member in project 7, and bro. Rey Garia.They attend and are members at First Baptist Church which was enlarged by pastor Jack Hyles, he's now in heaven. Now the pastor is Jack Schaap, Dr. Hyles son-in-law. I attended there whole Sunday. In the morning, the attendance is 6000 in the auditorium and in the evening is more than 3000. The church is very active in soul-winning , but sadly sis. Tess is not going with the weekly soul-winning. I t seems that their concentration switched to the pursuit of the American dream. That's why I said that they should involve every week so that the time will not be wasted. Redeeming the time because the time because the days are evil.
            That's why brethren, if we we're to think well enough, we are better in the Philippines because we have more time to serve. We are not pressued to own a house like the others, but is credit-bought, own a car, but is credit-bought, home appliances, but is credit-bought.And in order to pay all debts, it is necessary to work a true work. But even though in that situation, serving God is still possible. But the problem is that many chueches are having shortcomings in training christians because of material needs.
             And another great thing that I have seen both on Northwest Bible Baptist Church, whose attendance is 600+ every morning service, and in First Baptist Church, whose attendance, like what I've said, is 6000+, they include the children in Sunday morning and Sunday Evening services. They sat beside their parents. In my estimation, their age ranges from 4-5 years old. THAT'S WHY BRETHREN, OUR PHILOSOPHY AND PRACTICE ABOUT TRAINING OUR CHILDREN IN THE LORD'S WORK IS RIGHT. IT'S NOT ON WHETHER THE CHILDREN ARE MANY OR FEW, BUT IF THE PARENTS OR GUARDIANS ARE THERE TO TRAIN THEM. The same with training all our members in soul-winning. AGAIN, BRETHREN, OUR PHILOSOPHY AND PRACTICE ARE RIGHT ABOUT SERVING THE LORD.
            Another thing I saw to be a big thing is having vehicles to fetch people. The priority only in these two churches are the children. The Northwest have more than 20 buses while the First Baptist Have 200 buses to fetch everyweek.
           

The Editor This is Only the Beginning

            Here we are again. Before, I can't believe that CYPA will last long enough, but now, I already believe. Because as long as God sustains this work, it will not cease. And now, two years passed since the paper ministry started with just one concern: "to bear the truth".
            And yes, it started with the C--the children. What I intended in the beginning is only to provide learning activity papers for my students in Sunday School and Good News Class, and then...here it is. Then the Lord placed in my heart that everyone may be reached through this--that's why it is C.Y.P.A.--Children, Young People, Adults.It's not in my thinking that this will reach up to this point--that there is a frontline paper, the Baptist Digest Journal, and the other line of publications aiming to help in the growth of Baptist Christians (and unsaved persons) here, and all over the world. All over the world, because it can now reach, through the BDJ paper, the many Filipinos from different places in the world, as well as many english-speaking people, through the BDJ online blog. As of now,we have already more than 80 BDJ receivers through e-mail, excluding those who are receiving it in printed page.
            Sometimes,I'm thinking that in it's second year, this ministry is still not pushing onward.Why? Because until now, the ministry still doesn't have its own computer, and above all, a printer. When there are classes in the Bible School, I use the library computer which the Eberts allowed me to use freely. but if there are no classes, I have to go to a computer shop and spend hours of typing. On the other computers, several times the customer changes, but I, still there until nighttime. The church spends 150 pesos per week for this. As for the printing, I would go to a computer shop (now, in Ink Tank), and I would spend at least an hour to wait for the seven or more publications to be printed--because there are still other customers. And almost until now, this  ministry is still a one-man army--writing, editing, encoding, lay-outing, e-mailing, blogging, printing, distributing--I am the one who does it. God's miracle that I can still keep up with my studies and other church works.
            Well, It's not really--it is not true that CYPA is not pushing onward. In fact, it does, "little by little". Guess what, before, I print the originals at sir Ebert's, then I will have it xeroxed at Copytrade which is 60 cents per copy. Now, I don't do it anymore, and I have each copy printed, and sometimes, even colored copies. Ande guess what--before, the ministry can't rent a computer for almost eleven hours of typing and everything, but now it can! Thanks to my pastor and to my mom, the Capitol members who saw its importance, and the brethren abroad who once (and is still continuing) shared what they can.(CYPA Hall of fame: [from our church] Prado family, Saludario family, Sis. Carlota Cabading, Sis. Gladys Bachiller, Bro. Roger Rodriguez, Biago family, Cervanez family, Bro. Angelo  del Prado, Alvarez family, Sis Merielen Cubol, [outside the church] Bro. Dennis and Gloria Ebert, Sis. Anne Pagad, Bro. Manuel Diamante, Sis Marlene Valeroso, [abroad] Manalo family, Ping family, Bro. Christian Vicuna, Sis Sarah Cortez, Pastor Charlie Ravago). And now, I'm not alone anymore--Pastor and my mom are writing articles, and there is now a new Blog manager: Sis. Ella Calderon. And wait, Pastor Charlie Ravago (from Chicago, BBBC) bought us a printer-scanner-copier and well, for the computer, it's on the way!
            And as for controversies, CYPA will never have none of it through BDJ--and that is because of its courage to publish the truth. As for the joys, I'm happy whenever I'm seeing the children who are happy coloring and learning through the Children's Scripture Story paper, Children's Bible Truth paper, and Children's Sunday Academy. The "thank you's" from those who are receiving the BDJ's printed version. The souls who got saved through the Children's Salvation Paper. The members who are learning to win souls through filling-up the Operation Go Trainee's Guide, And God, who continues to cheer-up and encourage, even though, there are almost no encouragements received (especially on e-mail).
            This is just the beginning. And by the Lord's grace, CYPA will continue to be a blessing to many others here in the Philippines and all over the world. 

We Are Honored

By Ruth Bell Graham

             On Feb. 11,1973, then-Captain Jeremiah Denton returned home after years of captivity as a prisoner of war in North Vietnam. He made his way down the steps of the plane, stopped in front of a microphone and said,"We are honored to have had the opportunity to serve our country under difficult circumstances."
            I wonder if this is how the believer will feel when he stands one day before God?
            God entrusts to some of His servants--without explanation--the most difficult circumstances. Just look at Job, Joseph, Daniel and the early martyrs.
            A young man released from an oppressive, atheistic regime was asked," What was it like, being persecuted for your faith?"
            We thought it was the normal Christian life," was the surprising, yet candid reply.
            He was right. It is Christians on the West who are living abnormally. Personally, I am grateful for the "abnormality".But if it doesn't last, we must not question, the complain or become bitter. Instead, let us accept each day as the Lord sends it, living obediently and faithfully, and not fearing what may come. We know that the glory ahead will obliterate the grim past.

Taken from Decision Magazine, September 2004. BGEA. All rights reserved. 

The Editor This Present Darkness

            This past few days, I read a novel entitled This Present Darkness, written by Frank Peretti--in fact, I'm still reading it until now. Though I know the author's background (he is an Assemblies of God pastor), and I'm aware of its errors, I'm still blessed by the story.I became aware of what Ephesians 6:12 is saying,"For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places". Here, I fully pictured how sore is the fight occurring in the spiritual realm, between Satan's angels and God's angels, for men's souls. We sin, because we let the devil deceive us, and we are protected by God's angels--and by God Himself, because and if we pray. I experienced it for myself, that when you pray, truly, no more, no less,you will not lose God's protection and guidance.
           Let us realize this. If Satan's underlings did their work before, don't they do more effort now? Now enough with five-minute prayer, non-sense fasting, sins and neglecting God. Let us keep in mind that we are in the midst of darkness, and that we are the light of the world.
           Will you now let your light shine in this Present Darkness?(Matthew 5:16)

Here I Come!!!

From Bro. Elijah Abanto (BDJ Editor): Hey, brothers! You know, I need to leave some duties now. God is opening a new opportunity of serving Him, and that means leaving the position of editing this wonderful blogging ministry in the web. What does that mean? BDJ will end blogging? No, no, no, quite the opposite. It will be more given time to, now that this ministry is given to a great sister in Christ: Ella May Calderon. She's one of the most active members of our church, a Bible student, and loves to serve the Lord--and willing to do this ministry for you. So welcome her, with these words from this young lady in Christ:
             "I thank and praise the Lord for giving me this another opportunity to serve Him. I admit that I'm not really that good, but by His grace, I know I can do it...ofcourse, with a little help from Bro. Elijah...
             "Please continue to support and pray for this wonderful ministry."

Partners for Life

by Sis. Olivia E. Abanto

           Being a "Partner for Life" is a big committment. It means to set yourself to a life-long companionship with an individual or a particular group. Is it reallly understood by each one who mare making these promise?
           A man and a woman claiming to be in love gave this kind of promise to each other. Not thinking of the problems and hardships they may face, as said by their parents, made their promise to each other.
           But even though the very experiences of the persons closest to me, I have proven that it is really easy to make a promise but it is really hard to keep it.
           I have noticed a number of reasons based on experiences I have come through in this life. Willing to experience the instant happiness but not giving enough time to understand what responsibility they will enter to, this promise fails to be kept.
           The thought that the burst of burning emotion will not ever change is also a reason why this promise doesn't last.
           The deep meaning of this promise is not understood that this is not a promise to individuals or any group but most of all it is a promise to God. It is really sad to admit that most of those that make this promise have no strong stance to keep it. Much more when it is proven to be really hard, that this to whom I made a promise is not worthy, or those around me doesn't agree nor help to fulfill it. As I have said, this is a promise, most of all, to God.
            According to James 5:12 "let your yea be yea, and your nay, nay," and in Numbers 30:2, do not make a promise you can't keep, because God will not tolerate your failure to keep it. That's why I can say that and understand that this really is a heavy decision.
            We may have many reasons which seem to be acceptable, that's why we don't fulfill our promise, but I believe it's not with God because He gave His Word. Even He Himself promised eternal communion and help to us (Heb. 11:3) and this, He doesn't take for granted, given we are not worthy, our emotion toward Him changes, and our understanding of His Word and will is weak and ignorant--but still remains His fulfillment.
            This serves as God's reminder to me regarding to this aspect of my life. By grace, mercy and strength of the Lord that He continually gives, I will continue loving Him and  following His commands. I will fear and will avoid neglecting the promises and committments of partnership with every individual and group. We can do it by the Lord's grace. Let's recommit ourselves while there is life. 

What the Left Hand is Doing

By Ruth Bell Graham

            "He doesn't want his right hand to know that his left hand is doing nothing," a friend said of a stingy relative, wryly reversing Jesus' advice to not let the left hand know what the right is doing.
            Those who have affected my life most deeply for good have seldom, if ever, been aware of the fact. On the other hand, people who think themselves a blessing seldom are.
            Jesus told us in Matthew 25 that at the final judgment, He will seperate the people one from another as a shepherd would divide his sheep and goats, sending the sheep on the right and the goats to the left.
           "Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you," He will say to the sheep. "For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me." (Matthew 25:34-36, KJV)
           But to the goats He will say the opposite, commanding, "Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels" (Matthew 25:41, KJV). The goats will have ignored His every need, which, He explained, are the needs of the least of His brethren.
           Those who minister to His needs are as unaware of their goodness and kindness as those who are indifferent are unaware of their indifference.
           Perhaps this is why Jesus warned against giving alms before men. And not letting your right hand know what the left is doing.

Taken from Decision magazine, June 2005. All rights reserved.         

The Editor The Importance of Rest

            This week of our finals on Bible School, after that, Micah and I went home. I'm already tired, because of all I did on Bible School. On the bus, Instead of sleeping , I watched the movie because I know it's a good one. We're already on the half of the trip when it ended, but still I did not sleep-- I observed the surroundings. Until we reached Trece, and got off the bus. I thought about what Mommy said that she will be the one to print the publications so I can rest, but instead I told Micah to go home,thinking, "It's almost vacation,--I'll just do it again." It was just fine, but when I left and rode on a jeepney, rain suddenly fell.. Until I got off the jeepney light rains are still falling. I have no umbrella so I just walked hurriedly. Good thing, I  reached home in good condition. I still have enough time to rest, but instead, I chatted with Ate Abigail.--and it was fun. After that, I prepared my preaching for the prayer meeting that night, and it was fine. The prayer meeting went well and I have taught well. Maybe it was about 10:30 when I slept.
            The next day, I couldn't get up. My head ached, and it seems that I would catch asthma. And so it happened. I couldn't  help but rest all day, save a little time for reading.
            Saturday, I forced myself to have Good News classes, but about 10 that morning, I fell very ill again. When I got home, I couldn't almost attend the choir practice. Then I realized--I must rest. We also need to rest?! Yes, my brethren. Even God created a Sabbath Day-- why can't we, right? Because, whether you like it, or not, He will let you rest--to prepare you for a  greater Work.

A Letter from Bishop Felizardo Abanto

To all the brethren,

Thank God and He allowed me to come here again in America, in order to attend here in the GIBF conference. The leaders of this fellowship who preached were leaders of BBFI but separated because they want to preserve the old doctrinal stands like that in music, KJV, and standards. It was pleasing to the ear to hear messages that I learned from the Bible Baptists 30 years ago.Among the pastors who preached were Dr. Dave Hardy, Sam Davison, Hal Hightower, Wayne Hardy, Jason Gaddis, Brent Loveless, Frank Wood at Kenny Baldwin.

I would like to share to you some of the thoughts I got from them: "When we are young, but especially when we are old, we need God's power to remain faithful and true to God and His word"; "We should be more concerned on the person than on what we could get from him"; "We must be serious on our church music to be godly and understand that it is not just a preparation for worship but is in itself is worship and because we don't just have people as audience, but because God is there also, present"; "We must be reminded of our old beliefs so that we will not compromise our gospel preaching, our godly music, our confrontational soulwinning method, our standards of dress and morality"; "American standards are found everywhere in America from the construction of cities, roads, houses, and even in the kitchens, but why not require standards on the American society and its morals?"; "Our activities and ministries for God are nothing to God and they may even be wicked, if it does not change us and if its focus is not Jesus Christ"; "We should conduct ourselves like true men of God, surrender ourselves to full time ministry and serve Him all of our lives"; and "We should keep ourselves on fire for the Lord by letting His fire burning in our lives and not through the strange fire of the devil".

Why did the BBFI pastors separate from the Southern Baptist Convention? These pastors separated to prevent them from going the direction of the convention toward liberalism, compromise and ecumenism. History repeated itself because some people thought that change is inevitable and you will lose if you will not go with the flow. Some want to make their own name known also that they have done some big thing.

Remember when Franklin Graham came to the Philippines? Who cooperated with him and became leaders? Wasn't it no other than Abante, Vallega, Arias, Tabanda, Nable, etc.? And who didn't cooperate with Franklin Graham? The pastors ng BMP at IBMA at many BBF pastors who are not on the letterhead of BBFPI. Painful but true. Hard to admit but it is happening. We don't want to show that we are holier than them. No. We just want to be faithful and true to God and His Word. Our loyalty is not to a person or to a group. I praise the Lord because there are still many pastors and churches in America that still stands for what I believe in even today. There also many independent pastors in the Philippines who will not go with pentecostalism and ecumenism. What saddens me is my group, where I belong for 30 years, where my roots are, my identity. Our problem is with our leaders who are directly affected by what is happening with the BBFI in America. Where the BBFI goes then the BBFPI follows. It's like the Philippines. Where the USA goes the Phils follows. But not for the good. Lord Jesus, help us. Please Lord, come quickly.

This article was e-mailed to CYPA by Bishop Abanto on October 3, 2009. No word was changed.

Come Back After Last Week's Rest

Last week we've never had the opportunity to post in the Blog because of busy schedules and limited time to do CYPA Papers. Now we've come back with a single article written as a letter by Bishop Felizardo D. Abanto to his home church, Capitol Bible Baptist Church.

--Editor

God Has Put Us Together

by Bishop Felizardo D. Abanto
Taken from Baptist's Digest Weekly 33, August 24, 2009, p.3.

One pastor told the members in his church, “I don’t need you, you don't need me, but we can work together to serve the Lord.” My philosophy is different from his. What I am saying to our church members and all those who assist us in this work is this: “I need you, you need me. So let’s work together to serve the Lord.” Apostle Paul told the Corinthian believers, “But now hath God set the member every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased Him…. And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you” (I Corinthians 12:18, 21). 

I am the pastor of Capitol Bible Baptist Church because God put me here in His pleasure. Each one of our members, all of us, are here not by chance but by the appointment of our Almighty God. I need you to help me fulfill the Great Commission. You need me to pastor you, “to feed you with knowledge and understanding” (Jeremiah 3:15). To teach you the Apostles’ doctrine, how to obey and serve the living and true God and to protect you from false doctrine and false teachers. Moreover Apostle Paul said in I Corinthians 3:8-9, “Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labor. For we are labourers together with God…” God put us together to work in His vineyard. Let us put our minds and hearts and hands together to fulfill God’s mission for us in this generation.

Pastor Felizardo Abanto is now currently serving Capitol Bible Baptist Church and is now in the USA for ministry purposes. To contact him, you can e-mail him at felizardoabanto@yahoo.com. 

The Editor: So Much to be Thankful For

Not having our father and pastor with us was sad enough, but I was amazed that this past week God gave me joy that I'd almost forgotten that he left--or, he would leave, rather. Thursday, September 17, was our Grand Reunion -- the extended family was almost all there. I was not only joyful because we've had a reunion like this, but that that reunion was not only a reunion between relatives--but the saints. What a marvelous thought! The fellowship, testimonies of God's blessings, sharing of burdens and griefs added to the spiritual need we had at that time. At prayer meeting I really gave out my best in song-leading. Friday was another busy day as we went to Salaoag, Dasma to attend a world missions conference filled with challenging and inspiring messages. Just so much to be thankful for!

That's why I become very, very sad when we are not thankful. There are many Christians who can only praise God publicly when something "big" happened to them--it may be that they look to God and say, "You don't need thanks for little things like this." And yet, the Bible teaches us to be thankful for everything (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Let's start to be thankful to God--NOW.

Bro. Elijah E. Abanto
elijah_baptist@hotmail.com

The Editor: It is Well with God

I just watched a video that told of the story of the man behind the song "It is Well with My Soul." This man really  almost had Job's experience. He was a rich Christian, and spent much of his life helping people in his community, and yet, series of painful events followed that made him suicidal--the deaths of his five children--the two because of an incurable illness, the other three because their ship sank on a travel because of a recent storm. One night, when it seemed to him that all was gone, his wife embraced him and said, "It is well." Then this man realized that yes, God is alive, and all happens for His good purpose--thus leading to the composition of this wonderful song.

Then I began to look carefully at God--the One who knows everything, what happens, and what will happen. Also recently I happened to a website titled Positive Atheism, which promotes unbelief in God all-over its pages.  I even shook my head in disbelief when I saw at the bottom: "God is a Fraud," and "Faithless." What a blasphemy! I was really saddened, knowing that this is not the only site that promotes such trash. And these people are really sincere that they're right! After that I turn to the lost souls doing what seem right in their eyes, not in God's sight. Then I turn to other Christians who can't do well for God in spite of the salvation they've freely received. Then I turn to myself, and see my shortcomings, misgivings, and gross sins. How must these be so saddening for God! How must these have angered Him! And yet, when I consider it, this God, must be saying, "It is well." It is well! It is well with God! Because He knows everything happens with a purpose, and that someday (may that someday come quickly), everything will turn out right.

Maybe we should do the same thing.

Bro. Elijah E. Abanto
E-mail me at elijah_baptist@hotmail.com.

How Can I Grow?

by Bishop Felizardo D. Abanto
Taken from Baptist’s Digest Weekly 29, July 27, 2008, p.3

“And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” —2 Peter 1:5-8

Are you a new believer? Or an old-time Christian? Every Christian needs to grow in his Christian life. To grow, you need to do these things:
1) Be a disciple and not merely a church-goer. A disciple follows Christ obediently every day.
2) Spend time reading the Bible each day, beginning with the New Testament. Meditate on what you have read, asking these three questions:
A) What does this tell me about God? (That would be His personality, character, and attributes.)
B) What is He commanding me to do? What does God want me to do in obedience to Him?
C) What is God promising me? Which promises is the Lord inviting me to claim today?
3) Pray to God in a conversational way (the way you talk to a person). The prayer should be both spontaneous and sincere. Prayer has various aspects including worship, petition, confession, and intercession.

Start a daily discipline of reading the Bible, meditating on it, and praying. Even if it is for fifteen minutes at the beginning, this will be a good start for you.


Author Spotlight
Bishop Felizardo D. Abanto is pastor of Capitol Bible Baptist Church, located at Tanza, Cavite, Philippines, home of CYPA Paper Ministries, publisher of Baptist’s Digest Journal. He has written over 40 articles for BDJ. Visit CBBC’s website at www.capitolbiblebaptist.multiply.com.

Too Young: Does Age Affect Our Usefulness to God?

by Linda M. Canup
from In Touch Magazine, March 2006, pp. 28-31.

You hear about one every now and then—a concert pianist by age 8, a programming genius at 10, a chess master at 12—people so gifted at such unusually young ages that they attract international attention and create an energetic buzz in their field.

A few of our favorite believers could also qualify as prodigies in a spiritual sense. David, Jeremiah, and Timothy are just a few who were called and specially equipped to take on great missions at young ages.

While they had God’s support, they didn’t have it easy. Youthfulness has its own set of challenges. These young men often struggled with insecurities and inadequacies fueled by their lack of experience. Societal expectations and assumptions also caused them to be overlooked, underestimated, and downright persecuted for their youthfulness.

Nevertheless, these chosen few remained faithful throughout their early years and became successful as a king, a prophet, and a builder of the New Testament church.

DAVID
When Samuel came to Jesse’s house to anoint the next king of Israel, no one thought to call David in from the sheep pastures. As the lad watched over the flocks, his older brothers were presented to the visiting prophet. “Surely the Lord’s anointed one is before Him,” thought Samuel as his eyes settled on the eldest. (1 Samuel 16:6) But one by one, oldest to youngest, all seven brothers were rejected.

God did not appoint a son with noble connections, great military training, or even brute strength. He selected David, whose heart belonged to Him. (1 Samuel 16:7)

The Psalms written by the young shepherd reveal plainly His pure, steadfast love for the Father. His musical lyrics, which eloquently describe his desire to serve the Lord, boast confidently of God’s ability to deliver him from enemies. David praised the name of the Lord and proclaimed his unwavering devotion and loyalty. When oppressed by sin, he humbly sought forgiveness and pleaded for restoration and renewal. He gave voice to the nearly unexplainable emotions and
whims of the human heart.

While others saw David as a juvenile field hand, God looked within his soul and saw a courageous young man prepared to fight the enemies of the Lord and establish the kingdom of Israel on earth.

JEREMIAH
At a time when the kingdom of Judah was succumbing to sin and temptation, the Lord wanted a messenger who valued His Law and obeyed Him unconditionally. This person would need a passionate love for God’s people in order to persevere; however, he also had to desire divine righteousness so he could understand the need for inevitable judgment. An ideal candidate would be innocent of Judah’s apostasy, yet not so cynical that he would question the Lord’s plan for ultimate restoration of the Davidic kingdom.

Of course, God knew all along that Jeremiah was the right man for this task, but the future prophet wasn’t convinced. “I do not know how to speak, because I am a youth,” he protested when God issued His directive. (Jeremiah 1:6) He was too focused on himself and his inadequacies rather than on God’s plan and infinite knowledge.

The Lord put those concerns to rest by explaining that He would equip and protect Jeremiah. (v.v. 9, 18-19) He spoke to the prophet-in-training about the future as if He were telling an old story and everything had already happened: Jeremiah was already appointed and consecrated, and he would do all that God asked of him. It was a done deal.

The young man could not argue with such undeniable omniscience. He took the Lord at His word, and the rest really is history.

TIMOTHY
Ephesus was a metropolis dedicated to the worship of the Greek goddess Artemis and, as such, was susceptible to heresies. Nevertheless, because it was the capitol of the Roman province of Asia, it proved critical to the spreading of the Christian faith. Paul had a successful ministry in
that city, but by the time he entrusted it to Timothy, false teachers (Hymenaeus, Alexander, and Philetus, to name a few) were spreading heresies in full force, and many throughout Asia wandered away from the faith. (2 Timothy 1:15)

Timothy’s predicament would be stressful for any mature Christian, let alone for a young man who would have to challenge church elders twice his age.However, Paul (and most importantly, God) knew that Timothy was up to the task for at least two reasons: his sincere faith and the work the Holy Spirit in his life. (1 Timothy 4:14; 2 Timothy 1:5-6)

Timothy’s mother was part of a long line of faithful Jewish women who loved the Scriptures and desired to please God. Apparently, she instilled these traits inTimothy, for when Paul took him under his wing, the young man had already established an admirable reputation as a disciple. (Acts 16:2) As the two men traveled together, the apostle became well acquainted with Timothy’s strengths,weaknesses, and spiritual limitations. Therefore, when it came time to choose a guardian for the church at Ephesus, Paul confidently entrusted the city to Timothy, even though he had no prior experience.

SPIRITUAL GREATNESS
Oftentimes we romanticize the lives of these biblical heroes and elevate them to an almost mythological level. We believe we could never do anything so spectacular (some of them wrote Scripture!); we act as if the Golden Age of Christianity has passed and we have nothing but monotony to aspire to until the Lord returns.

This is anything but true. While we might perform drastically different tasks in a physical sense, we engage in similar tasks spiritually. Like David, people today are called to government offices and other positions of leadership. The Lord still directs individuals to petition for social changes and urge the culture to repent of its godless pursuits. Many have been entrusted with families, communities, and churches—like Timothy, they shepherd, protect, and teach the truths of Scripture.

In theory, we know that the Lord can use anyone He chooses to accomplish His plan, but in practice, we often get sidetracked. The world places tremendous emphasis on resumes, qualifications, and connections, so it’s understandable that we carry this mindset over to our spiritual lives as well. Even in the church, we assume that only long-standing Christians or those in the right leadership positions can do extraordinary work for the kingdom.

Yet if we honestly look at the way the Lord has used young people, then we will recognize an important truth: When He calls us to a particular assignment, He has already equipped us with the talents and abilities we will need. So stay faithful in your everyday tasks, and leave your insecurities behind, because God seeks spiritual greatness in all of us, regardless of our shape, size . . . or age.

Author Spotlight
Linda Canup is the Assistant Editor for In Touch magazine, a publication of In Touch Ministries with Dr. Charles Stanley in Atlanta, Georgia. Linda's responsibilities include evaluating query letters and manuscript submissions in addition to writing and editing articles. www.intouch.org.
During her long commutes to and from the office, she enjoys listening to NPR and great books on CD. She spends much of her remaining time supporting her husband, Glenn, in his ministry as Minister of Adult Education and Assimilation at North Metro First Baptist Church.

The Editor: All God’s Will

Just the other day my father and mother were interviewed at the U.S. Embassy for a plan to go to America for some important purposes, and after my brother Micah and I prayed and done something more earnest for them, we learned the news when I called my mom. “God’s will prevailed,” she enthusiastically announced. I pressed for more, asking, “What do you mean, ‘God’s will’?”

She answered me, “Well, your father was approved.” Immediately my face fell quite a bit. She must have noticed my hesitation so she assured me, “Don’t worry, that’s what I prayed for—His Will. And I think He answered it. It’s His will I stay.”

God’s will. Well, I was not really sad about the news, but hey, that’s not what I prayed for. But, well, I know God’s way is way far better than mine. Romans 8:28 says that “all things work together for good to them that love God… to his good purpose.” Later thinking things up, I realized that yup, that’s the better way.

Have you struggled about accepting God’s will in your life? Well, you’re not alone. What is important is that we trust and lean on Him and wait on Him.

This is BDJ Online—feel free to read this week’s articles and comment on them. It’s God will! =)

---Bro. Elijah Abanto

elijah_baptist@hotmail.com. 

The Ministry Must Not Die

by Bishop Felizardo D. Abanto

In the last article I said, “Without God and the doers of the Word, the ministry will die.” We do not have a book in the Bible entitled “The Sermons of the Apostles.” What we have is “The Acts of the Apostles.” The history of the first Baptist Church is about what the Apostles did, particularly the ministries of Apostle Peter and Paul. Even Muslims recognize that without the Apostle Paul the gospel of Jesus Christ would not spread throughout the then known world.

Without the doers of the Word in our church, I mean if our members here and abroad will not obey the Bible, then no one will go out soul winning, no one will give tithes and offerings, no one will give to missions, no one will preach and teach the Word. We may be physically present but we’ll be as unprofitable and unproductive as the fig tree which was cursed by the Lord and died an untimely death. We do not want that to happen to us.

We want to be like the Blessed Man of Proverbs chapter one. We want to be like Onesimus, who was before unprofitable but because of Apostle Paul became profitable, to him and to the ministry. We want to be like the house of Stephanus who have “addicted themselves to the ministry.” We want to “adorn the doctrine of God our Savior” by our exemplary behavior. We want that whatever we do, whether we eat or drink, we do everything for the glory of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

This article from Baptist’s Digest 19 (Volume 1), May 18, 2008. All rights reserved.

Bishop Felizardo D. Abanto has written more than 40 articles for BDJ for almost 2 years of its ministry.

What Women Want

by Jeff Feldhahn

“So what do you think it means when a woman says she wants security?” I asked a friend.

“It means I can’t ever stop running,” he said. “I need to do whatever it takes to ensure that she doesn’t feel financially insecure. If that means I have to work really long hours or stick with a job I don’t like much, so be it.”

My friend felt a bit trapped, knowing that his wife wanted him to provide a nice life for her and the kids but also wanted him home by dinner. Impossible financial expectations on her part? Perhaps, but probably not. It may be that men are really frustrated by what they think their wives expect, when the women actually have no such expectations. That’s what we found from interviewing over 1,000 wives for our research. Yes, they want security, but women mean something very different by the term than men
think.

To a woman, the security that matters most is emotional security: feeling emotionally connected and close to you—that you’re there for her, no matter what.Sure, providing financially is important,but for most women, it’s nowhere near the top of their list. In fact, as one woman said, “It’s not even on the same list!” Believe it or not, on the national survey my wife Shaunti and I commissioned, seven out of ten married women said they would choose financial struggles over distance in the relationship. This fact is blazingly obvious to most women—but the majority of men have trouble believing it!Likewise, women can’t believe that we think they think financial security would be more important.As one woman said, “So in essence you guys are thinking that we are materialistic—really,really materialistic—and that we’d choose things over your happiness?!”

Uh . . . yeah. I guess that’s what we’re saying. But apparently, we’re wrong.According to our data, not only does your wife care far more about you than anything you could provide; she’s also willing to sacrifice financially to have more of you and more happiness for you.
The fact that this is so hard for men to accept apparently has to do with male-wiring, not female. The research Shaunti conducted for her previous book demonstrated that three-quarters of men are“always” or “often” conscious of their burden to provide—and most husbands wouldn’t have it any other way. Our work often defines us; our sense of self-worth is wrapped up in it. More to the point,we assume our wives know that all those long work hours are an important way we show our love.

The problem, I found, is that they don’t know it. In fact, what your wife wants is your time and attention, so the more you give to work, the higher priority your job appears. To her, this means she is not your priority. Your making such a choice may leave her feeling distanced and unloved.Since men and women view security differently, let’s more closely define what“emotional security” means to your wife.

1. She feels secure when you two feel close.Creating a sense of closeness between the two of you is more important than anything else—to a woman, it’s almost a synonym for emotional security. More than simply physical nearness, it involves other aspects of intimacy,including the little things that are part of being each other’s lover and best friend.Love can be conveyed even by small gestures that don’t naturally occur to most men,like reaching for her hand in a parking lot or leaving a caring voice mail. Once I discovered how important little things were—well, they are very doable!

2. She feels secure when you make time together a priority.You may see your job as what you do to care for your family; however, your wife will feel more secure knowing she and the kids come before your work and that, after God, she’s your primary focus. As one woman put it, “If I know he’s there for me, I can face any struggles financially.”Here’s a simplified summary of what“being a priority” usually means to a woman: outside traditional work hours, it’s how much time and attention you give her compared to anything else. A wife does not expect her husband to spend every off-the-job hour with her. But to feel emotionally secure, she can’t think he’s consistently choosing other priorities over her.

3. She feels secure when you demonstrate your commitment.Your wife needs to believe in the core of her being that nothing will scare you away—and that you’ll do everything in your power to protect the relationship.
For example, when you two are at odds,nothing reassures her like hearing, “I’m angry about this and need my space right now, but I want you to know we’re okay.”

4. She feels secure when you’re active at home and in parenting.Women long to see their husbands choosing to be active participants in family life, even if it means reworking other priorities.Unless you’re careful, your laudable drive to provide may prevent you from taking an active role in the life you set out to enjoy together. Some wives we surveyed felt they started out as their husband’s partner but somewhere along the way wound up as sole proprietor.

5. She feels secure when you do make an effort to provide.The effort you make to provide for your family does add to emotional security—even if the results aren’t bringing in the amount of money you assumed she wanted.While we focus on the results, wives’ focus on the effort—which makes them feel loved as long as it doesn’t crowd out other elements of emotional security.Women are far more willing to endure struggles if they can get more of you.Obviously, we need to find a balance.You’re designed to want to provide, but it should be encouraging to know your wife most likely thinks you are worth far more than your earning potential.

The Bottom Line
This whole topic boils down to asking ourselves—and our wives—one question:Am I providing the type of security she genuinely wants and needs? One friend put his finger on the problem: “Men focus on income and possessions because it’s so much easier to measure success in numbers. ‘Loving attention’ is far more difficult for us to quantify.”We all instinctively know that as we age and our children leave home, our best memories will not center around the cool things we bought or the size of our house.

Invariably, the measure of success will be much simpler and more basic—the quality of the life we shared day in and day out.And that’s something which can translate as “s ecurity” to both of us.

Shaunti Feldhahn assisted in writing this article.

Jeff Feldhahn, together with his wife, authored a great book, For Men Only: A Straightforward Guide to the Inner Lives of Women (Multnomah). Visit their website at www.shaunti.com.

Taken from In Touch magazine, June 2006. www.intouch.org.

Who Can Only Be the Doers?

by Bishop Felizardo D. Abanto

James 1:22--

“But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only…”

Only born-again Christians can be the doers of the Word of God. There is a person who said, “I’m not interested with the breed but with the deed.” But the Bible says that the deed depends upon the breed. The tree is known by its fruit (Matthew 7:7). If it looks like a duck, walks like a duck, and speaks like a duck, then it must be a duck. True Baptists live like the true Baptists. I like the name “Baptist” and I’m proud of this name. Baptists do good, look good, and feel good. They love Jesus Christ. They support His work. They may be far, but they are still concerned about this. I love them. Apostle Paul mentioned to the Philippian Christians (4:18),

“the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God.”

If our ministry is separated from God and from the doers of the Word, it will die. We appreciate them enough and fast for them and pray to God that He will bless more abundantly.

Mr. Randy David, host of a television program said, “As a scientist of the society we are not interested in what religion you are in, but on what good you are causing to the society.” Wrong again. Your philosophy depends upon your theology. Out of Jesus Christ there is no one capable of imparting good to mankind. Like Israel at the time of the Divided Kingdom, of the 19 rulers, no one reigned rightly in the Northern Kingdom because all of them are worshipping gods. You may say you believe in God or not, but if you are not a true believer of Jesus Christ you cannot do anything good (Romans 3:12). That is the reason why they who profess that they are Christians ay commanded to doers of the Word and not just hearers. Their actions signify their words, and their breed.

Translated by Bro. Elijah Abanto from the article “Sino Lang ang Magiging Tagatupad?” originally published in Baptist’s Digest 18, (Volume 1) May 11, 2008, p. 4.

Moral Purity (Part 2)

Women’s Clothing Has a Big Part on This

by Sis. Olivia E. Abanto

As a continuation of my topic about moral purity, we have seen that it is still important even in the age that they call “modern” because the basis of beliefs and practices is the Word of God that never changes or is bound by the advance of the times. The Bible and the God of the Bible are the greatest reasons we must stand for Moral Purity.

Women, young or old they may be, have a great part in protecting moral purity. What I’m referring to is the aspect of their clothing. It has a message to give to anyone who looks. Clothing dictates what we do. The thin or comfortable clothes are usually for sleeping, gowns for wedding, collotes and tee-shirts for sports, dress for worship—meaning that words are unnecessary to understand what we want to do. We should be careful on what message our clothes say to those who sees our outfit. Many relations between the young man and the young woman can’t be kept morally pure and one reason is because the man was tempted by his frequent visits to his girlfriend who wore shorts or sleeveless shirt. Usually, women who were raped or harassed had their clothing as reason. Only one pull from the knot of her blouse or short and she is naked already. One pastor even said, “Ladies, help us to become spiritual, dress right!” There is a saying “Don’t display what is not for sale!”

Let us make God’s Word our guide for us to dress modestly, with shamefacedness and sobriety. Don’t show off the sensitive parts of our womanhood, like breasts, waists or legs. This is because these are where the attention of men are caught. We must be determined that only the man God gave us (or will give us) will be able to see the things no other man ought to see, in other words the nakedness of each other.

It’s important to see our testimony on this aspect of our being Christians. I remember that this (moral purity) was the greatest reason of God to decide to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah, even the building of the ark, because the imagination of every man was only evil and filthy.

Let us be part of the reason why God doesn’t still destroy this world. Let every Christian man and woman decide on this matter and do everything to care for and keep moral purity on the inner and the outer being.

Translated by Bro. Elijah Abanto from the article “Moral Purity: May Malaking Bahagi ang Ating Pananamit Dito,” Baptist’s Digest 21 (Volume 1), June 1, 2008, p.5.

YOUR LOVE IS NOT ENOUGH

WHY YOUR RESPECT MEANS MORE TO HIM THAN EVEN YOUR AFFECTION

by Shaunti Feldhahn

“I’m going to ask you to choose between two bad feelings,” the retreat speaker said. His gaze swept the divided room of 20-something singles, the men on one side, women on the other. “If you had to, would you rather feel alone and unloved in the world, or would you rather feel inadequate and disrespected?”

What kind of a choice is that? I remember thinking. Who would ever choose to feel unloved?

The speaker turned to the men’s side of the room. “Okay, men. Who here would rather feel alone and unloved?”

A sea of hands went up, and a giant hasp rippled across the women’s side of the room. I had just seen a truth demonstrated that many women have somehow totally missed: Most men would rather feel our respect than our love.

Since that day, I embarked on a mission to understand how men really think and feel. I interviewed over 1,000 men: close friends, strangers in the grocery store, married fathers at church, and the single student sitting next to me on an airplane. I talked to CEOs, attorneys, pastors, technology geeks, business managers, the security guard at Costco, and the guys behind the Starbucks counter. I even interviewed a professional opera singer and a former NFL offensive tackle with a Super Bowl ring.

I learned a lot from these men, and quite frankly, I was astonished by my findings more often than not. Probably the most important revelation was the fact that husbands need—desperately need—to be respected and built up by their wives. For a man, it’s respect, even more than love, that can turn a marriage into the delightful place of companionship that God intended.

How Can That Be?

Most of us women want above all to feel loved and cherished, and so we demonstrate the same to our men. In interviews, I’ve often heard husbands say, “I never doubt that my wife loves me.”

But I also heard many of those men continue, “However, I do doubt that she respects me.” The problem is that a perceived lack of respect is as devastating to them as it would be for us to doubt their love. In the professional national survey I conducted, the vast majority of men (three out of four) agreed they could do without love, but they could not do without respect.

I say “perceived” lack because while most of us do respect the men in our lives, we have often unwittingly sent the opposite signal. For example, when he makes a decision, we reflexively question it, or offer all the reasons why he might be wrong. Or we second-guess his way with the kids, believing our way is better. Or we publicly tell a “funny” story about his inability to fix the plumbing on the fifth try. Or we tell him how to drive and what lane to be in, and pressure him to stop and ask someone else for directions.

We often don’t see the implications of such behavior; we think we are just being helpful, or have a more fitting solution. But for the average guy, these actions are excruciatingly painful and say one thing loud and clear: “I don’t trust or respect you.”

That loud message is also unbiblical, as is our cultural idea that, while love is to have no conditions attached, respect must be earned. The Bible says in Ephesians 5:33:

Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.

Many of us must unlearn years of unbiblical assumptions and habits as we learn to support our husbands in the way they truly need.

At this point, wives might be thinking, It’s all about him. What do I get out of this deal? God is the master of paradox, and just as Jesus’ unconditional love for us leads us to want to be worthy of it, our decision to unconditionally demonstrate respect to our husband leads him to want to earn it—and to adore us. A man who is honored and built up by his wife will become the husband God created him to be, one better equipped to shower his wife with the unconditional love she craves.

The 30-Day Challenge

For the next 30 days, don’t say anything negative about your husband, either to him or to anyone else; instead, think and say only those things that are worthy of appreciation.

While this challenge will not instantly fix every subtly disrespectful behavior, it will root out many quiet destructive habits and issues of the heart that we may never have recognized before. And as we respect our husbands the way they need to be respected, we will experience the joy of watching them become godly men who love us in return.

Taken from In Touch magazine, May 2005, pp. 14-15. Visit www.intouch.org or www.shaunti.com.

Take the 30-Day Challenge! Start doing a checklist everyday of whether you are living up to the challenge and share your experiences with us at cypapaper@live.com or comment at this article and sign it with your name. Begin now!

Words and Works

by Bishop Felizardo D. Abanto

Titus 1:16—

“They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him…”

One time during the past few months, we visited a backslidden Baptist. He was a farmer. When we arrived at his hut, we found him drinking with a fellow. Laughing, he immediately put the beer away and introduced us to the fellow that I was his pastor. Even though he hadn’t been to church for several years, he still said that the Baptist church is the right church according to the Bible. His friend also said that he had attended many sects and he was not seeing any problem about that, because he said that he still believed in God.

But, actually, whoever you may be, whatever your religion, if your life and what you do is contradictory to the clear command and teaching of God in the Bible, you are a mediocre. And whatever you say is nonsense. You are just wasting your life and your breath. There’s no purpose why we are here if our lives doesn’t any sign of being a Christian. May we Christians realize that we are not just playing church or joking about our faith. We are dead serious about the Lord. We will obey Him and live for Him in truth, whatever it takes, with or without money.

This article was translated from Mga Salita, Mga Gawa, Baptist’s Digest 16, April 27, 2008, p. 2. ©2008 CYPA Paper Ministries.

Moral Purity: Does It Still Matter?

by Sis. Olivia E. Abanto

For the reason that the true Christians belong to a minority on almost all the parts of the world it is not far from happening that our mentality conforms to the majority. Specially that the things we often hear from the radio, watch on TV, and read on newspapers come from the usual mindset and philosophy of the world. If you will ask them, “Does purity still matter?” this is the most common answer: “That’s outdated,” “We are modern now,” “If you’re happy with it, do it.”

Not with us, Christians, because we have a Book and a God who never changes in His standards. Purity: Does it still matter? Yes, it still matters. Hebrews 13:4 says:

Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.

Also, in 2 Timothy 2:22:

Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.

In 1 Corinthians 7:1,

…It is good for a man not to touch a woman.

I believe that these passages are more than enough so that men and women will continue to value purity or dignity. God is not making a distinction on the purity of men and the purity of women. This is in contrast with the world’s thinking that the women only should keep their dignity while men go like an animal which has no concern for purity whatsoever.

Valuing God’s command and fear towards Him are the greatest reasons for men and women to maintain their purity. How you value yourself will be your help to stand, and also how you value and respect others for you to wait until the right time.

This article was translated from Moral Purity: Does It Still Matter?, Baptist’s Digest 20, May 25, 2008. ©2008 CYPA Paper Ministries.

Andrew, Out of the Shadow

by Allen Harris

Consider the phrase, “living in someone’s shadow.” Chances are, you know exactly how that feels. Your co-workers usually seem to get the spotlight. Your best friend is a superstar, a sweeping success at anything and everything he does. Or, perhaps it hits even closer to home—maybe it’s your brother or sister who has always outshone you. Too many children grow up with a horrible memory echoing in their minds: Why can’t you be more like HIM? or Why aren’t you more like HER?

If any individual in Scripture could have suffered from the “shadow
syndrome,” it was the apostle Andrew. Just think about that for a
second—you probably can’t remember the last time you had a Bible
study on Andrew. Paul? Absolutely. John? Probably. Most churchgoers
even get an annual study of Judas Iscariot on Good Friday, for goodness sakes. But Andrew? Even the Gospel writers didn’t talk about him that much!

The Famous Brother
Andrew grew up in the shadow of his well-known brother, Simon Peter. You know Peter—he’s the one who walked on water. He’s the one who first truly recognized Jesus as the Son of God. He’s also the one who preached at Pentecost. He was brash and headstrong, excitable and passionate. His ups and downs throughout the gospels
are legendary! But what about Andrew? Where was he when the focus was on Peter?

Scripture quietly attests that Andrew was right where he needed to be: at the forefront of the action—within eyeshot of Jesus, but a step behind impetuous Peter. That was his arena, a place of wonderful perspective and influence where he could dutifully go about the
work to which he had been called. And what was the specific ministry at which Andrew excelled? It was simply bringing people to Jesus.

The Witness
Before he could bring others to the Lord, however, Andrew had to encounter Jesus himself. This meeting is pictured in John 1:35-42, where he is portrayed as the first disciple called by Christ. A
follower of John the Baptist, Andrew immediately recognized the significance of the prophet’s description of Jesus as the “Lamb of God” (John 1:36).Without hesitation, Andrew walked straight up to Jesus and subsequently spent the entire day with Him.

Fresh from his time with Christ,what was the first thing this brand-new disciple did? John 1:41-42 reveals that he “found first his own brother Simon” and “brought him to Jesus.” His chief concern was not simply to share the wonderful news, but to physically and
purposefully bring his brother into the presence of the Lord. Almost instinctively,Andrew understood that it was not enough simply to tell someone about the Lord; he had to introduce that person to Christ.Thus began his illustrious missionary career.

Later, in John 6:8-9, it is Andrew who brings to Jesus a young boy with a modest offering: five loaves of bread and two small fish. While all of the other disciples scratched their heads at the lack of food, Andrew spotted the one person among 5,000 who most needed to meet Jesus one-on-one. The result was a bountiful harvest of faith and a miraculous surplus of leftovers—all because this watchful believer introduced an otherwise unknown child to Christ.

John 12:20-22 provides another shining example of Andrew’s call to connect people to Jesus. Here, Scripture says that some Greeks, whom we can assume to be Gentiles (non-Jews), wanted to meet Jesus. Recognizing Philip as one of the 12 disciples, they asked him for an introduction. Isn’t it interesting what happened next? Rather than taking the men straight to Jesus, Philip took them to Andrew. Why? Did Philip have some hesitation in approaching Jesus himself? Was this an example of some hierarchy of leadership within the Twelve?

We may never understand Philip’s hesitation, but, as author John MacArthur relates, we simply cannot miss Andrew’s motivation. He writes, “Andrew was not confused when someone wanted to see Jesus. He simply brought them to Him.He understood that Jesus would want to meet anyone who wanted to meet Him.

. . . In John 1 [Andrew] brought Peter to Christ, which made him the first home missionary. Now he brings some Greeks to Christ, making him the first foreign missionary” (MacArthur, John. Twelve Ordinary Men, p. 681). For Andrew, opportunity and invitation went hand in hand.He simply could not—or would not—ignore any chance to introduce someone to Jesus.

Everyday Evangelism
This world needs more men and women like Andrew. Effortlessly bringing others to the Lord, Andrew stands as a model for what you might call “everyday evangelism.”He did not save his evangelistic zeal for church mission trips to foreign lands or a single “Missions Emphasis Week”once a year. He lived his evangelism in day-to-day life; for him, ministry was not an occasion, but a lifestyle.

How could Andrew’s casual manner become a natural, comfortable, and fruitful part of your own daily interactions?
1. Be on the lookout for spiritual seekers. Many Christians feel nervous bringing up the subject of faith with other people. These anxious believers may think, I can’t mention Jesus to this person.He obviously isn’t interested. But what if he is? It is very possible you would be shocked to discover how many people in your school,workplace, extended family,or social circle are desperately seeking something they cannot fully express.Pray for spiritual eyes to better see these individuals within the crowd of people you pass each day.

2. Get to know the people around you. Wouldn’t it be a tragedy if your next-door neighbor was sitting in his den right now, wondering about spiritual things and yet having no idea about where to go for answers?Would he see you as a source for help? Would you be able to spot his questioning heart? When you become an active part of others’ lives, you become a trusted resource whom God has strategically located to impact their hearts for Christ.

3. Don’t overcomplicate things. We never see Andrew overwhelming
anyone with a lengthy spiritual discourse or a theological argument. His approach was personal, even intimate.His goal was to introduce others to the most important person in his life:Jesus. Talking about Christ should be as simple as telling someone about your husband,wife, or children. If you know how to brag about your kids, then you should have no trouble bragging about your Savior!

4. Remember: Salvation is not your responsibility. Andrew did
not argue with unbelievers or try to change their minds. He simply
brought them to Jesus. Turning a heart toward Christ is not the responsibility of any Christian. That task rests solely with the Holy Spirit.

The Challenge
Like a gifted matchmaker, Andrew spent his life bringing friends and strangers face to face with their true love: the Lord Jesus Christ. He was never overtly recognized for his consistent ministry, and his name appears in the gospels just a few scarce times. This would have been just fine with Andrew. He wasn’t looking for the spotlight, praise, or public esteem. His cry was not, “Look at me!” but rather, “Look at Him!”

In today’s “me first” generation, a call away from self and towards something Higher would be noteworthy indeed. This is Andrew’s challenge: that believers would embrace with dignity their position in the shadow of Christ, excitedly and humbly introducing men and women to Jesus.

This article by Allen Harris was taken from In Touch magazine, June 2006. All rights reserved. www.intouch.org.

A Manifesto of Issues and Concerns Among Bible Baptist Churches in the Philippine Islands

A SPECIAL EDITION ARTICLE SERIES
by Pastor Archie Alvarez
Bible Baptist Mission of Imus, Cavite
(PART 2)

Should Christians Use Drums in Their Worship?

FACT #3
Drums nowadays in the field of music is primarily used in Rock Music, Rhythm and Blues, and today’s Heavy Metal.

The Rolling Stones and other rock and roll groups have recorded tribal and voodoo occult drumming ceremonies and incorporated these into their rock music. The Stones’ Goat Head Soup album allegedly contained such recordings, including the vicious drumming and the screams of voodoo adherents becoming possessed by Ioa or evil spirits.

John Lennon said rock & roll gets through to people because of its voodoo beat: “Because it is primitive enough and has no bull, really, the best stuff, and it gets to you through its beat. GO TO THE JUNGLE AND THEY HAVE THE RHYTHM and it goes throughout the world and it’s as simple as that” (Lennon, Rolling Stone, Feb. 12, 1976, p. 100).

Tony Sanchez, who traveled with the Stones for many years and who rote a book about them, described the music at their infamous concert at Altamonte, during which many people were injured and killed, as “POUNDING VOODOO DRUMMING and primitive shrieks” (Sanchez, Up and Down with the Rolling Stones, p.184). He described the music of the Rolling Stones song “Gimme Shelter” as “HYPNOTIC, VOODOO RHYTHM” (Sanchez, p. 175).

Malcolm McLaren, who managed vile punk groups such as the Sex Pistols and Adam and the Ant, incorporated ZULU TRIBAL MUSIC into his 1983 Duck Rock album.

Musicologist John Chernoff studied drumming in Africa, even participating in animal sacrifices and other pagan ceremonies to appease the drum spirits. After these demonic ceremonies, he claimed that his arms did not tire and he “seemed never to make a mistake.” Chernoff noted the close connection between voodoo-type African cult drumming and rock and roll: “great drummers, aficionados, and scholars can trace the rhythms of the Latin dance halls of New York to Cuban and Brazilian cults and then to West Africa. In Haiti, I demonstrated for some drummers several Yeve cult rhythms which were familiar enough to have Haitian names” (Chernoff, African Rhythm and African Sensibility, p. 29).

David Byrne of Talking Heads produced a documentary film, The House of Life (1981), on THE DRUMMING AND CHANTING RITUALS OF THE AFRICAN-ROOTED RELIGION CANDOMBLE in Brazil, during which the followers are taken over by their gods. “If you go back to the history of American popular music, you’re constantly finding elements of Yoruba [voodoo] influence. The RHYTHMS are there. If you grow up with that, you’ve already got a taste of it. So when you see Candomble, you say to yourself, Hey, this is part of where it all comes from” (Byrne, Rolling Stone, July 13-27, 1989, p. 78).

FACT #4
The druid beat – The drum beats found in Rock Music today is the same beat found in the rituals done by the Druid Priests of the past and present.

1. What are Druids?

"Druids were priestly, learned class among the Celts, a people of Ancient Europe. The Druids were judges and lawmakers as well as priests. They led religious ceremonies, settled legal disputes and served as leaders and advisers to their people.

"Druidism, the religion of the druids, involved the worship of many gods. The Druids regarded mistletoe and oak as sacred. They believe that soul is immortal and enters a new body after death (reincarnation--author's insertion). The druids killed animals and possibly even human beings as sacrifices. They studied the flights of birds and remains of sacrificed animals to foretell the future. Apparently according to history Druidism died the fourth and fifth century and was revived in the 16th and 17th century (author's insertion).

"During the 1600's, descendants of Celts became interested in their Druidic heritage. Today several groups in Great Britain and Ireland practice what they believe to be ancient Druidism. They hold Druidic festivals at the beginning of spring, summer, autumn and winter. A major celebration takes place at Stonehenge, a monument near Salisbury, England, that the Druids are said to have used. In Wales, festivals of music and poetry called eisteddfods include Druidic rites." --The World Book Encyclopedia Vol. 5, p. 324 (author's emphasis)

A quote from the Crusaders' Spell Bound:

"The druids used a flute, a tambourine and a drum (Notice that tambourine is different from drum here--author's insertion) covered with a human hide. The words to every song or melody were for casting spells. The drum beat was the key to addict the listener--a form of hypnotism. The same beat the Druids used is in the Rock music of today (words in bold are the author's emphasis).

"Way over in the British Isles, Scotland and Ireland, in that area, was one of Satan's strongholds. The most evil people living in this horrible darkness were the Druid priests (known as 'men of oak'). They demanded human blood sacrifices. These men were so filled with demons that some had strange, frightening powers. People lived in terror of the Druids. Male slaves or Roman soldiers would be burned alive in cages over barren (solid) ground. The Druids would call forth Elvin fire out of the earth to consume the victims, and it did! In the background the Druid musical beat could always be heard.

"Their big night was Halloween; in the occult it is called Samhain, October 31st. All the little kids going from door to door yelling 'trick or treat' had its origin with the Druids. It's fun for the kids today--but in the times of the Druids it was a night of horror. On Halloween the Druids and their followers went from castle to castle and serf to serf playing trick or treat. The treat from the castle demanded by the Druids would be a princess or some woman for human sacrifice. If the treat pleased the Druids they would leave a Jack O' Lantern with a lighted candle made of human fat to protect hose inside from being killed by demons that night. When some unfortunate couldn't meet the demands of the Druids, then it was the time for the trick. A hex (hexagram) was drawn on the front door. The spell-binding beat of the Druid music filled the night as the ceremony began. The men assaulted the victim and they brutally sacrificed her to the god of many names, such as the horned hunter of the night, Kernos, the oak god of the underworld, the god of the dead (we know him as Lucifer or Satan)." (to be continued)