Christadelphian News from Africa, Botswana, Malawi, Cameroon, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe
NEWS FROM BOTSWANA
God had a purpose in creating man and it should be our desire to live in harmony with that pupose. When God created Adam and Eve, he told them, “Be fruitful and become many and fill the earth and subdue it, and have in subjection the fish of the sea and the flying creatures of the heavens and every living creature that is moving upon the earth” (Gen 1:28).
However, what do we see six thousand years later – in some areas the earth has become full of mankind, but for the most part, they do not acknowledge dependence on their Creator, nor do they worship Him. Rather than subdue the earth they are ruining it along with much of its animal life becoming extinct species. We are thankful the Creator has determined to bring to ruin those ruining the earth and will have this earth transformed into the proposed glorious paradise, populated with a righteous human race that are in subjection to God. God’s purpose in creating mankind will then be
accomplished (Isa 65:17-18) for this we can be truly thankful and rejoice in the prospect (Psalm 145:11,15-16).
Bro Gaotingwe Bamotshabile
NEWS FROM CAMEROON
FONTEM
A reminder of a great commandment, Love comes from God, and when we love each other, it shows that we love God – God is love, and anyone who does not love others in the Truth does not know God. Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. (Read John 4:7-8; Eph 6:10) Bro George Kum
BRO GEORGE KUM ERECTING A NOTICE BOARD
MENTENGENE
Many of us praise God when things are good with us. When trials and hard times come we can sometimes doubt the existence of God. Some say if there is a God, why should we be
in this situation. The Lord says, “Call upon me in the day of trouble and I will deliver you and then thou shalt glorify me” (Psalm 50:15). You can be a Christian or a non-Christian, life does not promise to be smooth all the time. There are bound to be difficult times but how we face those problems indicates the type of Christian we are, Psalm 54:7 says “For he hath delivered me out of all trouble, and mine eye hath seen His desire upon mine enemies”. We could lose a job, we could be bereaved, we could be hard up, abandoned by parents, brethren, sisters, family members. We have to remember that the Creator knows and understands why things happen to us and will never forsake us.
Bro Nicolas Menjuah
TLKO
I am happy to recieve Gospel News. I appreciate all who enable it to reach us in Africa. I see my brothers and sisters all round the world through it. I am always happy to recieve it. God bless the good work. Please brother, I will be grateful for the free Dictionary/Thesaurus, as English is our second language.
Bro.Brain Ebong
Mutengene Ecclesia
NEWS FROM KENYA
BULIMBO
I am reading the books sent and I feel moulded in heart and getting blessed with the Word of God, although I would ask you to pray for Kenya as a whole because there is bloodshed. There is a gang known as ‘Mungiki’ that is killing residents in a crude way and without major reasons, using pangas and other guns, so please include us in your daily prayers.
Bro Imelda Makokha
Comment. The Kenyan ‘Daily Nation’ 8.6.07. reports on a major operation of more than 500 police to track down some of this Mungiki gang, (estimated as 300,000 strong) who are responsible for criminal actions, thefts, killings, violence etc. In one shoot-out with the police 11 of them were gunned down by the police, who also took away chunks of
preserved meat, suspected of being human flesh.
BUNGOMA
I am very thankful for Bible Basics and other literature that you have sent which have really encouraged me and strengthened my faith. I will share with friends who are still in darkness to help enlighten them. Many say they are going to heaven, yet the Scripture tells us clearly and truly, “Blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth” (Matt. 5:5).
Bro. Moses Mzungu
CHWELE
Thank you very much for sending us “The Death of the Cross” and other books to increase our knowledge about the Bible. We received Bible Basics and Glad Tidings which we are reading so much. The only problem is that, due to old age, I need reading glasses.
When Adam and Eve sinned in the Garden of Eden they fell short. God, who is so merciful, provided another way which would bring man to Him if only he obeys Him through Jesus. In Gen.3:21 God killed an animal and clothed them with animal skins. When one hates their brethren it is us who are killing our brethren and when we kill others we sin against our Lord, James 4:1-4. “What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you? You want something but you don’t get it, you kill and covet, but you cannot get what you want.” “If someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourselves or you also may be tempted” (Gal.6:1). In our prayers every day we should always forgive our brothers who have wronged us so that we may be forgiven our sins (Matt.6:12).
Bro. Patrick Sawa
HOMA BAY
I am Kevin Onjiko. I am 14 years old and a son to Sis. Monica Achieng, who is in Musoma, Tanzania. I wish to thank you so much as you have been a big help to my Mum both spiritually and physically as you did encourage her since our Dad fell asleep. We are all having a good foundation in Christ because of you. Mum is also working so hard to see I get a good education as well in the Bible. I am managing to read the Bible at school using the Bible Reading Planner you sent to my Mum, with a friend of mine called Peter, who is also a Christadelphian. We are great friends.
Kevin Onjiko
My dad and stepmother who is looking after me as my mum did.
Bro. David and Sis. Jacklyne Wanjala weeding their crops
KIBERA
In the name of our Master, thank you for the books I received, they are helping me. Here in Kenya things are going well. Brothers and sisters are still holding fast their faith in God hoping for the soon coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. I am requesting more books and teaching materials for Sunday School if any are available. Kenya youths are very much affected by the deadly disease AIDS, HIV. even unfortunately touching some brothers and sisters. I have decided to come up with a group of youth, experienced brothers and sisters to educate other brothers and sisters, which will be of considerable benefit to them.
Bro. Gideon Mukeku
KISUMU
I would like to receive Bible Basics, God willing, plus any other literature and materials available. Sometimes we cry for rain and on the other hand we cry because of the destruction which excessive rain causes. From the picture enclosed you can see my house where I based my business. It was flooded and many things destroyed. I beg for a joint prayer hoping to receive the abundant blessings from the Almighty.
Bro. Richard Oduma
Bro. Richard after having struggled to rescue some things from his house
Ecclesial group at Kasusasi
KITALE
May God bless all those involved in sending Gospel News and literature to me. Through Gospel News I have got to know how brothers and sisters worldwide are growing in the Word of God. So, brothers and sisters, let us rise with one accord to spread the gospel as the Kingdom of God is at hand. The Bible teaches me that Jesus will descend to this earth soon, then he will check my work and yours. I was given the work to be a fisher of men and I am fishing continually.
Sis. Lydiah Fuchaka
KOBUJOI
For the past few years I have been blessed to receive The Christadelphian, The Testimony magazine, The Bible Missionary, the Bible Magazine and Gospel News. I find them all very helpful and most of them contain information hard to find anywhere else. Thanks to our brethren and sisters who contribute in writing articles for these magazines, their efforts will be greatly rewarded by our Heavenly Father. I receive the Present Day Events leaflets from Australia. I still feel quite tired and confused after I lost my father earlier this year, he was 83 years old. Bro. Geoffrey Chirchir
LOITOKTOK
I am very happy while writing this letter and only waiting for the Master’s return. Thank you very much for keeping me well informed through Gospel News. I am not so good in English and not so bad since it is my best subject, but I would be glad if I could get an English dictionary and expand my English
understanding. Sometimes it looks odd and also shameful to be always expecting to be given things free since the Lord blesses the hand that gives more than the hand that receives. If possible, I would like to know how much it costs to purchase a small Bible dictionary that can assist in daily reading.
Bro. Peter Thuo
MUHORONI
I am very happy to greet you all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank God for what he is doing in Muhoroni. The first time I came to know the Christadelphians was last year, since then I have been studying deeply the Word of God under Bro Alex Abuya
who introduced me to the Christadelphians. I was baptised on 14th July by Bro George of Songhor which has made me so happy. The Bible says, “Let not a wise man boast in his wisdom, and let nor the mighty man boast in his might…but let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me”. “Do not be conformed to this world , but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect” (Jeremiah 9:23-24, Romans 11:36-12:2).
I praise God for I have been away from His word for so many years, but now He has shown me the right path. As a young man I could do bad
things, thinking they were right before the Lord God. God could have finished with me a long time ago, but I thank Him because He has shown me His mercies. I still long to know more and more about the Lord God; kindly help me with some study books to enable me to do so. Bro Sylvester Ariri
BRO SYLVESTER AND HIS WIFE DOLPHINE ARIRI
NALONDO
I have received your letter plus other articles this morning and to me it is a measure of gratitude and celebration. I also appreciate the prayers which you are praying for our difficulties and I hope that God will grant our hands with success. We are experiencing some difficulties and hardships in the work of our Lord Jesus. The common enemies i.e. hunger and diseases have strongly buffeted our mission and dragged us behind. Tribal clashes have also affected us negatively and therefore we might have political instability in Kenya. The tribes around Mount Eglon are fighting over land issues and we who live along the border of Mount Eglon and Bungoma district have been affected. The residents of some places are on the verge of chaos and live in constant terror.
We are working tirelessly in spreading the gospel. We were visited by the Jehovah’s Witnesses’ followers and we have been discussing with them every Tuesday over the past two months. We have discussed topics such as, the Kingdom of God, satan, the devil, Lucifer and the Lord’s table. We visited their Kingdom Hall to witness the breaking of bread which they do once a year. It was really funny to find that nobody in the entire Kingdom Hall ate the bread and drank the wine; what was done was simply to look at it as it was taken back to the table. The following day when they came we asked them why they had not eaten the bread and drunk the wine. No good answer was provided therefore we told them to read John 6:54-56. Since that day they have never come back. Therefore we request that if there are other materials concerning Jehovah’s Witnesses’ doctrines kindly send them to us.
At Nalondo Ecclesia we have decided to organise a rota system. We have been rotating from house to house of our brethren every Thursday afternoon and have had the great privilege of sharing the Word of God with our brethren. Bible Classes are also taking place under the leadership of Bro. Moses Masika Wanami. Sisters’ Bible Classes are also being arranged. Therefore the work ahead of us is becoming greater. We hope that God will be on our side.
Bro. Laban Kisaka
SUNA
I hope by now you will have heard about our library in Kenya by name – Kababu Ecclesia Library. Please may you send us two copies of the free Dictionary/Thesaurus and Bible Basics in English and Kiswahile to strengthen us in our readings. Other publications are also allowed in the library so please send some to us.
Bro. Samuel Masawa
Bro Samuel Massawa at the Nairobi AGM
SUNA-MIGORI
“Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed” (John 20:29).
A small child was standing at the top of some stairs leading into a dark cellar into which the father had just disappeared. The child, feeling lonely, called down in the darkness, “Daddy, I want to get down to you”. “It is alright,” the father said, “you just jump and I will receive you.” “But I cannot see you, Daddy” the child complained. “It doesn’t matter because I can see you and I will receive you”, the father assured the child. Trusting in the father’s promise the child jumped into the darkness and was immediately enclosed in the father’s strong, protecting arms, teaching us to obey Jesus’ call as the child obeyed the father. To let go of all our trust in ourselves, our abilities, our light, our imagined righteousness, our prejudices, and throw ourselves at God’s mercy, clinging to His Word and promises alone might initially be likenened to plunging into darkness. We cannot with our natural eyes see what is ahead of us. We cannot see who is calling us, (Jesus is calling us) in his loving, caring home, (the Ecclesia), the Church. He is there to receive us with outstretched arms. In God’s Word we meet with His call to take that plunge also today. Abraham took a step of faith when he was called out of his home country and his family to go to the promised land and he was richly blessed already here on earth. Noah took that step of faith when he followed God’s instructions and started building the ark, a boat on dry land. Matthew took that step of faith when he followed Jesus, leaving his work as a tax collector (a good job) when Jesus called him to follow and become his disciple.
Bro. Benjamin Mwatu
TIRIKI
From left – Sis. Dina Alvista (Gwademba’s wife) and Bro. Mondest Gwademba with his daughter-in-law, Matilda Angaya, and Gwademba’s grandchildren
TONGAREN
Thank you very much for the parcel I have received; the books will help us much in our tailoring school which we have opened on our ecclesial plot. May God bless you for the materials I received. I have seen the advertisement for the Dictionary/Thesaurus. We could do with a few to help with the translation work. We are using the printed studies of Bible Basics for the teachings in the ecclesia. We have people who are interested in reading Bukusu. In the near future we are going to have many people who will be interested in reading and writing Kibukusu. Nowadays we have four radio stations broadcasting in our mother language. Local books are now being printed so we also need to continue printing Bukusu language. I still see the Bible Basics book as a marvellous book if printed fully in Bukusu language. Brother, God is doing marvellous things in this present life of ours. In our area the time has come for us to install electricity in our houses. We have now got the chance to install electricity in our ecclesial hall. Already our Kenya Linkman has been contacted and he has promised to raise a Project Aid for electricity in our ecclesia. We are earnestly praying for the possibility of the project being funded.
Bro. Sikolia Kapa
The construction of Tongaren Ecclelsial Hall. Bro. Isaac Kapa on phone and Bro. Daniel Simiyu and his son Branwel
NEWS FROM MALAWI
DOMASI
Photo: Bro Mkwaira & his wife
DOWA
I appreciate Gospel News and I receive each issue OK. Also thank you for the two Bible Basics (one in English and the other inChichewa), and also for the two books of Bible Basics (one in English and the other in my own language of Chichewa) which I have received. Brother in Christ, I would like to write to Gospel News for publication. I have a practical difficulty in communicating with you simply because of a lack of postage stamps. Also I live a long distance from my fellow Christadelphians (or where we gather in prayer), it is a distance of about 37 miles (49 km) away. As a lonely believer, I would like to ask for help in letting people around
me hear of the truth. Here in Malawi, more especially in the area where I belong, people like to hear the word of God but in their Chichewa national language.
Bro Wandawanda
JALI
If possible I would like an English Bible so that I can have more encouragement. I was baptised in September 2006 by Bro Juma in Zomba. I was a Sunday School scholar, then I became a student and am now baptised. I am a girl of 18 years of age. I was selected to secondary school but with the problem of school fees, I have failed to go there and I am just staying at home. I have been looking for ways of finding school fees for a long time in order to have a good future but up to now have found none. Only God knows my future.
I need to thank God for having mercy on me to enable me to grow up in His presence and to give me knowledge of Him as my personal Saviour. Some people have no opportunity to know Him. But as for me, I have confidence in the Lord.
As a new Christian, I will learn to speak as all Christians must; the apostle Paul says: “Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying (improving, building up), that it may minister grace unto the hearers” (Eph 4:29). Christians, we can learn to always say right things. It is God’s will for us. God wants us to be happy: “A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a good word spoken in due season, how good is it!” (Pro 15:23).
Sis Diana Patsani
KASIYA
I have been a member of the Christadelphians since 1980 and will be a member until Jesus returns to this earth: (God willing) Zech 14:4 and Ps 37:29. If you have an English Bible and a concordance to
the Bible, please send them to me; I will be happy if you can send these.
Bro Stenford Chipfumbi
KASUNGU
Sis Susan Ntchalachala with her son Liversey.
We have had the baptism of Vitima Kalipinde Phiri, aged 22. I am glad to inform you that we had visitors from the UK to our ecclesia in Kasungu. Bro David Nightingale, Veronica his wife and Bro Keith and Sis Lesley Lowe.
We had a very good talk with them and their exhortations were very encouraging. There was also Sunday School instruction by Sisters Veronica and Lesley.
Our visitors were very friendly indeed. We were told that our ecclesia is the first one in Kasungu. Bro T Kazembe and Sis Bertha Khonje were unable to meet the UK team for the second year now. We wish we could help each other to expand our gospel into other areas so that there could be Christadelphian ecclesias in all corners of Kasungu District. This year I have harvested enough for my consumption up to the next growing season, possibly to April next year.
Bro Harmony Ntchalachala
KASUNGU
Gospel News is good and very essential spiritually. My wife has been on and off (health wise) and I am on leave nursing her. I am retiring from my prison job this year and am ready to preach the gospel everywhere, even in prisons. I will fight against HIV/AIDS through preaching.
Good news: Malawi has had a bumper harvest in many areas this year.
Bro Henry A Madula Banda
LILONGWE
I was at Chitala and was going to Chinguluwe Christadelphian Church with Brother Maluwa. I was baptised there with my wife, Sister Caroline and two older children aged 18 and 22. On top of our five children, we have three orphans. My wife is from Ethiopia. I married her when her parents were working in Zimbabwe.
Bro Maycock Pat
Bro Maycock and Sis Caroline Pat
LIRANGWE
In a free dictionary, I remember some words saying: Unrighteous thoughts defile the temple of the mind. It is mind and character that we offer to God. The fear of God will warm and purify the inner man. We must not judge. We are to assist those who are astray.
Bro Edmond Store
LIWONDE
I am very much enjoying reading the word of God from various books which you sent me. Please don’t stop sending them. Indeed, the time is near for Christ to come, the signs are showing us this. I read Leviticus 26:16 onwards where God said He would do certain things to Israel if they were disobedient: “I will appoint over you sudden terror, consumption and fever that wastes the eyes, your life shall pine away, and you shall sow your seed in vain for your enemies shall eat it”. Sad comments indeed. These verses applied to Israel, but we also live in a country which worries about diseases like HIV: bodies pine away: we have had wars, hunger and shortage of food. We are in danger from enemies in the world. We can be sure that only the word of God gives us life. I have also read Deuteronomy 30:15. Similarly, the choice of life and good, and death and evil is given to Israel. Brothers and sister, like them, the choice given is to us. Surely the time and the signs are ready. Remember Matt 24:3-13 when the disciples questioned Jesus privately. We can see what is happening in the world, but none of us knows the time of Jesus’ return. Lastly, what I want to tell brothers and sisters in love is that we need time to think, we must do what we know, and pray to God all the time.
Bro Geoffrey Michael Chisanga
MIGOWI
I want to thank you for the letter you sent me. I also thank you for the booklets. I received the Chichewa book which I was very interested to read in my own language. I am growing in my spiritual life. The word of God is going on well here in Malawi, but our money is very little, not enough to buy books to read.
Bro B Kathumba
MULANJE
We had an excellent youth weekend with Bre David Ranson and Andrew Brain. We were encouraged to become responsible, and learnt many things about the Kingdom of God. We made new friends.
There is a tendency to abandon God in times of poverty, food shortages, disease, lack of work, death and other problems. We need to focus on the cause of these problems, which is that mankind has abandoned God; He therefore abandons them. It will only be after Jesus returns and mankind turns to God that peace, prosperity and plenty will abound.
Bro Mphatso Baile
LUWANI REFUGEE CAMP
Bro Alimasi and family in the refugee camp, longing for resettlement.
MZUZU
When a person has some type of seed in mind, he also might have some idea of the type of soil in which to put his seed. It seems to me that the seed and the soil are related.
In Holy Scripture, seed and soil have both literal and figurative meanings, as in the parable of the sower.
Giving its explanation to the disciples, Jesus said, “But the one who received the seed that fell on good soil is the man who hears the word and understands it. He produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.” We can compare this passage with Peter: “For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God.” James echoes this: “… humbly accept the word planted in you.” The word of God then is the ideal seed.
Having said that, the meaning of the ideal soil may be plain to us. It is the man who has received the word of God and cherishes it. The yield this man produces comes by witnessing to others about the gospel, or he may feel like Jeremiah in whose heart the word of God kept burning.
Dear brothers and sisters, together with all our friends who read this article, what is our position on this? If our position is otherwise than it should be, this is now the right time for us to make corrections. Tomorrow might be too late. Be awake, friend! You may also be the right soil for the Master’s use.
Bro Sylvester Tembo
MZUZU
Thank you for sending me a parcel of a Bible Dictionary and some magazines. I think these books I have received from you will be very helpful. In our country books are very expensive to buy. The only book which is cheap is the one distributed free, the New Testament which is given out by churches from the Gideons International.
I was baptised in 2005. I started learning and knowing the Christadelphian teachings in 2001 when I was 15. It took me such a long time to be baptised because my parents were very sick. At first I was a Roman Catholic, which was my parents’ church. We live in a culture where most people follow their mother’s and father’s beliefs.
The one who was acting as my tutor, teaching me the truth from the Bible was the excellent Bro Sylvester Tembo. He is the one who encouraged me to where I am now. Because of this, I do salute this brother.
In this country, Christadelphians are mainly in the Southern and Central regions. In the Northern District where I and Bro Tembo live, in Mzuzu, we are only a few and live very far from each other. We face many problems, not in our friendship, but in attending our Sunday services, because we live almost 10 km from each other. We don’t lose hope because of one simple thing: we know that one day everything will be alright. Now we are trying here and there to teach those people who are interested and hungry for the gospel.
Bro Dutch Mphayah
MZIMBA
I am sorry to inform you that I have been sick. My right leg was broken in an accident which I did not expect to happen. A tree crashed on my leg. I was in hospital for six months and up to now I am unable to walk. But I am happy reading the Gospel News you are sending me because they give me hope of the coming of Jesus Christ.
Bro Duncan Charles Tchongwe
NENO
Thanks very much for the Bible Magazine. I have read it and written to our brethren in America to start sending me the free copies. They are good. You know we do not practice politics, but I can say Christadelphians are actually the best politicians.
Brother Tony Benson has been sending me the Testimony magazine for almost five years now. I write to him to remind him that I am still breathing and that he should not stop sending me the magazine. I hope he will continue as I am learning a lot from this magazine.
I was listening to a BBC radio discussion between Israeli and Palestinian teenagers. They were three teens from each side, discussing the conflict between them. To me, such a discussion proves that the God of the Bible is a true God because the history of the two groups of people was the centre point The Israelis said that they had lived on their land for the past thousands of years and are back again to live in their ancestors’ land. The Palestinians also said that they own the land, and that it is theirs right from the beginning.
So according to Genesis history, the conflict was created by God Himself when He told Abraham, Isaac and Jacob to live on that land. And it is God Himself who will end the conflict. I say this because the Palestinians refused to believe the history of the Israelis as the truth. And they don’t believe, the problem will remain for ever, but until the Creator of heaven and earth rules through Jesus. In this case, the second advent of our Lord Jesus Christ is necessary for both Israelis and the Palestinians. I say this because the Palestinians continue to ignore the history of Israel and therefore are against the will of God. It was God who told Abraham to leave Ur for Canaan. Those who believe the Bible should have proof of the existence of God and that Israel are a sign for believers. The conflict that is there now has God Himself as its author, for the reason that both parties should believe in God and that which was written in the Bible.
Blessed be the Lord God that what He wrote is currently happening and the Lord Jesus will come to save the situation in which we live. The Israelis and the Palestinians will then never run away from God’s laws.
Bro A D Liwawa
NCHEU
I was delighted to have received some leaflets which I found to be interesting and helpful to my spiritual life.
I am a happy man to be a Christadelphian Christian and I believe I have found the right church which follows the right Bible doctrines of God. I was a sinner in the past, so because of the Biblical doctrines of the Christadelphians, was convinced and baptised. Today I am a totally new man because I have accepted Jesus Christ, who has taken away my sins; I realise that Jesus Christ is my personal Saviour. I confessed to him all my sins and He received me as His.
I have always been blessed with the verses I write here: John 15:15-17 which says that a slave knows nothing above his master: I find joy and peace whenever I read these verses.
Finally, I do thank the Christadelphians who prayed for my life to be saved when I was in Zomba Central Prison. Today I enjoy the new life I got when I was saved by my Lord Jesus Christ and I do want to share the peace and joy I have in Jesus Christ with others too. I urge you, brother, to continue sharing with me Gospel News and leaflets for growth in my spiritual life. I’m very healthy in my spiritual life and really appreciate all the Christadelphian prayers and determination.
Bro Lytton E Mkwaila
SINYALA
Thank you very much for sending me Gospel News. It is really encouraging us. We learn about the word of God and what is happening around the world.
I request you to kindly send me a pair of reading glasses (spectacles) if possible. Lens clear +2.50. The old ones I had are out of use. I need help with my sight as I am failing to read the Bible.
Bro Henderson Sosola
ZOMBA
Thank you for your letter as well as Gospel News and books you sent me, they help me in my daily spiritual life. Joshua 1:8 and Paul’s warning to the Thessalonians (1.5:17-19): “Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Quench not the spirit”, are encouraging words, we have to keep on worshipping each and every day.
I have been teaching people about the Kingdom of God and some of them seem to be ready to be born again in Jesus. So, if possible, the Chichewa Bible Basics books
are needed for them. Try to send a few in order to inspire them.
Bro Kenneth Maganger
Bro Kenneth Maganger
NEWS FROM MAURITIUS
I am at the moment doing quite a lot of preaching work in the Island of Rodrigues, some 350 miles east of Mauritius. There are some difficult passages of the Bible which we need to know the answers to and it would be good for our work to have a copy of “Wrested Scriptures” explaining such passages as - The kingdom of God is within you, Baptism for the dead, the spirits in prison etc.
Bro Harry Bhagal
NEWS FROM MOZAMBIQUE
It is one year after I crossed the Red Sea and started on a long journey through the Wilderness of Sin. (Exodus 12:30-31,14:16,16:1). For a long time I was a citizen of Egypt, not the literal Egypt of Africa but that of the obstinate stupidity of not listening to and understanding the word of God. One day the Christadelphians came to me and showed me a better way of life and how I would benefit from changing my life both now and for eternity. At first I did not understand what they were saying, but after time I understood what they were speaking about: I should leave the things of the darkness of spiritual Egypt, be baptised and travel along the wilderness road towards the Kingdom. I have just passed one milestone and am determined to press on to the end of the way.
Bro.Lasme Asende
NEWS FROM NEPAL
It is our great privilege to let you know the joyfull news that five more have chosen to put on the saving name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Our Ecclesia at Chabahil, Kathmandu has now expanded to 51 members. God has really blessed us greatly, for which we are very thankful.
The situation in Nepal has been quite bad, but at the moment not so bad. Our brethren and sisters are mainly jobless and just get little partime jobs from time to time. Some get jobs digging fields, some sell vegetables,some go from house to house to get washing. About ten have gone to the Middle East for jobs as housemaids and labourers. Owing to the poor education system few can read or write and consequently life is very hard for everyone, but God is and will be with us.
Bro Kishan and Sis Kalawali
Ploughing with an ox in Nepal
NEWS FROM NIGERIA
ASABA
We are happy to see the giant strides being taken in taking the gospel to various parts of the world. This is in obedience to Christ’s statement that the gospel must be preached to the ends of the world before his coming. We in Asaba are trying our best to move the gospel forward in our area. In view of this and for us to have materials to read and practice before engaging in public preaching, would you be good enough to send us ten Bible Basics, more Gospel News and other literature to enable us to witness.
Bro Solomon Onwordi
ENUGU
Since you begot me with the Word of the Lord you have continually treated me as a father does his son, in giving me spiritual food for which I am most appreciative. Have you any tracts that I can distribute? If not have you some samples we can photocopy here for distribution? I have some problems with my eye. My eye, glass got broken last month and makes reading difficult as I am unable to see the small print.
Bro Goddy Mwosu
KAKURI
You are always encouraging me, to hear of the spreading of the knowledge of the Truth in the undiluted doctrines of our Lord. I pray that all who spread the Gospel will not do so in vain and that they may be blessed when Jesus comes. I can do with a better understanding of the meaning of some English words and would love to be a beneficiary of the Dictionary you have offered. We are all sound in Kakuri and have our regular weekly memorial service.
Bro Anthony Coker
NEWS FROM SOLOMON ISLANDS
My youngest daughter Maureen in now doing the correspondence course with me. We are one family, sons, daugters, In-laws and grandchildren. The first baptisms here were in 1998 and we now have 10 baptised members, but we do not have a proper meeting place- we need one in the city centre in order to make more converts.
Bro Chillion & Sis Grace Suite.
NEWS FROM RWANDA
The French speaking Cyanyugu Ecclesia, Rwanda
Bro Teo Mwagalwa
Cyanyugu Ecclesia
NEWS FROM SPAIN
We are looking forward to and awaiting the coming of our Saviour to establish God’s everlasting Kingdom here on earth. I am very thankful for the books you sent me, which were received in good order. It is also a great pleasure to thank you very much for helping me get in touch with other brothers and sisters here in Spain. Please can you help me with a Hymn book.
Bro Jude Osetin
NEWS FROM TANZANIA
IFAKARA
The warnings the Bible gives us are from our Creator. He is The One who
called us. He knows us all, and that some will fall out. Yet He calls us out by
His grace. We're exhorted to be steadfast. We are cautioned, too, to watch and
pray, failure to do this could result in our losing direction.
It is for us to encourage our students to learn and believe the Bible, and to
be baptised. We shouldn't be too discouraged even if they go astray after.
There will always be a way back,
as long as they live, and Jesus tarries, and they repent. I've not received my
share of the dictionaries yet.
Bro. Kimimino Mnzava
KIBIRIZI
I hear there are visitors from the Uk coming to my area soon. I am in need of reading glasses 0.5 and do hope they can supply me with a pair which will help me in the study of the Holy Word. Without glasses I am unable to fully read and satisfy the need to understand more of the Holy Word.
Bro Lambert Tambwe
KIDODI
I have now returned to Kidodi as my father has died of kidney disease and am come to look after my mother. He was not only my dear father but the mainstay of the household. It is very difficult to console my mum because she has no help but me. Another reason for returning to Kidodi is that Bro East encouraged me to work within the geographical area so that it can be supervised without any extra expence. If it is posible I would like to regularly receive the Testimony magazine.
Bro & Sis Vincent Kankumbi
KITEKA ECCLESIA
MBEYA
I write to acknowledge receipt of the Dictionary/Thesaurus and other literature which will help me much in my Bible studies and writing. The Bible Magazine was very educative as I do not have a full knowledge of the books of Daniel and Revelation. Now I am beginning to understand, thanks to the literature you send, which will help me to pass on this knowledge to other brethren and sisters.
Bro James Mwangomo
MUSOMA
It’s great to have the letter which you wrote to Kevin while he was at school; he came home and left it for me.
My news is that our ecclesia is growing and we are becoming more and more active.Recently Bro Michael Owen baptized another brother, Saimon Kazi, and he is helping us in walking towards the Kingdom. We are now six strong members and this is so wonderful.
Sis Monica Achieng
Bro Justine and Bro Joseph discussing Bible Basics with contacts at Musoma
It encourages us to hear in Gospel News of the difficulties of other brethren and sisters as it helps us feel our own problems are also experienced by so many others. Whilst I lack many things the truth encourages us to thank God the more for the little we have, and to long the more for Jesus’ return to resolve our and eventually all the world’s problems. I was very happy to read the article about Lot’s family in the last issue of Gospel News as it was a topic we recently discussed at Bible Class. Sis Betty Dan.
MWANSA
I was so happy to receive the Dictionary and books on crop production, we will go through these in group discussion so as to share this knowledge of better selection of seeds, planting, weeding, harvesting and control of pests and diseases.
Bro Joctor Rufano
TABORA
I am well pleased to be receiving a regular copy of Gospel News. Here, at Tabora I am almost isolated, with some few contacts that are learning the Truth. Brother Ben also lives here but is studying in Dar-es-Salaam and so is only here in the holidays.
Bro Fred Misonge.
NEWS FROM UGANDA
BUSOLWE
“Do not forget this one thing, dear friends: with the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare. Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live godly lives as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming” (2 Peter 3 v.8-13).
Bro. Yokosani Higenyi
BUSIA
The Bible does not leave us without a solution – Jesus Christ invites every individual to accept his terms for eternal salvation. He told his disciples to “Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved, but he that believeth not shall be condemned” (Mark 16:15,16). Belief in the one true gospel and baptism into the name of the Lord Jesus Christ are the two essentials for personal salvation. Notice these carefully. The Bible’s definition of the gospel Paul explains in these terms: “The scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, “In thee shall all nations be blessed” (Galatians 3:8). Therefore the gospel of salvation involved the restoration of all nations of the earth to a state of harmony with God, and for God to grant mankind the great blessings promised. That is why it is recorded that Philip went about “preaching the things concerning the Kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ”, resulting in many of his listeners being baptised (Acts 8:12). God offers eternal life and an inheritance in His Kingdom to those who believe and obey the gospel. So ask yourself, do you do this? An understanding of Bible truth, baptism into the sin-covering name of God’s Son, Jesus Christ, and a consistent life of dedication and obedience to the principles laid down in the scriptures are essential for salvation in the day of Christ’s coming.
Bro. Wilberforce Wandera
Bro. Wilberforce Wandera
KASESE
I am happy to hear what is happening in all corners of the earth, and also it is good to read the items presented by our brothers worldwide. Please continue to send Gospel News to me so that I will not be cut off when Jesus comes to set up his Kingdom on this earth. I am so encouraged and equipped with the words of different brothers and sisters when I read Gospel News, that I am able to preach God’s word to unbelievers without fear.
Bro. Justus Praise
KILEMBE
God’s prophecies regarding Israel are an amazing guarantee that we can trust the Bible. God himself has said that the people of Israel are His witnesses on the earth. “Ye are my witnesses, saith the Lord, that I am your God” (Isaiah 43:1, 10-13). Briefly consider some of these prophecies.
Before they had entered the Land of Israel, while they were still in the wilderness, Moses foretold their scattering among the nations because of disobedience (Deut. 28:63-68). How accurate this prophecy has been fulfilled is clearly set out in the history of the Jews from AD70 down to this present time.
Moses also foretold their ultimate re-gathering from among the nations (Deut. 30:1-5). The Prophet Jeremiah clearly described this scattering and regathering of the Jews as a consequence of their disobedience (Jer 30:10-11 & 31:10).
Jesus likewise foretold the scattering of the Jews as also a consequence of the dreadful event of AD70. Since that time Jerusalem has been under Gentile domination and the Jews scattered into every country of the world. It has only been in the last one hundred years or so that the Jews have begun to return to the land of their fathers. Jerusalem itself was finally taken by the Jews in 1967 after nearly 2,000 years of dispersion.
Zechariah the Prophet foretold that the Jews would return to their land and have control of Jerusalem before Jesus Christ returns (Zech.12:1-11). He also foretold that Jerusalem would be in the hands of the Jews, but that it would be the source of international tension and all nations would converge on the Middle East for war prior to Jesus Christ revealing himself to the Jews (Zech.12:2-3, 9-10, 14:1-4).
Ezekiel the Prophet foretold this great war in the Middle East in later days when the Jews would be re-settled in the Land of Israel (Ezek.38:8,12). We witnessed the establishment of the Nation of Israel in the land in 1948. Israel will return to the land in unbelief of the Messiahship of Jesus Christ. They will only acknowledge this fact after he has been revealed to them and they see the wounds in his hands (Zech.12:10; 13:6).
The Apostle Paul spoke of the time when the Jewish people would have their blindness removed and they would then realize that Jesus was their Messiah (Romans 11:25; Isaiah 59:20-21) so that Israel gives us hope that the Lord Jesus Christ will soon come.
All these prophecies cause us to reflect on our own response to the word of God: to turn from unbelief to belief that our Lord Jesus will come to this earth to establish the Kingdom.
Please note my new address is: c/o Kilembe Mines Ltd., P.O. Box 1, Kilembe, Kasese, Uganda, E. Africa. Also could you please send me the book, “The Real Devil”.
Bro. Isaac Bulea Cox
KISINGA
Thank you very much for the information you gave me in January regarding the issue of Moslems handing back Jerusalem to Christians in 1967, it relieves my fears, for I remember my life and hope that Jesus may return at any time soon. My sincere prayer is that my good God, who is full of mercy, may forgive me all my failings. I want to assure you that to follow the example of Jesus is my great work, but at times it seems impossible. You can only be like him in your speech, in the steps you take and in what you do, with his help - all must witness that you seek to be qualified to be a man of light. Therefore this is a special appeal to our brothers and sisters in Uganda who are unaware that the sons and daughters of the same family must share the same faith in light – not blindly misguided. Why? John 9:4 – Time is running out – John 10:16: we must be with our one Teacher, who is Jesus (Mat 23:8-10). Let us not be a stumbling-block to fellow brothers who lack the truth, but let us make our motto that found in Matthew 5:16, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” Remember Rev. 22:12. Surely God will soon be sending Jesus to establish His Kingdom, when all will stand before him in judgment. Let us all be blameless and achieve eternal life as our reward from God as well as a ‘Well done.’ May all who read this letter, with God’s power to help, change their behaviour and start a new life in Christ as a light to shine in the world, and not continue in our selfishness which will have no reward and only leads to destruction. May we all remember our Lord’s recorded prayer to his Father in John 17: “Father make them one, tie them in love that the world may recognise them. As we are the same, make them like us.” He says, “Father don’t take them away from the world, but keep them from evil.”
May the world know the Father and Jesus by what we do, what we say with our mouths, and the way we walk – a step ahead. In prayers that we all may share in the coming Kingdom,
Bro. Kule Remegio
Kisinga Sunday School
MBARARA
Continually we young people have to remember many things, including our appointments, what we learn in order to prepare for exams, our date of birth, our friends – and this also applies to older people. Let us look at it in a Biblical way.
Numbers 11:5-6. The Israelites were remembering their time spent in Egypt and the food they had there, cucumbers, melon, leeks and garlic. We should remember the following:-
1. Day of your deliverance Exodus 13:3-16; Acts 22:1-21 (This was Paul’s testimony).
2.Remember from where you were falling and don’t go back to it. Rev.2:5
3.Remember the commandments of God. Numbers 15:37-41
4.Remember God. Deut.8:18; Eccl.12:1-6; Matt.15:4-8
5.Remember God’s marvellous works. 1 Chron.16:12,15,16; Psalm 103:
6. Remember Jesus the Saviour. Heb.9:28
7.Remember and obey your leaders in the Lord. Heb.13:7
8.Remember the last day. Heb.9:27; Rev.20:11
9.Remember Jesus is coming soon. Matt.24:41-42
I have not given any explanation of each point because I want readers to open their Bibles and discover the truth themselves by using the given verses. If we remember all these things, then we examine ourselves and prepare for Jesus’ coming, as we see it is very near.
Bro. Sunday Moses
MT ELGON AREA
We appreciate the work of preaching as a major aspect of bringing people unto salvation and also helping the needy Ecclesias grow spiritually. We appreciate the work of distributing Bible Basics into foreign languages, it helps in Kiswahili and Luganda, but there are still many more langues in which it is needed. Even with English, Kisawaheli and Luganda we have problems because a number can-not read and so we have decided to teach people to stretch their understanding of these languages and to read them. Bro Paul Boyd has helped us with some small leaflets which are more suitable to start with than the books.
Another problem we have in Uganda is that recently we have had excessive rain which has destroyed crops making for food shortages, causing landslides that have destroyed homes and even sweeping away bridges, making transport an even greater problem. We ask brothers and sisters to pray for us and in the meantime we wait for the Lord Jesus to return.
Bro Samuel Godwin.
NEWS FROM ZAMBIA
CHAMBISHI
We were very disappointed by the heavy rains which left us in need of various things, including a house. Our mud house was brought down, but we managed to shift into another within the neighbourhood. Our crop field was submerged and three-quarters of the produce destroyed completely. Our Heavenly Father is merciful – the government is doing everything to assist us: these are signs of the end times indeed.
When the rain season was over I managed to travel to Kasama to visit my brethren and sisters in the Isolation area where I used to belong. I met brethren Kelly Simayumbula and Darkwell Mubanga who were on a tour of North-western, Luapula, Northern and Central Provinces of Zambia, and one baptism was conducted in my presence.
Please, I would be very grateful if you could notify Bro. and Sis. L. Murphy about my change of address (75 Lukoshi Drive, Chambishi Mine T/Ship, Chambishi, Kitwe, Zambia) – they are still sending my exhortation, lecture and Bible Study papers to Kasama Isolation. I found a pile waiting for me there when I visited; some have been there for two years, I imagine.
Also there is a student, (Sidney) who needs a Bible, and I also need three Bible Basics, two in English and one in Bemba for my wife. I also need Sunday School teaching material, as earlier requested. I write only to you about all these things because the only way possible is using your response payee envelope. Magazines such as the Testimony and the Bible Magazine are a blessing when they come my way. Please, if you happen to have some, send them over, however old they may be – they are an inspiration to me. I enjoyed the Bible Magazine of July 1993. It sounded recent you know! I have about 16 Sunday School youngsters, including my three children who need serious teaching: please assist if possible, or enquire from the panel concerned. I will be glad to have the feed-back in time, and hope to hear from you soon.
Bro. Willies Simbowe
CHINSALI
I am waiting for the books which will help me greatly in my study of the Word of God. I have no Bible – sometimes I just borrow from brothers when they are not reading, which is not good for a believer. I am down on my knees, begging for a Bible.
We must obey and read God’s Word, the Bible, with a prayer to open our minds, and act according to His teaching to love one another. This makes us complete in Him worldwide. “He who says ‘I know Him’ and does not keep his commandments, is a liar and the truth is not in him. But whoever keeps his word, truly the love of God is perfected in him. By this we know that we are one in Him.” (1 John 2:4-5)
Bro. Edward Mutale
KABOMPO
I am your brother in Jesus, and live in Katendura (North) of Kabompo. My wife and I have five children, and I was born on 20th July 1970. On 23rd March 2001 I found Brother R. Kambeu and Brother F. Mukobe in Kabompo, who told me about the Christadelphian faith. From that time I began the Correspondence Course with my tutor Josie Walker, and I have completed the 40 lessons course. On 28th July 2006 I was born again in water. Now I am patiently waiting God’s time for the Lord Jesus Christ to return to the earth for ever. On 28th July we met with Bre. David Nicholls, A. Kunda, H. Mulongesha and Sister Lynda Nicholls on their visit to Kabompo. Bro. Nicholls allowed me to be in the Isolation, but I always meet with my brothers and sisters in Kabompo to break bread. My wife also is to be baptised, and my children are taking the Sunday School course. It is a problem to praise the Lord in hymns – we have a Zambian hymn book; just Bemba, Nyanja, Tonga and English. But we don’t have Lunda, Luchazi, Chokwe and Luvale. Now I have seen it is a problem because we are singing only other languages. Brothers, I have asked you to allow me to write some of our languages such as Luvale, Lunda, Chokwe and Luchazi and send such hymns to you so that they may be printed. If you agree with this, please could you help me with writing paper, pencils, eraser and envelopes together with stamps, so that it should be easy for me to post to you.
Bro. Goodson Kufuna
I would like to greet you in the Name of our Saviour Jesus. How are you and your family? I am quite okay.
We went to the North Western Fraternal which was held at Kabompo Farmer Training Centre from 13th-17th April 2007. We had brothers as our speakers from several Ecclesias speaking on Resurrection and Judgement; Marriage and Divorce; Funerals; Disfellowship; Preaching to a non-believer – Wife/Husband and Neighbour; Duties and Dressing of Sisters; Learning new songs and Ecclesial Life. I have acted twice as organiser/President of the day. We very much enjoyed this spiritual food. In human terms, it takes time for reproduction to take place. An egg for to be fertilised, an
embryo to develop, and then an offspring to be born. Feeding has to follow for it to grow. So with our ecclesia: now it is an offspring and is facing the stages of growth; crawling, learning to stand and then walk. It’s not easy. Our speakers as new brothers, come to us and act as metal sharpening metal. We have been spiritually ‘sharpened’. During our reent redings Prov 27:10 has struck me forcibly.
Bro Amos Chikanda
KABWE
All the books sent to me are interesting – they contain spiritual food and I am very thankful: please continue to send to me. You are helping us to grow in our faith. The books are now being passed to each member of our Ecclesia, and even some outside are enjoying reading them. Allow me to request from you the book, ‘Questions on the Daily Readings.’ I hope and trust that you will continue to
supply me with these spiritual books as we are preparing for the return of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. We are in a bad situation, in a world full of problems: our children are not going to school because we are not in employment. As I write my two daughters are missing school – one is in Grade 11 and the other has passed to Grade 10, but we have no money for School fees or uniforms. Pray for me so that I do not fall.
Bro. Maybin Bwalya
At the Kabwe Bible Camp from left: Bro. & Sis. Dennis Kombe, Bro. Charles Muhumpu, Bro. & Sis Peter Osborn
KAFUE: Bro. Mwape Samenti
KALOMO
Here at Kalomo God’s work is progressing. In the week to come, on 10.6.07. I will be cycling to visit students and deliver their mail, as well as having time to share God’s word with them. It might take me the whole day to cycle since the distance is very far, and I hope to spend four to six days then return home. In July I will again accompany our linkman, Bro. Andrew, and Sis. Josie, to the various places to meet the students and possibly conduct some interviews with those who have completed their 40 lessons. God willing, we may be joined by new brothers and sisters. Regarding the Tonga Bible Basics, I wrote to Brother Wilfred requesting some copies but as yet I haven’t received a reply. Please may I request your help by writing to him on my behalf? Thank you for the Bible Dictionary you sent.
Bro. Harry Hambula
KASAKA
I am in a position of sending my great gratitude to you for sending me Gospel News. I used to be in so many churches here in Zambia looking for the truth and sound doctrine. But when I came across the CBM Bible Course and started studying it, I found it to be so interesting that I completed it through my tutor, Sis Sheila Mothersdill of UK and got baptised on 17th June 2000.
Now my request is: would it not be possible for this straightforward doctrine to be put on TV here in Zambia when brethren from the UK visit us, for others to enjoy the gospel we enjoy as it is written in Matthew 5:14-16. Most brothers here have tried their best to send the message all over the country, but it seems not to be enough.
And I am also appealing to Brethren and Sisters worldwide who have received sound doctrine, to fully follow the steps our Lord Jesus did when he was here on earth. What I am trying to say here is we should not merely talk about the gospel but to try by all means to practice what we read in the Bible, just as it is stated in James 1:19-26. By so doing I think we may be able to convince other people that we have a good doctrine and may also receive good rewards when the Son of Man returns to the earth to pass judgement, and reward the righteous.
Gospel News is so very helpful. I have no hesitation in introducing to you Brother Maxwell Choongo also of Kasaka Ecclesia. PO Box 360099, Kasaka, Kafwe, Zambia who is also interested in receiving the Gospel News.
Bro Adams Nsamu
KASAMA
I absolutely agree with you concerning the Master’s return. I personally am not scared of His return, but long for it. My main concern and worry is the number of people in the population who are outside the truth – an alarmingly large number! May the Lord Jesus, by our Father’s power, increase the spread of His Word. A number of names were put on the list of CBM Students, but they have no tutors to date.
In some parts of the Bible which speak of Jesus, some titles apply to Jesus as though to God Almighty, e.g. “Your throne, O God, is to be established for ever” (Psalms) and ‘I am the Alpha and Omega’ in the book of Revelation. These and others concerning Jesus’ apparent ‘Deity’ are the strongholds for Trinitarians. Light shed on this, coupled with notes or pamphlets, will equip us with proper standing in explaining the real meaning to such people.
Bro. Boniface Simpanzye
KAWAMBWA
I am 22 years old and grew up amongst Christadelphians, starting lessons with Sunday School children, so my tutor from my childhood has been Bro. John Palmer. I started preaching the Word in 2004 after my baptism, by door-to-door calling and to my friends at school when I was in Grades 10 and 11. But now I am not alone – we had eight new members baptised on 25th and 26th April 2007. All were baptised by Brother Kelly Sinayumbula. But I will not end my letter there: I am also praying to God asking Him to continue strengthening and guiding us with His wonderful protection. I ask all Brethren in Christ to pray for me and the members of our Ecclesia.
Bro. Titus Mwansa
KITWE
We are requesting at least three or more Bible Basics – a book, which is essential to our Christadelphian preaching. Please if you can send the English editions we would particularly like that, we also need additional booklets, pamphlets and tracts to help us preach and be equipped for the appearance of our Master.
Bro Kenny Mbao
LUSAKA
Thank you very much for the study materials, and I hope you will continue with this same spirit of caring for one another. I am glad that everything is well with me, and happy that many are able to understand what I believe. Finally, if there are any other books which you think can help me in terms of spiritual growth, I should be grateful if you could please send them to me.
I would like to encourage my fellow brethren and sisters in various parts of the world; maybe they are in a difficult situation. Let us not lose our hope, because the only thing that we should focus upon is the truth that comes from the Bible. I know that I am not the only one facing difficulties or challenges, as many of our brethren and sisters face them at their place of work. Let us hold fast to the truth that we have written in our hearts. As we may know, there is an increasing number of churches in all parts of the world, and within their congregations many people have gone astray because they have followed the majority, thinking that the majority wins, while in fact they lose. What we need to remember is that we are not aiming to please or follow the majority who worship God in error, but to please God.
Sometimes we tend to worry because we don’t have food to eat, or sufficient clothes to wear; maybe we are suffering because of hardship, or have lost our best friends because of our belief. Let us put everything in God’s hands and not worry, because God is there for us. The Bible days in Luke, “Do not worry about your life, what you will eat, or about your body, what you will wear. Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes. Consider the ravens: they do not sow or reap, they have no store-room or barns, yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds” (Luke 12:22-24).
Brothers and sisters, God is there for us, waiting to relieve our hunger – he will feed us. Finally, thank you once more for your support in strengthening my faith.
Bro. Stephen Siamabi
MAZABUKA
I clap my hands and rejoice for having received a Dictionary. Thank you for your letter which I found warm and kind. Your idea for us of goat keeping is very good, and I hope it will benefit us, because of the difficulties we have gone through. I only think of working for God: ever since I was baptised I have tried to help my ecclesia.
Do you remember reading about the Jubilee year? You may read about it in Lev 25:8-16 and 27:16-25, particularly verse 10 of chapter 25. “After 50 years, each of you shall return to his possession and each of you shall return to his family.” In 1517 the Ottoman Empire, present-day Turkey, invaded the Holy Land and occupied the city of Jerusalem. They were – and are – Moslems. This
was also the year when the German monk Martin Luther rebelled against the Pope, which eventually split the Roman Catholic church in half, and then brought about the Reformation, the Protestants etc. and later the Christadelphians.
Exactly 400 years later in 1917, which is eight Jubilee Years (50 years x by eight Jubiles = 400years), the British Indian armies drove the Turks out of Jerusalem. 50 years later in 1967, the Jews themselves liberated Jerusalem. This 1967 was the 9th Jubilee (9 x 50 = 450 yrs.) The 10th Jubilee will therefore be in 2017:10 x 50 = 500, 1517 to 2017 = 500. In the Bible, numbers, as anything else, have a meaning.
In Iran, from where Nebuchadnezzar invaded Israel, their present President is planning to destroy Israel and ‘wipe it off the map.’ They are also working on nuclear weapons of mass destruction. All are signs of the times.
I will send an article soon when you write back. I have prepared one on Discipleship and Ecclesial matters. Thank you for praying for me and for being concerned about my poor way of living. I ask you to please pray for me all the more as we consider God’s word together.
I stand in prayer with your ecclesia for their love for me. God is a good and loving Father who will provide for all our needs if we remain faithful in His service.
It is very interesting to look at the beauty of nature which reminds us that God is indeed the wonderful Creator of all things.
The extremes of weather you, ourselves and the rest of the world are experiencing are signs of our dear Lord’s return to heal the earth of all its woes. We have to keep watching and be prepared for Jesus’ coming as we do not know when it will be – for he will come like a thief to the earth.
Bro. Gideon Hankomone
Bro. Gideon Hankomone
NDOLA
Whenever I read Gospel News I feel so sorry when I hear about brethren and sisters being persecuted. I always think of the Lord’s words recorded in John (ch.15:18-19). “If the world hates you, you know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world the world would love you as its own, but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you”. See also 1 Cor.4:11-12, and in 2 Tim.3:12 it says, “Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Jesus Christ will be persecuted”. You are being persecuted because of your belief that the Lord Jesus Christ is the Son of God and our Saviour. Also read Acts ch.5:17-42: ‘But the high priest rose up and all who were with him (that is the party of the Sadducees) and, filled with jealousy, they arrested the apostles and put them in the public prison”. Think of this – “But during the night an angel of the Lord opened the prison door and brought them out”. Look at v.25: “and someone came and told them, “Look, the men whom you put in prison are standing in the temple and teaching the people!” In v.29 we discover the main point, brethren and sisters who are on the run because of persecution. But Peter and the apostles answered, “We must obey God rather than men.”’ Also read Matt.5:10-12 which reads, “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven”. and in v.11: “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account”. and in v.12 ‘Rejoice and be glad for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you”.
Bro. Harris Mulongesha
Bro. Harris Mulongesha
Being a disciple of Jesus and one of the children of God is not an easy thing. We need to consult God for help. Jesus explained to a large crowd what discipleship costs, and we read about it in Luke 14:25-34. Verse 31 tells us about a king going to war against another king. First he will consider whether he has a sufficiently large army to fight his opponent. If not, he will approach him for peace talks. We are at spiritual war every day, and we cannot stand on our own. In Psalms we read,
“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion for ever” (73:26). Do we always
consult God for our journey to the Kingdom to be successful? ‘Then they said to him, “please enquire of God to learn whether our journey will be successful.” The priest answered them, “Go in peace. Your journey has the Lord’s approval” (Judges 18:5-6).
We must ask God in our prayers to bless our steps. Our journey will have God’s approval through Jesus Christ, if we are trying to do the right thing. Jesus said, “Do not work for food that spoils, but for food which endures to eternal life, which the Son of man will give you. On Him God the Father has placed his seal of approval” (John 6:27).
In Proverbs we read, “For lack of guidance a nation falls, but many advisers make victory sure”. And again, “For waging war you need guidance, and for victory many advisers” (Pro 24:6). We find our many advisers in the Bible which we must consult every day. ‘Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed” (Pro 15:22). Where can we find counsel? David knew, for he wrote, “I will praise the Lord who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me” (Psalm 16:7). If we follow the counsel of the Lord, there is a wonderful ending. ‘You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory” (Psalm 73:24).
Bro. Green Mumbelunga
I need to continue praying through our Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the living God, for I need physical food to give me strength to read, study and do the work of God well. Thank you for sending me an envelope: please continue to send these to enable me to write to you.
To be able to pray to God in heaven is a wonderful thing: it is a privilege given to everyone who is humble and who recognises that God has made everything in the world, and He has made it plain that He is willing to be approached, and for men and women to talk to Him if they have the right spirit and if they are ready to accept His word. “Thus saith the Lord, The Heaven is my throne and the earth is my footstool… but to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit and trembles at my word” (Read Isaiah 66:1-2 and Psalm 50:15, Psalm 53:1). Indeed God is calling upon all men and women to act and do something before it is too late. God cannot ignore or turn a blind eye to His children: truly, the need is great and the time is late. There is a great harvest to reap, but there are few labourers. All people who know the difference between right and wrong have sinned, and our sins separate us from God.
Bro. James Mwanza
PEMBA
We are so grateful as an Ecclesia to have added more literature material to our shelf: the English programme that Duncan produced is good, wonderfully compiled, and will be a great help. I think more copies would be helpful; such an integrated approach will be a great advantage not only to the young people, but to us, too. Learning English by reading the Bible is a wonderful, spiritual direction – it’s actually a motivating step to the kids’ up-building.
We are also pleased with such encouraging help from you:
The weather is continuously changing (global warming), but we should be ready for anything, even though there have been many floods in parts of Zambia which left numerous people displaced. NGO’S, Governments and Churches have combined to give relief in the form of shelter and other immediate, basic needs to those affected. In some parts there is prolonged drought. Nevertheless, it’s again show time around the country and people will soon be harvesting and start preparations for the same.
I think there is so much to keep track of with the present signs of the times, and I feel pressured to find out why all the problems experienced should prevail now. World events look horrible, yet should make us realize these are final stages, as the Master is close at hand – so we should wait patiently.
Bro. Wilfred Chibomba
NEWS FROM ZIMBABWE
BANKET
I would like to thank you very much for sending me a lovely pocket English Dictionary and Thesaurus which I am now enjoying. I am now studying Bible Basics with a certain lieutenant who is about to retire from the army. He is staying on a nearby farm where he is growing tobacco and maize. He is a sociable man who can mix well with other people and is keen to learn the Truth particularly our doctrines. He joins our Bible studies every Wednesday and Friday and at times attends our Sunday meetings. I need your support on questions he insists on asking. The Satan mentioned in the book of Job ch. 2, Rev. 12:7, Jude ch. 6 and Genesis ch. 6. We would like to hear from other brethren. Your support would be highly appreciated.
Bro. David Banda Yelulani
We are fair and fine, only now crop yields - due to the changes in seasons - have caused many farmers to harvest only a small amount, which differs from other years. Banket ecclesia has five students who are doing Bible Basics and have a very big chance of converting and becoming brethren in Christ. Although problems are coming day by day let us n