Newsletter October 2020 Part 2

Walking in victory

“Moses My servant is dead. Now therefore, arise, go over this Jordan, you and all this people, to the land which I am giving to them—the children of Israel.  Every place that the sole of your foot will tread upon I have given you, as I said to Moses.  From the wilderness and this Lebanon as far as the great river, the River Euphrates, all the land of the Hittites, and to the Great Sea toward the going down of the sun, shall be your territory.  No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life; as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you nor forsake you.  Be strong and of good courage, for to this people you shall divide as an inheritance the land which I swore to their fathers to give them.  (Joshua 1:2-6)

     God spoke these words to Joshua when his time had come to lead the people of Israel into the Land He had promised them.  The land before them was theirs and all they had to do is enter it in the knowledge that God was with them and would give them the victory over anyone who would stand in their way.  However, for Joshua, who was used to being an assistant to Moses the prospect of himself the leader to whom everyone would look must have been daunting.  Therefore God reassures him that He will be with him and that he should be strong and of good courage.

     It is easy to miss God’s calling and fail to do what He calls us to do because we have no confidence in our ability.  Yet that is precisely the point – fulfilling our purpose does not depend on who we are, but on who God is in us.  We cannot do nothing of ourselves but through His power working in us we are able to do far more than we can even ask or think (Ephesians 3:20).  God reiterates that admonition to be strong by repeating it twice – but He links it to obedience.  God’s presence and the fulfilment of His promise is conditional on obedience to His will.  Disobedience, as we see later in the story, will result in defeat (Joshua 7).  However, it is our fear and lack of confidence that prevents us from experiencing victory in our lives and our ministry to others. 

     In the following chapters we read how Joshua and the people of Israel prepared themselves for the conquest of Canaan and cross over Jordan.  As they are about to attack the heavily fortified city of Jericho, Joshua encounters a man of war with his sword drawn.  (Joshua 5: 12)  Joshua asks him to identify himself. “Are you for us or for our adversaries?” But the man’s reply is quite unexpected. He says, “No, but as Commander of the army of the Lord I have now come.”  Joshua recognises this Man (spelt in the NKJV throughout with a capital letter) as the Angel of the LORD.  He falls on his face and worships, and he asks “What does my Lord say to His servant?” (v.14). 

     Joshua needed to have this encounter with God’s presence (Theophany) before the impending victory with the conquest of Jericho to remind him who was in charge.  He was to be bold, have confidence, but his confidence was not to be in himself but in God.  It was not about getting God on His side, but about himself getting on God’s side.

     Our view of God is easily distorted; we want Him on our terms to do our will.  He promises to be with us, to give us the victory – but on His terms and for His purpose.  He is in charge, and we follow His command.  He is the Lord and we are His servants.  He will go before us and give us the victory if we remain faithful to Him.  Boldness and confidence in our ability depends on His power in us and consequently, on our obedience to Him.  As we pray according to His will and purpose, we have all that we ask. (1 John 5:14)

     Jesus is our Lord and Saviour; but He is also our example of perfect submission and obedience to the Fathers will.  He went the way of the cross, despising its shame, because He knew that His death would lead to resurrection and exaltation.  In Hebrews 12:1-2, we are admonished to lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 

     Therefore let us not become weary and discouraged in your souls (v.3) but let us take up our cross and follow Him.  For it is only the way of the cross that leads to victory; God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness! (2 Corinthians 12:9-10)

Pastor Konrad

Newsletter October 2020 Part 1

Our eyes are on You

And Jehoshaphat feared, and set himself to seek the LORD, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah.  So Judah gathered together to ask help from the LORD; and from all the cities of Judah they came to seek the LORD.  (2 Chronicles 20:3-4)

     In the days of King Jehoshaphat Judah faced a great crisis: all the surrounding nations had gathered together against God’s people to attack and destroy them.  Understandably, the King was afraid.  Yet his fear did not make him despair but rather turn to God.  He called a fast for the entire nation; and the entire nation actually showed up!  How was this possible?  Why was Jehoshaphat so sure that God was able to help?  Why did he not panic?  Why did he not focus on his military resources or seek allies to support him?  Why was it so natural for him and his nation to turn to God?  The answer is found in the previous chapters.             When Jehoshaphat ascended the throne of Judah, he made God the focus of his life and reign.  We read (2 Chr. 17:4ff) that he sought the LORD and walked in His commandments and, consequently, the LORD established his kingdom.  The people realised that God was with their king and honoured him with gifts and their allegiance.      

     Moreover, Jehoshaphat removed the idols that had been set up in Judah over the years and had caused the people to turn away from God.  He then sent his faithful leaders throughout his kingdom to teach the Law of God to the people.  As a result, the people of Judah honoured God and the fear of the LORD came upon the surrounding nations so that they were afraid to attack Judah and even paid tribute to them.  Jehoshaphat grew ever wealthier and ever stronger.  Yet in all this, Jehoshaphat never grew proud.  He remembered that God was the source of his blessings; so when he faced his greatest trial he knew where to turn: he did not rely on his own strength but on the God who had established him in the first place.     

     When they heard that their enemies had unified against them, the people of Judah gathered together in Jerusalem to seek God.  Jehoshaphat himself led the prayer, focusing on the greatness and the faithfulness of God and ending with a plea for help:  “O our God, will You not judge them?  For we have no power against this great multitude that is coming against us; nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are upon You.”  (2 Chr. 20:12)       

     As they stood waiting on the Almighty, Jahaziel, a prophet of God began to prophesy, “Do not be afraid nor dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours, but God’s.  … You will not need to fight in this battle.  Position yourselves, stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD, who is with you.”         

The people embraced the word of the LORD and went out the next day, not heavily armed and ready to fight, but praising their God for the deliverance they believed was theirs, as He had spoken.  And indeed, as they praised God, their enemies suddenly turned on one another and destroyed one another!      

     That day Judah celebrated a great victory; but the foundation for that victory had been laid long before.  It was during the good times that Jehoshaphat had prepared the nation for this crisis by his own example and by teaching the people all over the country to follow the commandments of God.  Therefore it was natural for them to turn to God in this desperate situation.  When a fast was called, they came, knowing that God was the answer to their problem.      

      God has seen us through an unexpected crisis.  Yes, we have suffered but we have retained our faith in God’s care and provision.  What, however, if things really turn out as many are predicting?  What if this pandemic does continue for a long period, if there is a ‘second wave’ with a surge in hospital admissions and even death and further social restrictions?  What if the economic impact begins to affect our own livelihoods as it is already affecting many?  What if violence, crime and community divisions increase as a result of this?  What if we cannot meet face to face in church and privately?  Are we prepared? 

     Have we invested sufficiently in our relationship with God?  Do we know who is the source of our blessings when all other sources seem to dry up?  When trouble comes, will it be natural for us to turn to God as the people did under the leadership of Jehoshaphat – as individuals and as a body of believers?  Will we despair, or will we look to the One who is able to do exceedingly more than we can ever imagine?   Let us seek God during this trying time.  .  Let us draw near to him, come together in prayer.  Let us make the most of our online provisions as long as we have them.  Most of all, let us keep our eyes continuously on God.                        

Pastor Konrad

Newsletter September Part 2

See His glory

“Please, show me Your glory.” (Exodus 33:18)

Moses prayed this prayer at a time of crisis.  He was a great prophet of God, the greatest the world had ever seen.  He had experienced God’s power in the miracles that God had wrought through him: the plagues of Egypt, the parting of the Red Sea, and miraculous provision in the midst of the desert. Yet he reached a point where he could go no further – not without a fresh and deeper revelation of God’s glory.

     In the previous chapter, we read how Moses had gone up to Mount Sinai to meet with God and to receive instructions directly from Him.  As he delayed coming back down from the mountain, the people’s faith began to wane.  So they gathered together and persuaded Aaron, who was left in charge during Moses’ absence, to make them a god: one whom they could see and touch, one who fitted within their limited human minds.  And Aaron granted them their request.  He collected gold from the people and made them an image after their imagination, built an altar before it, and announced to them, “Tomorrow is a feast to the LORD (in Hebrew YHWH).” (Exodus 32:1-5)  So when Moses descended from the Mountain of God, carrying with him God’s Law written by God’s own hand on tables of stone, he saw the people dancing around a golden calf.

     Reading these verses, it appears that Aaron somehow tried to reconcile the making of this idol with worshipping YAHWEH, the invisible I AM who had delivered them from the Egyptian bondage by His powerful hand.  What a fallacy!  How can an image made by man represent the Almighty God?  “To whom then will you liken God?  Or what likeness will you compare to Him?” (Isaiah 40:18),

     It is easy for us to condemn Aaron or to pity him for his ignorance.  Yet could it be that we too have an image of God in our minds that falls far short of His Glory?  We may not actually make a physical idol, as the Israelites did, but so often our conception of God limits Him to nothing more than a human construct.  Instead of answering the call to serve the King of Kings, we all too often create for ourselves a god whose purpose it is to serve us – on our terms. 

     Moses had led the people of God up to this point.  He had been faithful in everything that God had called him to do.  Consequently, the Israelites had witnessed God’s power and experienced His loving care.  Yet they had failed to honour Him as God.  Moses recognised that in order to convey to them the awesomeness of the Almighty, he needed a fresh and deeper revelation of who God really was.  So he prayed, “Please, show me Your glory.”    

     Like Moses, we need a deeper revelation of who God is.  Only He can reveal Himself to us – by His Spirit (1 Cor. 2:11-12).  As we put aside the flawed images we have created of Him and seek His face, as we read His Word with an open heart, God will reveal Himself to us as He really is.  As we stand in awe of His Majesty, we recognise how far we fall short of His glory and, at the same time, we experience the infinite love of the Father welcoming us into His presence.  It is there, in His holy presence, that we become conscious of our sin and experience the joy and the freedom of complete justification through the cross (Rom. 3:23-24). 

    Our God is an awesome God.  Therefore let us plead like Moses, “Lord, show us your glory!”     

Pastor Konrad   

Newsletter September Part 1

Spiritual victory

Now Amalek came and fought with Israel in Rephidim.  And Moses said to Joshua, “Choose us some men and go out, fight with Amalek. Tomorrow I will stand on the top of the hill with the rod of God in my hand.”   So Joshua did as Moses said to him, and fought with Amalek. And Moses, Aaron, and Hur went up to the top of the hill.  And so it was, when Moses held up his hand, that Israel prevailed; and when he let down his hand, Amalek prevailed.  But Moses’ hands became heavy; so they took a stone and put it under him, and he sat on it. And Aaron and Hur supported his hands, one on one side, and the other on the other side; and his hands were steady until the going down of the sun.  So Joshua defeated Amalek and his people with the edge of the sword. (Exodus 17:8-13)

     As the Israelites approach Mount Horeb, they suddenly encounter opposition.  Without warning and with no apparent reason, the Amalekites attack them just before they reach the place where they are to meet with God.  Moses immediately responds to this attack by appointing Joshua, a young man who has not been mentioned thus far, to lead an army of people who have not been trained in warfare and have never fought a battle before.  Meanwhile, Moses himself goes to the top of a hill overlooking the battlefield and raises his rod.  He knows that this battle cannot be won in the natural, but he also knows that every time he raises his rod, God’s power is released to bring victory to His people.

     We too have an enemy who attacks us when we least expect it.  How often do we progress in our spiritual journey and, just as we are about to enter into God’s presence, something happens that sets us back to where we were before.  We become discouraged and begin to doubt whether we will ever experience the fullness of His presence, which we so long for.  Our spiritual enemy will do everything in his power to stop us from reaching that place.  There seems to be nothing we can do in the natural realm, but, like Moses, we have a weapon that will release the power of the Almighty God – prayer. 

     As long as Moses holds up his rod, Joshua is victorious; as soon as Moses lowers his rod, the enemy gains the upper hand.  The real battle is not fought on the battlefield below but on the top of the hill, where Moses is.  And it’s no different with us.  When everything suddenly appears to go wrong, when problems take over at work or in our family lives, when we are struck with sudden illness – all these things can cause us to lose focus and to regress in our spiritual journey.  Rather than respond to such setbacks through natural means, we need to recognise our spiritual enemy (Ephesians 6:12).  We need to be vigilant and resist him (1 Peter 5:8-9).  We need to be aware of his devices, so he cannot take advantage of us (2 Corinthians 2:11).  And as Moses lifted up his rod, we need to lift up our voices in prayer.

     Eventually, however, Moses’ arms become weary and he struggles to hold up the rod on his own.   Aaron and Hur have to come to his assistance.  They sit him down on a stone and hold up his arms, one on each side.  None of us can manage on our own; we all need each other.  Just as Aaron and Hur bore up the arms of Moses, so that he could continue to hold up the rod, we too need to bare one another up in prayer.  That is why we are encouraged to pray together (Matthew 18:19-20).  That is why we have corporate prayer meetings, where we pray for one another’s needs.  That is why we are exhorted to pray continually for our spiritual leaders (Ephesians 6:18-19; Romans 15:30).  The victory is ours – but it comes only through prayer!                                            

Pastor Konrad

Newsletter August 2020 Part 2

Into His image

So they took their journey from Succoth and camped in Etham at the edge of the wilderness.  And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of cloud to lead the way, and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, so as to go by day and night.  He did not take away the pillar of cloud by day or the pillar of fire by night from before the people. (Exodus 12:20-22)

     When the Israelites left Egypt, where they had been in bondage for almost 400 years, God led them on their way.  In Moses, He had given them a leader to follow, but He wanted all of them to know that He Himself was showing the way.  That is why He gave them a visible sign of His presence to follow: a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. 

     As children of God today, we too have God’s presence in our lives.  We may not follow a visible cloud that goes before us, but we have God’s Spirit to guide us.  Just like God had a route planned for the Israelites to travel, He has a plan and purpose for us.  He does not leave us to wander about blindly, hoping that somehow we will get where we should be.  God directs our every step by His Spirit – but will we follow?

     The Israelites had their doubts about God’s leading, when they reached the shore of the Red Sea.  Having followed God’s cloud, they suddenly found themselves closed in with the Egyptians hard on their heels.  What would have gone on in their minds?  Why had God brought them to this place?  Was His plan really to destroy them? 

     We too may be led by the Holy Spirit to a place in our lives where there seems to be no going further.  We may begin to question: was it really God who led me here?  Did I get it wrong?  Or, even worse: does God not care about me?  Has he led me to this place in my life to abandon me?

     The Israelites asked these questions.  They complained to Moses, saying it would have been better for them to stay in bondage rather than die in the wilderness (Exodus 14:11).  Yet God knew what He was doing.  Not long after, they watched from a place of safety, as God caused the water of the Red Sea to come crashing down on their pursuers, killing every one of them.  God had led them to this place, not to destroy them, but their enemies.  He always fights for His own, even if it may not seem so at the moment.

     As Christians we can become discouraged when we turn our focus from God’s greater purpose to our immediate circumstances.  However, as God was with the Israelites when He led them through the Red Sea and the wilderness, so He is also with us in every circumstance.  As He brought them to Mount Horeb to make them into His special people, so He also wants to bring us into His presence.  He is able to make all things work together for good to those who love Him, to those who are the called according to His purpose.  He has predestined those whom He foreknew to be conformed to the image of His Son. (Romans 8:28-29)   

     God has our eternal destiny in mind, and therefore the shaping of our character is of greater significance than our immediate comfort.  It is precisely through the trials we experience that we are refined.  As we are tested in the fire of life’s adversities, the genuineness of our faith is revealed. (1 Peter 1:7) 

     Are you questioning God?  Are you asking why He has brought you to the place you find yourself in?  Do you doubt His love and His purpose for your life because things presently seem difficult?  Well, think again.  As long as we follow God’s leading, He will protect us and He will fight our battles.  As long as we remain in His will and follow the leading of His Spirit, we will overcome by His power. 

     We may not always understand what God is doing, but if we trust in Him we will experience His loving presence and enter into His purpose, no matter what our circumstances seem to suggest.  For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are the sons of God. (Romans 8:14)  Let us allow the Creator to shape us into the perfect image which He always intended for us – that image which was revealed in His Son Jesus Christ our Saviour when He took on human form. (Phil. 2:7)

Newsletter August 2020 Part 1

A God so near

And Moses went up to God, and the Lord called to him from the mountain, saying, “Thus you shall say to the house of Jacob, and tell the children of Israel: ‘You have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles’ wings and brought you to Myself.  Now therefore, if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be a special treasure to Me above all people; for all the earth is Mine.  And you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’  These are the words which you shall speak to the children of Israel.”  (Exodus 19:3-6)

    When the Almighty God delivered Israel from slavery to lead them into the land He had promised their Father Abraham for His descendants He first brought them to Mount Horeb.  For Israel to enter God’s promise they first had to meet the God of the promise.  YHWH, the eternal I AM, had revealed Himself to Moses on this mountain in a burning bush and had sent him back to Egypt to lead the Israelites here.  God had said to Moses that He would certainly be with him, and that the sign of Moses’ calling would be the people’s encounter with Him: “When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you shall serve God on this mountain.” (Exodus 3:12)

     Now here they were and God spoke to them through His servant Moses, reminding them of their deliverance and declaring to them His purpose for them.  He was calling them into a loving relationship with Him – that relationship which had been lost when humanity desired independence from their Creator over God’s presence and blessing.  He had displayed His power over their oppressors and had set them free.  Now it was for them to learn what freedom means.

     Freedom is often (mis)understood as the absence of any restrictions.  Freedom, for many today, means that I can do whatever I want, whatever feels good.  So why does God give restrictions?  Why did He give Israel the Law?  It is precisely so that they could remain free.  Freedom always means responsibility, and God’s laws were designed to enable His people to live responsibly – to fulfil their God-given purpose and potential through a loving relationship with Him and with one another.

     God wants those who have answered His call to be His special treasure.  God wants to form a people of priests, worshippers, who will reflect His glory and show His love and mercy to a world bound by sin.  God’s election of Israel was never for Israel alone; neither is our Salvation for us alone.  God wants His people to be a light to all the world.  From the beginning, when He called their father Abraham out of idolatry and promised him, against all the odds, that he would make from him a great nation.  He would bless Abraham’s descendants and make them a blessing to all other nations.

   This is why God gave a law – restrictions that would regulate relationships and thus ensure justice in a world of hatred and injustice.  As the Israelites prepared to enter into the land of God’s promise Moses reminded them to be careful to observe [these statutes]; for this is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the peoples who will hear all these statutes, and say, ‘Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.’  “For what great nation is there that has God so near to it, as the Lord our God is to us, for whatever reason we may call upon Him? (Deut. 4:7-8)  Thus the nations around them would see God’s goodness and mercy and would come to know Him through them.

     In His last speech to His disciples before going to the cross, Jesus admonished them to love one another.  It was by their love for one another that the world would see Him and His purpose for all humanity.  The world today is desperately seeking unity and justice, but true unity and true justice can only come through God.   He is the Creator who made all things good.  Therefore He is the only One who can restore what humanity’s rebellion has destroyed.  As Israel were reminded of their deliverance and resulting responsibility through the Scriptures and feasts, let us be reminded, by looking to the cross, of God’s salvation and His call to love Him and one another, and to be His light in this world of darkness.

Newsletter July 2020 Part 2

Restoration

When the Lord brought back the captivity of Zion,

We were like those who dream.
Then our mouth was filled with laughter,
And our tongue with singing.
Then they said among the nations,
“The Lord has done great things for them.”
The Lord has done great things for us,
And we are glad.

Bring back our captivity, O Lord,
As the streams in the South.

Those who sow in tears
Shall reap in joy.
He who continually goes forth weeping,
Bearing seed for sowing,
Shall doubtless come again with rejoicing,
Bringing his sheaves with him.

When the people of Judah returned from captivity it was a time of celebration and hope.  They had suffered in Babylon and had yearned for 70 years for this return to their home country.  For them it felt like a dream can finally come true and they were ready to praise God for His deliverance.  Their tears had finally turned into laughter, their sorrow into joy.  Surely everything would be different now; surely they would experience the blessing and increase they had been praying for. 

     We too have been sowing in tears as we have not been able to see each other during the lockdown, and many have been affected by the pandemic through illness and loss of loved ones.  We now look to the future with hope as we are about to return to our church building for public worship.  However, things will not be the same.  As in the days of rebuilding Jerusalem, the enemy is still present.  We have to be on our guard as the threat of a new spike in Covid-19 infections persists and there is even talk of a second wave and the possibility of another lockdown.  Like Ezra, Zerubbabel and Nehemiah, we must always remain alert while we celebrate and rebuild.  We must follow strict guidelines while worshipping together. 

     And like Judah in those days, we will face further trials and afflictions.  For them the intertestamental period between the return from captivity and the coming of Jesus was a time of foreign oppression and desecration of their Temple and prohibition of their worship under the Seleucid king Antiochus Epiphanes.  While we may not (yet) face such trials, we can expect that the aftermath of this pandemic will be one of economic hardship and resulting societal issues.  We may well see a rise in crime and social conflict, and the world is increasingly rejecting many of the values we as Christians stand for.  We don’t know the future, but we recognise that the Saviour has come and that He is with us, no matter what may come.

     As we celebrate our return to public worship and rebuild what the enemy has destroyed, let us stay focused on God.  Let us thank Him for seeing us through this time of lockdown.  Let us stand together to confront any forces that try defeat God’s people.  Let us trust that God is able to keep us, no matter what we may come against us.  Jesus promised never to leave nor forsake those who trust in Him.  Through Him we are more than conquerors.  Nothing can separate us from His love!  And let us be ready to receive those who will come to us inquiring about the hope, faith and peace they see reflected in our lives.            

Newsletter July 2020 Part 1

God’s table

After years of persecution and war, David was finally recognised as king over all Israel. (2 Samuel 5:1-3)  In all that he had gone through, he had committed his life into God’s hand.  Even when given the opportunity to kill Saul (1 Samuel 24:4 & 26:8-10), he refused to take matters into his own hand.  Rather than stretching out his hand against the LORD’s anointed, he left Saul’s judgment to God.  Now at last his time had come and he was able to enjoy the reward for all he had patiently endured.  Now he had time to sit and reflect on God’s faithfulness in His troubles and on the faithfulness of those who had helped him in his time of need.  And he remembered his promise to Jonathan to show kindness not only to him during his lifetime but also to his family after his death.   

     So David enquired: “Is there still anyone who is left of the house of Saul, that I may show him kindness for Jonathan’s sake?”  And truly, there was one – Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan, who was just five years old when his father Jonathan died in battle with his entire family (1 Samuel 31:6 & 2 Samuel 4:4).  When she had heard the news of Israel’s defeat at the hand of the Philistines, Mephibosheth’s nurse had quickly fled and, in the rush, she had dropped the child, injuring both his feet so that he became lame.  The poor child grew up alone and forgotten in a place called Lo Debar, which means “no pasture”.  There seemed to be no hope that anything would ever change for him – until one day David remembered his covenant promise to Jonathan.  As soon as David heard of Mephibosheth he had him brought to the palace. (2 Samuel 9:1-5)  

     We too were once lost, having no hope and without God in this world (Ephesians 2:12).  We had no part in the blessings of God, but through the New Covenant in his blood, Christ Jesus brought us who were once far off into his presence.  Just as David invited Mephibosheth to sit at his table and to eat of the king’s food for Jonathan’s sake (2 Samuel 9:9-11), God has invited us to partake of His blessings for the sake of His Son Jesus, who died for us so we could be cleansed from sin and brought into His holy kingdom. 

     As Christians we often struggle to understand that God has accepted us – just as we are.  Like Mephibosheth, we see ourselves as unworthy of His blessings.  We come to God in prayer expecting nothing from Him.  Why, after all, should the Almighty look upon such a dead dog as I?” (2 Samuel 9:8).  Yet we are accepted – not because of anything we have done, but because of God’s love by which He accepted us in His beloved Son Jesus. And because we are accepted by Him we are made worthy to receive from His table, which He has prepared for us. (Psalm 23:5)

     Jesus tells us that we should not worry about anything in this life.  The Father’s storehouse is full.  He knows what we have need of, and He is more than able to look after His children.  All He requires of us is that we believe in His promise and respond to His invitation.  All that He expects is that we make His kingdom the priority of our lives, and He will take care of everything else. (Matthew 6:32-33)  If God did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things? (Romans 8:32) 

Christ died so that we can live. Who [then] shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?  (Romans 8:35)  Whatever we may face in these perilous times, whatever may lie ahead, let us remember that God is with us, that He is well able to preserve us, and that He has reserved a place for us at His table.

Newsletter June 2020 Part 1

Life from lock down  

“Therefore, behold, I will allure her, will bring her into the wilderness, and speak comfort to her.
I will give her her vineyards from there, and the Valley of Achor as a door of hope; she shall sing there,
as in the days of her youth, as in the day when she came up from the land of Egypt. (Hosea 2:14-15)

     When God calls Hosea he tells him to marry.  However, this is not a love marriage to a woman of his choice.  Hosea has to take a harlot as his wife so he can experience that pain God feels at the harlotry His people are committing by serving other gods.  Hosea’s wife gives birth to three children: a son whom Hosea is to call Jezreel (God shall sow), a daughter Lo-Ruhamah (no mercy) and another son Lo-Ammi (not my people).  These names represent three aspects of the message that God would give to His prophet.      

     God’s mercy seems to be exhausted; those who were once His chosen people will no longer be His people.  Yet the divine Husband’s love for His adulterous wife is too potent; He cannot put her away forever.  Mercy triumph’s over judgment.  God still loves His people; He will restore them. 

     God does everything to keep His wife from her lovers.  He locks her in, prevents her from going out to chase after her lovers (v.6).  He takes everything from her – all the gifts she received from her true Husband but wrongly attributes to her lovers.  God will punish His people for worshiping idols while forgetting Him who brought them out of bondage into a land of blessing to reflect the light of His glory.

     When all is going well, when we are blessed and successful, we easily take things for granted.  We believe that it is through our efforts and our abilities that we have achieved what we have.  Instead of thanking the One who made us what we are and gave us what we have, we begin to worship the idol of self.  We create platforms to present ourselves.  We despise those who are not like us instead of reaching out to them with the same compassion that God showed us when we ourselves were nothing. 

     As Christians it is easy to become self-indulgent, critical and judgmental of those around us.  We feel that we are on a moral high ground and thank God that we are not like those other people (Luke 18:11).  We boast about our possessions, our achievements (Rev. 3:17) and our standards of morality.  We are only too happy to watch God judge the world in righteousness.  We think judgment will pass us by because we are God’s righteous ones, forgetting that we all have sinned and fall short of God’s glory (Rom. 3:23).   

    Whatever the origin of this present crisis – let those who wish to speculate do so – we have learnt one important lesson: when disaster strikes it can affect everyone.  We are as helpless as those whom we have ignored for so long.  The harvest has been waiting in the fields for the labourers but the labourers have enjoyed the comfort of their homes and relished the performances at their events.      

     Like Israel we have not understood our purpose as a light to the world.  We have used the gifts and resources God has given us on ourselves – on our buildings and events – and we have limited our prayers to our own needs and desires.  We forget that God has blessed us so we can bring blessing to the less fortunate by sharing with them.      

     No wonder we find ourselves locked in, stopped in our tracks, unable to continue as ‘normal’.  No wonder we have been stripped of all we boasted in.  Like the adulterous wife of Hosea, we have been allured into the wilderness where we can hear God speaking comfort to us (lit.: speaking to our hearts).

     As we continue in lock down, let us not focus on past achievements or future plans.  Instead let us open our spiritual ears and be attentive to what God is saying.  Let us allow His word to cleanse and transform our hearts so that we love Him and others as He has loved us and show compassion as He has shown compassion to us. 

     If we will listen to Him in the desert place He will give us vineyards from there (v.15).  God is able to do a new thing right where it seems impossible.  He sows seed and gives rain in the desert; He will bring about a great revival, not by our effort and ability but by His mercy and grace.       

Newsletter June 2020 Part 2

Fellowship

That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, concerning the Word of life—the life was manifested, and we have seen, and bear witness, and declare to you that eternal life which was with the Father and was manifested to us—that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ.  And these things we write to you that your joy may be full. (1 John 1:1-4)

     In this opening statement of his letter, the apostle John describes the intimate fellowship he had with Jesus during His time on earth.  The Word of Life, Jesus, came from the heavenly Father and was manifested to John and his fellow disciples.  They were able to see Him, hear Him, and even touch Him.  As reliable witnesses, they were therefore able to declare Him to those who had not had this experience.  However, John goes on to say that his reason for writing is that they might share that same fellowship with God the Father and His Son Jesus Christ – now.  And as a result of this fellowship, they would experience complete joy.

     Have you ever wondered what it would be like to sit with Jesus, to look in His eyes, and to hear His voice opening up to you the mysteries of the kingdom of God?  Have you ever imagined what it would be like to share with Him from the depth of your heart, knowing that one touch from Him could meet every need?  Wouldn’t it all be so much easier if He were present with us?  Well, when John wrote these words Jesus had died, risen, and ascended to the Father, and yet John declares in the present tense that his fellowship is with God the Father and with Jesus.

     John understood that Jesus had not gone away.  On the contrary – He was now more present than ever before.  Before going to the cross to die for the sins of the whole world, Jesus had assured them that He would send His Spirit.  That way, He would not merely be with them but in them (John 14:17).  There would not be a moment in their lives that Jesus would be absent (v.18-20).  This is what John meant when he declared, “and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ.”  He was keenly aware of Jesus’ presence constantly being with him and in him.  Therefore he was always able to call on Jesus for guidance, for strength (both physical and spiritual) and for power to do the works of God (John 14:12-13).

     So is this an experience reserved only for John and the other apostles?  Or is it something only a few chosen men or women of God can enjoy today?  Not at all.  John writes this letter because he wants every one of us to come to the realisation that this kind of intimate fellowship is available to all who believe – including you and me!  He wants us all to know the complete joy that can only come through fellowship with Jesus.  He is with us wherever we may be – if only we believe.

     This realisation is particularly important at a time when we are unable to meet in the usual way in our church building.  While we all look forward to the time when we can return to worship as we have known it, the present lockdown can actually serve to bring us closer to God.  Rather than living from Sunday to Sunday waiting for the next spiritual ‘top up’ we can learn to depend on God and enjoy His presence every moment of every day. 

     As Jesus told the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:23-24) the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” God is not limited to a building; He is with us by His Spirit wherever we call on Him.        

Newsletter May 2020 Part 2

End of lockdown

For thus says the Lord: After seventy years are completed at Babylon, I will visit you and perform My good word toward you, and cause you to return to this place. For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. (Jeremiah 29:10-11)

     These verses form part of Jeremiah’s letter to the captives in Babylon.  The second one (29:11) has, over recent years, become one of the most quoted and printed verses of the entire Bible.  It tells us that God cares for us and His desire is that we know His peace and hope for the future – rare commodities in this present crisis.  What better time to turn to such an encouraging passage than now?  Where else can we find such comfort?

     During their time in captivity, the people of Judah needed encouragement, just as we do today.  They were becoming discouraged by their ongoing affliction and their focus was turning towards a time when all would be back to normal, when they could return to Jerusalem and rebuild their lives, their homes and their place of worship.  Naturally they would embrace any prophetic word that promised them that this time would soon come.  Yet God sent Jeremiah with quite a different message – one of delay and endurance in the midst of sorrow and restriction.

     Currently much is being said about lifting the lockdown, as many people worry about their future – their jobs, their careers, their personal plans and travel arrangements.  If only we could quickly get back to normal!  On the other hand, however, we are being warned about the consequences of a premature lifting of restrictions; moving too quickly and extensively could lead to another spike in infections and consequently another, even longer lockdown.

     In his letter to the captives, Jeremiah instructs his readers by the Word of the LORD (29:5-6) to build houses and dwell in them; plant gardens and eat their fruit. Take wives and beget sons and daughters; and take wives for your sons and give your daughters to husbands, so that they may bear sons and daughters—that you may be increased there, and not diminished.  And seek the peace of the city where I have caused you to be carried away captive, and pray to the Lord for it; for in its peace you will have peace. 

     Jeremiah’s highly unpopular message captives is to get used to the situation and make the most of it.  God would take care of them as they accepted their present limitations and would bless and multiply them even in their captivity.  Instead of complaining they were to seek the peace of the city of their captors.  They were not to believe the promises of the many prophets and diviners who prophesied falsely in the LORD’s name, promising a quick end to the captivity.  God had determined 70 years and His sovereign will could not be changed.  The promise of a return to Jerusalem was for a time that they themselves would not live to see. 

     We pray and trust that this pandemic and the resulting lockdown will come to an end soon.  However, God still says, Seek the peace of the city and pray for the world.  In due course, when His time is fulfilled, we will return – not to normality, but to a new and better reality.  God’s plan is always to bless His people, but we must seek Him and His purpose.  It is when we search for Him with all our hearts (29:13) that God can do a new thing.  He will allow us to rebuild His house, but it will not be as we knew it, for ‘The glory of this latter temple shall be greater than the former,’ says the Lord of hosts. ‘And in this place I will give peace,’ says the Lord of hosts.” (Haggai 2:9)  God is currently shaking the world which He created (v. 7).  Things we have trusted in and depended on are crumbling before us. 

Let us therefore look to the unchanging God who rules the universe, and let us welcome those who are drawn to His spiritual temple – the Desire of the Nations.  He does not dwell in manmade structures but in the hearts of those whom He has redeemed and delivered.      

Newsletter May 2020 Part 1

From sorrow to joy

When the Lord brought back the captivity of Zion, we were like those who dream.
Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing.
Then they said among the nations, “The Lord has done great things for them.”
The Lord has done great things for us, and we are glad.     (Ps. 126:1-3)

     As we enter the next phase of lock down questions are being asked: How long will this be?  When will we able to return to normal?  Which restrictions will be lifted first?  Some are already warning that life may never be the way we knew it.

     Psalm 126 describes the people of Judah celebrating God’s deliverance from their captivity in Babylon.  After seventy years of oppression far from their homeland coming back to Jerusalem seemed unreal, like a dream.  Their God who seemed to have abandoned them had, in His sovereignty, raised up a pagan king to defeat their oppressors and to allow them to return to their holy city that had laid waste for so long.  One can only imagine the singing and laughter as people looked around in amazement at God’s mercy and His sovereign power, rearing to rebuild the city and its temple.  The LORD had truly done great things for them and they were glad and thankful to Him.

     One day, maybe sooner than we can imagine right now, we will look at each other in disbelief as we venture back into our streets and shops and eventually even meet again in our church buildings.  God will surely remember us and bring an end to this crisis.  As hopeless as things may seem now, we will rejoice and rebuild.  However, the question remains, will we have changed?   

     Judah’s captivity had been foretold.  When Nebuchadnezzar conquered Jerusalem and took hostages to Babylon, including the young king Jehoiachin, he appointed Jehoiachin’s uncle Mattaniah as his vassal, changing his name to Zedekiah (1 Ki. 24:17).  However, under Zedekiah (a name ironically meaning Righteousness of GOD) Judah continued to do evil.  Instead of responding to God’s chastisement by turning back to Him, Zedekiah led the people in rebellion against their oppressors.  Rather than seeking God’s face in repentance, they sought military assistance from Egypt, only to be defeated once more.

     It is sad today to hear so much about potential human solutions to this pandemic without a mention of God.  It is heart-breaking to hear of plans to resume entertainment and sports events as quickly as possible while not addressing the deeper issues in our society and the world at large.  It would be tragic if we, God’s people, were concerned with resuming ‘normal’ church services as soon as possible without first taking time to re-examine our values and priorities and to re-assess the focus of our worship programmes.

     God never gives up on His people; He loves us and He has a plan for us, to give us a future and a hope (Jer. 29:11).  As He allowed Judah to ‘return to this place’ after seventy years of captivity (v. 10) He will allow us to return in His own time.  Meanwhile, however, He is looking for us to seek His face with all our heart (v.13).  He will restore us and, as a result, many will acknowledge that He has done great things for us.  So let us make use of the opportunities this lock down presents to reach out to them in new ways.

     This is the time to turn to God, to confess our sin of self-sufficiency and our dependence on things that have no eternal value.  This is the time to look beyond our own selfish desires and open our eyes to the needs around us.  This is the time to sow in tears so that we can (in God’s own time!) reap in joy and bring in a great harvest (Ps. 126:5-6).  Let us come to God in sincerity, acknowledging our sin for godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death. (2 Cor. 7:10)  May the glory of the latter temple be greater than the former so that there [God] will give peace (Haggai 2:9).   

Pastor Konrad

Newsletter April 2020 Part 2

The sovereign Lord

 And He said to them, “Assuredly, I say to you that there are some standing here who will not taste death till they see the kingdom of God present with power.”

     Now after six days Jesus took Peter, James, and John, and led them up on a high mountain apart by themselves; and He was transfigured before them.  His clothes became shining, exceedingly white, like snow, such as no launderer on earth can whiten them. 4 And Elijah appeared to them with Moses, and they were talking with Jesus.  Then Peter answered and said to Jesus, “Rabbi, it is good for us to be here; and let us make three tabernacles: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah”— because he did not know what to say, for they were greatly afraid.  And a cloud came and overshadowed them; and a voice came out of the cloud, saying, “This is My beloved Son. Hear Him!” Suddenly, when they had looked around, they saw no one anymore, but only Jesus with themselves.  Now as they came down from the mountain, He commanded them that they should tell no one the things they had seen, till the Son of Man had risen from the dead.  So they kept this word to themselves, questioning what the rising from the dead meant. (Mark 9:1-10)

     When Jesus went about teaching about the kingdom of God and doing miracles large crowds gathered to hear Him and to be healed of illnesses and delivered from demonic oppression.  They came because they had needs and Jesus met their needs.  However, He also challenged them, explaining what it would mean to follow Him.  He knew that He posed a threat to the religious and political establishment and that they would conspire to kill Him; and He knew that this was the purpose for which He had left His place in glory and taken on human form (Phil. 2:6-8).  He knew that many who were celebrating His miracles now would soon be discouraged and lose faith as they could not see beyond His humanity. 

     Jesus therefore warned that following Him would mean giving up all; that to receive the true life He was offering they would have to give up the life they knew.  For many, He knew, the cost of discipleship was too much; once pressure came, such people would turn away.  Yes some would live to see His kingdom come with power.

     Today we know that none of the disciples lived to see Jesus return to this earth, when every eye would see, when every knee would bow and every tongue confess that He is Lord (Phil. 2:9-11).  We too do not know if we will live to see that day, and we don’t know what challenges we may have to pass through before that day comes.  We can therefore be discouraged as many were in those days and give up when the pressure gets too much for us.  Or we can look up through the eyes of faith and see Jesus exalted; by faith we can recognised that He is in control, no matter what may be going on around us.

     Jesus took three of His disciples to a mountain top alone with Him, and there He allowed them to catch a glimpse of who He really was.  There the Father drew back the veil of humanity that concealed His divinity and they were able to see Him in all His glory.  One of these three recalls this encounter when He writes (2 Peter 1:18) we heard this voice which came from heaven when we were with Him on the holy mountain.  What a privilege to be present at that moment of revelation!  What an experience!  Surely having seen Him transfigured and having heard the voice from heaven saying, “This is My beloved Son. Hear Him!” they would never doubt again.  And yet these three, like the rest of the disciples, were overcome by fear and unbelief when they saw Jesus arrested and taken away to be crucified.  It was as if He had never told Him that He would rise again, to overcome the power of death – once for all.

     Fortunately the story does not end there.  After His resurrection He showed Himself to many and they believed (1 Cor. 15:5-8).  They then proclaimed the message of His resurrection everywhere and many more came to faith in the risen Jesus Christ (1 Cor. 15:3-4).  And as they proclaimed His kingdom His power was manifested and many miracles were done in His name.  Jesus is still on the throne; He still rules supremely and His power is still at work.  Yes, those early disciples suffered persecution and some even died, but their eyes remained firmly fixed on the risen Lord, seated in glory (Acts 7:55-56). 

     Therefore let us, like them, not be discouraged because of what we see happening around us.  Let us continue to trust in God.  Let us believe that He is still able to do the impossible – to stretch forth His hand to heal and protect.  And let us remember that we have an eternal hope beyond this life.  Let us find comfort in the assurance that those who have died in Christ have merely gone before us and are now forever in His glorious presence (1 Thess. 4:13-18).  Let us look to the day of Christ when there will be no more death, sorrow, crying or pain (Rev. 21:4) as all things are gathered together in Christ (Eph. 1:10).

Pastor Konrad

Newsletter April 2020

Living as Christians in difficult times

I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ; just as it is right for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart, inasmuch as both in my chains and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, you all are partakers with me of grace. For God is my witness, how greatly I long for you all with the affection of Jesus Christ. (Philippians 1:3-8)

     Paul wrote these words to the believers in Philippi while he was in prison.  In this difficult situation his concern was not so much his own comfort and well-being but the fact that he was unable to be with them and to communicate with them.  He had planted this church on his second missionary journey following God’s call to Macedonia (Acts 16:9-10) and was clearly concerned that they would continue to grow in their faith and love towards God.  This letter, which had to be carried by a fellow-worker (probably Epaphroditus – Phil. 2:25), over a long distance, was a rare, (maybe even unique) opportunity to convey his love and concern to them.   

     In the present crisis we have had to suspend public church services and are, to a large extent, unable even to meet individually face to face.  Will our relationships with one another as the community of God’s people stand the test?  Will we be able to continue encouraging one another as we are stuck in our homes, some of us completely alone?  Fortunately, unlike Paul in his day, we have various forms of communication at our disposal. 

     Today modern technology enables us to communicate constantly and over immense distances.  The social media we have been using to send messages and pictures to family and friends from one end of the globe to the other (in some cases one end of the sofa to the other!) are now a lifeline that keeps us informed and encouraged.  We can update through text, WhatsApp, and email, we can post messages, updates and videos on Facebook and Instagram, and hold prayer sessions, Bible studies and leaders’ meetings on Zoom. 

In a sense, this crisis is bringing us together more than ever – that is some of us.  What about those who are not as tech savvy and unable to communicate through such modern channels?  What about those who have no one to help them access a livestream or receive an important update, a testimony or a word of encouragement sent out ‘to all’?  Of course we still have the traditional way of communication.  Let us remember that for some a phone call will be the only contact they will have with fellow believers; a printed copy of an encouraging word through the Royal (snail) Mail will make all the difference to their day.  As we think of new ways of communicating, let us remember the old and proven ones as well. 

     Paul used what he had available: a hand-written letter written on parchment and carried over land and sea by a committed fellow-worker as a one-off opportunity to convey his affection and to encourage the believers in the face of trials – both their own difficult situation and what they had heard about him.  His letter reveals a concern for their well-being and spiritual growth.  Yet most of all, it is a call to focus on what really matters to him – the glory of God and the message of salvation.  To Paul, every situation provided an opportunity to proclaim God’s purpose in Jesus Christ. 

     As we face this unprecedented situation uncertainty can easily turn to fear and discouragement.  Now more than ever, we need to communicate.  And as we do so, no one must be allowed to ‘fall through the net’ of God’s loving community.  Paul took the opportunity to send this letter to the Philippian church, but he prayed for them constantly.                                                                                       

     Prayer is the oldest but most effective form of communication.  It enables those whom we bring before God to experience the power of his love right where they are.  Prayer brings comfort to the bereaved and reassurance to the fearful and discouraged.  And as we pray we may, like Paul hear God’s call in a way we have never hear it before.  As we zoom in to listen, he may whisper in our spiritual ears to reveal who needs a phone call, a personal message on WhatsApp, a healing touch from God or some practical help (food, an urgent errand, etc.).  In Acts 16, we read how Paul was called to Macedonia; who is God calling you to?  Who needs you at this time?

     Paul answered the call to Macedonia and his obedience led to new relationship: both the Philippians’ new-found relationship with God through Jesus Christ and a relationship between him and them strong enough to stand the test of time, distance and circumstance.  Let us not be discouraged in difficult times.  Instead, let us use every opportunity to strengthen relationships – with one another and with God.  And let us seize every opportunity to tell others about the hope that is in us (1 Peter 3:15) so they may share in that three-way relationship.     

     As the world fears death, we know that our hope is not only in this life but beyond.  This is why we will celebrate Resurrection Sunday on 12th April.  Let us join Paul in declaring that in Christ “Death is swallowed up in victory.” (1 Cor. 15:54)  Be assured that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ. (Philippians 1:6). 

Pastor Konrad

Newsletter March 2020

Look up!

So they asked Him, saying, “Teacher, but when will these things be? And what sign will there be when these things are about to take place?” 8 And He said: “Take heed that you not be deceived. For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am He,’ and, ‘The time has drawn near.’ Therefore do not go after them. 9 But when you hear of wars and commotions, do not be terrified; for these things must come to pass first, but the end will not come immediately.”  10 Then He said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. 11 And there will be great earthquakes in various places, and famines and pestilences; and there will be fearful sights and great signs from heaven. 12 But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons. You will be brought before kings and rulers for My name’s sake. 13 But it will turn out for you as an occasion for testimony” (Luke 21:7-13)

     When Jesus told His disciples of the coming destruction of the temple in Jerusalem, the centre of Jewish worship, they were keen to know when this would occur.  Jesus gave them a list of events that would signal the end, and when we read this list, we are reminded of things we see on the news and experience ourselves.  Just as he urged his disciples in their day, we too should look up, for our redemption is drawing near.  Jesus will return one day to establish his kingdom in all its fullness.  In that day, the world will be judged but those who have become part of His kingdom through faith in Him and forgiveness of sin will be received into their eternal home. 

     Throughout the past 2,000 years, people have time and again looked at such signs and expected Jesus’ imminent return.  Some even tried to figure out specific dates for the Second Coming of Christ, yet they were disappointed.  In the light of this knowledge, we can easily become cynical and question: Is His return really as close as we might think?  Or could it be another 2,000 years?  Or even, will He ever come?  Could Jesus just have spoken symbolically?  Was this message only for His hearers in the first half of the first century?  After all, Jerusalem and the temple were destroyed in A.D. 70 so all that remains today is the “Wailing Wall”. 

     While these questions are legitimate, there are current developments in the environment, in society and in politics that point to the ultimate fulfilment of prophecy.  We do not know the date; Jesus warned us not to speculate.  However, He did admonish us to take heed of the signs and look up and, as we do so, His words appear timelier than ever.

     As in those days, people’s hearts are failing them.  Scientists are considering where we could go when the earth becomes either too overcrowded or even uninhabitable.  People are feeling hopeless or looking for hope in populist leaders and/or new religious ideas.  Paul explains this to the Thessalonian church (2 Thessalonians 2:8-10): And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord will consume with the breath of His mouth and destroy with the brightness of His coming. 9 The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, 10 and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved. 

     Let us be alert.  Let us be true to God even in the face of opposition.  Let us not fear with those who have no hope because they do not believe.  And let us be ready to tell others about the hope that is in us (1 Peter 3:15) so they may share that hope in Christ with us.     

Pastor Konrad

Newsletter February 2020

Word, Spirit and Light

By the word of the Lord the heavens were made, and all the host of them by the breath of His mouth. (Psalm 33:6)  As Christians, we believe that the world was created by God.  In Genesis 1 we read that the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.  Then God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light.  God continues to speak, and at His word the waters are divided, land appears, life springs forth – first vegetation, then animals and finally, when all is prepared, God creates humanity, the crown of His creation.  He makes them man and woman, created in His own image and likeness.  God’s purpose is for the humans He has created to dwell in the world He has created for them and to enjoy fellowship with Him and with one another.  However, following their desire for independence, the first humans turn from God and consequently the earth that was created as a blessing for them becomes cursed.  

     Yet God does not cease to speak.  As we read through the Bible, we hear God calling humanity back to Himself.  From Genesis to Revelation, the story of God is a story of restoration through reconciliation.  God speaks, calling us back to Himself, to the relationship for which He had created us from the beginning.  He speaks to Noah, instructing him to build an ark to escape the judgment He is bringing on rebellious humanity.  He speaks to Abraham, calling Him to leave his life of idolatry and go to a land He will give to him and his seed.  There He will bless him and make him a blessing.  When Abraham’s descendants suffer as slaves in Egypt, God speaks to Moses, calling him to lead them out of bondage and into the land He promised to their ancestor.  At Mount Sinai, He speaks to them, establishing a covenant with them and giving them His laws to live by as His special people.

    Throughout the Bible we read how God’s people, time and again, break His covenant with them by rebelling against Him and serving idols, and how God, time and again, initiates reconciliation by calling His people to Himself through the prophets.  The Bible is God’s word – God’s call to us to return to Him.  As He spoke in the beginning and there was light, and He now speaks into our darkness to bring His light. 

     In 2 Peter 1:19-21 we are told that we have the prophetic word confirmed, which [we] do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in [our] hearts; knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.  It is through the Bible that God reveals Himself to us.  It is by reading His written word that we understand God’s character and purpose.  His word is a lamp to [our] feet And a light to [our] path. (Psalm 119:105)  As we meditate on God’s word and He enlightens our understanding by His Spirit, we receive life.   

    The Bible is far more than an instruction manual for moral living; it is God’s revelation of Himself, ultimately fulfilled in the coming of His Son Jesus Christ.  The entire scriptures that we know as the Old Testament point to this climax.  In the New Testament letter to the Hebrews we learn that God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken to us by His Son, whom He has appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the worlds; who being the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high. (Hebrews 1:1-4). 

     As we search the scriptures, let us remember that the scriptures testify of Jesus (John 5:39).  As we allow the Spirit to shine on the pages of our Bible, the day will dawn and we will see clearly.  Let us hear God’s voice as He calls us through His word to relationship with Him in Jesus.  Let us recognise and receive the whole Bible rightly divided as God’s word and walk in His light as we are led by His Spirit. Let us allow His blood to cleanse us from sin and let us have true fellowship with Him and with one another. (1 John 1:7) 

 Pastor Konrad  

Newsletter May 2019

Witnesses of Jesus Christ

 Then He said to them, “These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Me.”  And He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures.  Then He said to them, “Thus it is written, and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.  And you are witnesses of these things.  Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high.” (Luke 24:44-49)

     After Jesus had risen from the dead he appeared to his disciples as they were gathered together.  They saw Him and touched Him, and He showed them His wounded hands and feet and ate in their presence.  There could be no doubt – He was alive!  Jesus then explained to them from the scriptures the purpose of His death on the cross and commissioned them to proclaim to the whole world the good news of remission of sins in His name.  However, to be effective witnesses they needed more than just to see and hear; He would not leave them alone but would send the Holy Spirit to live in them.  That way His presence would be with them always, and He would guide them and empower them for the task that lay ahead.  For this reason they had to wait in Jerusalem before embarking on their mission.  Only by the power of His Spirit could they continue the work He had begun – to advance God’s kingdom, to bring His light into the darkness of a lost world.

     Ten days after Jesus’ ascension to the Father, on the feast day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit descended on the disciples, and immediately they began to preach the good news of the kingdom of God and demonstrate its presence through miracles of healing and deliverance.  And the Spirit in them brought about a love and unity among the disciples that the world had never witnessed.  Early Christian writers such as Justin Martyr confirm that it was the love the Christians had for one another that convinced others of their message.  It was the loving community of the believers, as much as the miraculous signs, that appealed to people.

     While Jesus was still on earth with His disciples He spoke much about love.  The ultimate proof of His love for them and the world was His death on the cross, and this was to be the focus of their preaching and their lifestyle.  It was as they centred their lives on the cross, trusting in His grace, that they experienced God’s forgiveness and love and so were able to love and forgive others and experience the unity that comes only by His presence manifested through His Spirit.

     The message is still the same, and so is the path to true Christian community: the cross.  It is at the cross of Jesus that we see ourselves and others through God’s eyes.  It is when we recognise His infinite love and His undeserved acceptance that we are able to love and accept ourselves and others.  The sacrifice of God’s Son teaches us how precious we all are in His sight.  Fear of failure and rejection involve torment; but perfect love cast out fear. (1 John 4:18)  In Jesus Christ, through His death on the cross, we experience perfect peace – within ourselves and with one another.  That is why Paul’s answer to division in the church was the message of Christ crucified. (1 Cor. 2:2)  The day that He encountered Jesus on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:3-4) Paul realised his own deficiency and Christ’s sufficiency.  That is why He could say with full conviction, “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20)  That is why He could tell others with that same conviction that “the message of the cross … is the power of God.”   

     Have you truly encountered the One who was crucified and rose again?  Has your life been transformed by the power of the cross?  Does Christ live in you by His Spirit?  Can others see His life in you?  Jesus died and rose again!  It is by His Spirit alone that we can know true life and be true witnesses of His resurrection.                     

Pastor Konrad

Newsletter April 2019

From death to life

 “The hour has come that the Son of Man should be glorified.  Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain.  He who loves his life will lose it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life.  If anyone serves Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also. If anyone serves Me, him My Father will honour.” (John 12:24-26)

     Jesus spoke these words in response to a request.  Some Hellenist Jews who had come to Jerusalem to celebrate the feast had evidently heard about him and wanted to meet him personally.  So they asked the disciple Philip for an audience with his teacher.  Philip told Andrew and together they brought the request of these pilgrims to Jesus.

     Like every year, tens of thousands of Roman Catholic worshippers will be travelling to Rome for the Easter celebrations.  Very few of them will expect a personal audience with the pope but some may request it and, given the opportunity, few would decline.  What would it be like to see Pope Francis face to face and receive a personal blessing from him?

     What exactly the men who requested to see Jesus expected we do not know; however, we can assume that neither they nor the disciples who brought the request to Jesus would have expected the reply they got.  Jesus spoke of His death; and not just of His.  Anyone who desires to follow Him must be willing to die with Him.  Just like a grain of wheat needs to be given up to the soil in order to germinate we must give our lives up to receive true life in Jesus.  A farmer is willing to commit a portion of seed from his previous harvest to the soil, because he knows that this is the only way he will receive his next harvest.  He is confident that his sacrifice will bring much grain.

     So it is with our lives.  For us to grow into the fullness of God’s purpose, to become what He has destined for us, we need to be willing to die.  We need to surrender our will, our plans and our desires to him.  Only then can we experience true life. 

     The disciples wanted to introduce those pilgrims to Jesus, but Jesus’ focus was already on the next stage in God’s plan of salvation.  No longer would He be among His disciples in bodily form.  Through His death on the cross, He would make the way for God to dwell in His people by the Holy Spirit.  No longer would people have to seek an appointment for an audience with Him – they would see Him in those who are His.

     Jesus had told His disciples, “As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world” (John 9:5) but now He was leaving the world.  He was about to lay down His life as God’s perfect sacrifice for sin and then to rise again and ascend into the Father’s glory from where He had come.  His followers would now be His body on earth, the new temple, the dwelling place of God by the Spirit.  It is through their lives that people would from now on see God, as they would shine as lights in the world in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation. (Phil. 2:15)

Do you hate your life?Are you fed up of being just another grain in the barn?Have you laid down your life for God?Are you allowing His Spirit to live in you, to direct your life, so others can see Jesus in you?Only a seed that dies can bring forth much grain; and God promises that it will! He will honour those who are willing to follow His Son to the cross so that Hislight can be revealed in them.

Newsletter March 2019

Visionaries

 Then Elijah said to Ahab, “Go up, eat and drink; for there is the sound of abundance of rain.”  So Ahab went up to eat and drink. And Elijah went up to the top of Carmel; then he bowed down on the ground, and put his face between his knees, and said to his servant, “Go up now, look toward the sea.”  So he went up and looked, and said, “There is nothing.” And seven times he said, “Go again.”  Then it came to pass the seventh time, that he said, “There is a cloud, as small as a man’s hand, rising out of the sea!” So he said, “Go up, say to Ahab, ‘Prepare your chariot, and go down before the rain stops you.’ ”   Now it happened in the meantime that the sky became black with clouds and wind, and there was a heavy rain. So Ahab rode away and went to Jezreel. (1 Kings 18:41-45)

     After the Mount Carmel encounter, where fire fell when Elijah called on the name of the Lord, the prophet announced that it would rain.  Being a visionary, he was able to know the mind of God as God revealed to him in a vision. Seven times he sent his servant to look out for rain, because he knew what God had told him.  There had been no rain in the land for 3 years and 6 months, but Elijah saw in his spirit the vision of rain.  Even though his servant saw no sign of rain coming Elijah insisted that he should keep watching until something positive was seen.

     Visionaries see beyond the present situation and immediate occurrences.  Later at Mount Horeb, Elijah saw the Lord passing and heard a still small voice. (1 Kings 19:11-18).  When God needs to engage us, He comes to us at a time when we can be still in His presence to see Him passing; not when we are busy here and there, or distracted.

     When Isaiah saw the vision of the Lord, he was shown his imperfection and renewed his way before God as His prophet. (Isa. 6:1-6)  The Lord also revealed His mysterious works to visionaries like Moses. (Ps. 103:7)  He made His way known to Moses and His works and deeds to the people of Israel.  In Psalms 25:14, the psalmist states that the secret of the Lord is with those who fear Him. Visionaries are like the sons of Issachar who had the understanding of time (1 Chronicles 12:32).  They have the ability to receive a vision and run with it, until it becomes accomplished in their hands. They see what the future holds.  John in his Revelation saw the vision about the seven churches and what God was saying concerning each one of them. (Rev. 2:3)

     Visionaries are unstoppable and not easily discouraged; they don't quickly give up. (Hab. 2:2-4) They receive direction on specific things and the appointed time for things. They are spiritually sensitive and act in faith, always avoiding discouragement and distractions in order to stay focused. When the going gets tougher, visionaries are determined, desperate and resilient. They know the mind of God.  They see, they hear, and they receive and focus on the activity of God in Christ Jesus.  They testify by transmitting what is revealed to them. (1 John 1:1-3).

     If we are visionaries, we need not to hide the gifts of God in our lives; God's presence of light, salvation and deliverance will be revealed to our family, community, neighbourhood, and the nation at large.  So let us rise up and watch.  When Elijah fled from Jezebel, he thought that he was the only prophet of God who remained during his time, until God revealed to him that He still had 7000 prophets in Israel who have never bowed down to Baal (1 Ki. 19:11-18). Let us pray to God to open our spiritual eyes to see beyond the physical, to be enlightened, and to know His purpose and the hope of His calling.

 Minister Deborah Olaoti

Newsletter February 2019

First place

      Now as He was going out on the road, one came running, knelt before Him, and asked Him, “Good Teacher, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?”  So Jesus said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God.  You know the commandments: ‘Do not commit adultery,’ ‘Do not murder,’ ‘Do not steal,’ ‘Do not bear false witness,’ ‘Do not defraud,’ ‘Honour your father and your mother.’” And he answered and said to Him, “Teacher, all these things I have kept from my youth.” 

(Mark 10:17-20)

     As Jesus travels along, He is approached by this man, commonly known as the “rich young ruler” (cf. Matthew 19:20 & Luke 18:18).  The man asks Jesus what he must do to inherit eternal life.  He appears to be quite sincere: he addresses Jesus respectfully as “Good Teacher” and nothing is mentioned that would suggest ulterior motives.  This man clearly knows the requirements of the Law and seeks to fulfil these to the best of his ability, yet something is lacking in his life.  He senses that there must be more to serving God than he has experienced so far.

     Then Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “One thing you lack: Go your way, sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, take up the cross, and follow Me.” (Mark 10:21)

     Jesus knows this young man; and He loves him.  He knows that his trust is in his possessions, and therefore He challenges him to let go of them.  For the young man, however, this is asking too much.  He would probably have been willing to give away something of what he had.  But everything?  Surely God would not require such a great sacrifice of him.  Had God not blessed him with his wealth in the first place?  Is God not a rewarder of those who serve Him?   

     Yes, God rewards of those who seek His face.  He blesses those who serve and worship Him.  But God wants us to trust in Him alone.  He knows our hearts; He knows where our affections are.  And He will challenge us on the things that are dearest to us.  Are we willing to forsake all for Him?  Will we set our minds on things above or on things on the earth?  (Colossians 3:2)  Do we find confidence and security in what we have and can do?  Or do we rely entirely on the Eternal One, the Creator, who holds the universe in the palm of His hand?  

     God has blessed us in many ways.  Every good and perfect gift comes from Him. (James 1:17)  Yet we are not to focus our lives on the blessings we have received - our careers, our wealth, our reputations, our ministries, or even our families. God wants to know that our sufficiency is in Him alone.  He will test us with the things dearest to us.  He will challenge us to see where our affections really are.

     So what if we do put God before everything else?  What if we really give up all to follow Him?  What if we have truly made Him the centre of our lives and live to fulfil His will rather than our own?  Jesus assures us that there is no one who has left [all] for His sake and the gospel’s, who shall not receive a hundredfold now in this time …and in the age to come, eternal life. (Mark 10:29-30) 

     We can only experience the fullness of God’s presence if we truly make Him the centre of our lives.  Therefore let us live our lives for God.  Let us invest in His kingdom.  Let us not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen.  For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal. (2 Corinthians 4:18). 

     In what area is Jesus challenging you?  Are you like the disciples, who let go of everything to follow Him?  Or are you like the rich young ruler who held on to what he deemed his and walked away sorrowfully.  Jesus loved him but He could do nothing for him.  One day we will all have to give account and many who are first will be last, and the last first. (Mark 10:31)                  

Pastor Konrad