TwentyFour 7 issue 34 by Carmel City Church

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A MAGAZINE PUBLISHED BY CARMEL: MINISTRIES INTERNATIONAL

ISSUE 34

INVOKING GOD’S FAVOUR ARTICLE BY PASTOR GERRI DI SOMMA

EXCELLENCE AS STANDARD TEACHING BY PASTOR MICHELLE DI SOMMA

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BOOKS BY PASTOR GERRI DI SOMMA GET THE ENTIRE SERIES AT THE CARMEL BOOKSHOP

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COMING OUT OF THE DARKNESS LIVING FREE FROM DECEPTION FORGIVENESS: THE KEY TO FREEDOM THE PERFECT GIFT FOR LIFE

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CARMEL: PARTNERSHIP A partner is a sharer, an associate, one who engages with another in business, one who plays on the same side as another. Partnership is important – It releases power to get the job done. We can accomplish the Great Commission together in unity.

United Kingdom Bank of Scotland Carmel Christian Centre Sort Code: Account No: 80-11-00 06085191 BIC: BOFSGB21012

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.

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

Should you wish to donate by Gift Aid please contact the church office.

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

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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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SERVICES Sun 09:00am SuN 11:00am sun 6:00pm CONTACT CARMEL CENTRE, 817a Bath Road, Brislington, Bristol BS4 5NL T: (0117) 977 5533 F: (0117) 977 5678 W: www.carmelcentre.org

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EXECUTIVE EditorS: GERRI AND Michelle Di Somma PRODUCED BY: WWW.CRE8ION.CO.UK Printers: HALCYON Bible quotations are from the New King James Version unless stated otherwise.

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

He sent them to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick. Luke 9:2

HI FRIENDS...

We are very excited about all that God has promised for 2012. God is challenging us at Carmel to establish and extend His kingdom through relationships. In accordance with this, our focus for 2012 is Life Groups, explained in the Vision Overview. This issue includes insightful overviews of our annual Hamper Project and growing outreach into local prisons. Pastor Gerri’s main article, ‘Invoking God’s Favour through Submission and Honour’ shows how when Christian’s submit to authority it can affect their lives. Pastor Gerri highlights that submission to earthly authorities is directly linked to our submission to God. Pastor Gerri’s second teaching emphasises that a personal vision will only be realised through obedience and faithfulness to God. Pastor Michelle takes inspiration from aspects of Daniel’s life, as she exhorts that every Spirit-filled believer should display ‘Excellence as Standard’. Our guest speaker featured in this issue is Pastor Jacob John. His teaching on ‘Spiritual Transition’ shows the necessity for every Christian to move from one level of faith to another. We trust that this issue helps all our readers to hear God’s Word for their lives. Gerri and Michelle Di Somma

EVENTS

CONTENTS

MARCH

C:VIEW

ARTICLE:

Fri 30 - Sat 31 Exceptional Women’s Conference: ‘Love’

Fri 7.00pm Sat 9.00am & 7.00pm

APRIL Fri 6 Sun 8 Sat 21 Sun 29

Good Friday Service Easter Day Services Valiant Men’s Breakfast Roy Fields

10.00am 9.00am, 11.00am 8.30am 10.00am & 6.00pm

Invoking God’s Favour through Submission and Honour By Pastor Gerri Di Somma

MAY

TEACHING:

Excellence as Standard By Pastor Michelle Di Somma

Vintage Vault Sat 19 Fri 25 - Sun 27 Three Nights of Glory

JUNE Fri 15 - Sat 16 Valiant Men’s Conference Sun 17 Mon 18

Vision 2012 The Hamper Project Prison Ministry Report

Father’s Day Services CBC Open Day

Please note some of the dates and times of up-and-coming events may be subject to change. See Carmel’s website for all the latest information.

7.00pm Fri – Sat 7.00pm Sun 6.00pm Fri 1.00pm Sat 9.00am & 7.00pm 9.00am & 11.00am 9.00am

Facebook: carmelcentre.org

TEACHING:

It Only Comes with a Fight By Pastor Gerri Di Somma

TEACHING:

Spiritual Transition By Pastor Jacob John

FOUND HEAVEN:

Testimonies

twitter.com/carmelcentreorg

C:VIEW: VISION 2012

THE STORY SO FAR Carmel Ministries International began in 1996. Pastors Gerri and Michelle Di Somma founded the Church after God called them to Bristol from South Africa. They have taught the message of faith without compromise and Carmel has increased its influence locally, nationally and worldwide. From the outset, Carmel has laid foundations upon which to build. Foundations are vital; the deeper they are, the higher you can build and the more stable the building. Carmel’s former years of diligently laying godly foundations line upon line and precept upon precept have enabled the different stages of the building process. Mission Statement Carmel’s mission statement is: He sent them to preach the Kingdom of God and to heal the sick. Luke 9:2. The mission is two-fold: to preach God’s Word and demonstrate His power. Carmel teaches biblical life skills; those who apply God’s Word experience the fruit of it, demonstrating its life-changing power. Vision Statement God gave His vision for Carmel to fulfil the mission statement: 1. 2. 3. 4.

Cover our City Bless our Neighbours Send to the Nation Touch the World

Strategy The structure to support Carmel’s vision is implemented through teams, ‘Share, Care, Prepare, Dare and Welfare’. During 2011, this structure was firmly established, bringing a process of discipleship, helping this local Body of Christ function more effectively.

The first stage of the journey is Share. This is sharing God’s love, primarily with unbelievers. The second stage is Care, which is caring for believers, giving them tools to live their lives successfully as children of God. The third stage is Prepare, equipping believers to participate in taking the vision forward, by serving within the Church and studying the Word of God further. The fourth stage is Dare, sending disciples into the world to pioneer and establish the kingdom of God, taking what they’ve learned to others. Welfare undergirds the process of those participating in the journey, fulfilling the responsibilities of every organisation to whom Carmel is accountable. VISION 2012 Twelve: Governmental Perfection Carmel believes that 2012 is the year God will build upon His foundations and structures. In biblical terms, the number 12 signifies governmental perfection. This is seen throughout the Bible: there were 12 patriarchs, 12 sons of Israel and 12 apostles, to name a few examples. God has specifically told Carmel that 2012 will be a year of fruitfulness and favour. The Church is expectant that 2012 will be the year of establishing God’s authority, as He causes each individual, and the corporate body, to be fruitful and favoured. 2012 Vision Objective God’s Word for 2012 is: Enlarge the place of your tent, and let them stretch out the curtains of your dwellings; do not spare; lengthen your cords, and strengthen your stakes. For you shall expand to the right and to the left, and your descendants will

inherit the nations, and make the desolate cities inhabited. Do not fear, for you will not be ashamed; neither be disgraced, for you will not be put to shame. Isaiah 54:2-4.

Life Groups will help those visiting Carmel transition to becoming active participants in the vision. Carmel’s leaders will identify people’s gifts and skills to help them get involved in a suitable department.

The five imperatives in this passage are: enlarge, stretch out, do not spare, lengthen and strengthen. Transition is required in order to achieve them; it’s impossible to stay the same and expect to increase. Space for growth is needed and this entails transition. The result will be the fruitfulness and favour that God has promised.

Reaching Generations

Transition Historically, recurring periods of moral decline and economic crisis have thrown nations into turmoil. Each cycle presented the global Church with an opportunity and gave a greater urgency to fulfil the Great Commission. National reform resulted whenever the Church observed and acted upon these opportunities, taking the Gospel to those without hope. In such instances, the moral and economic climate of nations improved because individual lives were being transformed by Christ. History has repeated itself; our current society is in decline, needing hope. Once again, the global Church must recognise the opportunity to share God’s love with those in their local communities. Carmel is seizing this opportunity and in so doing, enlarging its impact in Bristol. Carmel understands that the Church will grow through relationships. People will be influenced when they see the example of Christian lives and the difference that Christ makes to everyday living and eternity. The launch of Life Groups is to facilitate an environment where relationships with unbelievers can be established.

Each generation has distinct attitudes, behaviours, expectations, habits and motivations. It is essential to understand the core values of each generation in order to connect and share God’s love with them. Previous generations, the Veterans, the Baby Boomers, Generation X and Generation Y, have seen substantial changes in morals and several redefinitions of the family. The present generation, Generation Z, is a product of what has gone before. Although this generation is only 11 years old, their core values are already declining even further from God’s standards. Learning to connect and communicate with them is vital; otherwise they will be lost for eternity. Generation Z is more knowledgeable and skilled with gadgets and technology than any other generation. One way to connect with them is through advancing personal knowledge of the technological industry. For some this may be a big transition, but it’s necessary in order to win them for Christ. Life Skills Carmel’s Sunday morning services will continue as usual. These Church services are important for believers to share in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. Acts 2:42.

LIFE GROUPS

Sunday evening services will be dedicated to helping people do life the Bible way, where success is guaranteed. These will be times of fellowship around the practical application of the Word.

Living in Faith and Fellowship Experientially

CONNECT WITH THE VISION

Life Groups will enable Carmel to transition from an event-driven Church to a relationship-based Church. The focus has changed: rather than inviting people to a Church event, Carmel will become the Church within the community.

For a vision to be fulfilled, it must have people involved in its delivery. Without people, a vision is a dream without substance. God’s vision for Carmel is vast and far-reaching, but will only be achieved through people’s participation.

A Life Group will meet around common interests, such as hobbies or sport, in a friendly, caring, fun and non-threatening environment. Some Life Groups will be seasonal; others will have a fixed duration; others may only meet monthly or quarterly. It depends on the activity of the group.

You can be a part of Carmel’s vision. Either join a Life Group, or start one. Don’t be limited; be creative. There are many possibilities as Carmel extends its influence in Bristol, sharing the Gospel in ways people can relate to.

The aim of Life Groups is to invite people within the locality and to befriend them. Building relationships will enable believers to share their faith in an easy and relaxed manner. Invitations to Church will become a natural by-product of the friendship.

For Carmel’s full vision presentation online see:

vision.carmelcentre.org

C:VIEW: THE HAMPER PROJECT

THE HAMPER

PROJECT For many people, Christmas is a happy occasion: a time for family, food, friendships and fun. However, there are others for whom Christmas is not a joyful time. They are alone, with no family and little money. Some may even go hungry. Seeing this need, Carmel’s Hamper Project originated more than 10 years ago. Its purpose is to demonstrate God’s love by providing a hamper of groceries to those who may otherwise not have enough food at Christmas. God’s love in action For Christians, the true meaning of Christmas is the basis for our faith. Christmas is the time we remember and celebrate the birth of Jesus, God’s gift of love to the world. Jesus was born of a virgin, and lived a sinless life. When He gave His life and died, it was as a perfect sacrifice, that we might obtain eternal life through Him. This Gospel is the inspiration to help others less fortunate, so that they too may know God’s love. Our love in action At Christmas, the Hamper Project aims to extend God’s gift of love to others in a practical way. Through meeting their physical need for food, the underlying message of God’s love reaches to the heart of many of the recipients. To be remembered at Christmas makes a real difference to them; it communicates that someone cares at a time when they are often forgotten. It brings them hope and helps to make their Christmas an enjoyable experience. A wonderful door of opportunity is opened for the Gospel to be shared. The old adage, ‘actions speak louder than words’ is very appropriate. Christians, who merely say they care, whilst doing nothing about it, ignore the Bible’s exhortation to put love into action: If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth. 1 John 3:17-18 NIV.

Making it happen Since its inception, the project has grown tremendously. In more recent years, Carmel has also supported organisations in Bristol that help people who are in need. Hampers are delivered to these organisations and they in turn distribute to the individuals and families they assist, including the homeless and destitute. In December 2011, the project distributed 1,000 hampers, feeding approximately 2,500–3,000 people. This is the largest number of hampers to-date, despite the unsettling economic climate, with a 15% increase from the previous year. The Hamper Project is a vital outreach of Carmel, as the Church recognises its responsibility to take care of the poor. For the poor will never cease from the land; therefore I command you, saying, ‘You shall open your hand wide to your brother, to your poor and your needy, in your land.’ Deuteronomy 15:11. Many volunteers from Carmel worked diligently with a range of duties: making phone calls, managing spreadsheets of data, researching food prices, purchasing, packing and delivering. Every person’s input resulted in the project’s success. The generosity of Carmel’s congregation and other Bristol companies, plus money raised through sponsored events, financed the hampers. Making a difference The Christmas hampers are appreciated and gratefully received by organisations and individuals alike. Many letters of thanks are received annually expressing that the hampers make a real difference to the recipients. Plans are already underway for the Hamper Project 2012, which aims to double the number of hampers distributed in 2011. For further information on how you can get involved, or help raise money, please email info@carmelcentre.org

C:VIEW: PRISON MINISTRY REPORT

X-STREAM:

In November 2011, the House of Commons issued a report detailing the number of prisoners in England and Wales: an alarming record high of 87,749.*

PRISON MINISTRY God is part of prison culture

Convict to convert

However, Christianity has not been removed from prison life. It is a legal requirement to facilitate Christian worship for all offenders. This is one of the many responsibilities of prison chaplains. They hold weekly Church services, known as ‘chapel’. Any inmate can attend chapel to worship and pray. Some chaplains welcome Church groups to participate, opening a door of opportunity for Churches to support them.

Every member of X-Stream is valuable in the process of leading prisoners to Christ; they are Christians who know God’s ability to change lives. Some minister in music and song; others share their testimonies. The prisoners relate to real life stories of people who accepted God’s love and experienced a complete turnaround in their lives.

X-Stream is Carmel’s Prison Ministry team. It began 10 years ago with the aim of discipling young offenders at HM Prison Ashfield. Since then, the team and its ministry have grown, now with regular involvement in two additional prisons: HMP Bristol in Horfield and HMP Eastwood Park Prison. X-Stream’s contribution to these prisons enables them to present the Gospel to male and female prisoners of all ages. Paul Isbell has been involved in X-Stream for more than 5 years, and is now the team leader. He says, “God showed me the opportunity available in prisons. One person who is radically transformed can affect a whole community. We love serving the chaplains in the vital work they do.” In prison but not behind bars Not all prisoners fit the stereotypical image of a criminal; some are well educated, with close families. Nevertheless, the majority of prisoners have experienced difficult circumstances. They often come from broken homes and may have a history of mental illness, failed education, abuse, self-harm, drug use or high levels of alcohol consumption. Crime is usually the outcome. The vision of X-Stream is to proclaim liberty to the [physical and spiritual] captives. Isaiah 61:1 Amp. They understand that, without Christ, every person is in bondage to sin, an internal ‘prison’. The team has a passion to proclaim the hope of Jesus to inmates who are imprisoned both externally and internally. X-Stream volunteers use their time in chapel to worship, pray, and challenge prisoners that true liberty is only found in a relationship with Jesus.

Many prisoners who are seeking answers find hope and positively respond to the Gospel. Although inmates remain in an external prison until they have served their sentences, they receive internal freedom through God’s forgiveness. Convert to disciple X-Stream further supports the chaplain at HM Ashfield through weekly discipleship groups. Team members teach new believers how to live a Christian life using Carmel’s course, ‘The Basics’. Prison officers often comment on the changes in these prisoners’ lives. One young man had a history of reoffending, but after becoming a Christian and attending the discipleship group, his life changed dramatically. He stopped reoffending. He recently returned to the prison to tell others what God has done. Outreach For the third consecutive year, the Exceptional Women’s ministry raised money to send Christmas cards and gifts to the ladies’ prison at Eastwood Park. It communicates God’s love and many ladies have expressed gratitude to know they have not been forgotten at this otherwise lonely time. X-Stream assists with chapel at HM Ashfield and HMP Bristol on the first Sunday of every month, and HMP Eastwood Park Prison three times a year. The team desires to begin discipleship groups at HMP Bristol during 2012. If you would like to be involved with X-stream’s prison ministry, email info@carmelcentre.org

* www.parliament.uk/briefing-papers/SN04334.pdf 7

ARTICLE: BY PASTOR GERRI DI SOMMA

INVOKING

GOD’S FAVOUR

THROUGH SUBMISSION AND HONOUR This article is a summary of the teachings in the series, ‘Invoking God’s favour through Submission and Honour’. The full series is available on CD and DVD at the Carmel Bookshop.

God’s plan and purpose is for us to fulfil His will in every area of our lives. We have a vital part to play. Our response to authority, whether we submit or rebel, will affect our lives on earth positively or negatively and may have eternal consequences. Unfortunately, many people view submission negatively. Due to the misuse of authority, their experiences of control and manipulation leave them cautious or suspicious. However, understanding that all authority comes from God brings the realisation that submission benefits us and others. God is in control God is the supreme authority; nothing and no one else is higher than Him. He ordains all other authorities and is therefore in control. Understanding God’s sovereignty gives us confidence that God will take care of us regardless of what earthly authorities may or may not do. Without conviction of this, submitting to earthly authorities may prove difficult. Everyone encounters authority We will either be in authority, working with someone in authority or under someone’s authority. It may be all three at once. It’s always important to recognise our responsibilities to authority, so that we can obey God’s Word and obtain His blessings. There are five levels of authority found in God’s Word. The highest level is spiritual authority,

which is our submission to God. The other four are God-ordained earthly authorities: family authority, Church authority, civil authority and social authority. Submission is a safe place God established authority for our protection, to govern and to keep order. Road traffic rules are one example. Submitting to speed limits protects our wellbeing by preventing chaos and accidents. Our safety depends on our submission to authority. This applies to every area of our lives. True submission Our response to earthly authorities reveals whether we are submitted to God. Many Christians believe they are submitted to Him, but don’t understand that submission to God is proved through submission to the other four levels of authority. The Apostle Paul understood the direct link between submission to God and submission to earthly authorities. He wrote: Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgement on themselves. Romans 13:1-2.

When we resist earthly authorities, we actually resist God, the One who established them. God doesn’t judge us, but our wilful disobedience brings judgement upon ourselves, which removes us from receiving prosperity and favour. Submission and honour work together

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God established authority for our protection, to govern and to keep order.

is unquestionably ungodly is there room for us to resist, but even then we still honour the authority by protesting peacefully, using the prescribed channels provided. Submission and honour bring rewards

We mustn’t submit out of duty, or fear of consequence, but willingly, with honour, so that our conscience is clear: Therefore you must be subject, not only because of wrath but also for conscience’ sake. For because of this you also pay taxes, for they are God’s ministers attending continually to this very thing. Render therefore to all their due: taxes to whom taxes are due, customs to whom customs, fear to whom fear, honour to whom honour. Romans 13:5-7.

When we obey God’s instructions, we increase the length of our days, obtain peace and find favour and high esteem in the sight of God and man. Proverbs 3:1-4. A biblical example is the widow of Zarephath (1 Kings 17:8-24). There was famine in the land and the widow was preparing to make a final meal for herself and her son. God had sent the prophet Elijah to accept food from her. The widow welcomed Elijah and fed him using her last portion of food. The widow received an immediate reward: her food multiplied. She also had a greater miracle awaiting her: when her son died, he was raised to life through Elijah’s prayer. Her submission to the prophet brought a prophet’s reward (Matthew 10:40-42). Our submission to authority will also bring the corresponding rewards.

Submission and honour are God’s way

Jesus submitted and honoured all authority

Submission is not always easy; sometimes it is uncomfortable. Even so, submission and honour are still God’s order. Even if we disagree with decisions made by someone in authority, God’s command remains the same. Only if the directive

Jesus is our example. He was in perfect submission and honour to God and man at all times. Though He was God, He emptied Himself and became a man, submitting to and honouring all authority, even ungodly authorities of His day.

Submission means to give over or yield to the power or authority of another. Honour is an expression of respect or high estimation by words and action. Submission and honour cannot be separated. Submission without honour is lip service; honour without submission is rebellion.

“ The following are instances where Jesus demonstrated His submission and honour to the five levels of authority: Jesus and God’s Authority Jesus knew God’s authority and submitted to it, ultimately giving His life to do God’s will. Jesus said, “I do not seek My own will but the will of the Father who sent Me.” John 5:30. Jesus demonstrated His submission in doing only what He saw the Father do, and speaking only the words He heard God speak (John 5:19; 12:49-50). During His final days of life on earth, knowing that His death was imminent, Jesus was sorrowful and deeply distressed. His sweat became like drops of blood. Even though it meant suffering immense pain and humiliation, Jesus submitted His will to God’s authority: “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.” Matthew 26:39. Jesus and Family Authority The first authority that God established upon the earth was within the family (Genesis 1:26-28; 2:21-25). The authority and the relationships within the family structure are important because their purpose is to reflect the relationship between Christ and the Church. The Gospel of Luke records a significant event in the life of Jesus when He was 12 years old. His family had been to Jerusalem for their annual pilgrimage to celebrate the Passover. Whilst returning to their home in Nazareth, Joseph and Mary realised that Jesus was not with them. They returned to Jerusalem searching for Jesus and found Him in the temple conversing with the

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ARTICLE: BY PASTOR GERRI DI SOMMA

Jesus knew God’s authority and submitted to it, ultimately giving His life to do God’s will.

teachers. Upon their reunion, Jesus shows His submission to family authority: Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them… and Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and men. Luke 2:41-52. Jesus, who was perfect, submitted Himself to His human parents, who were imperfect. His submission set the example that we too should honour our parents, regardless of their imperfect nature: Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honour your father and mother,” which is the first commandment with promise: “that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth.” Ephesians 6:1-3. Jesus and Church Authority In the New Testament Church, God has ordained leaders to guide, guard and govern the family of God. During Old Testament times, the priests were the religious leaders of God’s people, the Jews. The most prominent was the High Priest, who served as an intermediary between God and the Jews. Jesus lived in this Old Testament society, at the time when the Romans had appointed Caiaphas as High Priest to advance their political aims. Caiaphas had not been chosen based upon God’s order through the lineage of the tribe of Levi. Therefore his authority was illegitimate. However, Jesus showed His submission to Caiaphas’ authority by paying temple tax (Matthew 17:24-27). The writer of Hebrews exhorts believers to submit to Church leaders knowing that they watch out

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for our souls, as those who must give account. Hebrews 13:17. It is to our advantage that we submit. We are warned that refusing to submit, thus causing them to rule with grief rather than joy, will be unprofitable for us.

Jesus experienced being under authority as a student and being in authority as a teacher. He recognised and taught the order of authority: “A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master.” Matthew 10:24.

Jesus and Civil Authority

Although He was the Son of God and a teacher of the Jews, Jesus taught a powerful lesson when He washed His disciple’s feet. He said: “If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you.” John 13:14-15.

Civil authority refers to those who govern nations and cities. In the UK, the Prime Minister is the head of civil authority, working with Members of Parliament across the country to uphold law and order. During Jesus’ life, Israel was subject to Roman rule, having been invaded by them years earlier. The Romans were an illegitimate authority in Israel because they had entered by force. The land was not theirs. Despite this, Jesus didn’t overthrow the Romans. In fact, He submitted to them by paying taxes to Augustus Caesar, the Roman ruler in Israel at that time (Mark 12:13-17). The Bible commands believers to submit to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake. 1 Peter 2:13-14. We are also instructed to pray for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour. 1 Timothy 2:2-3. Jesus and Social Authority Social authority refers to relationships within employment and education. As a Jewish child, Jesus would have been schooled in Judaism. As an adult, Jesus regularly taught at the synagogue (for example Luke 4:16-21; Mark 1:21). Jesus was known as a teacher, and many referred to Him as ‘master’ and ‘Lord’.

Jesus, the Son of God, stated that even He did not come to be served, but to serve (Matthew 20:28). His example gives us fresh perspective in fulfilling our responsibility: Servants, be submissive to your masters with all fear, not only to the good and gentle, but also to the harsh. 2 Peter 2:18.

Submit, honour and prosper If you want to prosper and be favoured here on earth, you must submit to all the earthly authorities that God has established. Jesus has given us the example. He submitted His will and honoured all authority, fulfilling God’s will for His life. He prospered because He didn’t violate authority. When we obey God’s instruction concerning submission and honour, we too will fulfil God’s plan for our lives and position ourselves to receive the favour of God and man.

TEACHING: BY PASTOR MICHELLE DI SOMMA

EXCELLENCE

AS STANDARD Daniel was a Bible character who exemplified an excellent spirit. As a young man, he was taken into captivity in Babylon by King Nebuchadnezzar along with other young men to serve in the King’s palace and to learn the language and literacy of the Chaldeans (Daniel 1:3-4). Then this Daniel distinguished himself above the governors and satraps, because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king gave thought to setting him over the whole realm. Daniel 6:3. Excellence brings promotion. Excellence means admirable, distinguished, exceptional, extraordinary, first class, outstanding, superb and unequalled. God promised His people, “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will keep My judgements and do them.” Ezekiel 36:26. Daniel was not Spirit-filled, yet he had an excellent spirit. We who have been given a new heart and a new spirit have even greater potential to live excellent, outstanding Christian lives as we yield to the Holy Spirit. ATTAINING EXCELLENT CONDUCT Purpose in your heart Excellence is a matter of choice. From the beginning of his captivity, Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s delicacies. Daniel 1:8. Daniel was determined. He firmly decided and was unable to be persuaded otherwise to defile himself, to pollute, stain or make himself impure.

We defile ourselves with many different things such as sin, rebellion, fornication, hatred, unforgiveness, offence, lack of service in the Body of Christ, a bad attitude, self-pity etc. Rebellion is unwillingness to do anything God asks us to do. We therefore need to bring every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:5. If we don’t learn to deal with the things that come our way, defilement will come and we will not live excellent lives. When we work through the issues of our hearts, we won’t be moved by what we feel or the negative things we see. We must be moved only by what God’s Word says. We must choose to see what Jesus Christ has done for us and determine in our hearts to live a life that exemplifies Christ. Be a ‘man of the spirit’ Secondly, Daniel was a man of the spirit. When the king wanted someone to reveal his dreams the queen said, “There is a man in your kingdom in whom is the Spirit of the Holy God.” Daniel 5:11. Will we be people of the Spirit or people of the flesh? Our flesh does not want us to serve God; we therefore need to crucify it. The Apostle Paul said that he died daily (1 Corinthians 15:31). Dying to self is not just for Sundays in Church, but daily. Daily we have to make that decision to crucify ourselves and to tell our flesh to ‘shut up’. Have we crucified our flesh? Or is it very much alive? Are you in that place where you desire more of the Holy Spirit? Do you want to be continually walking in the Spirit so that He can move in you and through you and minister to those around you? When your day starts badly, do you have a bad attitude for the rest of the day? Or do you approach your day saying, “Father, what is it that You have for me and desire of me today?”

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Excellence brings promotion. Excellence means admirable, distinguished, exceptional, extraordinary, first class, outstanding, superb and unequalled.

Is there sensitivity in us to hear His voice so when someone is hurting, we can speak with them? When someone is in need, can we can meet that need? When someone needs prayer do we offer to pray with them? The Spirit of God should flow in us, through us and out of us, so we touch the lives of those around us in a miraculous way and people are drawn to Christ. When Jesus walked this earth and the power of God flowed through Him, the crowds came because they knew there was someone who could meet their need. We need to be people of the Spirit, not people of the flesh. Refuse to compromise Thirdly, Daniel refused to compromise when his enemies persuaded the king to sign a decree. It stated that whoever petitioned any god or man for thirty days should be cast into the den of lions. Daniel knew that he was putting his life in danger when he knelt down on his knees… and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as was his custom since early days. Daniel 6:10. However, because Daniel had an excellent spirit within him, he refused to compromise. Daniel’s conviction was to serve God and not man. If we want to live excellent lives, we need to ask ourselves, is my Christian walk by conviction or is it by preference? Conviction is to know and do only what God and His Word requires of us. Preference is choosing our will rather than God’s. When God’s Word becomes our standard, we will become unwilling to live by anything but what His Word says; be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. James 1:22. Take time to read and study the Bible for yourself and know what it says. The more conviction we have concerning something, the less we are tempted to compromise, and there will be more excellence in our lives.

Beware of the subtlety of compromise. D.A. Carson wrote that we drift toward compromise calling it tolerance; towards disobedience calling it freedom; towards superstition calling it faith. Be excellent in mind Finally, Daniel was excellent in mind because he had made a commitment to the living God. Commitment makes all the difference in life. “Until I am committed there is a hesitancy, a chance to draw back. But the moment I definitely commit myself, God moves also and a whole stream of events erupt. All manner of unforeseen incidents, meetings, persons and material assistance which I could never have dreamed possible begin to flow toward me – the moment I make a commitment.” John C Maxwell. God commits Himself to committed people. When we’ve come to the crossroads in life we either confirm or compromise our commitments to God. Every time Daniel reached the crossroads in his life, God asked him to confirm his commitment to Him. Daniel had made a decision not to be a conformist but to be wholly committed to the living God; he could not be bought or sold. Daniel demonstrated an excellent mind, firm in his conviction of serving the living God unreservedly. Purpose in your heart not to defile yourself. Walk in the Spirit and live your life through conviction. Let an excellent spirit be found in you. Stand up and stand out as an exemplary Christian who refuses to compromise. Be excellent in mind, committed to God. Rise up and set your heart aright, determined to serve God in the spirit of excellence.

TEACHING: BY PASTOR GERRI DI SOMMA

IT ONLY COMES WITH A

FIGHT When God gives a dream or vision, it doesn’t just happen. We must fight to see it fulfilled. There is always a reason for the fight. Nobody goes to war for the sake of it, but to achieve something. As believers, the purpose of our fight is to see the powers of darkness overcome in order to establish the kingdom of light. This will only happen if we stand firm on the Word and fix our eyes on Jesus, whatever the circumstances.

1. God anoints and appoints who He wants

Whilst running for his life from Saul, David was nearly abandoned by his own men when the Philistines raided the camp and captured their wives and children, but he never gave up (1 Samuel 30).

King David wrote: Is not this the God who armed me, then aimed me in the right direction?... He shows me how to fight. Psalm 18:33-34 The Message Bible.

Though we will experience opposition, the Word tells us, ‘Now faith is…’ Hebrews 11:1. Faith is always in the present tense. If God has spoken, the vision will manifest.

When God appoints, He anoints to see the vision fulfilled, but we must obey Him. David recognised this and fought for his dream as he rose from shepherd boy to king (1 Samuel 16 – 2 Samuel 2). David was anointed when young, whilst Saul was still king. Even though Saul had been anointed by God, he moved out of position through disobedience. However, it was not David’s responsibility to question why God had chosen Saul in the first place. Though we may question God’s choice in the people He uses, we must recognise that the key to success is in our obedience.

3. The vision only comes if we are prepared to fight to the end

2. Time is on God’s side

James instructed: count it all joy when you fall into various trials. James 1:2. God makes a way through hardships, but we cannot hide from the fact that there will be various trials throughout life. When Jesus was tempted by the devil in the wilderness for 40 days He stood firm and resisted, drawing on God’s Word (Luke 4:13).

Three key principles to see the vision fulfilled:

God is not governed by time. Therefore our time frame for vision fulfilment may be different to His. Once we recognise this, the length of time will cease to be of importance to us. We then focus on the end goal and keep fighting, no matter how long it takes.

Time tests our obedience to form the basis of our character. Even though it was 27 years before David saw the manifestation of his vision to become King of Israel, he didn’t spend those years passively waiting. He held on to God’s promise and fought to rid his land of enemies.

You protect me with salvation-armour… When I chased my enemies I caught them; I didn’t let go till they were dead men. Psalm 18:34-36. No soldier goes to war without expecting to have to fight. We must have the same attitude when God has given us a vision. God has provided us with spiritual armour so we can prepare ourselves for battle (Ephesians 6:13-18).

Tests produce within us the endurance needed to fight until we have overcome and received the promised vision (James 1:3-4).

(Luke 9). We need to recognise that our provision is in obedience. Guard against anything that keeps you from God’s will, as it will rob you of the vision.

Recently, my wife Michelle and I have faced major trials in Carmel and our natural family. At times we were tempted to doubt our calling and God’s presence in our lives. We kept going by keeping our eyes fixed on the author and finisher of our faith because we knew what God had spoken to us.

4. Will you do whatever it takes?

Questions to ask yourself: 1. Is the vision God’s or your idea? God’s vision is always far bigger than we are able to produce without Him or other people. Once we realise that we cannot achieve it in our own strength, God is able to bring gifted people to empower us to see the vision accomplished. 2. Have you served faithfully in what was another man’s? If we speak against our leaders when they make mistakes, we fail to acknowledge that they are ordained by God and we delay the vision. David served Saul faithfully and continued to build his kingdom. He never lifted his voice against Saul, even while Saul was trying to kill him. I served faithfully in the Church I came from for 14 years, helping another man build his vision. Until we are willing to help someone else see their vision accomplished, we cannot expect to see our own come to pass. 3. What strongholds does the devil occupy to hinder you? The devil always tries to find strongholds in our lives so that he can hold us captive and stop us from fulfilling the vision. A stronghold can be anything that we place as a condition before we obey God, for example, waiting for finances before obeying God’s call. Jesus sent the disciples out without money, a second cloak or protection, yet they returned rejoicing at the miracles that had happened

Paul exhorts us: having done all, to stand. Ephesians 6:13. It is vital to hold on to the vision that God has given. Fix your eyes on Jesus and stand against all opposition, from wherever it comes. God creates a place, then He creates a person for that place, then He gives him a purpose in that place where his potential is realised. If we give in and listen to the voices opposing us, we move out of God’s will, His place and purpose. Fight for the vision, even when the strongest opposition comes from those closest to you. People who are well-meaning may suggest different options, trying to use reason to move you out of God’s will. David experienced opposition from Saul, the person he was serving, who tried to kill him more than once. Perhaps the hardest opposition to overcome arises from our own fears and insecurities. When God gives a dream or vision, we may need to wrestle with ourselves to see it accomplished. Even Jesus wrestled with Himself in the Garden of Gethsemane saying, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; yet not as I will, but as You will.” Matthew 26:39. God knew that He had placed the potential in His Son to go all the way to Calvary, but Jesus had to choose to surrender to His Father’s will. We face the same choice, even if what God is asking us to do seems impossible. God has placed within us all that we need to see the fulfilment of the vision. He is just waiting for our obedience. Fix your eyes on Jesus and hold firm to the dream that God has given you. Remember that God has fully equipped you to achieve His vision. Fight for it, always obeying God. Look forward to seeing its fulfilment and receiving the rewards of your obedience.

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TEACHING: BY PASTOR JACOB JOHN

SPIRITUAL

TRANSITION

Throughout history, the question has been asked, ‘What must I do to be saved?’ Noah would have answered, ‘Step into the boat’. A few hundred years later, Moses would have replied, ‘Follow the ten commandments’. Later, John the Baptist told people to repent, for the kingdom of God was near. When Jesus was asked the same question, He said to repent for the kingdom of God was here and you must be born again to enter. After Jesus’ death, Paul said that salvation is not by works but by grace through faith. The same question over time has different answers because although God’s truth is absolute, He reveals it progressively. Transition is a movement, passage, or change from one position, state, stage or concept to another. To receive and understand new aspects of truths revealed, we must transition continuously from one spiritual position to another. We must remain open to the Holy Spirit to receive the living, rhema Word of God as He speaks to us, thus receiving His all-sufficient grace for each situation. Man shall not live by bread alone; but man lives by every word that proceeds from the mouth of the Lord. Deuteronomy 8:3. Living on yesterday’s Word and what God did in the past will not move us to where God is or let us hear what He’s saying now. Many Churches and individual believers, comfortable with what God has done, stagnate in their spiritual position. They ‘pitch tents’ instead of following Abraham’s example of building altars and moving on to the next sighting of God. They never

become part of the ‘remnant’ that God seeks to handle and act on His unfolding truths. THREE ASPECTS TO SPIRITUAL TRANSITION: Repentance, Separation, and Pursuit of God Repentance means a change of mind, thinking and reasoning. When believers repent, they turn away from their own beliefs and opinions to follow God. God brought Abraham through stages of spiritual transition to give up his own plans, leave his country and people, give up Lot, Hagar, Ishmael and finally Isaac. Abraham separated from everything that was dear and familiar, pursuing God in ways unfamiliar to him. Separation and pursuit are only possible through a change of mindset. Jesus said you cannot “put new wine into old wineskins, or else the wineskins break.” Matthew 9:17. If we consider our mindsets as our wineskins, we realise God cannot pour His thoughts into us until our thoughts change. Only then can we receive His higher thoughts and ways (Isaiah 55:8-9). For example, once we’re born again, we’re already godly; we don’t have to do things in order to become godly. Accepting this truth helps us become who we’re supposed to be and do what we’re supposed to do, without effort, led by God. THE COST OF SPIRITUAL TRANSITION: No Construction without Deconstruction A change of mind, or spiritual transition, is costly. People don’t like change. That’s why Jesus

referred to the kingdom of heaven as a treasure, hidden by someone in a field until he sold everything to buy the field and have the treasure (Matthew 13:44). Church leaders should give up everything for that treasure beyond value: their reputations, dreams and plans for their church, their thoughts on the kind of meeting they want, their inaccurate doctrine and yesterday’s thoughts, because God wants to show them something new. Giving up such things is difficult. Consequently many Churches start well but are unable to finish and don’t transition. They long for revival, but you cannot revive something that has not been properly reformed. Reformation and revival need a change of mindset. The Church should be apostolic, able to see truth substructured. It is supposed to be able to see what is wrong, whatever the reason may be, and correct its faulty foundations. All believers must transition in every area from one spiritual position to another. Some of us haven’t even transitioned from the culture we were raised in to the culture of God’s kingdom. Christ’s rule and reign can only enter our lives when we give up our ways and seek God’s (Matthew 6:33). John the Baptist prepared the way for Jesus and unquestionably knew who Jesus was (John 1:21-39). Despite this and although the One he had been prophesying about had stood before him, fulfilling prophecies of the past 3,000–4,000 years, John did not change his message. He continued to preach that the kingdom of God was near. Although he had acknowledged Jesus as the Son of God, he later sent two of his disciples to ask Jesus, “Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?” Matthew 11:2-3. John did not transition spiritually, and there were consequences. When a Church or individuals don’t transition spiritually, there’s always a vacuum creating the possibility of negative circumstances: 1. You become involved in battles that should not be yours. You stay in the wrong place at the wrong time and create enemies who could destroy you. Perhaps if John had recognised that the kingdom of God had come, had given up his ministry and followed Jesus, he might not have accused Herod for marrying his brother’s wife, and might have lived longer. However, deception crept in, and Herodius influenced her daughter to trick Herod into beheading John the Baptist (Matthew 14:8-11).

2. Someone else controls your agenda. The Prophet Elijah, chosen by God to demonstrate His power, put to death 450 of Baal’s prophets. But when Jezebel threatened to kill him as a result, Elijah ran away, hiding in fear and lamenting his place on earth. He had to change his thinking before he could trust and obey God again (2 Kings 1:8 - 2:11). 3. Many generations become affected. Look at Church history! Lot walked south with Abraham, an amazing transitioner, but then stayed, producing children through his own daughters. They grew up to be the Amonites and Moabites who later persecuted his children (Genesis 19:37-38). Israel’s journey from Egypt to Canaan was frustrated by the Amonites and Moabites. 4. Distorted or partial truth is taught and believed. It happened to John’s spiritual children. Apollos, knowing only the baptism of John, had to be taught to transition in his thinking before he could teach accurately (Acts 18:25-26). Similarly, 20 or 30 years after Jesus’ death, Paul had to teach the people in Ephesus because they hadn’t heard of the Holy Spirit. (Acts 19:1-5). 5. You become distracted from your destiny. You propagate what you believe. If your beliefs are founded on where God was, not where God is, you’re following John when Jesus is around. There are groups today, 2,000 years later, still following John’s teachings. GOD IS RESTORING HIS BRIDE The process is simple: repent, separate and pursue God. What areas in your life, what doctrines, lifestyle and thoughts remain unchanged, stagnant? Will you give them up and move on with God? Or will you hold on to them because of cultural or denominational obligation or fear it would disassemble everything you believe? God wants a people who continuously transition spiritually, functioning as He intends, where the five-fold ministries come alive, where believers in each city are known and function as a people called Christ. Through those who transition in their lifestyles, marriages and homes, the lost will see Christ demonstrated. Start by making simple changes in your thinking: change having enough to more than enough to do God’s will, change healing to walking in health, and isolation to relationship. There’s no limit to the further changes that await. Transition spiritually, so the Church, the Bride of Christ, is restored.

TESTIMONIES FOUND HEAVEN

Whether we realise it or not, God is active in our lives. He doesn’t force us to follow Him, but He is ready and waiting when we call on His name. The stories below prove that God’s heart towards us is still the same: He loves unconditionally, heals miraculously and forgives perfectly. Helen and Travis’ testimonies confirm that encounters with God are not co-incidental. He has been seeking each of us passionately since before we were born and will continue to do so until Jesus returns.

attention I craved. singing to gain the of t gif y m concerts. ed us I me. ances and various rm rfo pe Life was all about a er op , twined with hool productions lf-worth became en se y m d I was the star of sc an ew gr feed my ego. y pride many as possible to e and accolades. M as us ed pla nt ap e wa I th o: ed to lov I h boyfriends n Alliance ht attention throug ion was at a Christia ristian. at od m m performing. I soug co ac le ab Ch ail d opera, the only av portance of being a on to study voice an Church came and spoke about the im ing to do. nd th Lo le to ab ed ion ov sh m fa I a n Whe lieved it was m the local be fro p ely ou er gr m I a ; re as ce tm sn’t completely sin Hostel. That Chris offered to s but my decision wa gapore a Christian Sin g itin vis st hil W . I gave my life to Jesu luding a lack of lost voice m my shoulders, inc on, divorced with a rs fro pe ed lift en s ok en br a rd s bu d wa into insignificance. irit an Many years later, I erything else paled , I laughed in the Sp ev er d ay an pr s e su th g Je rin th wi Du e in lov pray for me. perience in the at moment on, I fell d me to invest my ex iven abilities. self-worth. From th lle ca s ha d Go . rs r God and othe urish in their God-g Now, I live my life fo e joy to see them flo m s ing br It n. tio ra e the Family younger gene sband and I overse hu y M d. rie ar m re d and His Spirit. d I have healed my voice, an form others’ lives, through God’s Wor He s: ce an ch nd co ns God is a God of se ing courses that tra ries at Carmel, runn se ion at rm sfo an Tr

I grew up in Zim babwe and Sout h Africa. My fam I became a teen ily occasionally at ager, I stopped at tended Church, tending complet preferred to spen but when ely. I wanted to jo d my time at nigh in the ‘popular cr tclubs, smoking, from this crowd owd’ and drinking and taki but later learned ng drugs. I gained that it was supe acceptance rficial; they care My ambition was d more about th to become a prof emselves than ab essional tennis pl Instead, I enrolled out me. ayer, but due to lim at a Tennis Coac ited finances, I co hing Academy, wh ul dn er ’t e pu my rebellious life rsue that dream A friend from the style continued. . academy invited me to a Bible Stud This friend genuin y. I agreed, and be ely cared for me; gan attending th he was loving, loya nightclubbing frien e Bible Study and l, honest and since ds impacted me; Church. re. The stark cont my heart was so rast from my ftened and I was One day, God spok dr aw n to e to me whilst I wa God. s reading Psalm The next morning 91. At that point , I destroyed the I chose to follow cigarettes and dr perfect peace; m Jesus with all my ugs I’d been takin y identity and valu heart. g. I was completel e is in Jesus. With other people. y changed. I now out God, my life wo ha ve uld be full of inse curity, seeking va I recently marrie lu e from d the woman of m y dreams. Togeth about God’s plan er we lead the Ch s for our future. ildren’s Ministry at Carmel, and ar e excited

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