Evangelist's Desk

Thoughts and reflections from our evangelists.

COVID-19 SERIES

STOP DROP AND PRAY

March 15, 2020

The Church of Christ in North Rialto is asking everyone not attending service this morning (COVID19 Precaution) to stop what you are doing at 10:am assume your prayer position and pray with us for a few moments. Because of the National Emergency in many countries around the world people are anxious, but Gods Word says “be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication” Phili.4:6-7. We should pray for those leading the CDC and other agencies in this country “that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life” 1Tim.2:1-2. We should pray for those already suffering and sick, faithful prayer of the righteous before God avails much. By The Evangelist

BROTHER’S KEEPER

March 22, 2020

Over the last week I’ve noticed social distancing is bringing us together, more and more people are concern about family and old friends. I’ve received calls of concern from many people, and noticed myself stepping up my efforts to comfort those older than me. With more time on hand, one man said he’s learning his family for the first time. In this time of crisis the walls of separation (Race, Religion, Rich or Poor) are being eroded, most people realize if my brother / neighbor is sick it affects “me.” Even the “Fat Cats” in Washington DC realize how much this country needs the average lower middle class worker. The rich are in Washington DC making plans to give (1Tim.6:17-19) more to the poor than to the Corporation. COVID-19 forces us to face the question God ask Cain “Where Is Your Brother.”(Gen.4:1-9) Cain killed his brother Able and was forced to turn what should have been a statement of concern (I am my brothers keeper) into a question of indifference (am I my brothers keeper). If we are a nation of people who love God we “must” Love our brothers (1John 4:20-21) we “must”  Bear one another’s burdens (Gal.6:2 Rom.15:1) we “must” Pray for one another (Ephesians 6:18 / 1Thessalonians 5:17 / 1Tim.2:1) 

The Church Of Christ, express our deepest sympathy for those in anguish, those that are sick and anyone that has lost a loved one by the hands of COVID-19. We encourage you to fear not because we serve an “AWESOME AND MIGHTY GOD.” By The Evangelist

ALWAYS WITH YOU

March 29, 2020

When loved ones are removed from your home by ambulance because of COVID-19 you can’t follow them to the hospital. You can’t sit by their bed and hold their hand, you can’t pop in at
7 pm for visiting hour, you can’t call the ward to check on them staff too busy. What if you are a loved one are going through this ordeal, on a ventilator for many weeks until you die or recover, the only people you will see are busy hospital staff, how “frightening.” (Glynis’s Post)

I saw the above post early in the week, I believe the point of the post was to say “STAY AT HOME.”

This morning I would like to add to the “stay at home” warning and say “BECOME A CHRISTIAN,” because the Christian is never alone. Jesus said “I will never leave you nor forsake you (Heb.13:5). Those words can be traced from the OT through the NT at all times Jesus is with His people. The Psalmist understood the Omnipresence of the Lord and writes “Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence? (See Ps.139:8-12). When the Christian is face to face with death the Lord is there. David said “Yea though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me.” (See Ps.23) In the Parable Of The Rich Man and Lazarus, we see the Lord comforts those He favors even in the passing from life here to life there (death). When Lazarus dies he “was carried by the angels to Abraham’s bosom.” (See Lk.16:22) If you are a Christian the “Lord is always with you”, He will never leave you nor forsake you.

DON’T DIE WITHOU BEING A CHRISTIAN!!!.
John 11:25-26 “Jesus said to her, I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?

For more Info ask the Evangelist, thewaychurchofchrist.com

LET YOUR LIGHT SO SHINE (Matt.5:13-15)

April 5, 2020

Nearly two thousand people lost their lives during Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The Coronavirus outbreak in the United States is on track to claim the lives of over two thousand people daily. Those most at risk are senior citizens, people with chronic diseases and conditions, people with asthma, and people with compromised immune systems - like cancer and HIV patients.

It’s shocking to see how much has changed in one month. Millions of people have lost their jobs. Roughly nine million people filed for unemployment in the last two weeks. It’s dangerous to leave our homes for fear of contracting or transmitting the disease. And we can’t even visit or embrace our beloved family members and Christian brethren, “[greeting] one another with a holy kiss…” (Romans 16:16), as the author of Romans entreats the Roman saints to do.

I’m not presenting this information to alarm anyone. Rather, I feel Christians have a unique opportunity during this crisis to look inward and determine how we can be of service to our Lord.

The best thing we can do for our society is to remain sheltered in place to slow the spread of the disease. But here are a few things we can do to go above and beyond the responsibilities of citizenship and embrace the calling of Christ: 

Check on one another - especially the elderly. In James 1:27 we are made aware that “pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world.” Although we cannot visit them in person, I’m sure the elderly who have been confined to their homes would appreciate a phone call.

•Volunteer to shop for the elderly or immune-compromised.

•Use this time at home to study the word. Although our church services have been disrupted, we can still engage with the word. Many have found themselves with an abundance of free time during this crisis. Please take this opportunity to revisit your favorite lessons, read through the scriptures, and uplift one another in prayer (James 5:16).

This is not a time to despair. This is a time for Christians to take action. Take care of yourselves and others. God bless you. By Andre Loftis Jr

JESUS OUR HIGH PRIEST

April 12, 2020

This has been another crazy week for all of us, I know we will get through it, we all need to focus on the One that can make all of this go away. The One that we turn to when everything else fails, the Priesthood that’s superior to any other. Higher Than The Heavens means Christ is exalted above all and sits in glory at the right hand of the Father. Jesus appointment as High Priest came by divine decree (Hebrews 7:28). 

What the Levitical priesthood could not attain for us Jesus does because he is the perfect high priest. His death was a perfect sacrifice which once and for “all” provided for our atonement. His endless life enables Him to intercede for us forever. 

So I'am asking all of my Brothers and Sisters, all Christians everywhere to keep praying and keep the Faith a better day is coming!

By John Barnett

MASTER OF ALL

APRIL 19, 2020

Over the pass two weeks the COVID-19 crisis has emerged the question of leadership “who’s in charge.” There are many people today in leadership positions, and we the public see a myriad of leadership traits. I approach today with a few leadership attributes worthy of following: A GREAT LEADER

  1. Has a detailed social and economic plan for the people (Sermon on the Mount. Matt.5:1-7:29)

  2. Has a passion for reverence and won’t allow the people to be cheated.  (Matt.21:12-13 / Mark 11:15-17)

  3. Lives or dies by TRUTH, understanding that character counts. (John 8:32;44 / 18:37-38)

  4. Leads from a position of service (Matt.20:20-28 / Mark 10:35-45)

  5. A person of prayer, prays understanding the scope of the office (John 17:1-26)

  6. Willing to yield to those of like authority (Mark 14:35-36 Luke 22:41-42 John 4:34)

  7. Has great compassion and forgiveness even for His enemies (Luke 23:34)

Jesus came that we might have life and that we may have it more abundantly. Jesus was not looking for a great reputation, but humbled Himself and God highly exalted Jesus to be “Master Of All.” Mastery of self is why Jesus is the KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS, (Revel 19:16) and it’s been said, “of His Kingdom their will be no end.” (Dan.2:44 / Luke 1:31-33). 

A person in leadership can’t go wrong following the qualities listed above; the “Master Of All” must first master self.

The Evangelist 

The Words Of My Mouth

James 3:1-18

April 26, 2020

In the third chapter of James we are told much about the evil of the tongue, which is representative of our speech. In verses 3-4 we see several analogies of large things being guided by small objects which represent the tongue (our speech); a big horse being guided by a small bit in it’s mouth; and a large ship being guided by a small rudder. The tongue even though small has great power and influence. 

If the tongue were a small fire (sinful words) that goes unattended it could spread and cause great destruction. The tongue (our words) can defile our hole body, James says we use the tongue (our words) to bless God our Father, and with it we curse man, who have been made in the image of God. (James 3:9). 

James 3:13-18  We see demonic wisdom versus heavenly wisdom, a lie vs truth.

  • If we have bitter envy, self-seeking in our hearts, you will lie against the truth, this bring forth confusion and every evil thing are there. James says “this wisdom is earthly, sensual, and demonic.”

  • Truth, on the other hand bring forth a love for peace, gentleness, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits (works), shows no partiality and without hypocrisy, this type of wisdom is heavenly from above. 

Is it any wonder that Psalm 19:14 says: Let The Words Of My Mouth, and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord my strength, and my redeemer. 

Our words are seen as a reflection of mans internal condition, “Matt.12:35 A good man out of the treasure of his heart brings forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things.”  

Jesus said words will have much to do with our outcome in the day of judgement. Our words are a reflection of whats in our hearts. (Matt.12:35-37). 

Jesus also said “he who rejects Me, and does not receive My words, has that which judges him- the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last days. (John 12:48)

I will leave you today with a quote from Jesus that should be believed and obeyed, the words will decide your outcome at the judgement. Jesus said “Go therefore and make disciples of all nation, baptizing them in the name of Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” (Matt:28:18)

The Evangelist 

The Joy Of Assembly Together 

Hebrews 10:24-25 / Psalms 122:1 

May 3, 2020

I will be glad when the Church of Christ is able to assemble once again. I greatly miss the group praise we offer to God. Seeing the individuals in their own way express their excitement to God in songs of praise, prayers of petition and thanks, and the remembering of the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. 

I miss greatly being “stimulated by love and good works,” on Sunday morning. I miss the exhortation of reading and hearing Gods word, I miss the facial expression when a scripture is met with understanding. I can read, sing and pray alone but nothing will compensate for united worship. 

When we are able to safely participate in group worship I will stand outside the place of assembly and repeat the words of David in 

PS.122:1 “I was glad when they said to me, Let us go into the house of the Lord.” 

The Evangelist 

Dear Heavenly Father,

May 10, 2020

This pandemic has revealed that we cannot place our faith in man for salvation.

Our federal government is plagued by a lack of leadership; our state governments are not equipped to face the burden of a healthcare crisis alone; and even our neighbors in our communities may not take this threat as seriously as they should.

We turn to you, Lord, and pray that you bless our nation during these perilous times. Walk with our leaders: encourage them to do what is best for the sick and vulnerable, and not for themselves. Walk with us in our communities: protect us from this virus, and encourage us to look out for others. And walk with the healthcare workers: encourage them as they save lives, and provide them with the help they need to live with such a traumatic experience.

We have faith in the God who prepared Noah for the flood. Just as Noah followed your will and was ultimately saved (Hebrews 11:7), we know that we have a brighter future ahead of us if we diligently seek your face.

In Jesus name,

Amen

By: AJ

Pandemic Faith

May 17, 2020

I know people are probably tired of hearing and talking about this pandemic, but we have to keep it fresh in peoples mind so we don’t backslide and have to start all over again.

We have to keep telling ourselves how serious this thing is, that it’s no joke, even though some people thought it was a hoax a few months ago. We have to pray for those people and the rest of the world that we make it through this.

But, we have to have faith, some might say what is faith? Faith is the substance of things hoped for,the evidence of things not seen (Heb.11:1). Why is faith important? Without faith it is impossible to please God (Heb.11:6). So I know together we all can make it through this, God bless you all. Amen.

By: Bro John Barnett

The Lord’s Will

May 24, 2020

James 4:12-17 / Psalms 90:12

The COVID-19 virus has reminded me of the uncertainty of life. The arrogant and sinful confidence of planning for tomorrow, when “I do not know what will happen tomorrow.” The Scripture says; “For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.

When making plans for tomorrow: “Instead you ought to say, If the Lord wills we shall live and do this or that.” COVID-19 teaches use that we can be rich today and poor tomorrow, we can be healthy today and sick tomorrow, even alive today and dead tomorrow. COVID-19 does not care if you drive a Buick or a Bentley; if you carry a Guess or a Gucci; if you work in the fields of Bakersfield or a Fortune 500 in Bali; even if you live in a mud hut or a mansion AND NEITHER DOES GOD.

We are not banned to look ahead to the future, make plans for our lives and the well-being of our family. But have we sought “first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness.” Have we bore the burdens of the weak, have we given to the poor, have we admitted our sins and ask Gods forgiveness, for this is the Lord will.

Moses the man of God said: “So teach us to number our days, That we may gain a heart of wisdom. (Ps.90:12)

The Evangelist

A CALL TO LOVE

May 31, 2020

I may seem a little old fashion calling people to love one another, but love is better than hate. Love for brother goes way-back, love is what God had in mind when He ask Cain where is your brother Abel. Love for God and man is the sum of the Ten Commandments given to a then free Hebrew nation. 

When the authority of Jesus was in question a Scribe (lawyer) asked a question to test Jesus “Teacher what is the great commandment in the law?” In short,  Jesus said “a love for God is first and second is a love for man.” When they laid hands on Jesus to “take and crucify” Him, Peter cut off the ear of one of the servants of the high priest. Jesus said to Peter “put your sword in its place, for all who take the sword will perish by the the sword.” Jesus went so far as to touch the place where the man’s ear was, and healed him.

The Apostle Paul says love is not envious, does not brag, is not arrogant, love is not rude, not selfish, does not give way to strong unwelcome emotion, love thinks no evil, love does not rejoice in sin. But on the other hand is patient and kind, love rejoices in truth, love never gives up on people, love is trusting, love never loses hope, love never quits. 

The Apostle Paul says in Romans 13:10 “Love does no harm to a neighbor’” in other words I don’t put my knee on your neck until your dead nor do I loot or burn another mans property. I can vote. 

Hatred stirs up strife. But love covers all sin. (Pro.10:12)

Let all that you do be done with love. (1Corinthians 16:14)

The Evangelist 

Subject To The Governing Authorities

June 7, 2020

Romans 13:1-8

Many people working for the government (Federal, State, County, or City) have been given assignments that raise questions, “do I follow the law of man or follow the law of God/Christ?In the book of Exodus 1:15-21 The king of Egypt commanded the midwives to kill every male child born to the Hebrew women. 1:17 But the midwives feared God, and did not do as the King of Egypt commanded them.

In the book of Daniel 3:1-25 King Nebuchadnezzar’s golden image was to be bowed to, and worshipped at the sound of music. Daniel’s three friends Shadrach, Meshach, and Aded-Nego refused to heed the kings command and said “let it be known to you, O king, we don’t serve your god, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up.”

In the book of Acts 4:1-22 Peter and John were arrested for preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. We see in verses 17-20 that the Sanhedrin severely threaten them, that from now on they speak no more in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John answered and said to them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge. 20 For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.”The cost to follow God/Jesus As with all things there is a price to be paid for doing it God’s way. You may end up on the wrong side of your superior or you may end up with God providing for you (Exodus 1:20); You may end up in the fire pit or you may be promoted (Daniel 3:30);You may be threatened or you may be released, because they can find no way to punish you. (Acts 4:21)What We Must Remember: Governing Authorities are placed over us “for our
good” (Rom.13:4) “by God” (Rom.13:1) who is Just and full of Mercy, “only the evil doer should fear.” (Rom.13:4) We The People should except nothing less from our Governing Authorities. When a Governing Authority see imaginary border lines as priority over the life of children and their parents, or when Governing Authority allows a demagogue to sit in God’s seat to be worshiped, We The People should act. When Governing Authorities place money over the lives of it’s citizen’s or become unjust and unmerciful in accordance with the law; when Governing Authorities beat, choke, and murder for unjust reasons not according to law, We The People should enact better standards and better authorities. Turn in your 2020 CENSUS @ (2020census.gov) make your district count, go voice your opinion “VOTE” Tuesday November 3, 2020

May the Just God who is full of Grace and Jesus Christ our Savior be with you all Amen

The Evangelist

More Love Less Hate

June 14, 2020

In the last few weeks we all watched some terrible and sad events. On the news, we saw a man get killed by a person who took an oath to protect; we saw people looting, burning and destroying property, which could set us back even further.

We also watched and heard a lot of promises being made and everyone saying it’s time for a CHANGE. I guess we can all say, as a human race, we made some progress in the last fifty years, but we still have a lot more work to do, for instance equal pay for the same job, health and dental benefits. There is a black man and a white man with the same FICO score the black man is charged ten thousand dollars more on the same type of loan than the white man. Yes, there is a lot more that need to be done.

All we need to do is pick up our Bibles, READ IT, don’t just hold it up, read it and do what it says. If the Lord took Saul who we know as Paul, the Apostle (Acts 9:1-8) and made a Christian out of him who was known as the Persecutor (Acts 8:1) imagine what he can do for us. The bottom line is we need more love less hate.

From the desk of Bro. John Barnett

This one broke me…

June 21, 2020

This past week Black folks have been venting on social media, sharing the state of their mental health, and citing notable events that finally “broke them,” or caused them to break down and cry concerning the struggle for civil rights. Black people carry the burden of first watching members of our community, our family, get gunned down by the state - which is supposed to protect and serve us - and then watching the killers safely return to their homes and their families on paid administrative leave.

We empathize with the victims and their families, knowing that we are one unfortunate encounter away from experiencing the same fate. For many, the moment that “broke them” during the recent civil unrest was a video circulating of Rayshard Brooks describing his reintegration into society under the parole system.

In the video Brooks, who was shot in the back by a police officer one day before he was to celebrate his 8 year old daughter’s birthday, describes his experience:

“If you do some things that’s wrong you pay your debts to society, and that’s the bottom line. And, you know, I just feel like some of the system could, you know, look at us as individuals. We do have lives. It’s just a mistake we made, you know, and not just do us as if we are animals…So as we go through these trials and tribulations, it’s hurting our kids, and it’s taking away from our families… And yet my kids, you know, I want to spend some time with my kids! But I really don’t have the time, you know? I have to go out, make money for this, make money for bills, or I try and get myself back on track. It’s just a lot of pressure, you know… and some people they just can’t deal with it… it’s just hard for us at times, we’re trying to do the right thing, and we’re restricted… you have a curfew. But here yet, I’m trying. I’m not the type of person to give up.”

Despite the difficulties he had as a parolee, Rayshard was determined to be there for his four children as much as possible: he understood his “children are a heritage from the Lord” (Psalm 127:3). On the night he was killed, he planned to take his oldest daughter skating for her birthday the next day.

I feel this video “broke” so many people because we rarely get to hear the victims of police shootings tell their stories and humanize themselves. Rayshard was a husband and a father that deserved to see his children again. He deserved to live the dignified life he was striving for.

May God bless his family. AJ

Duty To Care

A Mother’s Message To The King

June 28, 2020

Proverbs 31:1-8

Holiness: V:1-3 The nameless mother knows the son of her vow cannot be an effective king if his life is given over to the allure of many women. Some day you will have to pay hush money. The weakness of king Solomon was his many foreign wive’s, which caused Solomon to act contrary to the will of God. For this reason the mother says “Who can find a virtuous wife? For her worth is far above rubies.” V:10 

Sobriety: V:4-7 Next the nameless mother warns her son against inebriety.   In V:5 the reason for the warning “Least they drink and forget the law and pervert the justice of all the afflicted.” Note all the afflicted in this verse may imply a whole class of poorer people. Intoxication leads to a disregard of the needs of others, to a self-centered position. 

Isaiah 5:22-23 Woe to men mighty at drinking wine, Woe to men valiant for mixing intoxicating drink, Who justify the wicked for a bribe, and take away justice from the righteous man!

Compassion: V:8-9 Next the mother encourages her king to speak for those unable to plead his own cause. Speak for those crossing the border looking for a better life. Speak for those who have fallen victim to police brutality. Speak for those who are speechless because they’ve lost a loved one in this on-going pandemic. Speak for the 20 million Americans that may lose their health care in coming days. “Open your mouth, judge righteously, And plead the cause of the poor and needy. You have a Duty To Care. 

May God Bless Us All.  The Evangelist 

Duty To Care - Part 2A

Advice To The king From The Prophets

July 5, 2020

INTRODUCTION: Background concerning a king. 

At the request of the people, Israel’s first king was sought and anointed in 1Samuel chapters 8-10. The request for a king was displeasing to the Prophet Samuel. But God told Samuel “Heed the voice of the people in all that they say to you; for they have not rejected you, but they have rejected Me that I should not reign over them.” (1Sam.8:7). In Israel’s case kings were birthed from the pride of the people, “for they wanted to be like the other nations around them.” Kings are monarchs, sovereign, undivided rule of a single person. Their is not much difference between a king and a dictator. In the case of Israel kings they were to be appointed and anointed by God and in some cases the heir would take the throne. A dictator has the same power as the king, but has come to the throne by force. Therefor many of Israel’s kings were dictators because they used treachery, deception and even murder to obtain the kingship. The United Kingdom, Judah and Israel had a total of 42 kings between them. Out of 42 kings only 7 managed to do what was right in the eyes of God by the end of their   reign. I have three points for the reader from the above message 

  1. Be very careful what you ask of GOD from a position of pride He just may give you what you ask for 

  2. A kings has A Duty To Care, but power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely, no man needs that type of power 

  3. It’s vital that you return your government census, make your district count and vote Tuesday November 3, 2020

Duty To Care - Part 2B Monday Part 2C Wednesday 

May God Bless those who read and hear and keep His Holy Word.

Pray for all the saints, and may the patients and obedience of Jesus Christ be with us  all in the mist of this pandemic. 

The Evangelist

 Duty To Care - Part 2B

Advice To The King From The Prophets

July 6, 2020

Given we have a host of kings to choose from, we will use king Saul as our example. Saul was the first king of the Israelites and my choice for “Advice to the king from the Prophets.”

The Prophet Samuel was closely connected to God and held many titles, Samuel was a Priest, Prophet, Judge, and at times called a Seer. God gave Samuel instructions to solemnly warn the people of the behavior of a king (1Samuel 8:9 also see 10:25)  

To sum up the words of Samuel 

  1. Ch.8:11-13) A king would draft your young men and women for service.

  2. Ch.8:14-15;17a) A king would tax the peoples crops and flocks.

  3. Ch.8:16) A king would appropriate the best of their animals and servants

  4. Ch.8:17b) A king would place limitations on personal freedom. 

The initial intent was for the king, a leader to save and serve (Duty To Care) the people (1Samuel 9:16-17) The more we think about the stern warning from God, we see kings thinking more of their own needs, than they think about the needs of the people.

In 1Samuel 9 a king for the nation Israel is found, it appears that God has given the people a man to suit their prideful request for a king. The Bible places much focus on Saul’s external appearance.  Israel’s new king was the most handsome and largest person among the Israelites (9:2 / 10:23)  “”WARNING”” appearance does not equate to character.

On several occasions Samuel spoke to Saul concerning his new appointed position 9:20,25. Samuel even took time to announce to Saul the Word of God (9:27) 

In Ch.10 Samuel anointed Saul as king, the commander over the Lords inheritance vv:1 Saul would go-on later in the chapter to receive the Spirit of the Lord and prophesy with the prophets as validation of his being king

On more than one occasion we see the new king hesitant about his new position First, 9:21 Saul says why me; Second,10:16 after receiving the Spirt of God, Saul said nothing to his uncle about his position; Third, 10:22 at the proclamation ceremony Saul was found hiding among the equipment.  Note Ch.10:8 is Important for our next lesson read it.

For all you leaders who are in a position of Governing Authority (Romans 13:1) according to scripture you have been placed there For Our Good (Duty To Care) Romans 13:4. Don’t hide, or lie, or blame others, but carry out your duty to God. If by chance you don’t know your responsibility to Gods’ people don’t just hold up His Word, read the Word and obey the voice of God.

(((Vote Tuesday November 3, 2020))).     Part 2C Wednesday

May God bless the readers, hearers and doers of His Holy Word.

The Evangelist 

Duty To Care - Part 2C

Advice To The King From The Prophets

July 8, 2020

In Part 2B we ended the story with Saul’s hesitancy to take his position as king. In this section we will start with ch.11 Saul’s first victory in which he defeats the Ammonite’s and saves Jabesh Gilead. This battle establishes Saul as king in the hearts and minds of all the people (ch.11:11-15). 

In ch.12 Samuel addresses the people concerning their choice for a king. First Samuel seems to set the example of what Godly (character) looks like by using his life as the example. Samuel says, I have “not” taken from you, I have “not" cheated you, I have “not” oppressed you, “nor” have I taken a bribe to blind my eye, If so I will restore it to you. The people gave witness of the truthfulness of Samuel’s statement. (ch.12:3-5)

NOTE: Any man or woman in a position of “Governing Authority” (Romans 13:1) granted to them by God, who is not upholding the standards listed above by Samuel should excuse themselves from office or be removed by We The People ((VOTE)). 

In ch.12:14-15;25 Samuel continues his address saying success of the people and the king depends on the people’s fear (respect) and obedience to God. God is holding the people responsible for civil success as well as the leader. This is why We The People should ((VOTE)) out all leaders that lie, or cheats, or oppress, and all leaders who offer or take a bribe. 

In ch.13 The character of Saul is put to the test in Gilgal In ch.10:8 Samuel told Saul to wait in Gilgal so Samuel could make offerings to God.  “Seven days you shall wait, till I come to you and show you what you should do. In ch.13:6-7 The Israelites are confronted by the overwhelming forces of Philistines, they saw the danger and hid themselves. In ch.13:8 The people that accompanied Saul trembled. And on the seventh day Samuel had not yet arrived, the people were scattered from Saul. 

In ch.13:9 So Saul calls for the offering, and “”he offered the burnt offering.”” Many of us would wonder what is wrong with what Saul did? The Bible tells us to wait on the Lord (Gen.29:20-28 / Ps.37:34 / Pro.3:5-6) Saul did not wait for assistance from Samuel as assigned by God, Saul chose to act as an “AUTOCRAT.” For us today it would be as if the president were to try and remove power from the congress and senate to acquire total rule of the country. Saul had not kept the command of God, the house of Saul as ruler over Israel at this point was over, God would find “a man after His own heart. You could say that Saul had been impeached and tried to hold power pass being impeached “and things didn’t go well for Saul”.     

In ch.15:9 Once again Saul disobeys the voice of the Lord only this time the people are co-conspirators. In ch.15:12 Saul believes he’s done well for himself, in the fact that Saul builds a “monument for himself.” Once again pride raises it’s ugly head, In pride the people ask for a king, God appeased their pride by giving them a leader with the appearance of a king  “”WARNING”” appearance does not equate to character. 

In ch.15:20-21 we see Saul twist the truth to his liking, and Saul shift’s the blame to the people.  In ch.15:24 The one good thing we can say about Saul is that he did admit he had sinned because he feared the people and obeyed their voice.  Any man or woman in a position of “Governing Authority” (Romans 13:1) granted to them by God, that refuses to admit they were wrong or to do “the right thing” for fear of the people should excuse themselves from office. You are not the one for the job, you only weaken civil progress when the real crisis (COVID-19) comes. Strong leadership is not derived from external appearance, the story of David and Goliath attest to that. Goliath ((a huge problem for Israel 9’6”tall)) held the Israelites civil progress at bay for forty days because Saul and the people looked to the prideful external appearance. It was David that solved the problem of Goliath for Israel, not because of his outward appearance, but because of his heart ((strong character)) ch.16:7. 

The Evangelist

TRUST GOD

July 12, 2020

In the mist of pandemic troubles (millions affected by job loss, sickness and death) we have lawlessness, and blame shifting at the top of the federal government. We have a leader that pits red states against blue states, pits republican against democrat and one citizen against another. Much of the above is done to disguise leadership’s ineptitude to act on behalf of its citizens. Don’t forget to VOTE: Tuesday November 3, 2020

The apostle Paul said “We are hard pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed.” (2Cori.4:8-9)

ONLY TRUSTING IN GOD can we have the kind of forward thinking listed by Paul. The Preacher said “Trust in the Lord with all your heart. And lean not on your own understanding: In all your ways acknowledge Him. And He shall direct your paths.” (Pro.3:5-6)

All is not lost, keep the faith, continue to TRUST GOD, let us continue to pray for a vaccine, pray for the broken hearted, pray for the sick, and pray for those who have suffered financial loss. Let us as individuals, as communities, and as a nation do good (help) if we are able (Pro.3:27). Our God Is Awesome and He is in the business of Blessing.

The Evangelist

     Dear: Loved Ones

July 19, 2020

THINGS YOU ALREADY KNOW

From childhood we learn that man is not here to stay. We watch our loved ones die and wonder who’s next. So of course this thing called death is no secret, for the Bible tells us in the opening pages, “For dust you are, And to dust you shall return” (Genesis 3:19).

THINGS YOU MAY NOT KNOW

Later in the Scripture, a wise man named Solomon understood that death was coming to all men (Ecclesiates 3:2). But he made another revelation about death. In Ecclesiates 3:19-21/12:7, Solomon says when we die our bodies return to the earth, but our spirits go upward and return to God

In Ecclesiates 12:13-14 At the end of Solomon’s writing he says mankind has a duty to uphold while we are alive, which is to “Fear God and keep His commandments.” This is something we must do because of the judgement.

Jesus Christ is the only Man that ever lived who has more wisdom than Solomon. Jesus often spoke of the resurrection to ‘life” in the Bible - His own and ours. Jesus had a friend that died name Lazarus, and seeing everyone crying over the death of Lazarus, the Bible says “Jesus wept” (John 11:35). Maybe Jesus wept because His friend was dead; or because everyone else was crying; or because they seemed to miss what Jesus tried to tell them earlier in the story. In John 11:25-26, Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. DO YOU BELIEVE THIS?”

THINGS YOU CAN BE ASSURED OF

A. We are all going to die and have to give an account for our actions (Ecclesiates 12:7;14/Hebrews 9:27/2 Corinthians. 5:15)

B. Jesus died to save sinners, which we all are (John 3:16;14:6/1Peter 3:18)

C. To access that salvation we must be obedient to the faith in Jesus Christ (John 3:36)

D. If we live this life “in Christ” we will be transformed from death to life (1Thessalonians 4:18/1 Corinthians 15:35-49)

E. Our new home in heaven will be nothing like this one (John 14:1-3/Revelations 21:1-8)

The Evangelist

Paul the Apostle:

July 26, 2020

Our text today is about Paul in Corinth, all young rabbi students had to learn a trade. The province of Cilicia, from which Paul came, was noted for its cloth made from goats’ hair. It is likely that Paul’s skill involved making such cloth.

Whenever Paul entered a new city his custom was to go to the Jews first (Acts 18:5-6). In Corinth, he began his proclamation of Jesus in the synagogues. After several attempts to reach the Jews of Corinth (attempts that had few results), Paul turned his attention almost exclusively to the Gentiles.

Because of the severe treatment Paul had received elsewhere (Acts 16:22-24), he must have been very comforted by Christ’s statement that he would not be hurt or beaten in Corinth (Acts 18:10). Paul did not even have to open his mouth to defend the faith (Acts 18:14), God had already provided for Paul’s defense. He had prepared Gallio to make the correct decision as he also noted that and no crime had been committed against Rome. Gallio considered Christianity to be a Jewish sect. So, Christians everywhere, remember the Lord has your back, you have nothing to worry about.

From the desk of Bro. Barnett

Paul in Ephesus

August 2, 2020

Paul’s impact on believers during his missionary journey in Ephesus shows us the importance of repentance.

On his way to Ephesus, Paul met some disciples of John the Baptist while traveling through the upper regions of Corinth. After inquiring whether they had received the Holy Spirit, they told him, We have not so much as heard whether there is a Holy Spirit (Acts 19:2).

They were previously baptized into John’s baptism of repentance, which looked forward to the coming of Christ. But now that Christ has died and risen, their baptism was invalid and obsolete. The author of Acts notes, when they heard this, they were baptized in the name of Lord Jesus (Acts 19:5). They wasted no time correcting their error, thus proving themselves faithful disciples. They didn’t stubbornly hold onto John’s teachings, or retreat to centuries old Jewish customs that did not lead to salvation - instead they obediently accepted the new baptism taught by a trustworthy apostle. And when Paul laid hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied (Acts 19:6).

While Paul was in Ephesus, God worked unusual miracles by his hand. Notably in Acts 19:11-12 he healed the sick and cast out evil spirits, even when handkerchiefs or aprons that touched him were brought to the afflicted. This miraculous power is similar to Jesus healing the woman with the flow of blood who faithfully determined, If only I may touch His garment, I shall be made well (Matthew 9:20).

When the people of Ephesus heard of Pauls miraculous works, some were afraid, others confessed, and many of those who practiced magic brought their books together and burned them in the sight of all (Acts 19:20). They publicly denounced their sinful actions and made an effort to separate themselves from their sinful instruments in order to draw nearer to God.

When we repent we must be willing to immediately follow God’s commands. John’s disciples were fervent in their faith, but when they realized they were baptized into an outdated baptism, they immediately corrected their error and were blessed with powers that would help them further grow the church. Additionally, when the magicians recognized that the miraculous power of God was greater than their own, they destroyed their expensive texts - reasoning that this act of contrition was more valuable than 50,000 pieces of silver.

AJ

Andre Loftis