TwentyFour7 Issue 23 by Carmel City Church

ISSUE 23

WHO IS MY NEIGHBOUR?

ALSO FEATURED IN THIS ISSUE: >>C:VIEW REPORT ON MEN’S CONFERENCE & WOMEN’S CONFERENCE >>REQUIREMENTS FOR REVIVAL BY MICHELLE DI SOMMA >>THE STOREHOUSE AND MUCH MORE...

SERVICES Sat 18.30HRS Sun 09.00HRS SuN 11.00HRS CONTACT CARMEL:CENTRE 817a Bath Road, Brislington, Bristol BS4 5NL T: (0117) 977 5533 F: (0117) 977 5678 W: www.carmelcentre.org ‘He sent them to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick.’ Luke 9:2 EXECUTIVE EditorS: GERRI AND Michelle Di Somma, PRODUCED BY: WWW.CRE8ION.CO.UK Printers: Yeomans Press Bible quotations are from the New King James Version unless stated otherwise. Full

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G DI SOMMA TEACHING

PRAYER WORKS

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M DI SOMMA TEACHING 9

G DI SOMMA TEACHING

All teachings in this edition are abridged. versions are available to order on CD or DVD.

ST REVOLUTION IN ACTION

12-13

10-11

DATE

STOREHOUSE INTERVIEW

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EVENT

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JUNE

We have been greatly encouraged by the response we have to this magazine as its distribution extends further into the nations. Not only that, but recently we have been particularly encouraged and blessed by the ministry of Dr Jesse Duplantis from the USA, Rev Shady El-Aouad from Lebanon and Dr Rodney HowardBrowne, originally from South Africa but now in the USA, all of whom have made a significant input into this ministry. In this issue we are really pleased to tell you about our new Storehouse. The Lord, having spoken to us earlier this year concerning the strategy for the year, opened up the challenging prospect of ministering to the poor through a Storehouse set up here at carmel:centre. Though taking its inspiration from that strategy, the Storehouse developed to what it is now particularly at the time the message ‘Who is my neighbour?’ was being preached here, a summary of which is in this issue. The reports of conferences and things to come will give you a sense of how God is moving among us along with increased times of prayer and intercession. Thank you for joining us in this great pursuit of God’s vision for us at carmel:

Fri 12–Sat 13 Mighty Men’s ‘Fathers and Sons’ Conference in Worcester Mon 22

Carmel: Bible College Open Day

9.15- 12.30pm

Sat 27–Sun 28 Pastor Kindah Greening Normal service times JULY Sat 11

Carmel Bible College Graduation

6.30pm

Sun 19 Pastor Trevor Samson

7.30pm

Fri 24–Sun 26 Mighty Men’s Camp ‘The Gathering’ near Ross-on-Wye Sun 26–Fri 31 St Revolution Camp ‘Invading the Wye?’ near Ross-on-Wye AUGUST SEPTEMBER Fri 11–Sun 13 Parents’ Conference Mon 14

Carmel Bible College Registration

9.30-3.30pm

Tues 15–Fri 18 Carmel Bible College Orientation

9.15–12.30pm

Mon 21 Carmel Bible College new term begins OCTOBER Wed 28–Sat 31 ‘A God Thing’ Conference – The Way

Gerri and Michelle Di Somma

A partner is a sharer, an associate, one who engages with another in business, one who plays on the same side as another.

Should you wish to donate by Gift Aid please contact the church office. South Africa Anchor Ministries International First National Bank, Cresta Branch Sort Code: Account No: 25-49-05 51440080590

carmel: ministries international is a registered charity (Charity No. 1094052) with Luke 9:2 as its mission statement. All finances sown go into the work of establishing God’s Kingdom through evangelism and preparing labourers for the harvest.

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Partnership in sharing – The whole ministry of sharing is to give oneself in the areas of love, time, talents and finances.

Partnership in caring – We are instructed to watch over and take care of the partners in our charge (Acts 20:28).

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Partnership in prayer – We believe it is vital for every partner to develop a strong personal prayer life, and to pray for the leadership for godly wisdom and direction from the Lord.

United Kingdom Bank of Scotland Carmel Christian Centre Sort Code: Account No: 80-11-00 06085191

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Partnership is important – It releases power to get the job done. We can accomplish the Great Commission together in unity.

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BRISLINGTON PARK & RIDE

TOWARDS BATH

from Bath Follow A4 towards Bristol, bypassing Keynsham, to the Park-andRide (on your left) on the outskirts of Bristol, just before traffic lights. At these lights proceed straight (in outside lane) for approx. 150 yards (McDonald’s on your right). HSBC Bank follows on your right. Immediately before the Bank, take the driveway along its right, between the buildings. carmel:centre is behind HSBC. from M4 J19 Proceed towards Bristol along M32 to J3. Leave M32 at J3 heading left onto dual carriageway, following signs for A4 and Bath. Approach next roundabout in left lane and continue to follow signs for A4 Bath, to traffic lights. Proceed straight on and over a high level bridge, descending to another roundabout. Proceed straight on, in right hand lane, to next roundabout. Leave this roundabout to the right with Sainsbury’s on your left. Keep in left hand lane and go straight on at next two sets of lights which come a short distance apart.

catch up on the latest happenings at carmel: by visiting our website www.carmelcentre.org or emailing us on info@carmelcentre.org

annual EMPOWERED WOMEN’S CONFERENCE Michelle Di Somma is the founder and head of Empowered Women’s Ministry, birthed to fulfil the God-given vision designed to enable women reach their full potential through on-going discipleship, teaching and fellowship.

God’s renovation

When opening the conference, Michelle explained that a masterpiece was a work of art done with masterly skill and that Jesus is the master craftsman of our lives. She encouraged the women by saying: ‘God’s renovation is the most exciting experience of your life. Be concerned how you build, and let God build with you, not for you.’ God’s renovation was illustrated as women from Michelle’s mentoring groups paraded before the conference. Each carried a large cardboard sheet. One side, which was shown first, briefly stated what their lives had been like. Then, after a few moments, the second side was revealed simply stating the profound changes God had brought into their lives. Many taking part were clearly moved as their testimony reminded them of what He had done in them. Many in the conference were equally moved. Such evidence of God’s renovating power spoke more effectively than any sermon could. And the tangible presence of God that immersed the delegates during this expression of God’s love set the tone for much that followed over the period of the conference.

Don’t look in the wrong mirror

Arianna Walker, Executive Director of Mercy Ministries, UK, runs homes to help young women rebuild broken lives. Arianna pointed out how these women have a very low self-image because they look at themselves in the ‘mirror’ of the media, fashion and other people’s expectations. ‘Don’t look in the wrong mirror,’ she said. ‘But look in God’s mirror and see you are made in His image, created by Him, with His DNA.’ She said: ‘You have the freedom to believe you are beautiful, a masterpiece.’

Hand picked by God Sally Quintanilla, with her husband John, leads Hebron Christian Faith Church in Coventry. Sally encouraged and stirred up the conference by saying: ‘Stop waiting for God to do something – He’s waiting for you. Access His promises by faith.’

Referring to Ephesians 2:10, Sally reminded the ladies that they were God’s handiwork and that they each were born for a purpose, to live the life of a masterpiece. She challenged the women to discover God’s plan for their lives, not to plan life for themselves.

How long will it take?

By posing this question, Donna Howells touched upon a key issue in many minds. Her experience leading Newport City Church in Wales with her husband Robbie provided background from which to answer the question. Donna reminded the ladies that works of art take time. The important thing is to cooperate with God as He perfects in them such things as faithfulness, commitment, obedience and loyalty whatever the circumstances. Donna said that her own experience, when times had been particularly tough, had taught her: ‘If God has said it – that’s enough. Just do it.’ She also called on the ladies to trust and encourage their pastors, saying that difficulties are sometimes because God is adding something to a work that is not yet finished. She concluded: ‘Don’t give up. Wait for the vision. It will come to pass if you are loyal and faithful.’ It was so encouraging to see an almost full auditorium at Carmel Centre for what was a memorable conference and one which touched the lives of the delegates in so many different ways.

Praise and worship resounded through the auditorium as men from carmel: and other churches around the country honoured God at the outset of the conference. Pastor Gerri Di Somma welcomed everyone and introduced the team God had brought to lead the conference. Roelof Kwant, Septi Bukula and Gordon Simmonds from Johannesburg with Robbie Howells from Newport, Wales were greeted enthusiastically.

PASTOR GERRI DI SOMMA

GORDON SIMMONDS

ROBBIE HOWELLS

At the outset of his message Friday evening, Roelof Kwant called on the men to put their relationships right with the Lord, and many responded. In a very real sense this cleared the air for what he was to say. From James chapter one Roelof spoke about the pure joy of responding to the trials we face in life. ‘Run from them and you have failed,’ he said. Don’t be surprised when they come. God wants real men, those refined to pure gold through their godly response to the trials in their lives. The first session Saturday morning was addressed by Septi Bukula, a South African businessman and elder at the church lead by Roelof. He titled his message, ‘Arise from your associates’ referring to 2 Kings 9:2-5 and encouraged the men to confront the issues of life. ‘There are battles to be fought, but the victory is assured,’ he said. And he directed the message to men individually based on the words ‘I have a message for you, commander’. In the second morning session, Gerri Di Somma spoke on ‘How to be an irresistible husband’. He emphasised the redemptive responsibility of every man in relation to his wife and home. To help men be irresistible husbands he set out five points using the word ‘ARISE’ as an acronym. Align yourself with God. Revive your first love. Inspire by example. Serve without expectation. Endure through tough times. With barbeques at full heat, at lunchtime the men crowded around outside the building to cook their meat from packs purchased on site. This provided a wonderful opportunity for fellowship and encouraging interaction, an important feature of the conference.

ROELOF KWANT

SEPTI BUKULA

In the afternoon, Robbie Howell spoke on worship, provoking the men to make intimacy with God the priority of life. In the toughest situation worship can still flow. Without a deep and abiding relationship with the Lord there’s no worship and no basis for a fruitful Christian life. Gordon Simmonds then spoke on being men of honour. Having pointed out the high level of illicit sex among Christians and that even church leaders were involved, Gordon stated in no uncertain terms the consequences of fornication and adultery. Sex is not just a physical act. It affects spirit, soul and body. He called the men to align themselves with the Word of God and be men of honour. The Saturday evening session started with a tremendous time of praise and worship lead by Robbie Howells. Roelof Kwant followed and spoke from James 3 on the tongue being the most powerful weapon. With it you can wreck your Christian life and do so much damage to others with so little effort. The only way to tame the tongue is to have a change of heart, he said. Septi followed his conference ‘Arise’ theme at carmel:’s first Sunday service, and Roelof spoke in the second on encouraging others, using the example of Barnabas. This was a fitting conclusion to a conference in which not only large numbers of men had attended and the interaction between them been a significant feature, but the word received had been immensely practical and inspiring, clearly having a positive affect on those who attended. Expectations more than fulfilled as international preachers come to Carmel

‘Fathers and Sons’ Conference with Angus Buchan 12-13 JUNE 2009

Expectations more than fulfilled as international preachers come to Carmel During May at carmel: we received three international ministries which were quite different, but inherently powerful and relevant in the context of what they ministered. Dr Jesse Duplantis from the USA came on his UK tour. The vision he shared was far-reaching, his insights penetrating and life-changing. What he shared was deeply significant for the ministry here at carmel: Then, for the first time we were ministered to by Rev Shady El-Aouad, Founder and Senior Pastor at Abundant Life Church and Ministries in Beirut, Lebanon. Even though he knew little about carmel:, as he flew into the UK not many hours before the meeting, the Lord told Pastor Shady what to preach. It was prophetic and, again, deeply significant for us here. Towards the end of May we had the pleasure of receiving Dr Rodney Howard-Browne of Revival Ministries International in the USA. Dr Rodney’s challenge concerned taking the gospel out of the church into the world. With humour, simplicity and the fire of the Holy Spirit, he focussed our attention on the importance of being those sent to bring in the end-time harvest. We are so encouraged that the Lord is joining us together with so many significant ministries around the world, not only for the sake of input into carmel:, but also so the unique work the Lord is doing here is ministering to an ever increasing body of people throughout the world.

The story of Angus Buchan has been recorded in the film ‘Faith Like Potatoes’ which tells of his miraculous journey to becoming the influential South African farmer he is today. In April this year 200,000 men from all over the world attended a conference on his farm, a conference which also experienced the miraculous. On the 12th and 13th of June, Angus Buchan will be at the ‘Fathers and Sons’ Conference in Worcester at which the Mighty Men of carmel: will spend two days expecting great things from a ministry specifically directed towards men.

Carmel: Bible College Graduation 11th July This year’s graduation speaker will be Pastor Tom Inglis from Sidney Life Centre in Australia. Being one of the highlights of the year, the College graduation not only celebrates the achievements of its students, but it’s also a celebration of the achievements of the College as a whole, its staff and the vision the Lord gave Pastor Gerri for such a College. Touching the international community through the students who come from many different countries, the various courses prepare students for ministry and living the Christian life to the full. Earlier this year, the College celebrated another important achievement when it was granted Premiership Status by the Accreditation Service for International Colleges. This means it is now registered as an A-rated College with the Government for receiving foreign students.

Mighty Men’s Camp ‘The Gathering’ 24th to 26th July The Men’s Ministry, now known as ‘Mighty Men’, has its annual camp near Ross-on-Wye. Called ‘The Gathering’ it aims to do just that, bring men to a gathering for fellowship and the sort of enjoyment Christian men can have when relaxed and together. This year’s camp is expected to far exceed the numbers at last year’s camp as well as focus on God’s call on their lives as men so they can make a real difference in their homes, churches, work and the world in which they live.

A WORD IN SEASON

2009

JUNE MINISTRIES CARMEL:RD BRISLINGTON 817A BATH

TIONAL INTERNA UK BS4 5NL BRISTOL

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RD 817A BATH BS4 5NL CARMEL:CENTRE BRISTOL 5533 BRISLINGTON M +44117 977 UNITED KINGDO NTRE.ORG INFO@CARMELCEENTRE.ORG WWW.CARMELC

God’s Word is the Sword of the Spirit and ‘A Word in Season’ is God’s vehicle for proclaiming the power of the gospel to the nations. ‘A Word in Season’ monthly message on CD is available for you today. Contact the ‘A Word in Season’ office at carmel:centre. You can also view our catalogue online at www.carmelcentre.org/awordinseason

FAITH

TEACHING

WHO IS MY

NEIGHBOUR? We often say we have a heart for those in need, but do little about it. We are like the lawyer that confronted Jesus, we know the principle but question the application because deep down we lack compassion and don’t want to do it. Luke 10:25-29: And behold, a certain lawyer stood up and tested Him, saying, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” He said to him, “What is written in the law? What is your reading of it?” So he answered and said, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind,” and “your neighbour as yourself.’” And He said to him, ‘You have answered rightly; do this and you will live.” But he, wanting to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And who is my neighbour?” We try to justify our inaction by questioning the application.

At Carmel: God has been challenging us in our walk of the ancient paths; one of the challenges of this walk concerns whether we are seeing what God sees. The Bible tells us that God sees people and in particular hurting and lost people: ‘…the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.’ Luke 19:10. Not only to seek and save but to do something about it, we read in Matthew 14:14: ‘And when Jesus went out He saw a great multitude; and He was moved with compassion for them, and healed their sick.’ This in a nutshell is the heart of God. 6

God’s word puts on us a duty of care for others. We are to be merciful to others. If we do not act on behalf of others, we can become more destitute than the destitute themselves. Many of us are waiting for God to do something, while in reality God is waiting for us to get on with the mandate He’s given us. God has given us what we need to do what He asks. Don’t try and preserve your comfort zone; it will be far from comfortable when you have to explain to God why you didn’t obey His word and love your neighbour. A PRINCIPLED and PROPHETIC PERSPECTIVE Jesus graciously begins to relate a parable to the lawyer to help him understand the application of the principle and help him see who his neighbour is. Luke 10:30: Then Jesus answered and said: “A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothing, wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead.”

TEACHING

. If we do not act to be merciful to others are e . W . others than the destitute themselves us a duty of care for destitute more God’s word puts on become , we can on behalf of others

Jerusalem presents a type of heaven and Jericho a type of earth. The thieves present the work of the devil. We are all travellers on this earth and through our mistakes we often open ourselves to attack. As with Adam in the beginning (Genesis 3:10-11), the devil tries to strip us of the glory with which God has clothed us to cover our shame and allow us to dwell in His presence. If the devil had his way he would leave us so battered that we would be useless for anything that concerns God. 1. Compassion is not judgmental. Realise we all make mistakes and need someone to help us. The man who was robbed was travelling in a known danger zone, so it could be easy to dismiss him as foolish. But it is a fact of life that people make mistakes. We do: so don’t think you’ve ‘arrived’ like the lawyer did, but thank God for His mercy toward you. He’s your good neighbour all the time. Luke 10:31: “Now by chance a certain priest came down that road. And when he saw him, he passed by on the other side.” 2. Compassion comes before religious correctness. The priest presents a type of those involved with religion. The priest was experienced in the law and religious rituals, but took a look, kept his distance and walked on. The plight of the half dead man didn’t touch his heart. He no doubt didn’t want to be defiled, but, in truth, he became defiled because of the hardness of his heart. We can become so concerned with our own perceived sanctity and spirituality that we keep ourselves to ourselves and pass by those in need.

It’s also a tragedy that we can be so busy in what we perceive as the Lord’s work that we miss the Lord’s work when He brings someone destitute among us. We can also be so busy filling our barns or bank accounts as to forget the simple truth that we can take nothing with us into eternity but the lost He brought to us that they might be saved, delivered, healed and set free. Luke 10:32: “Likewise a Levite, when he arrived at the place, came and looked, and passed by on the other side.” 3. Compassion comes before social correctness. The Levite presents a type of those focused on their own ethnic, racial or group interests. Our prejudices and preferences can produce spiritual blindness. The Levite, a member of a select group of God’s ministers, took a close look at the half dead traveller, but still walked away. Perhaps he wondered, is he one of us? I’ll do something if he is. Does he belong to our tribe, race, colour or religion? It shows when someone will not walk on the same sidewalk as someone of another colour; or when people fight for the rights of their particular group and are prepared to disadvantage others in doing so. Then there are those traditions we’re so tied to that we will look the other way rather than untie ourselves and be inconvenienced by meeting another person’s need. We have criteria based on our own comfort, which turns us away. Our duty is to help the destitute without preference or discrimination. Christ’s blood was shed for all men. 1 John 3:17-18: But whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him? My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth.

TEACHING

4. Compassion comes before self-interest. Luke 10:33-34: “But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had compassion. So he went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine; and he set him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him.” The Samaritan presents a type of Christ. Compassion compelled the Samaritan as he risked his life to help the man who we must assume to be a Jew. He put down his prejudice, his opinions, his work, his time and made his resources available to help the man for the long-term, not just the short-term, to give him back his life and dignity. One needs to understand that the Samaritans were despised and rejected by Jews and yet this man was moved by compassion to help this Jew who lay half dead by the side of the road. It is a bit like Jesus, even though He Himself was despised and rejected by the Jews, He laid down His life for them. We are to see as God sees … and God sees people. Jesus was moved with compassion when He saw the lost, dying, weak and hungry, and that compelled Him to do something about it. We have a great vision for the church, a new building and so on, but God has people in His sights and the design of the house must facilitate His vision, not ours. It will be for people of every circumstance, nation and tongue. This calls for compassion, not ministry ambition. Luke 10:35: “On the next day, when he departed, he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said to him, ‘Take care of him; and whatever more you spend, when I come again, I will repay you.” 5. Compassion employs personal resources to help others. The Inn presents a type of the Church and the innkeeper a type of the believer. The Church is God’s place of provision for our neighbours. Our neighbours include the poor, helpless, hungry, thirsty, stranger, homeless, naked, sick, prisoner, foreigner, widow and orphan. In the same way the Samaritan brought the traveller to a place where he could be cared and provided for, so Jesus brings the lost and needy to His church for their care. By the oil and wine of the Holy Spirit He enables us, provides healing and comfort

and whatever is necessary to bring a person to life. And this continues until He returns. The Church is a body that serves the purpose of God. Church is not a club for me to stoke up my feel-good factor with a load of hallelujahs and amens. Church is not about ‘me’ - ‘Bless me.’ It’s an organism through which God meets with those who need to be saved and cared for. With Christ as its head, it’s a life-giving body. Not only are we to care for those in our own house, but the church should be known in its area and city as a place people can come and find what they need to live. Luke 10:36-37: “So which of these three do you think was neighbour to him who fell among the thieves?” And he said, “He who showed mercy on him.” Then Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.” 6. Compassion comes from regeneration and not imitation. Often we are busy employing ourselves for our own gratification and mandate instead of understanding that our eternal rewards come from God. And if we are not doing what He wants us to do, there won’t be much for us to receive from heaven, if we do make eternal life. If we do what God says, what we employ to do God’s work will be returned with a reward. The Samaritan saw the half dead man as precious, as God did. A scripture text does not bind a man’s wounds, but our care can speak volumes; it may cause us considerable discomfort but we share in Christ’s sufferings. Jesus experienced major discomfort by being the sacrificial Lamb that takes away the sin of the world. He now continually intercedes for us and has given us the Holy Spirit so that we can inherit eternal life. 7. Compassion makes application a reality. No matter where the need or who’s in need, we are neighbours to them and they are our neighbours as we show them mercy. The Holy Spirit dwelling in us enables us to do what is required. Job said: Because I delivered the poor who cried out, the fatherless and the one who had no helper, the blessing of a perishing man came upon me, and I caused the widow’s heart to sing for joy. Job 29:12-13. Being merciful prospers our lives and God rewards us.

No matter where the need or who’s in need, we are neighbours to them and they are our neighbours as we show them mercy. 8

PRAYER WORKS

SWEET SMELLING

INCENSE

The importance of prayer cannot be overstated and it is always encouraging when, every week in carmel:’s services, we hear someone’s testimony concerning answered prayer. Prayer works. Sometimes the answer is immediate, other times the answer comes gradually and for others the answer comes just in time. Health and healing Ken had four stomach ulcers. One was a big duodenal ulcer. While taking a course of medicine, Ken and his wife, Claire, trusted God for his complete healing in a shorter time than the doctors predicted. Two months later the doctors examined him again and found no trace of the ulcers. In fact they commented on the quality of the healing because there was no visible sign of there having been ulcers in Ken’s body. Maureen injured her shoulder which caused a lot of pain in her arm and pain-killers didn’t stop it. After the next carmel: church service she asked for prayer on the basis of God’s word in Isaiah 53:5 which says: …by His stripes we are healed. When the pain continued, she decided to stop confessing her pain and confess: ‘I am healed by the stripes of Jesus.’ Within two days the pain was gone and she was totally restored. Recurring infections in a sensitive part of her body had affected Yatasha over the last ten years. Having arranged an ultrasound examination she prayed with Richard her husband based on words in Isaiah 41, and the Lord reassured them that the problem would be as if it had never existed. They continued believing God when Yatasha had an internal examination. A stitch from an operation many years before was found and removed. They thanked God for His protection over the years because, having difficulty with her kidneys meant an infection such as septicaemia could have been particularly dangerous.

When Hannah and Janet met, the Lord provided for them both. Janet needed more money to pay her mortgage and Hannah needed somewhere to live. For Janet Psalm 31:1 became the focus of her prayers and while praying the Lord told her to clear out a room in her house. Then she met Hannah. Now Hannah has somewhere to live and Janet has the extra she needed for the mortgage. As parents, Steve and Jacqui want the best for their daughter’s education. It was important for Tammy to take a certain course which would cost £150, a sum which Steve and Jacqui didn’t have available. Together with one of the teachers at carmel: christian school they prayed on the basis of the blessing that comes to those dwelling in unity written about in Psalm 133. The following day an envelope arrived at the school with their daughter’s name on it in which was the full amount for the course. Prayer in all things Even though Steve was a senior citizen, he sat an exam in electro-technology. He had done little math when at school and everyone on the course he took expected him to fail. So he brought the matter to God in prayer determined that he would do at least as well as the other young people on the course. Praise God, despite a number of failures in the exam, Steve passed with a good mark.

Finance and material provision Natalie was short of money to pay her rent and bills. On another occasion she needed £100 to pay certain fees. Then latterly she needed money for some necessary extras. She prayed. In the first two situations provision was made from unknown sources and for the extras she was given extra work.

TEACHING

REQUIREMENTS FOR

REVIVAL

Why are you here? What is it that inspires your life as part of the church? Your time is now, not some time in the past or into the future. You were born for such a time as this, to run with the vision God has placed before you, as living stones, to grow, mature and be useful in the kingdom of God. Today is your day. But now God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased. 1 Corinthians 12:18. We are planted here. Don’t ask what the church can do for you, but ask what you can do for the church. Let us run with the vision. Let God speak to you. We need to be revived and have a total encounter with God. Recently I have been looking into some of the background of the 1904 Welsh Revival, looking again at how these people were so amazingly revived by the work of God among them. The Holy Spirit showed them that at least three things need to be in place if church is to be revived and move in the right direction.

WE MUST COME TO A PLACE OF UNITY Jesus spoke about this unity when He talked with the Father: …that they may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they may also be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me. John 17:21. Clearly, our unity has consequences in the world. The Lord’s oneness with the Father also involved His submission to the Father. At one time Moses was at odds with God over his role in relation to Israel, but once he had submitted to the will of God he was ready to take on the responsibility of leading Israel out of Egypt. We must also submit ourselves to what God has revealed through His anointed leader in this church, and submit ourselves to one another: …fulfil my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Philippians 2:2-3. Let’s be of one mind in pursuing the vision. Strive for vision not position. Vainglory is empty and destructive. Don’t go off and do your own thing. There’s need for endurance. There

are challenges we must face … together. In the Redwood Forests of America where trees are over 300’ high, they remain upright and firm, not because their roots are deep, which they aren’t, but because their roots are interwoven. Their shared strength supports them all in the worst of storms. That’s how it is to be in the body of Christ. Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! And the outcome of such unity: …there the Lord commanded the blessing – life forevermore. Psalm 133:1, 3. There’s no blessing unless we do things God’s way, and unity is God’s way. There is no telling what we can do when there is unity of mind and purpose based on the word of God.

THERE MUST BE NO UNFORGIVING HEARTS This is such a big subject that we can barely touch on it here. But realise, if you hold something against someone, that grudge will embed itself in you and harm you. There can be no unity without there being a reconciling spirit among God’s people. Jesus told His disciples: “It is impossible that no offences should come…” Luke 17:1. Face it. That’s the truth. So what are you going to do when they do come? Separate yourself or seek to be reconciled with the one who has offended you? Paul writes this: I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love,

TEACHING

endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Ephesians 4:1-3. Yes, it’s something that has to be worked at, but God doesn’t call us to do something without enabling us to do it. And sometimes someone will hurt you, and you’ve got a choice, whether to take offence or love and forebear for the sake of the body. It’s rather like the porcupines that someone had seen isolated on a frozen lake in a blizzard: they had huddled together for the sake of staying alive despite the prodding of their long sharp spines. If one had gone off to seek its own protection it probably would have frozen to death. So if someone’s hurting you, embrace them. Humble yourself and suffer as long as necessary for the sake of the health of the whole body.

THERE IS TO BE NO DISOBEDIENCE Disobedience often ends in others being hurt or their lives being affected detrimentally. Consider how Jonah decided not to go where God had sent him and what happened to the rest of the people on the ship he was on. The ship’s cargo was lost and the people almost drowned. Then the men were exceedingly afraid, and said to him, “Why have you done this?” For the men knew that he fled from the presence of the Lord, because he had told them. Jonah 1:10. We must concern ourselves with obeying God according to His word, submitting joyfully to His will. In addition, just to know God’s word is not obedience. Whether we really know God’s word is determined by the actions that follow: ‘…be doers of the word, and not

hearers only, deceiving yourselves. James 1:22. Our attitudes and actions reveal just how much of what God says influences our lives. Where are your God given gifts and talents? Are they being utilized for the building up of the church? We are not here to ‘do’ church. We are the church. God’s kingdom knows of no unemployed Christians in the church. All contribute their gifts and talents for the building up of the body. Be an active part of the people who pursue the vision God has for the church. The church is worth it. It’s God’s word for us today which expresses the outworking of His plan for the ages. Are you one of the people who will do what it takes to work out the vision where you are? You must not let past hurts or differences diminish your determination to pursue God’s purposes in your life. It needs that courage and strength that comes from God by His grace. Consider what Paul said to Timothy: You, therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. All the things that you have heard from me among many witness, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. 2 Timothy 2:1-3. Determine, then, to be a true soldier of Jesus Christ, standing firm with God’s people, being of one mind and one purpose, in love bearing with one another, so we can obey God’s word and successfully pursue His plans and purposes for the church.

TEACHING

THE TARES AND THE This year our mandate from God is to return to and establish the ancient paths among us. This flows from Jeremiah 6:16: Thus says the Lord: “Stand in the ways and see, and ask for the old paths (Hebrew: ancient paths), where the good way is, and walk in it; then you will find rest for your souls.” God is calling us to bring people back from the spiritual darkness they have wandered into. God is a Holy God and we must be holy and separated to Him if we are to see His Holy Spirit poured out in these times. Our mandate covers four areas on which we are to focus in order to establish the ancient paths among us:

1. STAND: Can my life stand up to God’s scrutiny?

2. SEE: Is what I’m looking at actually what God sees?

3. ASK: How dependant am I upon God’s wisdom?

4. WALK: What is the price I’ll accept to walk away from God?

Key principles in the parable 1. The kingdom of heaven is the church in the world The earth and everything in it belongs to Jesus (Psalm 24:1). Jesus owns the field, He created it but assigned His people to tend and keep it. It doesn’t matter what the devil is doing out there, the earth still belongs to Jesus. That is why God has given us every place our foot shall tread (Joshua 1:3). 2. Jesus’ mandate is to sow good seed

The tares and the wheat Here we focus on the first area, stand, by looking at Matthew 13:24-30. Jesus said: “The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field; but while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat and went his way. But when the grain had sprouted and produced a crop, then the tares also appeared.” He continued, referring to the man who sowed good seed: “‘…at the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, “First gather together the tares and bind them in bundles to burn them, but gather the wheat into my barn.”’” Jesus went on to explain that the sower of the good seed is the Son of Man, the field is the world, the good seeds are the sons of the kingdom, and the tares are the sons of the wicked one, the devil, and the reapers are the angels. Here we see that God is raising up a righteous seed while the enemy is raising up a lawless, unrighteous seed, and there will come a time when there will be a judgment that falls on the unrighteous. God will remove those opposed to His Word and establish His glory upon the earth.

He came down upon the earth to seek and save those who are lost and to fill His earth with His righteousness. Where He plants you is where He wants you to grow and bear fruit. God wants to raise up a righteous remnant. 3. The devil is the enemy who sows tares (i) The devil sows in secret We find that he uses deception to sow lawless people where they can obstruct God’s work. 2 Timothy 3:1-5: But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: for men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away! This passage is not talking about the world; it is talking about the church. The enemy will plant seeds of unrighteousness all around us and particularly in the church.

TEACHING

WHEAT (ii) He comes while men are asleep In the parable he came and planted unrighteous seeds while the men slept. These days it appears the church is asleep instead of standing up and declaring righteousness and holiness in this nation. We cannot afford to compromise. Our standard is Jesus and there we must stand. STAND S - Stop Some of us are too busy running in a direction that God never spoke about - just stop! Pause, look around and find your position. It doesn’t mean stop fulfilling your responsibilities, but it means stop fulfilling your agenda. Some are pursuing careers that have nothing to do with God because they never stopped to ask God’s counsel on it. T - Take Time Look around you. Make sure that what you’re doing is what God has ordained for you to do. You’ll be surprised at how much you shouldn’t be doing. Are you fulfilling your God ordained responsibility to your family and the family of God? There is something wrong when you are so busy that you don’t give God top priority in your life. A - Analyze Bring things into the light of God’s word. If something doesn’t line up with His word, stop it. It’s too easy to compromise and try and justify things that don’t line up. Don’t get caught in this trap: For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Hebrews 6:12.

Let God’s word pierce you and He will get things sorted out in your life. N - Notarize Write down what God is revealing concerning you. Bring it before your leaders so they can attest to and authenticate what God is saying as appropriate. Ask the advice of those around you whom you love and respect. Be accountable. If it is something that needs to be confessed, make a note of it and go and seek forgiveness. D - Decide You need to be ruthless with yourself. The wrath of God is a lot more severe. When being ruthless about righteousness, Jesus put it this way: “If your right eye causes you to sin, pluck it out and cast it from you; for it is more profitable for you that one of your members perish, than for your whole body to be cast into hell.” Matthew 5:29. If your hand causes you to sin, chop it off – verse 30. This does not mean you have to literally do these things, but it makes very clear that God wants us to be serious about living a godly life. In 1993 on one occasion when I was in God’s presence He pointed out to me how the body, the church, needed a fresh anointing of His power to wash away the mediocrity and lethargy, to once more experience the fullness of His power. He said that obedience is the key, leading to the manifest presence of His Spirit with signs and wonders. Be satisfied with nothing less. Stand. If God has spoken to you, do it and He will prosper you. Your obedience reflects the reality of your relationship with Him. Do you trust Him? Live a life that is pure and righteous before God and you will reap accordingly. Join with others in changing the nation.

ARTICLE

ST REVOLUTION: YOUTH IN A growing Youth Ministry is not always seen in terms of numbers. More significantly, particularly with the future in mind, its growing character provides the foundation for a successful future. This is true of St Revolution. Numbers are good; however, what is more impressive is the way the young people are engaging with their faith and the world around them. Led by Ralph Di Somma and his wife Joanna, St Revolution is increasingly playing an essential role in the life of the church at carmel:

Sleep-out The Storehouse (see page 15) is a major project at carmel: which is managed by the youth. The sponsored sleepout around carmel: centre on the Sunday night before the Prayer Week was designed to raise funds for the Storehouse, and, said Ralph, ‘we want people to identify with the suffering of others and put themselves in that place for one night and see what it’s like.’

Friday night services Uniquely youth yet clearly of God, the Friday night meetings continue to impact the youth in relation to God, both individually and as a Ministry. There is order, yet when the Spirit moves they take hold of what He is doing and follow, giving and receiving as they are led.

Prayer week The twenty-four-seven Prayer Week in the last week of May was located in The Coffee Bean at carmel: centre, which was divided into areas focussed on different aspects of prayer, providing opportunities for a creative response to their interaction with God. This year in the evenings special worship times were added which were interlaced with prayer relating to different topics concerning the world around them.

The sleeping bag project How did it come about? ‘One night I was thanking God for the comfortable bed I was sleeping in while the wind blew against our flat, and suddenly I started thinking about those who didn’t have a bed to sleep in.’ For Jo, that became a cause in her heart which she knew she had to do something about. A few weeks later she joined some of the youth as they collected money in different areas of Bristol to buy sleeping bags for the homeless. Through this successful project they were able to supply a local organisation for the homeless with many quality sleeping bags. 14

Invading the Wye? Youth camp is always a major event, and this year (28 to 31 July) Invading the Wye? is expected to be more challenging, exciting and God-impacted that previous years. ‘Our theme,’ said Ralph, ‘is the same as last year: You Can Change the World.’ There was no point in changing the theme just because it’s another year. The theme still applies and remains the challenge. ‘Our agenda for the youth is that they experience God in a real and tangible way,’ Ralph explained. ‘This is our priority; all else loses its significance when we meet with God.’

Sponsorship The camp costs. It would be so wrong if some young people couldn’t go because their parents have insufficient funds. The church will have an opportunity to contribute. ‘We particularly offer this opportunity to parents of children under 11-years-old,’ Ralph said. ‘Many of the present youth will be youth leaders when their children become part of St Revolution. Now is the time to invest in the future of their children by making sure today’s youth at carmel: get every opportunity to meet with God.’

INTERVIEW

GOD’S NON-PROFIT

BANK

What is now The Storehouse was once called Mercy Ministries. Seeing the importance of growing this work in the church at carmel:, Pastor Gerri approached Joanna Di Somma about heading it up with the youth. Jo’s heart for the homeless and those in need materially as well as spiritually was apparent.

Answered prayer

The wider community

‘I had been praying and wanted to do something which would really help people in this sort of way,’ said Jo. ‘You can’t do everything that’s needed, but Ralph once spoke to the youth about God putting a cause on your heart, and that got me going. The sleeping bag project was one thing the Lord led me to.’ Now she gladly heads up the Storehouse.

‘We want people in the church who are struggling materially to take full advantage of the Storehouse,’ Jo said. ‘In the meantime we are helping people in the wider community. Through our contacts with other Christians in the area we find out where there’s a specific need and arrange for food parcels to be delivered.’

A greatly enhanced work For a long time there have been blue barrels at the entrance to the auditorium for gifts to be deposited, however, every month now the church has opportunity to bring a heave offering. This has greatly enhanced the work of providing for those in need and increased space has been made available for the Storehouse this year. Food Bank From the end of May there has been a Food Bank. ‘It’s an hour after the services on Sunday when people can come and get what they need,’ said Jo. ‘So far people have come as and when they can, but the Food Bank will mean we have a more effective way of distributing the goods; but we are here at other times too.’

As the Storehouse team look ahead, they look forward to being able to install fridges and other storage facilities so the goods supplied can increase in variety. ‘People don’t have to wait until they’ve got absolutely nothing before they come,’ said Jo. ‘We don’t want Christians holding back on their tithes and offerings just because they have a need.’ The greater Storehouse ‘I was reading Acts 4:32 one day’ said Jo: Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common. ‘I can see a day,’ she continued, ‘when the Storehouse will make a link with believers so when people have things surplus to requirements or just simply want to make things available, when people express a need, we can make the link and arrange the provision to be made. That means our Storehouse will be as big as the church.’

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