KINGDOM PRIVILEGE Should Church Leaders PAY MUSICIANS FOR MINISTRY?
Magazine
what is the truth about speaking in tongues?
BISHOP WILLIAM SEWELL $14 US $18 CAN
009
A JOURNEY THROUGH MINISTRY
"From the rising of the Sun unto the going down of the same the LORD'S name is to be praised" Psalms 113:3
Other Literary Works from Gnamou and Catherine Henry
GOD PRODIGY PUBLISHING IS A PUBLISHING COMPANY THAT BEGAN IN 2014 BY GNAMOU HENRY. GOD PRODIGY PUBLISHING SPECIALIZES IN PUBLISHING MULTIPLE TYPES OF CHRISTIAN LITERATURE, FROM BOOKS, TO ESSAYS, TO BIBLE COMMENTARIES, TO AUTOBIOGRAPHIES AND MUCH MORE. FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE EMAIL US AT:
gnamouhenryministries@gmail.com
Kingdom Privilege | 4 | August 2022
KINGDOM PRIVILEGE MAGAZINE A Christian Magazine that operates with integrity, without compromise. Reserve your copy today, visit us at: kingdomprivilegemagazine.com email us at: kingdomprivilegemagazine@gmail.com Kingdom Privilege | 5 | August 2022
CREATOR OF KINGDOM PRIVILEGE MAGAZINE
GNAMOU HENRY Two years in the making. This magazine started as just an idea in my mind but through the grace of God it has come to fruition. I am thankful to so many people who were instrumental in making this idea a reality, but most of all the praise belongs to God. I'm reminded of Acts 26:22 "Having therefore obtained help of God, I continue unto this day," Kingdom Privilege | 6 | August 2022
C O N T E N T S
36
Cover Story Bishop William Sewell By Pastor Gnamou Henry
20
The Relapsing Prodigal By Elder Sean Wallace
06
The Creator of KINGDOM PRIVILEGE MAGAZINE
13
Let Me Put On My Glasses So I Can Hear You Better By Elder Ernest Johnson
29
The Formula Of Prayer By Elder Linda Queen
Children do right by your parents "LO, CHILDREN ARE AN HERITAGE OF THE LORD: AND THE FRUIT OF THE WOMB IS HIS REWARD" (PSALMS 127:3). "CHILDREN, OBEY YOUR PARENTS IN THE LORD: FOR THIS IS RIGHT" (EPHESIANS 6:1). "CHILDREN, OBEY YOUR PARENTS IN ALL THINGS: FOR THIS IS WELL PLEASING UNTO THE LORD" (COLOSSIANS 3:20).
ACKNOWLEGEMENTS
EDITOR IN CHIEF EDITORIAL CONSULTANT
Gnamou Henry Catherine Henry
ART DIRECTOR
Gnamou Henry
MANAGING EDITOR
Gnamou Henry
STYLE EDITOR
Gnamou Henry
CONTRIBUTORS Catherine Henry, Linda Queen, Ernest Johnson, Sean Wallace
PHOTOGRAPHER Elizabeth Efeyini
Kingdom Privilege | 9 | August 2022
CONTENTS 44
50 SHOULD CHURCH LEADERS PAY MUSICIANS FOR MINISTRY?
WHAT IS THE TRUTH ABOUT SPEAKING IN TONGUES? BY PASTOR GNAMOU HENRY
BY PASTOR GNAMOU HENRY
19
THE BENEFITS OF A GOOD EXERCISE ROUTINE BY PASTOR GNAMOU HENRY
27
WHAT IS GLAUCOMA? BY PASTOR GNAMOU HENRY
THERE IS NO SECRET
TO WHAT GOD CAN DO!
The Benefits of a Family Dog Dogs are known to form strong bonds with children, which is great for parents concerned about their children’s safety. Having the companionship of a dog can help protect children against bullies and violent fights. It also helps keep your peace of mind to know that you have a guardian watching over the house at night and when you are away during the day. If you are interested in a guard dog, German Shepherds, Rottweilers, and Doberman Pinschers are all great family dogs that have strong protective and loyal instincts. A well-trained guard dog will respond to intruders but will not be aggressive or vicious in their daily lives. They will be fiercely loyal to your family, and will be gentle with your children, and ready to defend them from danger.
Kingdom Privilege | 12 | August 2022
LET ME PUT ON MY GLASSES SO I CAN HEAR YOU BETTER By Elder Ernest Johnson
T
The title may have thrown you a bit. When I first heard it at around 9 or 10 years of age, it threw me as well. This idiom was one of my uncle’s favorite sayings. My Uncle Jeff was incredibly unique, with tons of personality. People knew him most for his love of education, multiple careers, and adventurous spirit. Uncle Jeff would sometimes hear me and my family talking, and when he got confused or
heard something that made little sense to him, he would say, “Wait a minute, let me put on my glasses so I can hear you better.” We would look at him and laugh, saying, “Uncle Jeff, what are you talking about? How do your glasses help you hear better?” He would respond, “I don’t know, I just know that I hear better with my glasses on.” He had tons of sayings like this, but recently this saying resonated with me a little differently. Maybe Uncle Jeff Kingdom Privilege | 13 | August 2022
was on to something. Is there a connection between hearing and seeing? This question hit me hard one day—the saying hit me even harder. The saying made me reflect as far back as 2020, when a global pandemic hit the earth and we lost Kobe Bryant and so many others. When millions watched helplessly while immense civil unrest swept throughout the world as black men and women felt like they were being killed
"Most recently, the war between Russia and Ukraine and mass shootings all over the country have pushed people to the brink of a breakdown."
for sport with no justice to be had—not to mention the propaganda of the Trump/Biden election and the historical storming of the US Capitol on January 6, 2021. Most recently, the war between Russia and Ukraine and mass shootings all over the country. These couple of years have been unflinching in
its goal to challenge our faith and spiritual resolve. Some days, it feels like we’re in a sandstorm of hate and confusion. Many have been pushed to the brink of a breakdown due to glum news reports and fear of another corona infection outbreak, or worse, with seemingly no way to get direction from God amid it all. Kingdom Privilege | 14 | August 2022
As the body of Christ, it has become clear that WE ARE IN THE FIGHT OF OUR LIVES! But we can’t see God as our “fight trainer.” We can’t look to Him for His help because we’re cut above one eye from the stress of life. Too much blood is flowing for us to see. The other eye is swollen because of the onslaught of bad news
Let Me Put On My Glasses So I Can Hear You Better that hits us every day. So, our vision is blurry in both eyes. What are we supposed to do? How can we maintain our fight in these days of uncertainty and despair, when we can’t see what God is doing? This isn’t an unfamiliar issue. We have all experienced times when we’ve had to continue moving forward, although we could not see the next step. I think we can find the answers on how to get through
"We can find the answer on how to get through everything by examining Matthew chapter 9." everything by examining Matthew chapter 9. The 9th chapter of Matthew is filled with the works of Jesus.
"How can we maintain our fight in these days of uncertainty?"
In this chapter alone, Jesus performed an exorcism, resurrected Jairus' daughter, called Matthew, and most famously healed the woman with the issue of blood. But let’s talk about the two blind men who were also healed. The other miracles often overshadow them. I’m certain that our answer to how we maintain our fight in days of uncertainty and despair is in their
"two blind men followed jesus without being able to use their sight." testimony. The text says that there were two blind men present when Jesus raised Jairus’ daughter from the dead. They were so moved by this miracle that they saw Jesus as their only hope for ever gaining their sight. As Jesus left the scene of His most recent miracle, these two blind men followed Him. Yes, you read it correctly. Two blind men followed Jesus without being able to use their sight. As I read this story, I remembered that sometimes, spiritually, I felt like these two men.
"Walk by faith and not by sight" Often, in our dedicated walk with Christ, we walk with Him with no idea where He’s going. We follow Him in and out of seasons when we can’t always see Him. We maintain the good fight of faith when we can’t see any way through many of our dilemmas. In this text, we see “walking by faith and not by sight” embodied by these two believers. How was it possible for these two blind men to follow Jesus? They couldn’t have been listening for His footsteps because there were too many men walking with Jesus. They couldn’t have felt their way because how would they have known whom they were following? This leaves only one option—one way they could have followed Jesus. They were listening for His voice! The voice of Jesus would have been the only distinctive element they could use to follow Him. They
Kingdom Privilege | 16 | August 2022
"Faith isn’t about seeing, it’s about hearing." "Is there a connection between hearing and seeing? Absolutely." put into action what we often say about faith. Faith isn’t about seeing, it’s about hearing. The Scriptures say that faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God (Romans 10:17). We also know that in the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God and the Word was God (John 1:1). Is there a connection between hearing and seeing? Absolutely. How do we keep the faith while fighting and moving forward when we can’t see how it’s going to get better? Listen to see better! “Especially as a Christian,” sometimes what we hear God say is all we have! We cannot see what He’s doing or where He has us going. But if we continue listening for His voice, our vision gets clearer. This works in reverse from what Uncle Jeff was trying to tell us, but the same principle applies. The more we listen, the easier it is to see our next step.
Kingdom Privilege | 17 | August 2022
THE BENEFITS OF A GOOD EXERCISE ROUTINE STUDIES SHOW THAT PHYSICAL EXERCISE IS HEALTHY FOR THE BRAIN AND BODY. LET’S LOOK AT THE BENEFITS OF BOTH: Brain: Physical exercise improves brain activity, mood, and sleep. It also reduces stress and anxiety. It boosts memory concentration, slows cognitive decline and mental illness.
Body: Physical exercise is excellent for overall body fitness. It improves blood flow, increases weight loss, and reduces physical age related decline. It also reduces stress, lowers the risk of chronic conditions such as cancer, diabetes, coronary heart diseases and cardiovascular diseases. Physical exercise improves heart and lung health. Blood pumps fast throughout the body, the heart and lungs work harder and become stronger. Strength training burns calories and helps with alterations in metabolism. It increases bone density and reduces the risk of injury. It rebuilds lost muscle, lowers cholesterol levels, reduces heart attacks and stroke. So get yourself a good exercise regimen. It does wonders for your health.
BE ADVISED THAT THE INFORMATION GIVEN IN THIS ARTICLE IS NOT MEANT AS A PROFESSIONAL DIAGNOSIS OR TREATMENT. THE RECOMMENDATIONS PROVIDED ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. PLEASE CONSULT A MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL BEFORE BEGINNING ANY COURSE OF ACTION BASED ON THE TOPICS COVERED IN THIS SOURCE.
The Relapsing Prodigal By Elder Sean Wallace
s ' r e h t a F e v Lo
"Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free,"
O
One of the greatest stories of forgiveness and restoration recorded in the Bible is that of the prodigal son. This story deals with a father's love and willingness to bequeath, to a young, immature son, wealth he was not ready to handle. The story shows the son's lack of respect for both his father and family customs, as well as the misuse of his inheritance, which results in him losing everything. The son plummets to rock bottom and recalls how good things were back at his father's house. A heart of repentance for his actions causes the young son to get up, return to his father, and ask to be taken back. The father not only brings the son back into his house, but also restores him to his proper place. After this, the Bible does not mention any further incidents in which the son fell out of line in his father’s house.
"We’ve all had to ask our heavenly Father for forgiveness." As Christians, many of us have fallen into similar situations in which we’ve had to ask our heavenly Father for forgiveness and restoration. But what happens when the Father has forgiven and restored us and we relapse into the same entanglement or worse? Are we worthy of continued forgiveness and restoration? Or should the Father discard us? To answer this question, we should first ask if anyone has ever been in this situation. The answer is yes. If we search the Scriptures and analyze the relationship between the eternal Father and His people Israel, we will see one befitting the criteria. The Bible contains a plethora of events in which the relationship between God and the children of Israel was unstable. Israel would
Kingdom Privilege | 21 | August 2022
Marriage is honorable in all,
and the bed undefiled : Hebrews 13:4
walk right before Him for a while, then get into trouble. The next thing we know, 40 years (which, according to Jewish custom, is the number of probation or chastisement) would be their portion, in which God would not deal with them as a whole. Eventually, they would cry out to God for forgiveness. God would hear them, forgive them, and put them back in line. However, the Bible also records several instances in which Israel’s idolatry made God so angry that for 400 years (10 x 40, the number of sustained correction and punishment), He would not so much as talk to Israel for her damnable acts and abominable ways. What causes a person (or people) to relapse into sin after God has repeatedly delivered them? In Galatians 5:1, Paul declares, “Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.” The best way to answer this question is to first define and analyze the term "relapse." The word "relapse" means to suffer deterioration after a period of improvement. Let’s use our health as a quick example. When an individual uses and abuses a drug(s) over a period of several years and makes changes for the better, but later comes face to face with an adversity or difficulty that appears to be too much for them to handle, sometimes they fall back into the very thing that’s been destroying them. However, much to their chagrin, they find themselves in a worse condition than before. It is the common phrase, “taking two steps forward, only to end up five steps back.”
"Come hell or high water I will not relapse!" In situations like this, a person must develop a "come hell or high water" mentality and affirm within themselves that they will not relapse, but take the right steps to ensure their success. The Scriptures declare that God laid the groundwork for our success before we even came into the world. This means that when it comes to everything we have gone through, are going through, and have yet to go through, we conquered it before we got on the scene. This eliminates every excuse for why we can't be victorious and live a victorious life. Therefore, if we relapse, we must understand that God will forgive and restore us if we come to grips with our faults, acknowledge our problems, and confess and
Kingdom Privilege | 23 | August 2022
repent of our sins, just as an alcoholic or substance misuser does in a program. God will move on our behalf. The moment we take the mentality of the prodigal son, who humbled himself before God and his father, is the moment God will help us. Repentance and sincerity of heart and spirit are critical. The Bible puts it this way: Man looks on the outward appearance, but God looks at the heart, and a broken and contrite spirit, He will, in no wise, despise (I Samuel 16:7, Psalms 51:17). If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive us, our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness (I John 1:9). No matter how far Israel strayed from God, there was always a remnant (whether there was a judge God set over Israel, or a king with a God-consciousness). There was always a mediator to intercede on behalf of the people. What’s so amazing about God's hand of deliverance was that He knew their offense, but waited for them to repent and forsake it. So, can the relapsing prodigal receive reconciliation? Yes, God is patient and long-suffering toward us. He will give us time to turn back to Him and not serve the devil. I can speak only for me and mine! I don't want to be a relapsing prodigal. As for me and my house, We Shall Serve the Lord!
"So can the relapsing prodigal receive reconciliation? Yes,"
The Parable of the Prodigal son is found in Luke 15:11-32. Please read the entire 11th chapter.
Kingdom Privilege | 24 | August 2022
LOVE IS THE HEART'S GREATEST JOY Kingdom Privilege | 25 | August 2022
Psalms 34:1-3
PRAISE IS WHAT I DO!
"I will bless the LORD at
all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.
My soul shall make her boast in the LORD: the
humble shall hear thereof, and be glad.
O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together."
Kingdom Privilege | 26 | August 2022
WHAT IS GLAUCOMA?
G
Glaucoma is a disease where the optic nerve dies overtime, leading to vision loss and blindness. Many factors can lead up to a person developing glaucoma, age, race, family history, medical conditions, physical injury to the eye, corticosteroid use and more. It’s important to know, however, that the most common factor associated with most types of glaucoma is high eye pressure. Although cases exist where a person can get glaucoma, even having regular eye pressure. This is called normal tension glaucoma. A normal eye pressure for most people is between 10 and 21 millimeters of mercury. Whichever type of glaucoma a person has, the treatment is the same: an ophthalmologist will prescribe medicated eye drops or surgery to lower the eye pressure. Make sure to get an annual eye exam, especially if you are at high risk. The doctor may detect glaucoma early and prescribe a long-term treatment plan.
WHAT IS HIGH EYE PRESSURE?
Within the eye is a clear fluid that supplies energy and nutrients to the eye and keeps it healthy. This fluid is called the aqueous humor. The aqueous humor is generated inside the eye by the ciliary body. The ciliary body constantly produces this fluid in the eye. It flows behind the iris through the pupil and drains through a structure called the angle. If the drain gets plugged up, the aqueous humor cannot drain. However, even though the drain is plugged, the ciliary body will continue to generate aqueous humor, and if the aqueous humor does not drain, the pressure continues to increase. When the pressure increases, it will affect the weakest part of the eye, which is the optic nerve. Once this occurs, the nerve fibers of the optic nerve get pinched off and then eventually die, and that causes vision loss. Again, it is important to get an annual eye exam, because if glaucoma develops, treatment can begin early. BE Advised THAT THE INFORMATION GIVEN IN THIS ARTICLE IS NOT MEANT AS A PROFESSIONAL DIAGNOSIS OR TREATMENT. THE RECOMMENDATIONS PROVIDED ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. PLEASE CONSULT A MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL BEFORE BEGINNING ANY COURSE OF ACTION BASED ON THE TOPICS COVERED IN THIS SOURCE.
Kingdom Privilege | 27 | August 2022
Make 2022 Your Best Year I PRAY THAT 2022 IS YOUR MOST BLESSED, FAVORED AND PROSPEROUS YEAR EVER!
WHEN THE DEVIL BRINGS UP YOUR FAILURES DON'T DWELL ON THE FAILURE BUT FOCUS ON THE SUCCESSES AND POTENTIAL SUCCESSES! Kingdom Privilege | 28 | August 2022
The Formula of Prayer
By Elder Linda Queen
Prayer is Communication with God CALL ON GOD
monologue and a dialogue with Him. Prayer is something many people do, but only one God responds.
W
While we may know to pray, it is
What is prayer, how do we pray,
important to know the proper
and what is the correct formula?
“Formula of Prayer.”
These are questions most of us
Often, when people pray, they
have asked ourselves at some
run down a list of wants, needs, and
point. Prayer is a direct line of
desires for God to address. Some
communication with God—a
pray only when there is an
Kingdom Privilege | 29 | August 2022
urgency. These are both improper ways to pray. Consider this: When we need help or a favor from a friend, colleague or loved one, we are strategic and precise. The answer may be "yes" or "no." We consider our tone and plan our approach carefully. We are mindful of our attitude. Usually, we approach with meekness and humility. Sometimes we even rehearse how we will ask and
The Formula of Prayer
"God, our omniscient, sovereign creator, demands respect and obedience from His human creation" prepare for the worst-case scenario. What if we gave God
He will answer in His time. The first thing to remember
PETITION the formula of prayer. The prayer shows adoration, respect, and love
the same respect and
when understanding the formula of
for an omnipotent God who we
consideration when we prayed?
prayer is that we must always
reverence and worship as ruler of
God, our omniscient, sovereign
exemplify, I Thessalonians 5:17
heaven and earth. Jesus Christ is
creator, demands respect and
“Pray without ceasing.” All day
speaking in this passage and He
obedience from His human
long, we should be in constant
teaches His disciples how to
creation. This is something we
communication with God.
communicate with God.
must keep in the forefront of our minds before we even begin to understand the
In prayer, we must understand The Formula: To communicate with God
that our Father wants to hear who He is to us, from us, He wants to
formula of prayer. God is alive,
effectively, we must meditate on
know how we feel about Him.
and He hears the petitions and
Matthew 6:9-13, “The Lord’s
Adoration is letting God know how
supplications of His children.
Prayer,” which perfectly details
much we love Him, how we
Kingdom Privilege | 30 | August 2022
literally cannot breathe without
During your time of prayer, ensure
Him giving us our next breath.
that your heart and mind are in the
adhere to the first four elements of
Adoration humbles us because we
right posture, which is humble and
prayer (adoration, thanksgiving,
understand that God is our source
full of adoration and thanksgiving.
contrition, and repentance), we can
and resource. When we pray, we must give
During the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus
Once we acknowledge and
move into supplication.
teaches the disciples to pray for
Supplication is asking, begging, and
God praise with thanksgiving!
forgiveness, and to forgive their
even pleading earnestly for our
Psalms 116:17 says, “I will offer to
enemies as well—true repentance.
hearts' needs or desires. I am
thee the sacrifice of thanksgiving
Psalms 34:18 “The Lord is nigh
reminded of the Apostle Paul, who
and will call upon the name of the
unto them that are of a broken
wrote in Philippians 4:6, “Be
LORD.” In prayer, we thank God
heart; and saveth such as be of a
careful for nothing, but in
that He decided to hear our
contrite spirit.” God seeks true
everything by prayer and
prayers. As we come before His
repentance, for He is a holy God
supplication with thanksgiving let
thrown unworthy, we give Him
and requires holiness from His
your requests be made known unto
thanks for the breath He has given
people. Therefore, we must have a
God.” Here, Paul gives the proper
us to pray. We thank Him for being
heart full of contrition and
example of prayer and
our keeper, protector, healer, etc.
repentance. This is critical for the
supplication. As believers, we
believer.
should follow this example, for
PRAYER PRAYER Kingdom Privilege | 31 | August 2022
SUPPLICATION God can supply our every need.
I encourage you to incorporate this
Finally, we must have faith. Hebrews 11:6; “But without faith it is
prayer formula in your prayer life:
impossible to please Him: For He that cometh to God must first believe
adoration, thanksgiving, contrition,
that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.”
repentance, supplication and faith. Jesus
You can exemplify each element of the prayer formula, but if you do not
Christ Himself gave the blueprint to prayer
have FAITH, it is impossible to please God. When we pray, we must
in Matthew 6:9-13. Remember, prayer isn’t
believe that God can and will do the impossible! Why serve a God in
only a monologue, but a meditation and
whom you have no faith in? We must believe and have faith in God. There
dialogue as well. We talk to God and wait
is power in prayer!
for Him to speak back to us. I am always reminded of what my pastor teaches his parishioners. When we open our eyes in the morning, we should start our day with a prayer of thanksgiving. Saints, I encourage you to continue to pray without ceasing. Truly, these are praying times. Your prayers can provoke healing. Your prayers can raise the dead. Your prayers can ignite God’s power to turn the hearts of the wicked. Through your prayers, God can heal the lands and move mountains. Children of the Most High God, I encourage you to use the formula of prayer to pray, pray, pray and pray some more. Don’t stop praying! Kingdom Privilege | 32 | August 2022
Scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me" (John 5:39).
SEARCH
"Search the
STUDY
"Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth" (II Timothy 2:15).
SEVEN BIBLICAL DISPENSATIONS (EPHESIANS 3:2, 5)
1-INNOCENCE
5-LAW
This dispensation begins with the creation of
This dispensation begins with Moses receiving
man (Adam and Eve) until the fall of man. Two
the Law on Mount Sinai until the death of Jesus
perfect human creations instantly became
on Calvary. No more sacrifices of lambs,
imperfect because of sin. And the prophetic
bullocks and doves; Jesus is the blood sacrifice
journey to redeem man began (Gen. 3:6, 7).
for all mankind, forever (II Cor. 5:21).
2-CONSCIENCE This dispensation begins with the fall of man until the Ark of Noah. The Ark represents Christ as the savior of a remnant of man from the wrath of God. The flood waters represent Baptism and the dove Noah sent out represents
6-GRACE This dispensation begins with calvary until the rapture of the saints. We shall be changed in an instant, a moment, from mortal to immortal, from corrupt to incorrupt. And we will reside with Christ forever (I Cor. 15:51-56).
the Holy Spirit that descended upon him.
3-HUMAN GOV.
7-TRIBULATION
This dispensation begins after the flood of
This dispensation begins with the rapture of
Noah until the confusion of the languages at
the saints until the end of the seven years of
the Tower of Babel. First mention of Nimrod
tribulation. Following this many other events
(Gen. 10), "a mighty hunter before the LORD."
will occur.
Except he was actually a hunter of men. The phrase "hunter before the LORD" actually means against, such in the case of "the armies came up before their enemies."
4-PROMISE This dispensation begins with the confusion at the Tower of Babel and introduction of Abraham until Moses received the Law on Mount Sinai. Twelve sons of Ishmael, twelve sons of Jacob, five sons of Esau, six sons of Keturah all make up the lines of Abraham. And of course every born again believer through Christ (Gal. 3:29).
SEVEN BIBLICAL FEASTS (LEVITICUS 23)
1-PASSOVER
5-TRUMPETS
The first feast of the spring season. It
The first feast of the fall season. It starts the
commemorates the freedom of the children of
Jewish new year Rosh Hashanah. On this day
Israel from Egyptian bondage by spreading the
the priest would blow a trumpet to declare a
blood of the lamb on the doorpost. Jesus is the ultimate Passover lamb (I Cor. 5:7).
day of rest and worship. It also signifies the rapture of the saints by the blowing of the last trump (I Cor. 15:51-56).
2-UNLEAVENED BRD. The second feast of the spring season. The Jews were required to eat unleavened bread for seven days. Jesus is the "Bread of Life" (John 6:35).
6- ATONEMENT The second feast of the fall season also called Yom Kippur. This is considered the highest of holy days. It was the only day of the year that the high priest entered the holy of holies, it was a day that dealt with sin of the nation and making atonement.
3-FIRST FRUITS
7-TABERNACLES
The third feast of the spring season. It was the
The third feast of the fall season also known as
day after the Sabbath following Passover, it was
Sukkot or the "Feast of Booths." It was a time of
a time to dedicate the earliest part of the
worship and festivities during which the people
harvest to the LORD. Jesus is also called "first
lived in temporary booths or tents. This
fruits" (I Cor. 15:20).
commemorates God bringing the children of Israel out of Egyptian bondage where they lived
4-PENTECOST
in booths. It is also prophesied in Zechariah 14:16-18 that during the Millennial Reign of Christ the entire world will be commanded to
The fourth and final feast of the spring season,
come up to Jerusalem and keep the feast of
also called the "Feast of Weeks." It occurred
tabernacles.
fifty days after Passover and it was a celebration of the first full harvest of the year. And the outpouring of the Holy Ghost (Acts 2:111).
Bishop William Sewell A Journey Through Ministry
Bishop Sewell, a native of Baltimore, Maryland, was born to devout Catholic parents, Frank and Cecilia. He grew up in the Catholic faith as did his eight siblings. After being baptized at three weeks old, Bishop Sewell attended Catholic school until the age of nine, then received his Catholic confirmation at 13. As a young man in the church, Bishop Sewell became an altar boy and had bigger plans for the future. “Originally, I wanted to be a priest,” Bishop Sewell said during our sit-down interview. “But when I turned 18 and left Edmonson High School, my father had four daughters in college at the time and could not afford to send me to Saint Mary’s Seminary to be a priest.” Therefore, shortly after high school, Bishop Sewell entered the military. His desire to be a priest slowly faded. However, the call to ministry was still compelling. Bishop Sewell chuckled as he recalled his childhood days.
CONSECRATION INTO THE OFFICE OF BISHOP "Even from the age of eight or nine I knew God had called me to the ministry." "Bishop Sewell spoke Latin for the first nine years of his life."
E
“Even from the age of eight or nine, I knew God had called me to the ministry. I used to read the opening of Matthew 1 and everybody was so fascinated that I could read the names of the lineage of Jesus, and my sisters would encourage me with their amens, and lift an offering and put candy in a basket.” Bishop Sewell continued: “Another reason I knew I was called, was when I was in Vietnam. Because of my experience as an altar boy I would take communion with the bishop when he came out to the field, but one day the bishop couldn’t get out to the field, so he spoke to me over the field phone and prayed
with me, and told me to have communion with the soldiers, and I carried it out.” Initially, the Catholic Church had very strict rules and dogmas that limited the participation of the congregants. They could only usher and be members of the church council, so Bishop Sewell joined the church council. In 1963, the Catholic Church opened up the Second Vatican Council, which stopped the congregants from speaking Latin (which Bishop Sewell spoke for the first nine years of his life as an altar boy) and adjusted the rules and dogmas of the church. It allowed congregants to become more involved with the service and ceremonies of the church. In 1975, Bishop Sewell joined a Catholic
Kingdom Privilege | 37 | August 2022
something about the name jesus "In 1975 Bishop Sewell joined a Catholic paramilitary organization called the Knights of Saint John." paramilitary organization called the Knights of Saint John which is similar to the Masonic order. When the church allowed a cantor for the music department in 1978, Bishop Sewell took classes to be a cantor. He continued advancing in his ministry and his walk with God. Bishop Sewell began serving as an Eucharistic Minister in the church, which allowed him to serve and assist the priest with communion. Because of his marital status, Bishop Sewell could not become a priest, so instead, he pursued the office of Deacon. In this office, Bishop Sewell could preach the Gospel, read the Gospel from the pulpit, visit the sick, perform funerals, and give Last Rites. Within a period of two years and eight months, he attended both the Church Leadership Institute and Saint Mary’s Seminary. He also took several other classes after his graduation. Unfortunately, when Bishop Sewell completed his diaconate, he was denied the office of Deacon because his wife was a Jehovah’s Witness and they didn’t think she would support him. “When the church denied me the office of Deacon,” Bishop Sewell shared, “it bothered me because I couldn’t figure it.” After being turned down, Bishop Sewell moved away from the Catholic Church. Between
Bishop Sewell standing with his wife, First Lady Sharon King-Sewell.
Bishop Sewell standing with other Bishops from the New Freedom Ecumenical Ministries Inc.
Kingdom Privilege | 38 | August 2022
The pulpit of the Interfaith Academy Church.
1987 and 1989, he sought other religious interests. He studied with the Jehovah’s Witness, became a Ministerial Servant, and spoke many times in Watchtower meetings. He also spent several months in the Jewish faith, as well as the historical Masjid UI Haqq, Muslim temple on Wilson street in Baltimore Maryland. Later, Bishop Sewell spent several additional months at a Buddhist temple, learning about their faith as well. God eventually led Bishop Sewell to I Can We Can. A recovery program catering to people suffering from the disease of addiction. Bishop Sewell became a Bible study teacher. When the program reached 150 members, the founder of the program, Mr. Israel Cason, asked Bishop Sewell if he could pastor a church. Bishop Sewell, being the honorable man that he is, wrote a letter to Bishop Bennet, the bishop of the Catholic Church, and asked if he could move his ministry beyond the walls of the Catholic Church to help those suffering from the disease of addiction. Although Bishop Sewell never received a reply, he knew God had called him to the pastorate.
"Bishop Sewell took over as pastor of the Interfaith Academy Church in 2001." Bishop Sewell went to his father in ministry, Dr. John A. Lunn Sr. of the Berean Baptist Church for counsel. Within a year of joining and serving under Dr. Lunn, he was catechized and ordained in 1995. From 1995 to 2000, Bishop Sewell served at other churches and attended United Baptist College and Seminary for two years. He also attended Westminster College and Seminary for three years. With his two years at Saint Mary’s Seminary, Bishop Sewell graduated in 2000 with a bachelor’s degree in theology. Mr. Cason came back to Bishop Sewell and asked him if he was eligible to pastor. After seeking final counsel with Dr. Lunn, Bishop Sewell took over as pastor of the Interfaith Academy Church in 2001. Later, Bishop Sewell received his master’s from Baltimore Bible College and in 2005 he
Kingdom Privilege | 39 | August 2022
"Bishop Sewell's church mantra is Isaiah 6:8 'Send me Lord I’ll go.'"
Christianity?” “Well, after experiencing Jehovah’s Witness, Judaism, Buddhism, Islam, and others, what brought me to salvation and to Christ as I know Him today was that everywhere I went, the name Jesus came
received an honorary doctorate in recovery ministry from Eastern Theological Seminary in Lynchburg, Virginia. In 2013, Bishop Sewell joined under the covering of Bishop Ronald L. Howard, the presiding prelate of the New Freedom Ecumenical Ministries Inc. Serving under Bishop Howard, Bishop Sewell preached the seven last words of Christ and visited other churches within the covering. As Bishop Howard observed his forward and upward movement, he elevated him to the office of District Elder in 2016. This elevation enabled Bishop Sewell to visit the seven other churches in the covering as a representative of Bishop Howard. From this elevation, Bishop Sewell attended the Ecumenical College of Bishops from 2017 to 2019. In 2020, Bishop Howard announced he was elevating him to the office of Diocesan Bishop of the New Freedom Ecumenical Ministries Inc. He was due to be consecrated in June 2020, but this was postponed until June 12, 2021 because of COVID-19. Bishop Sewell has been in ministry for 25 years and has been pastoring for 20 years. His church mantra is Isaiah 6:8 —“send me Lord I’ll go”—because that was the whole “idea” of what happened to him when he finally left the Catholic Church. “Wow, that is quite a journey,” I said. “So, with all the different religions you explored, what brought you back to Kingdom Privilege | 40 | August 2022
The blessing of baby Angelica Diarra.
Barnabe, Ebere, Zara and Angelica Diarra.
HOLY SPIRIT BE MY GUIDE "BUT THE HELPER, THE HOLY SPIRIT WHOM THE FATHER WILL SEND IN MY NAME, HE WILL TEACH YOU ALL THINGS, AND REMIND YOU OF ALL THAT I SAID TO YOU." JOHN 14:26
HOLY SPIRIT BE MY GUIDE LEAD ME, TEACH ME, STICK BY MY SIDE CLEANSE MY HEART ERASE MY PRIDE WHEN I'M UNSURE, HELP ME TO DECIDE WHEN I'M HURT, LET MY PAIN SUBSIDE THROUGH MY WORKS, LET GOD BE GLORIFIED HOLY SPIRIT IF YOU ARE MY GUIDE, MY SOUL WILL BE FULLY SATISFIED THANK YOU JESUS FOR YOUR HOLY SPIRIT
CATHERINE HENRY COPYRIGHT 2017
Kingdom Privilege | 41 | August 2022
up. Either what He wasn’t, or why He wasn’t, who we believe and know He is today. I understood why the writer wrote the song, ‘It’s Something About the Name Jesus.’ Because of all the places I went, I had an epiphany, and it was JESUS. No matter what other religions said He was or wasn’t, I got to know Him for myself.” Bishop Sewell recalls a memory from his brother's funeral in August 1992. The pastor made a call to discipleship. It was the same church where his brother was an evangelist. “I don’t know how I got from my seat to the front of the pulpit,” Bishop Sewell said. “I don’t know how it happened, but I know who did it. And my life has never been the same. I knew I had made the right decision.” That day, Bishop Sewell received salvation. “I finally got it,” He continued. “I understood it. It’s one thing to confess with your mouth, but it’s the heart that makes the choice, and that experience impacted my heart.” All of this took place when Bishop Sewell was in his forties. He was a Catholic for over 30 years of his life. “So, what’s next for your ministry?” I asked. “I plan to open up an outreach recovery program within the church to help those suffering from the disease of addiction.” Bishop Sewell replied. “I lost two brothers to drugs, one from a robbery and the other from extended use of drugs. I want to start programs on drug education and substance abuse that have meaning. Not just a place where you run in for 30 days and run out, but a responsible program where you have to maintain at least a year of sobriety by being tested as you go through work programs. I also want to get another building for senior daycare programs to help our seniors.” Bishop Sewell retired from the Federal Police and Security at the VA. Because of
COVID, he went back to work at Gilcrest Hospice on Eutaw street in Baltimore to supplement and help the church with income during the pandemic. In 2004 Bishop Sewell married Sharon King, who became Sharon King-Sewell. She serves by his side in ministry.
"It’s one thing to confess with your mouth, but it’s the heart that makes the choice."
Bishop Sewell and Bishop Hucks consecrating Gnamou and Catherine Henry as Pastor and Evangelist.
Kingdom Privilege | 42 | August 2022
Inquisitive Questions people want to know the answers to…
SHOULD CHURCH LEADERS PAY MUSICIANS FOR MINISTRY?
YOU MAY BE
SURPRISED
WITH THE ANSWER
w
Whether church leaders should pay musicians for ministry is a subject that has become more frequently discussed in churches in recent years. Between the interviews I’ve conducted and the research I’ve done, I've found that opinions on this subject stretch from one end of the spectrum to the other. Some say that leaders should never pay musicians, while others say it is absurd to not pay them. Years ago, musicians ministered for free, committing to teaching, training, and developing multiple music ministries. They served on Sundays, weekdays, and outgoing engagements. They never received compensation. Today, however, a large majority of musicians are church employees and receive substantial wages. Musicians first received wages in large, affluent churches. Pastors and leaders wanted quality sound, and they paid to get it. Many musicians work very hard in the church, teaching, training, practicing, and rehearsing with several music ministries. However, many people feel that every ministry in the church is vital, that they should all operate with the same intensity, and that none should receive payment. It’s “the work of ministry” and what God has gifted us to do. For example, a head usher in a church has three usher teams: a youth team, an adult team, and a senior team. They meet weekly to practice uniformity and structure for Sunday service. They sacrifice significant time and energy to the ministry of service. Should church leaders pay them as well? Some argue that there aren’t
"Years ago, musicians ministered for free," any differences in ministry; everything is (or at least should be) done unto the Lord and He will reward and compensate according to His will. Even if you don’t have a title per se, the Bible is very clear that God has set certain individuals in the church as helps. “And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healing, helps, governments, diversities of tongues” (I Corinthians12:28). Let’s see what the Scriptures say about employing individuals in the music ministry; “And these are the singers, chief of the fathers of the Levites; who remaining in the chambers were free: for they were employed in that work day and night” (I Chronicles 9:33). “The overseer also of the Levites at Jerusalem was Uzzi the son of Bani, the son of Hashabiah, the son of Mattamiah, the son of Micha. Of the sons of Asaph, the singers were over the business of the house of God. For it was the king’s commandment concerning them, that a certain portion should be for the singers, due for everyday” (Nehemiah 11:22-23). “And I perceived that the portions of the Levites had not been given then: for the Levites and the
Kingdom Privilege | 45 | August 2022
"Some pastors and leaders don’t believe musicians should be on salary, but they believe that they should receive an occasional love offering for services rendered."
singers, that did the work, were fled every one to his field. Then contended I with the rulers, and said, why is the house of God forsaken? And I gathered them together, and set them in their place” (Nehemiah 13:10-11). These Scriptures explain the employment and responsibilities of singers/musicians (also see Psalms 75:1, 76:1,77:1, 80:1, 81:1 showing Asaph as the Chief Musician). However, two other things should be mentioned. Number one, the singers/musicians in these verses received compensation only after living in the palace. Their responsibilities were ministry and temple business, which took precedence over everything else. Number two, the command to employ singers/musicians was given under the dispensation of law and for the Jews. But because we’re now under grace, are these verses even relevant to the New Testament church? Some say no. Some pastors and leaders don’t believe musicians should be on salary, but they believe they should receive an occasional love offering for services rendered. “For it is written in the law of Moses, thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn. Doth God take care for oxen? Or saith he it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written: that he that ploweth should plow
Kingdom Privilege | 46 | August 2022
Many view musicians as players "PAYING MUSICIANS SHOULD BE UP TO THE PASTOR OR LEADER," in hope; and that he that thresheth in hope should be partaker of his hope” (I Corinthians 9:9-10). James, a gifted musician in the church and a family member said he and his colleagues get a “bad rap.” Because many view musicians as players, and leaders don’t want to hire them for fear of introducing a loose lifestyle into the church. He also believes that musicians receive unfair treatment and little to no financial compensation for their labor. (Luke 10:7). If church leaders are unhappy with the skill level of their musicians (he further shares), they should create a music mentorship program and raise the musicians' skill level. It's
better than swapping the entire band for better quality and higher rates. Other people I've spoken with say, paying musicians should be up to the pastor or leaders. However, musicians should never take advantage of the opportunity and prostitute their gift. Nor should pastors or leaders feel pressured to pay musicians just to have music in the church. Demanding double and triple pay for ministry is never acceptable, especially if a church is financially stretched. Ministry has gotten lost and business is the primary goal. I understand the term “Business of Ministry,” but charging astronomical rates just because one can do so is plain robbery. Jesus turned over the tables when the merchants were overcharging in the temple. “…it is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer, but ye have made it a den of thieves” (Matthew 21:13). It would also help if the ministering musicians were spiritfilled and not just working a “gig.” How can you discern the move of God if the Spirit of God isn't abiding within you?
Kingdom Privilege | 47 | August 2022
THE BOND OF A FATHER AND SON "Anyone can be a father. It takes someone special to be a dad, and that's why I call you dad because you are so special to me. Because you taught me the game, and how to play it right."- Wade Boggs
"Dear God, I gratefully thank you for giving me my dad. You must really love me because you gave me the best you had. Watch over him and bless him Lord, and keep him in your care. And may he feel my love for him, is my humble, heartfelt prayer." --Author unknown
JESUS DIED ON CALVARY SO THAT THE ENTIRE WORLD CAN BE SAVED.
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). Kingdom Privilege | 49 | August 2022
WHAT IS THE TRUTH ABOUT SPEAKING IN TONGUES? "Speaking in tongues has been a debate among Bible readers for years."
S
Speaking in tongues has been a debate among Bible readers for years. Many (in my experience, the Apostolic Faith) believe speaking in tongues follows salvation through the infilling of the Holy Ghost (Acts 2:1-4). Others believe tongues are
only a spiritual gift and not relevant to salvation or receiving the Holy Ghost (I Corinthians 14:1-19). Where does the idea come from that speaking in tongues follows the infilling of the Holy Ghost? Three Scripture references support this truth.
Kingdom Privilege | 50 | August 2022
Reference 1: The Jews;
“And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” (Acts 2:1-4) Reference 2: The Gentiles; “While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?” (Acts 10:44-47) Reference 3: Those Converted after John’s Baptism; “And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples, He said unto them, Have ye received the
"Unknown tongues and Other tongues are two different things."
Kingdom Privilege | 51 | August 2022
"Other tongues can be understood freely, unknown tongues cannot be understood without a prophet or an interpreter." Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, we have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. And he said unto them, unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John’s baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.” (Acts 19:1-6) Luke, the writer of the book of Acts, gives three distinct examples of tongues following the infilling of the Holy Ghost. He covers every group—Jews, Gentiles, and those under the old doctrine, showing no one is excluded from receiving the Holy Ghost. The common misunderstanding about speaking in tongues is that people confuse the gift of the Holy Ghost (other tongues) in Acts 2:1-4, with the gift of the Spirit (unknown tongues) in I Corinthians 14:1-19. These are two different things.
What is the difference between other tongues and unknown tongues? The actions in Acts 2:1-4 differ from those in I Corinthians 14:1-19. Number one, other tongues (“And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.”) are earthly tongues that man can understand. Number two, they do not require a prophet or interpreter.
Kingdom Privilege | 52 | August 2022
“And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language. And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans? And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born? Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia, Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God.” (Acts 2:5-11) Multiple groups heard and understood those from the upper room speaking in their native languages. Unknown tongues are the opposite. They are heavenly tongues and man cannot understand them unless a prophet or interpreter is present. “For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries.” (I Corinthians 14:2) Paul’s two greatest concerns about speaking in unknown tongues are that we understand them and that they edify the church. Without understanding, they do not edify. This was not a problem on the day of Pentecost.
Kingdom Privilege | 53 | August 2022
“The Word of God does not contradict itself!” “I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying.” (I Corinthians 14:5) The hundred and twenty who received the Holy Ghost on the day of Pentecost did not receive the gift of tongues. They spoke publicly, words that were understood, not mysteries, as I Corinthians 14:2 suggests. If Acts 2:1-11 and I Corinthians 14:1-19 are the same, the Bible would contradict itself, and the Word of God does not contradict itself. Please read the entire 14th chapter of I Corinthians for a full understanding of unknown tongues.
Kingdom Privilege | 54 | August 2022
honorable mother
"Every wise woman buildeth her house: but the foolish plucketh it down with her hands." (Proverbs 14:1)
KINGDOM PRIVILEGE MAGAZINE