Be A Berean

Be A Berean Acts 17.10-12 Paul the Apostle left Thessalonica and traveled to Berea. This was done at night. He was snuck out of the city to escape persecution. He still had the scars from the severe flogging in Philippi. He did the same things with the Bereans as he had always done. He went to their synagogue. His pattern was, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. Romans 1.16 The success in Berea was greater than Thessalonica. There was a reason for this... actually several: The Bereans were of Noble Character: Well behaved, Good. The Greek word used in Acts is eugenesteroi, which comes from eugenes, from which we derive the personal name "Eugene." Originally, it meant "wellborn" and implied nobility. Later, it described those of a generous spirit, who are open-minded toward truth, not prejudiced, hostile, or suspicious of others, but give others a fair hearing. It is interesting to see the different characteristics in the various churches. The Thessalonians believed false reports about the Return of Jesus, that it had already taken place. That would not have happened to the Berean Church. They would have reached that conclusion for themselves. For over 40 years here I have gone through the Bible, chapter by chapter, many years verse by verse. We have not had problems with false doctrines when they have been floating around. This is a church which moves on to maturity. A few of the false doctrines floating around: * God wants everyone to be wealthy and healthy. * The Rapture is going to happen in 1988. * The LORD is coming in 1994 * We need to get prepared for Y2K because all kinds of horrible things will happen at midnight on December 31, 1999 * Our fillings are turning to gold! * You cannot meet as a church during COVID Churches differ The Philippian Church was generous, very generous with giving to the Apostle Paul.. The others did not. The Corinthians were into the spiritual gifts. They also tolerated immorality worse than the pagans! The Galatian Church was falling for the lie that you had to become a Jew before you came to Christ. Look at the 7 Churches in Revelation! The Church at Ephesus lost its first love. The Church at Laodecia put Jesus on the outside. It didn’t feel it needed Him because it was increased in goods and wealth. Jesus’ assessment was that it was miserable, poor, blind and naked! What should the church be like? Since Jesus is building it it should represent Him. Jesus asked His Disciples, “Who do men say that I am?” Matthew 16. 14 They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” There are John the Baptist Churches today. They yell “repent.” They go after the corruption in government. They see many baptized. Today we have a convergence of pastors going to Washington, DC Interestingly Jesus did not send His followers to Rome to bring reforms. The city He was concerned about with His followers was Jerusalem and that they did not leave until they were baptized with the Holy Spirit. I have received a few invitations to the Presidential Inaugurals in our nation’s capital. I have not gone. I did go to Albany to pray years ago in an opening session of the Senate. It was nice, a lot of driving but memorable for me, not sure about our Senators, although I was told they appreciated my comments. My prayer is recorded in the permanent record there. There are Elijah Churches today. They do mighty deeds. Many would say that they are on fire. They stress miracle, signs and wonders above all. They can fly higher than an eagle! They dazzle the mind and impress many. They celebrate things with great fanfare. If you go there you will find that they believe that the whole Island is repenting and coming to the LORD. They go beyond the Scriptures. There are churches like Jeremiah. They cry a lot. They lament over sin and the destruction it has brought on the nation. Songs are in a minor key. They are depressing churches. They talk more about the bad news more than the good news. You will weep if you go. You will not be offered much hope, other than being told you just need to hold on until Jesus comes back. These churches have strange vision. Jesus asked His Disciples, 15 “But what about you?” He asked. “Who do you say I am?” 16 Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” There are churches that are like Jesus. Like Him, there is nothing in their appearance that would attract people to them. They are not “Attraction Churches”. They are strong in the faith and compassionate. They are in the Word and the Word is in them. They lay down their lives for others. They are a House of Prayer for all nations. They are filled with the love of God. They love Jesus deeply. They are so refreshing. Those churches are marked by love. You are going to hear how wonderful Jesus is rather than how great the church is. People in love with Jesus are not looking elsewhere. They have found the Pearl of Great Price. The Bereans were into the Word. They knew the Scriptures. They checked out if what Paul was proclaiming was true. * The Bereans are considered as noble because they listened to the preaching of the Gospel with open hearts as they pursued God and His whole truth. * May you have an open heart. In this time of great change in the world and Church. In the sunshine and the rain. We need both to make flowers grow. In the seasons of the year and life. The Bereans held the Word of God in high esteem. They understood the commitment to the Apostle’s teaching as stated in Acts 2.42. They listened to it and made sure it lined up with Scripture of the Old Testament. * When obeyed it follows that they would be committed to Breaking of Bread, the fellowship and to prayer. They Apostle’s teaching is a continuation of what Jesus began to do and to teach among the Twelve. * The character of a nation, a group of people, a denomination, a church’s character will be known by the place it holds the Word of God in its heart and life. Always hold the Word of God along with His Name high in your life. Hide it in your heart. I wish Paul had written a letter to this church. It would have been one full of commendations. May we be that kind of church! Commended by God. You cannot have a church like Jesus without them knowing the Word of God. John 15. 7 If you remain in Me and My words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. His Word abiding or remaining in you. And wonderful things happening between us and Him. A church that remains in His Word and prays. The Church is being built by Jesus. It reflects Him to the world. We are the Body of Christ. * What man commends/ What God commends We have the letters of Paul to the churches. We have the messages of Jesus to the 7 churches in Revelation. If we were have a letter written to us what would it say? I can hear Jesus say, “Continue in My Word!” * The Bereans were model seekers/ believers They were eager to learn. Take hold of it. Receive it like a grant. Embrace it. Zeal We need to diligently search the Scriptures daily. Marinate yourself in it. We should be people of one Book. All other books should be read in the light of the Word of God. I am concerned because that is not so today, even among so called believers. Our relationship with the Word of God is one of embracing it, being zealous to keep it, receiving the gift of it with thankfulness. What a gift we have been given! * The Benefits of Being A Berean: * A humble faith * A Heart for God * I will praise You, O LORD, with all my heart; before the "gods" I will sing Your praise. I will bow down toward Your holy temple and will praise Your name for Your love and your faithfulness, for You have exalted above all things Your name and Your Word. * A knowledge of God’s Word * A perspective of where we came from Genesis 1 and where we are going Revelation * A Firm and Sure Foundation Matthew 7. 24 “Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.25 The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the Rock….and that Rock is Christ. * Hope I Peter 1. 23 For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable,through the living and enduring Word of God. * 24 For, “All people are like grass,
    and all their glory is like the flowers of the field;
the grass withers and the flowers fall, 25 but the Word of the LORD endures forever.” And this is the Word that was preached to you. * Psalm 138.2 Your Word, O LORD, is eternal; it stands firm in the heavens. Psalm 119.89 The Word of God is our sole basis for truth and error. Testing the Scriptural Teaching To see if what is being proclaimed is true. To see if what I believe is accurate. * You didn’t hear from Bereans: “Wow! What a great message! What an awesome speaker. I could listen to that man preach all day! What a great preacher!” May God help us move away from such childish thinking across the Body of Christ! * Here is Paul’s Testimony: I Corinthians 2.1 And so it was with me, brothers, When I came to you, I did not come with eloquence or superior wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God. 2 For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified. 3 I came to you in weakness with great fear and much trembling. 4 My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power, 5 so that your faith might not rest on men’s wisdom, but on God’s power. * The Bereans were a people who held Scripture in such a high regard that it became their daily pursuit, their source of truth, the only reference book or material they would read in search of what is true. There is no record of any letter to the Bereans. * Sifted Getting the wheat separated from the chaff Pulling out the truth Examined Checked out his quotes from the Old Testament. Judged Is it reasonable? Is it right? Listening to the Word of God put them in the Word of God daily. Prove all things. Hold fast that which is good. Be a Berean! One word on searching the Scriptures without having Christ: John 5. 39 You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about Me, 40 yet you refuse to come to Me to have life. Christ in us as we study the Scriptures. If you don’t have Him within you don’t have Eternal Life. Have a plan of reading the Bible, God’s Word. I have changed mine over the years. Now I am slowing down to take more in. Be disciplined. Enjoy. Celebrate. Stick to your plan until God changes it. The Sunday Morning Message Listen to men of God expound the Word of God. Check out everything you hear from the Scriptures. Be a Berean!

One In Christ

One In Christ Acts 15.6-18 Does a person need to become a Jew first before they receive Christ? This is the question of Acts at this point This is the issue of Galatians. It was settled in the first century. Today, is there anything other than faith in Christ, repentance of sins, and following Him that are necessary to be saved? Romans 10. 9 If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. 11 As Scripture says, “Anyone who believes in Him will never be put to shame.” 12 For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on Him, 13 for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved.” The Church at Galatia was heavily influenced by the men who traveled from Jerusalem. They told those at Galatia they needed to become Jews first. Paul wrote to them. Galatians 3.1 You foolish Galatians! Who has bewitched you? Before your very eyes Jesus Christ was clearly portrayed as crucified. 2 I would like to learn just one thing from you: Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law, or by believing what you heard? 3 Are you so foolish? After beginning by means of the Spirit, are you now trying to finish by means of the flesh? Phillips: O you dear idiots of Galatia, A person comes to Christ by believing on Him alone for salvation. Whenever it happened to you that is how you came. For me it was November 22, 1963. I was 7 years old. For my friend, Keith it was a week ago Saturday, for 13 souls in Bangladesh it was at one of our livestream meetings. Photo of Baptism It was not Jesus plus some work. It was simply Jesus. I prayed. I had begun to read the Bible. I was already attending church. My Mom wisely had me call my Sunday School teacher and tell her. * Peter and Cornelius were in part for this time. v.7-11 God wonderfully saved Cornelius, his family and friends in Caesarea Acts 10 This was for them. God took note of this man’s prayers and sacrifices. It is a beautiful story. This was for years later. God was going to use this wonderful account He will use your story. It is His Story. Wait. I was texting with a friend who just lost his wife. I was trying to encourage him. He asked if I had experienced loss. It opened up his heart as I opened up mine. People need to know they are not alone, that someone has experienced what they have experienced. There are things for this time. There is no place for prejudice when it comes to the Gospel. Christ died for everyone! He came for everyone! Jesus loves the little children of the world Some children see Him… Some children see Him lily white,
the Baby Jesus born this night.
Some children see Him lily white,
with tresses soft and fair.
 Some children see Him bronzed and brown,
The Lord of heav'n to earth come down.
Some children see Him bronzed and brown,
with dark and heavy hair.

Some children see Him almond-eyed,
this Savior whom we kneel beside.
some children see Him almond-eyed,
with skin of yellow hue.
 Some children see Him dark as they,
sweet Mary's Son to whom we pray.
Some children see him dark as they,
and, ah! they love Him, too! 

The children in each different place
will see the baby Jesus' face
like theirs, but bright with heavenly grace,
and filled with holy light.
 O lay aside each earthly thing
and with thy heart as offering,
come worship now the infant King.
'Tis love that's born tonight! There are things that transcend language in communicating. * Music * A smile * Love * The need of a Savior Our actions affect the future. More than we can imagine. The congregations of Patchogue and Bellmore saw the people moving into this area after World War II and decided we need to start a new church here. We are here today because of their faith and vision. We are seeing people moving in. Suffolk County is growing. Bay Shore is an epicenter of growth. How will we reach those thousands in the apartments? Peter was able to say this happened first with me. The LORD was bringing His Church to be a House of prayer for all nations! All the Ethnos… all the ethnicities Mark 11.17 John 16. 12 I have yet many things to say unto you, but you cannot bear them now. (The Gentiles being included.) 13 But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth.He will not speak on His own; He will speak only what He hears, and He will tell you what is yet to come. 14 He will glorify Me because it is from Me that He will receive what He will make known to you. This was the ongoing work of Jesus. He died for all the ethnos. We are to pray for all the ethnos. We are a House of Prayer for all Nations. Ethnos What else could the Ethnos be? The Gentiles were viewed by the Jews as unclean outcasts, unable to approach God. In the First Century the Jews looked at the Gentiles in a horrible way: * They were on the same level as dogs Jesus said to the Syro Pheoncian woman, “ It’s not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to the .”dogs.” Matthew 15.26 He was expressing a common thought among the Jews, among His disciples. He gave her what she asked for because of her faith. The Centurion got his request and Jesus said that He had not found such faith in all of Israel. He was getting His Disciples ready for the unthinkable in their Jewish minds. Salvation was going to be offered to Gentiles without becoming Jews! * The first century Jews thought the Gentiles were created to fuel the fires of Hell. * However if a non Jewish man (like the Centurion in Galilee) was kind and religious he was commended. The temple did have a Court of the Gentiles and was called a House of Prayer for all nations. Who are the “Gentiles” of 2025? What about those struggling with addictions, those in alternative lifestyles? They need Christ. If they come to Jesus they will be free from the Chains! Let’s go after those not like us! We don’t give up our faith when we share it. We gain more faith when we see people come to Christ. The answer to that question is in the words of Jesus in regard to His Father’s House being a House of Prayer for all Nations. The Ethnos is what God is doing throughout the world through this little church! Beautiful Lady from India leading the worship a week ago at the Pastor’s Conference. I joined in with my heart. Didn’t understand the words except Jehovah. The music was in a minor key. I loved it! Our preferences can eliminate ourselves from what God is doing! The Church at Jerusalem was confronted with that. It is also those who engage in socially “unacceptable sins” among the church. I Corinthians 6.9 Or do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor men who have sex with men 10 nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.11 And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God. The Ethnos came in. Did they have to obey the Jewish traditions? This meeting stopped the church from being another sect of Judaism We would have all to become Jews first. Jesus was building His Church with all nations. The picture of the Body of Christ is “us.” Not Americans and the rest of the world. The whole world! v.11 We believe it is through the grace of our LORD Jesus that we are saved, just as they are.” The Worldwide Family here on earth. We are the Church. His Father’s House… * Paul and Barnabas told the most recent events. v.12 God was working wonders through and with the Gentiles. They had recently returned from a missions trip. Those of you who have gone on one know what it is like when you get back. You can hardly keep your mouth shut as you tell the wonders. Your worldview is altered. Your view of the church changes. Missions are exciting. We can learn. Baptism in Bangladesh. Feeding there. It is so helpful to our faith to see what God is doing among the nations. * The LORD had foretold this 750 years before. vs.14-18 Isaiah 56. 8  The LORD God, Who gathers the outcasts of Israel, says, “Yet I will gather to Him Others besides those who are gathered to Him.” Even before that the promise to Abram in Genesis 12 that through him and his seed all the nations on earth would be blessed. And after that the our Father’s House would be a House of Prayer for all nations in II Chronicles in Solomon’s Dedicatory prayer of the temple. In Christ the Gentiles and Jews are one. Ephesians 3.6 This mystery is that through the Gospel the Gentiles are fellow heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ. All Nations are One in Him. Therefore go into all the world and preach the Gospel Make Disciples of the Nations He is with is always

Hardships On The Way To Heaven

Facing Hardships On Our Way To Heaven Acts 14.21-25 We must go through many hardships in order to enter the Kingdom of God. I Thessalonians 3.1 So when we could stand it no longer, we thought it best to be left by ourselves in Athens. 2 We sent Timothy, who is our brother and co-worker in God’s service in spreading the gospel of Christ, to strengthen and encourage you in your faith, 3 so that no one would be unsettled by these trials. For you know quite well that we are destined for them.4 In fact, when we were with you, we kept telling you that we would be persecuted. And it turned out that way, as you well know. This is a truth we do not particularly like. We are destined for hardships if we are following Jesus. It was never easy to be a Christian in China. Read the hardships of Hudson Taylor in books about him. Google “The Boxer Rebellion.” By 1950, after Mao took over, it became very difficult for Chinese Christians. Mao went out after the church. You can read about this in China: The Church’s Long March by David H. Adney Hardships? You will discover, as in Acts, what Mao meant for evil God meant it for good to the saving of many lives. Hardships oppression, affliction, tribulation, distress, straits, a pressing, pressing together, pressure We are in a battle today. It is Jerusalem against Babylon. It is the Kingdom of God versus the kingdom of this world, it is a battle in the spiritual realm. It is good against evil, Light against darkness. Righteousness against sin. Holiness against wickedness. We are in a conflict greater than we can imagine. The surest way to receive less criticism is to do nothing. The surest way to avoid persecution is to be quiet about your faith and be prayerless. Yes we are persecuted for being a House of Prayer, but we are not going to stop. Pastor Humphrey on Wednesday: We are in a great spiritual battle. Faith Missions does not seek to “benefit” from its investments. Relative asking me when I am going to get something back from the trips. Sadly he does not understand the Kingdom of God. Nor do many American Pastors. They understand the political kingdom of man but not the Kingdom of God. We are servants not Kings. We seek to advance God’s Kingdom, not the church. Jesus takes care of His church. Justin once I would like to read about how an individual was used to expand God’s Kingdom, rather than a denomination! So We must go through many hardships in order to enter the Kingdom of God. The Kingdom of God and Prayer Prayer is the language of the Kingdom of God. For the Kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power. I Corinthians 4.20 We see the power of God in answers to prayer. Yesterday! Luke 18.1 Now He was telling them a parable to show that at all times they ought to pray and not to lose heart, (give up) 7 will not God bring about justice for His elect who cry to Him day and night, and will He delay long over them? 8 "I tell you that He will bring about justice for them quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?" You will find the Kingdom coming when people are sincerely praying, “Your Kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven.” The Kingdom of God is not a matter of talk. If this is not sitting well with you, can I ask you, “How is your prayer life?” Are you praying without ceasing? If not keep seeking to. Think about prayer: puny human beings talking to Almighty God on His Throne! Think of His past deeds! He never changes. He is the same! The cries of God’s children, the cries of Israel in Egypt. At that time men began to call upon the Name of the LORD Genesis 4.26 * The Kingdom of God is among us. Luke 17.20 When asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus replied, “The kingdom of God will not come with observable signs. 21 Nor will people say,‘Look, here it is,’ or ‘There it is.’ For you see,the kingdom of God is in your midst.” Jesus is the Embodiment of the Kingdom of God. Wherever there are two or three gathered in My Name there am I in the midst. This was in the context of prayer. The Jews needed a minimum of 12 men to form a synagogue. Jesus sets us free from that. Prayer partners. While invisible we can see the results of the Kingdom of God among us. Build at a 90* angle and the building stands. Cooperate with the law of gravity. Eat right and exercise, you will feel better Give and it will given to you. Mostly in redeemed souls. Their transformation. Changes in their behavior, speech and attitudes. I have been watching it here. Making Disciples is the powerful work of the Holy Spirit. Feed the hungry and you are seeing the Kingdom of God come. Preach the Gospel to the poor… this opens the Kingdom of God. Bangladesh Audio Bible Photo Haiti Church * The Kingdom of God is Coming It is forever. Psalm 145.13 Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and Your dominion endures through all generations. The LORD is faithful to all He promises and loving to all He has made. Jesus is coming again. The Kingdom of God will rule the earth forever. While it is among us, when Jesus comes the kingdom of darkness will be banished. There will be no more battles. All is peace and joy and love. Revelation 21.1-8 Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. 2 I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God,prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and He will dwell with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them and be their God. 4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain,for the old order of things has passed away.” 5 He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then He said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” 6 He said to me: “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life. 7 Those who are victorious will inherit all this, and I will be their God and they will be My children. 8 But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars—they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.” * Hardships We Go Through Paul’s II Corinthians 1. 8 We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers about the troubles we experienced in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired of life itself.9 Indeed, we felt we had received the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. 10 He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and He will deliver us again. On Him we have set our hope that He will continue to deliver us, 11 as you help us by your prayers.Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many. I Corinthians 15.31 I face death every day—yes, just as surely as I boast about you in Christ Jesus our LORD. 32 If I fought wild beasts in Ephesus with no more than human hopes, what have I gained? If the dead are not raised, II Corinthians 11.23 Are they servants of Christ? (I am out of my mind to talk like this.) I am more. I have worked much harder, been in prison more frequently, been flogged more severely, and been exposed to death again and again. 24 Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. 25 Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was pelted with stones, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea, 26 I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my fellow Jews, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false believers. 27 I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep; I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked. 28 Besides everything else, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches. 29 Who is weak, and I do not feel weak? Who is led into sin, and I do not inwardly burn? oppression, affliction, tribulation, distress, straits, a pressing, pressing together, pressure Persecution for the Gospel: made fun of, mocked, accused of being holier than thou, accused of being a holy roller Left out of things Talked about behind our backs Watching people mess up spiritually Financial concerns for the churches. Our own struggle against sin Hebrews 12. 7 Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as His children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? Hardship as discipline Don’t run away from it Remain in it, in Christ, persevere, hold fast To the pastors… II Timothy 2.3 Suffer hardship with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. Shepherding a flock brings hardships. Sheep who wander off The enemy trying to divide Being alone. In the battle Being falsely accused Through We don’t live in them They are temporary They are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us Romans 8.18 We will be done with them one day. We will lay our armor down and receive a crown. We must go through many hardships in order to enter the Kingdom of God.

A Man After God’s Own Heart

A Man After God’s Own Heart Acts 13.21-22 This is during Paul’s First Missionary Journey. He and Barnabas were out together. It is interesting how this came about. The laying on of hands. The Holy Spirit spoke, probably through a prophet. They were sent out. This was in the context of the Church. This is how missionaries are sent. I remember when I went to Haiti for the first time, 11 years ago. I had Pastor Johnson, Rudy Migliore, Ray Toca and Pastor Dennis Hodulick, my prayer group, lay hands on me in a prayer meeting a few days before I left. I wanted to humble myself and be under God’s Blessing. Pastor Dennis said that I would be speaking in a church there on Sunday. I said I don’t even know anyone in Haiti. Yet Sunday Morning I found myself speaking in Pastor Joes Church and the mission began… and it ended it well… with a new church built. They were in Pisdian Antioch. Their pattern was to the Jew first and also to the Greek. So they went to the Synagogue. Paul spoke out of the Old Testament, the Scriptures of the Jews. David was their most beloved King. To this day there is a tomb in Jerusalem which is called the Tomb of David. We know when Acts was written his tomb was there. It is one of the holiest sites in Israel. It is a Memorial to Israel’s most beloved King Paul speaks of David. He was a shepherd, Hero in slaying Goliath, becoming King and most of all in the line of the Messiah. Mary and Joseph were of the house and line of David. This is why they went to Bethlehem to register during the Census. We are sharing about important things today, things of the Kingdom. It is not the Pro 17 iPhone that is important. We are in a time when the news cannot be trusted. Calls are going out since Wednesday for a return to God in our nation. It will happen when the people of God stop talking about Him and begin to cry out to Him. The most important and wonderful thing is that God is at work in the lives of those who are after His own heart. Those who are calling out to Him. In India we are being asked to pray for land for a church. Pastor Johnson’s Indian Village Mission. In Bangladesh a number of hungry children were fed by gifts given through this little church. In Kenya Pastor Daniel had the rim of his motorcycle fixed. He attended a conference in Uganda (6 hour trek on roads that are not like ours) I rode 6 hours thanks to Marcos and Nydia to be with my Mom on her 96th birthday on Thursday. It was a lot different trip than Pastor Daniel had. While there she got to talk to Pastor Humphrey from Nairobi. His church building needs a roof. We have some materials there but more are needed. What is most important? The thing Paul recalls is a deeply spiritual issue. David was a man after God’s own heart. * David was a Shepherd. As the LORD Psalm 80. 1  Hear us, Shepherd of Israel,     You who lead Joseph like a flock. You Who sit enthroned between the cherubim,     shine forth 2 before Ephraim, Benjamin and Manasseh. Awaken Your might;     come and save us. “Shepherd of Israel” is a biblical title for God, emphasizing His role as the loving leader, protector, and provider of the nation of Israel and the Church. I am the Good Shepherd, Jesus said in John 10.11 The good Shepherd lays down His life for the sheep. The Sacrificial Lamb of God In the Old Testament the LORD is my Shepherd, Israel’s Shepherd. In the New Testament, Jesus is the Good Shepherd, the Great Shepherd of the Sheep, the Chief Shepherd Hebrews 13. 20 Now may the God of peace, Who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, 21 equip you with everything good for doing His will, and may He work in us what is pleasing to Him, through Jesus Christ, to Whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. I Peter 5. 1To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder and a witness of Christ’s sufferings who also will share in the glory to be revealed: 2Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; 3not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. 4And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away. David said He was His Shepherd This is huge. It shows God’s heart. Loving, caring, graceful, gentle It shows mankind’s need. The crying need is for shepherds today. In this time guidance for the soul is needed. We have medical needs at times. We have emotional needs, physical needs. But the overwhelming need is in the soul, for direction, for comfort, to be heard, to be loved, to be affirmed. Take someone who is successful in their career, makes lots of money, has the things money can buy, may even have friends. If they do not have a relationship with the LORD’s, their life is empty. Take someone who lives in a developing nation, say Bangladesh They just get by, they do not have money or really anything. They just have the LORD. They have all they need. They are content. Fitz Chrysler said, “The person who has everything and Christ is not a whit richer than the person who only has Christ.” The soul is where the issues of life are. The soul is that eternal part of man. We need daily guidance. For someone to care without charging. I love it! Shepherds, true shepherds, have a deep love for the flock. I was blessed in my pre shepherd days to have men who loved the LORD and tended to their flock. * David understood the Kingdom of Israel, God’s Kingdom You do not ascend to power on your own. Psalm 75. 6 No one from the east or the west     or from the desert can exalt themselves. 7 It is God Who judges:     He brings one down, He exalts another. This is precisely what happened with Saul and David. God anointed David and rejected. You do not do what you want to with the power entrusted to you. Jesus said, “For the Son of man has not come to be served, but to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10.45 The LORD seeks servants whom He can work through. David fought the LORD’s battles. I Samuel 25.28 “Please forgive your servant’s presumption. The LORD your God will certainly make a lasting dynasty for my lord, because you fight the LORD’s battles, What are the LORD’s Battles Today? The souls The soul of this nation How do we fight. Clothe ourselves with the LORD Jesus Christ Prayer You submit yourself to God. Sheep are safe when they submit to the Shepherd. The shepherd sees what is ahead. He gathers the sheep together in times of storms. The shepherd seeks out food for them, leading them to a table prepared for them. It is deadly for a sheep to leave the flock and the care of a shepherd. It is also deadly for the sheep to attack the shepherd. It is unseemly. Actually wolves attack, sheep are defenseless. You do not touch the LORD’s Anointed. Psalm 105.15 Touch not mine anointed, and do my prophets no harm. His prophets. All of God’s people. We have an anointing. I John 2.20 * David Shepherded them with skilled hands and integrity of heart. Psalm 78.70-72 He had a heart like God. Full of Grace Full of Love He cared about justice. He led the nation in worship. He saw nature as God’s Handiwork. Throughout the Psalms he praised the LORD for it. He had a beginner’s heart, an awe of His Father’s World At the death of Saul, before he took the throne, he led the nation in mourning. Part of God’s heart breaks for human beings on this earth broken by sin. A man after God’s own heart is * humble * Loving * Kind * Willing to suffer, insulted, spoken evil of, forgiving * Worshipful * Seeking guidance from above * Crying out to God * The eyes of the LORD go to and from throughout the whole earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him. II Chronicles 16.9 Be a man or woman after God’s own heart.

Murder and a Miracle

Murder and A Miracle Part Two Praying Without Faith Acts 12.1-19 God is not obligated to explain why He does things differently with two of His followers. Peter, James and John were fishermen in business together when Jesus called them. Peter was arrested. His fate seemed to be the same as James. God can step in, even at the last minute. It looked like it was all over. It was going to be a double murder. He was being guarded by 16 soldiers, one fisherman, 16 soldiers The sentence of death was upon him. Paul, the Apostle wrote II Corinthians 1.19 Indeed, we felt we had received the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, Who raises the dead. Jesus, Isaac, Peter His situation was helpless and hopeless. Maybe you feel yours is this morning. If so I pray you will receive hope today from the Word. I have been there a few times in my life. It has never helped me when people have asked, “What are you going to do?” I don’t know. Learn this lesson of life. God deals differently with people in the same set of circumstances. God works miracles when He wills. When we look at the circumstances whether good or bad, blessings or burdens, even deep heartbreaking ones we can lose our way in praying. Our focus needs to be on the LORD. Whether in giving thanks for the blessings or coming before Him with our petitions and interecessions, our eyes need to be fixed on Him. Fixing our eyes… Hebrews 12. 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before Him He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. What were the eyes of the Church at Jerusalem fixed on? Was it the LORD? Was it Stephen and James’ Death by stoning and the sword? Let’s be gracious here…but honest. Death profoundly changes life. Violent death traumatizes us. They were not believing that the LORD was going to deliver Peter. Even if they were praying it, which the LORD lets us wonder about. As God continues to do amazing things through this little church I stand is awe. Photos from Bangladesh Feeding, India Feeding, Kenya on Monday Morning Throughout Kenya and into Southeast Asia the LORD is working in amazing ways. The Church there is exploding with new believers. The LORD is adding daily to the church. They have no gimmicks, no special programs. All they have is God. Other churches in Tanzania and Malawi have connected with us this past week for prayer and encouragement. What about America? Our country and Israel have a different heritage. We were founded in prayer to God from the hearts of people longing to be free… Israel was released from Egypt due to those cries. God’s Hand has been upon this nation. "America is great because she is good. If America ceases to be good, America will cease to be great.” Our Judeo Christian Ethic I love reading about the beginnings of this nation of ours. The Sanctity of Life All men are created equal and endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights: Life, Liberty and the pursuit of happiness… Our country needs to rediscover its roots. God has blessed America America needs God’s help, desperately We pray today for discernment in distinguishing spirits. Money, sex and power is what tempts men of God. I think power is the most insidious. The Oval Office is the most powerful room on Earth. Many have fallen into its lure. Both Presidents and Ministers of the Gospel. Some, amazingly, have not allowed its power to overtake them, but they are few in number. Been reading about Saul and David. Saul trying to take David’s life. David ducking spears and not retaliating against Saul because he was God’s anointed, as was David. * Even When We Are Faithless, God is Faithful. He definitely desires faith from us. Hebrews 11. 6 And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him. This makes sense. Believe in Him Believe that those who diligently seek Him will be rewarded. There is this verse in II Timothy 2.13 if we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot disown Himself. The church’s lack of faith here shows that they didn’t believe even when God answered their prayers for Peter’s Release… or were they? Maybe they were praying that God would be with him as he went to Heaven. These could have been prayers of grief. Maybe they were praying for his loss ahead of time. Fervent, earnest prayer, continuous Maybe they were praying, “If you can…” like the man who brought his son to the Disciples in Mark 9.23 if you can? All things are possible to him who believes. Whatever they were praying they did not believe he was going to be released, and definitely not miraculously! There is a prayer offered in faith which makes the sick person well according to James 5. If there is a prayer offered in faith then it seems possible that there can be prayers offered without faith. Matthew 21.22 if you ask anything believing you will receive it, 22 If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.” Faith the size of a grain of mustard seed. Prayer for wife of well known pastor in the awakening. The prayer for dying grace. Then God healed her! God has Grace that even when the church misses the mark He calls it back. Look at Revelation 2-3, the letters or messages to the Seven Churches from the LORD. Jesus is offering hope. He is calling them to repent of their sins and shortcomings. He is being faithful when they are not. I believe He is calling many churches back to Acts 2:42-47, not gimmicks or tricks, but sincerity. One of the problems with gimmicks is if you win people to the church with them you have to keep using them and even more if you want to keep them, whereas if you let the LORD add to the church you just need to keep following Him. The Apostles Teaching, The Fellowship, the Breaking of Bread and Prayer. The call for the church to return to its first love… Just as you received Christ Jesus as LORD, continue to live in Him… Colossians 2.6 Herein is a mistake many make. They fail to pray. They need to pray: Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm 139.23-24 David’s Prayer, A man after God’s Own Heart How do we pray with faith? Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God. Romans 10.17 Get into the Word and prayer. Otherwise you will eventually say, “Sending prayers to you.” Huh? Prayer is to God in Heaven. There is one mediator, Jesus Christ. * God Stirred the City of Jerusalem and His Own People. We want this or at least we say we do but look at the bigger picture here. Are we willing to be persecuted? The early church received a Baptism of Persecution Where persecution is the greatest the church is the strongest. It purifies the church. It strengthens the church. No one would dare join a church when there is persecution unless they are followers of Jesus Christ. There was no casual Christians. The early church embraced the suffering they received. We want to run or be delivered. God did for Peter. James got the better deal. He was home safe. The game of Trouble… get your pieces home! They are safe there. Are we willing to suffer? Jesus was. The LORD’s Supper

The Open Door To The Gentiles

The Open Door To The Gentiles Acts 11.1-18 This was a tremendous turning point in the history of the church. God so loved the world… the human family John 3. 16 For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. If this event and the ones in the rest of this chapter had not occurred then we would not be here today. This enlarged the church’s vision and field beyond the Jews, the lost sheep of the House of Israel, to the whole world. Part of what Jesus meant when in John 16, He said, “12 “I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear. 13 But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth.He will not speak on His own; He will speak only what He hears, and He will tell you what is yet to come. They could not have borne the thought of the Gentiles coming to faith at that point. That would be too much with all that Jesus had just told them about His death. They would have had many questions which He would not time to answer. They were on their way to the Garden of Gethsemane. They needed to see what was happening to Jesus in that moment. The Holy Spirit worked through Peter and Cornelius. The LORD was weaving events and people together. People can try (and they do) what only God can do. It was His grace and beauty, producing wonderful lasting fruit. He uses individuals and involves them in His plan for the accomplishments of His purposes and their spiritual growth in the faith. If you try and make things happen they will fall apart eventually. Let God do it. Don’t try to orchestrate or manipulate people. It backfires. I was encouraging Pastor Humphrey not to fund raise for future projects. We can learn how to receive funds through prayer. It gives God the glory. It depends upon Him completely. It comes in His timing. Faith Missions is exciting. Trusting in the LORD to speak to hearts is what the Scriptures direct us to do. Photos of roofing materials Give room for God to work. Allow grace poured out in your life. Be patient with one another. Be humble. Notice the criticism. Do something unusual and you will be criticized. Obey the LORD and someone will find fault… the circumcised followers in the church at Jerusalem, The only way to avoid this kind of criticism is to do nothing. God help us. If people are coming to know Jesus and we are critical because they broke some traditions or didn’t do it as we would have. I have seen that firsthand. So at this point Peter is traveling. We do not know what brought him down to Joppa, to stay with Simon, the Tanner. He was there by Divine Appointment. We never know what God might do, where He may have us. Maybe Peter was there for a break, on the coast, to relax for a few days. God is the Divine Interrupter. Thursday Morning 6am Pastor Daniel on a mountain in Kenya with a group of men. Will you tell them about Jesus? So I did. And souls were added to the church. He is adding daily there. So often we are going about our duty and then He shows us something. Bernie and I at Bagel Boss. Diddi and I at the Bagel place in Valley Stream… recently God is working through bagel shops. John Tocci at Bagel Boss So God interrupts Peter’s prayer time. * Peter’s Prejudices and Preconceived Ideas Had To Be Changed. vs.1-10 I love the way God works. He knows what needs to change in us. He knows how to bring about such change. The sheet came down three times. He knew Peter would need this. Everything is established in the mouth of two or three witnesses. II Corinthians 13.1 As the LORD works in our lives He directs our paths. He disintegrates our prejudices. He began with Samaria. Luke 9. 51 Now it came to pass, when the time had come for Him to be received up, that He steadfastly set His face to go to Jerusalem, 52 and sent messengers before His face. And as they went, they entered a village of the Samaritans, to prepare for Him. 53 But they did not receive Him, because His face was set for the journey to Jerusalem. 54 And when His disciples James and John saw this, they said, “LORD, do You want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them, just as Elijah did?” 55 But He turned and rebuked them, and said, “You do not know what manner of spirit you are of. 56 For the Son of Man did not come to destroy men’s lives but to save them.” And they went to another village. By the time we get to Acts 8. 4 Those who had been scattered preached the Word wherever they went. 5 Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed Christ there. 6 When the crowds heard Philip and saw the signs he performed, they all paid close attention to what he said. 7 For with shrieks, impure spirits came out of many, and many who were paralyzed or lame were healed. 8 So there was great joy in that city. And with that the Samaritans were in! He accomplishes His purposes. Now onto the uttermost parts of the world. The Goyim. The word "goyim" (singular "goy") is a Hebrew word that literally means "nations". It is used in Jewish tradition and texts to refer to non-Jewish people.  Ethnos in Matthew 28.19 Peter struggled. This was not easy for Peter. Change never is, especially when it has been part of our lives since we were born. Food restrictions suddenly lifted were revolutionary for the apostle. This was going to have to happen if the Gentiles would be reached. Businessman from Bangladesh, “First you drink our tea. Then we do business.” In my travels I have always eaten the food of the people with the utensils provided. The impact of Chop Sticks in China and when I eat with my Asian friends. “He knows how to eat with our utensils!” It draws you close to the people of that land. Same here where the nations have come to live. I believe one of the reasons I was taught Spanish in elementary school was to prepare me for this time. I believe one of the reasons I took German in Junior High and High School was to talk to John Tocci’s wife this week. She is from Germany. When I spoke to her she looked at him and said, “He speaks German!” Peter submitted. Peter finally got it. He went to Cornelius’ house. He explained that this was not something he ever did and why. God was broadening his vision. He was bring Peter closer to His view (the whole world). The teachings of Jesus and Jesus Himself taking over Peter’s heart and mind. Could this be what he was referring to when he wrote, “In your hearts set apart Christ Jesus as LORD.” I Peter 3.15 ? Peter was being used by God to open up the way for the Gentiles, the non Jewish people to come into the Church. Then he was preparing the way for Paul to be an Apostle to them. Oh that we would see the Kingdom of God in world events. He is working. * The Spirit leads us into new territory. vs.11-14 God leads us into new ventures of faith, to move with Him to reach others. He opens our hearts to His heart. Peter said that the Spirit told him not to have any hesitation to go with these men. It sounds as if he heard these words in his ears or within his heart or both. I love it when the Spirit leads, when He speaks to our hearts. For me most of the time it is in the early morning as I read the Word. Most of my livestreams throughout the week are from that reading. He speak to my heart and then I share. When I moved back to Long Island and to this church in 1984 it was through the Spirit. I used to get the map of Long Island out before I moved. Look over that page in my Rand McNally Atlas and feel a pull back here. Then the LORD began to give me an uneasy feeling about where I was. Then a letter and after a phone call came from Dr. Dallas Mucci. He was very gracious. I was recalling that trip from Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada to Bay Shore, to the church, to meet with the board. All but one person on that board are still alive now 40 years later. The rest are in Heaven. Time moves on. I never looked back, even when the church I left asked me to return after being here for a number of years. I had heard from God coming here and I was not hearing Him when they asked me to come back. Our venture into other places now. Photos from Kenya and Bangladesh. Roof materials and feeding. How is this happening? It is the LORD. There is a mystery sometimes of how we got to a certain place on our journey. When they questioned Peter he told them what happened. Basically he was saying, “I just did what God told me. I didn’t do anything. I was just was telling them what I knew and heard. The Holy Spirit just came upon them.” Are you sensing a pull in your heart? Is something up in your life? Wait. Pray with me over “the new Bay Shore”. We tried to start something down near Main Street… we fished but came up with empty nets. Maybe God is speaking to someone here to reach out to this growing community. * The Spirit Brings New Life. vs.15-18 He brought new life to Cornelius, his family and friends. How wonderful! He knew God was up to something and he didn’t want anyone he loved to miss it. Their lives were transformed by the LORD. They all received the Spirit. The Church was never to be the same! Pork Chops and Shell Fish! The Beauty of the Nations. What a wonderful sight! Serving the LORD together Choirs singing Children singing Pastors Humphrey and Daniel in Kenya Photos Liton The beauty of Bangladesh, Kenya (Pastor Humphrey’s daughters) Is there a group of people you are avoiding? People you don’t associate with? Could God be calling you to them?

Giving To The Poor

Giving To The Poor Acts 10.1-4 Cornelius A Centurion in the Italian Regiment “Your prayers and gifts to the poor have come up as a memorial offering before God.” Gentile Because of his office patient, courage, builder A sign of the Kingdom is the preaching of the Gospel to the poor: Luke 4. 18  “The Spirit of the LORD is on Me,     because He has anointed Me     to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners     and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, * This is Obviously Close To God’s Heart God hears our prayers and our giving to the poor comes up before the LORD. Thanksgiving. Don’t make something spiritual into something political. There is a lot of politicization of caring for the poor. What I mean by that are political parties using the poor for their own advantages. If they are seemingly neglected by one then the other says the other side is evil. My question this morning to them and to you is, “What have you done for the poor lately?” Jesus left this in the church’s hands not Rome or any other government. This is life in the Kingdom of God. So what have you done personally in this regard? If your answer is nothing, then I would ask you why not? No condemnation, He gently speaks to us. This is a message on giving but it will be up to you how and where you respond. We do not have a program we are pushing or a scheme in mind. This is the Word of God. I never want to limit His work in your hearts by a scheme of mine. * Jesus had something to say about the poor. Jesus said, “The poor you will always have with you and you can help them anytime you want.” Mark 14.7 We will not eliminate poverty. Nice thought: Eliminate world hunger but never has happened. Many reasons for this. Greed is one. No delusions or visions of grandeur. Just simply helping the poor Anytime we want. Any time you desire and resolve to. When the LORD leads us. When we hear of a need. Twice a week here in the parking lot. Those who have seen the little God is enabling us to do around the world and want give. The poor. Are they spiritually poor or literally poor? They are first the literal poor. Those who have to resort to begging, no money. Second they are the rich who are spiritually poor. destitute of the Christian virtues and eternal riches, Lost souls 5:30 this morning in Bangladesh It is the first sign mentioned! Cornelius was already living in Kingdom Come. I pray this message strengthens and encourages you. Cornelius was further ahead than many professing Christians in the United States! * Jesus was among the poor. He was rich but for your sake He became poor so that through His poverty you might become rich. II Corinthians 8.9 Spiritually He had no place to lay His head. Luke 9.58 Homeless, Penniless He left Heaven’s wealth for a life of poverty on Earth. Philippians 2 Does not mean he was not “At home” with the rich. Matthew’s home, Martha, Mary and Lazarus Nicodemus, Joseph of Arimithea The Rich Young Ruler set his own boundaries. I want eternal life but I want my riches. You cannot serve both God and money. Thankful for my Dad, Bob Pawson, John Stark… Pastor Rapalje. These men worked hard but served the LORD with their talents. They loved God and His Kingdom. They did not seek a kingdom for themselves. Their legacy in part is this church building we enjoy… for future generations… us! And if Jesus tarries beyond our time. Photos of church being built We will stand before Jesus one day with these words… Matthew 25.31-46 An offering for the church at Jerusalem II Corinthians 9. 12 This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. 13 Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, others will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the Gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else. 14 And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you. 15 Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift! The dynamic of Christian Giving Kenyan Church roof * The Blessings of Giving To The Poor II Corinthians 9. 8 And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 9 As it is written: “They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor;
    their righteousness endures forever.” Luke 6.38 Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” Proverbs 19.17 Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and He will reward them for what they have done. Bangladesh hungry children photo Colossians 2.7 rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. Mm,kk These gifts to the poor and needy are noted by God. In Cornelius’ case they were a Memorial before the LORD. Gifts to the poor are a partnership with God. It brings peace. Give to the poor Do it quietly. Do it as God moves on your heart Do your research. Give.