Joy Magazine June 2008 issue by New Life Publishing Co

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Move to the rhythm

Florida’s the place to be

Reach a new generation

Against all odds

Meet the teens who dance for the Lord

God’s performing miracles in a big way

Top tips to get young people into church

One man’s ﬁght against adversity

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CONTENTS |FRONT SECTION

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Call 0115 921 7280 or visit www.newlifepublishing.co.uk/joy

CONTENTS FRONT SECTION

5 REVIVAL HOPES FOR SIN CITY a movement believes Hollywood is a perfect mission ﬁeld and prays for its people 6 LADIES OF THE DANCE Sharon Gaisie chats with a group of young women using dance as part of their worship 7 DEVOTIONAL from UCB 8 OPINIONS – girl power!

10 FLORIDA REVIVAL BURNING crowds are ﬂocking to witness a spiritual phenomenon in Lakeland, Florida 11 KEN GOTT on the Florida Revival 12 WIN THE GENERATION GAME how to reach out to young people 15 MARION COOPER on being a parent 15 FAIRTRADE RECIPE vanilla chai

MIDDLE SECTION

17 NEWS from AoG and beyond 20 AROUND THE CHURCHES 22 BRAVE MOVE A BIG SUCCESS AoG holds its ﬁrst leadership conference 26 LETTERS – air your views in our forum 31 COFFEE TIME fun and puzzles

32 MISSION STATEMENTS every student from Mattersey has embarked on a mission 35 GOOD NEIGHBOURS how Mattersey Hall is reaching out to its home village 37 REVIVAL SERMON preacher David Wilkerson on dealing with difﬁculties

BACK SECTION

38 ALFIE KNOWS WHAT IT’S ABOUT one man’s battle through life’s problems 38 RELATIONSHIPS Stuart Keir talks about being a dad and a son 40 GIFT IDEAS – our ethical selections 41 IT’S BRUCE ALMIGHTY! how striker Bruce Dyer was inspired to score an impressive goal after hearing God’s voice 43 PERSECUTED CHURCH with CSW

44 45 46 47 48

CD RACK – what to listen to BOOKEND – what to read TREASURE KIDS fun for the young ones CAVANNA on divine guidance FROM HERE TO ETERNITY pastor Adrian Dexter discusses the concept 49 WEBSITE OF THE MONTH godtube.com 50 CLASSIFIEDS 54 STEVE HILL – God is in a hurry

FROM THE EDITOR WE’RE ENGAGED IN THE GREATEST TASK ever commissioned… under instruction from the greatest leader of all time… working for the greatest realities that can ever be imagined… seeking the greatest reward known to man. Yet we are simply servants of the Gospel. We are only doing our duty. Joy Magazine is published for the members and those interested in Assemblies of God, but it needs to be circulated more widely than that. The message of God’s love, forgiveness and redemption is critical for every person in our nation, and Joy is an excellent publication to give away the Gospel. Pass your copy on. Or better still, be intentional about it and order extra copies for the key leaders in your community. Imagine the impact if every AoG church put a copy of Joy into the hands of their local MP, www.newlifepublishing.co.uk

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councillors, headteachers and police chief each month. And it would certainly put your church on the map, too. How about every reader taking an extra copy for a friend or neighbour or putting one in the local doctor’s waiting room? I can remember the impact of rushing my son to the local A&E when he fell off a climbing frame and knocked himself out cold while we were at the AoG Conference some years ago. Waiting while Mark was being checked out, it was a real encouragement to ﬁnd a copy of Joy among the magazines. Here at Joy Magazine the team works hard to deliver a top-quality magazine that Christians can be proud to read and give away. And every church magazine agent, sympathetic pastor and purchaser is part of that team. But together we are simply servants of the Gospel. We are only doing our duty.

Joy is the official magazine of Assemblies of God The purpose of Assemblies of God is to give every man, woman and child the opportunity of understanding the Gospel and to provide a church where they can grow and develop in ministry for the glory of God. Editor: Peter Wreford www.newlifepublishing.co.uk/joy Write to: Joy Magazine, PO Box 777, Nottingham, NG11 6ZZ, England. Tel: 0115 921 7280 Email: editor@newlifepublishing.co.uk or for sales, orders@newlifepublishing.co.uk Published by Assemblies of God Incorporated, PO Box 7634, Nottingham, NG11 6ZY. Tel: 0115 921 7272 Email: info@aog.org.uk. All content is copyright and must not be reproduced without prior written permission. Printed by The Magazine Printing Company, Mollison Avenue, Brimsdown, Enfield, Middx. The acceptance of advertising does not indicate editorial endorsement, and articles published do not necessarily reflect the official position of Assemblies of God. Submitted articles are subject to editing. By sending articles you accept this to be the case. Church Joy representatives: Please advise any alterations to orders before 10th of the month. Back copies: Previous issues are available while stocks last, at cover price plus £1.00 handling charge, incl. p&p, per order.

Producers of Joy Magazine JOY MAGAZINE MAY 2008 3

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FRONT SECTION | F EATURES

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16/05/2008 10:19:43

FEATURES |FRONT SECTION

REVIVAL HOPES FOR ‘SIN CITY’ A movement believes Hollywood is a perfect mission field and wants Christians to pray for Tinseltown and its people AS THE GLARE OF the media spotlight focuses on Britney Spears (left), there is a movement that is praying for her and other beleaguered stars of Hollywood, often known as ‘sin city’. While it’s easy to criticise the world in which the famous move, the Hollywood Prayer Network (HPN) believes differently. As well as those celebrities who are constantly and wearily the focus of the media pack, such as Lindsay Lohan, the quieter stars are not neglected by the Hollywood Prayer Network. For its members believe that prayer can lead to a revival in Tinseltown. The area is looked upon as a nogo zone by many Christians, however members of the network believe they are in the world’s most influential mission field. Founding Director, Karen Covell, explains; ‘I’m excited to tell people about how God is moving in Hollywood today. We’ve seen an incredible growth of God planting the desire in people’s hearts all over the country to pray for Hollywood.’ A HPN spokesman continues; ‘This is a non-denominational Christian prayer ministry for the purpose of praying for the people, the projects and the powerful influence of the entertainment industry. We believe that by mobilising global prayer we can be a part of God’s miraculous work of changing the spiritual climate of Hollywood, from the inside out.’ The group prays for Christians in Hollywood, so that God will protect them in their workplace. But the biggest prayer is www.newlifepublishing.co.uk

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The famous Hollywood sign; inset, Prayer Network Founder Karen Covell for Hollywood’s non-Christian population – that the love of God will be revealed in the midst of fame, wealth and temptation. ‘Ultimately, we want to see a revival in Hollywood and we believe it must begin with prayer,’ continues the spokesman. ‘We also believe this will only happen by facilitating a global prayer ministry where Christians acknowledge Hollywood and pray for the people in the entertainment industry. Only prayer can lead the Christian entertainment community into a closer relationship with the Lord and into closer unity with one another. Only prayer can impact Hollywood.’ HPN, which estimates that there are some 5,000 Christians in Hollywood, was birthed in July 2001. Karen picks up the story: ‘Although many Christians believe that Hollywood is “Sodom and Gomorrah”, I see it as a redeemable city, similar to Nineveh. I believe that God is the only one to change the hearts of the people in the entertainment industry and he

will only do that if his followers here will humble themselves and pray.’ She explains that the network was a grassroots prayer ministry led by professionals in Hollywood, and wanted to impact the celebrity culture through prayer. ‘Our goal is to invite God to free the hearts and minds of media professionals by mobilising global prayer for the entertainment industry.’ HPN is run completely on the prayers and donations of individuals, churches, prayer groups, corporations and grants from around the world. It is asking Christians to support it where possible. One of the ways is by committing to pray for Hollywood on a daily or weekly basis. ‘Your prayers are the most important gift you can give to us,’ says Karen. ‘We believe that the prayers are what invite God to come into our mission ﬁeld and heal our land and transform hearts.’ For detals, email info@hpnemail.org or visit www.hollywoodprayernetwork.org JOY MAGAZINE JUNE 2008 5

15/05/2008 07:53:19

FRONT SECTION | FEATURES

ladies of the dance Sharon Gaisie chats with the Freestylerz – an enthusiastic group of young women who use dance as part of their worship As I crept into the back of what is usually the Minor Hall at the Christian Centre, Nottingham, I couldn’t help but feel as if I’d stepped into a proper dance studio. In their rows, 15 girls were busy dancing to the beat that was leading them. I too began slowly to move to the music, with the faint hope that perhaps one day I might also be able to be a part of this dance collective. Then reality whacked me over the head, and reminded me I’d never be a part of this youth dance group, because it’s for young people aged 13 to 19! After the brief and rather ambitious dream I’d just lived out in my head, group leader Danielle Gilzeane stopped the session to give me some of their precious time for this interview. We all gathered together in a circle and, for a while, I felt like I was 14 and cool once again! So ladies, introduce yourselves. Danielle: There are thirteen of us, with four or five on trial at the moment, but not all of us are here today. I’ve heard the word ‘resurrection’ flying around, what’s that all about? (Girls laugh) Danielle: It’s what happens when someone’s five minutes late. Basically resurrections are drills – you have to run up and down the hall ten times. Wow, you’re not messing around! So, what happens if you’re more than five minutes late? Danielle: You do more resurrections!

So dedication is clearly important to you. What other words would you use to describe the Freestylerz? Ruth: Family, lively, energetic. Camille: We want to touch lives through dance, and minister to young ones. We want to reach everyone, though, not just Christians. Danielle: Our style is mainly street. And would you describe yourselves as a Christian group? All: Yeah, definitely! What are you up to at the moment? Do you have any gigs coming up? Danielle: Last month we performed at Ignite, which is an outreach event that

‘We want to touch lives through dance, and minister to young ones. We want to reach everyone, not just Christians’ our youth group, Destiny, puts on, and around 250 young people come to that. We also recently did a dance routine in the guest service at our church on a Sunday evening. Do you have any stories of how God has used you through your performances? Esther: We danced at an event called Episodes, which was open to youth dance groups in Nottingham. As part of the routine, we formed a cross at the end. People came up to us afterwards, saying how good it was and that there was something

about our group. I think it was Jesus. Camille: A friend’s sister was crying because she thought we were really good. I believe it was God using us. Mel: Also, there wasn’t any rivalry, everyone was getting along really well and going into each other’s changing rooms. There was a good atmosphere. Ruth: This was a two-day event and when we performed on the first night, people were coming up to us asking if we were going to be there the following night too, so that was good. What about the history of Freestylerz? When did it all begin? Danielle: We started about four years ago. There are only three of us left who were in the original line-up, and it’s just gone from strength to strength. The level of dance is different; God has taken us forward step by step. For me, I was a freestyler when we started and I wasn’t saved, so two massive things have come out of this for me; I’m now a Christian and leading the Freestylerz, which is something I never thought would happen. Ellie: I was here at the beginning, too, and it’s been really good. It’s been a big part of my life and I’ve grown so much. As a group, you sound like you know what you’re about. Do you have a vision? Danielle: I just see this going so much bigger than it is at the moment. I see this as a ministry in itself. I see young people coming to Freestylerz and not necessarily being Christians but getting saved through it, like I did. I don’t just see this as a Friday night thing before Destiny, but maybe a mid-week dance class, too. At the

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FEATURES | FRONT SECTION

DEVOTIONAL

moment, I’m training the dancers who are already here for when we do have such a class. I want to have young people coming to Freestylerz and then on to Destiny and church. In addition to this, I want us to stay as a family; it’s vital that we remain close and keep the friendship. It’s important to me, just as much as dance. Ruth: I can see us on TV one day. There’ll be a channel where we’ll have a programme, and other young people – including those from foreign countries – will want to join. Esther: Freestylerz is my first dance group and we always pray together and do things according to God’s will, so I can see us increasing in size. What makes you different from other dance groups, then? Ruth: We dance for God, we don’t just perform. www.newlifepublishing.co.uk

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Camille: We have a lot of passion for God and passion for dance. It doesn’t necessarily make us better than other dance groups, but it might make us different. naomi: It’s about what we can do to show our individuality. We’re not better than other groups because we’re all showing our uniqueness. There’s no competition. Sarah: I used to be in a different dance group, and you only got noticed if you were at the front. I wasn’t very confident back then, I always felt like I wasn’t good enough. Since joining the Freestylerz, though, my confidence has gone from strength to strength.

The Freestylerz are available to perform at your church or youth event. For more information, email Danielle on dani_g67@ hotmail.com or call the Christian Centre, Nottingham, on 0115 947 4038.

CAN GOD TRUST YOU WITh money? Do you have the courage to thank him publicly for what he’s given you? Ever noticed how some of us who praised him when we had very little, suddenly become ‘image conscious’ when we start to prosper? We call on God when we’re in trouble, but when we get back on our feet we stop counting our blessings and start counting our money. What’s happened? We’ve become so self-sufficient that we’re reluctant to mention the name of Jesus when we talk about our blessings! Israel’s financial amnesia was nothing new; it happens once you start believing ‘it was [my] own power and might that made [me] wealthy’ (Deuteronomy 8:17 TLb). Don’t get so dazzled by success that you forget the source of everything you have, or become so caught up in your blessings that you fail to acknowledge the One who blessed you. God told the Israelites, ‘When you have become... prosperous... built fine homes... and your silver and gold have multiplied... don’t become proud and forget the Lord... who brought you out of... slavery’ (Deuteronomy 8:11-14 TLb). God doesn’t condemn success, he condemns arrogance! When you’ve had very little and suddenly enter the ‘promised Land’, it’s easy to forget where you came from. A few gourmet meals, a designer suit and a house in ‘the right neighbourhood’ can often make you forget about yesterday’s hand-me-downs! God constantly had to remind his people not to overlook his goodness to them. And the same applies to us. bottom line – you don’t have anything God didn’t give you!

Taken from UCB’s Word for Today. For more details, call 0845 6040401 or log on to www.ucb.co.uk Joy mAgAzinE JUNE 2008 7

15/05/2008 07:56:28

FRONT SECTION | OPINION

OPINIONS

Girl power! What does it means to be a 21st-century woman? Christine Caine shares her thoughts on the issue

When I say ‘21stcentury woman’, I don’t mean an independent or a career-focused woman. It’s important that we don’t stereotype what a 21st-century woman is, based on some cultural values. Rather, we should note that we’re 21stcentury women simply because this is the 21st century, and that doesn’t mean that we have to behave in any way contrary to God’s word, or biblical expectations of what being a woman is and is not. Being strong, full of vision, passion and purpose and having your identity formed in Christ is not a negative thing. In fact, on the contrary; we are better positioned to serve humanity if our inner core is not one of weakness and unhealthy co-dependence. A 21st-century woman knows who she is in Christ. Her identity is not derived from her past mistakes, the limitations imposed by others, cultural or traditional expectations, but rather from the Word of

God and who Christ says that she is. She is beautiful, she is strong, she is steadfast, she is tenacious, she is feminine, she is a warrior, she is a helpmeet, she is industrious, she is submissive, she is the Proverbs 31 woman. This is an exciting time to be a woman and serving God in ministry! I believe ministry is finding a need and meeting it, and that every one of us has a responsibility to see all that we

‘A 21st-century woman knows who she is in Christ. Her identity isn’t derived from her past’ are and do as ministry, and an opportunity to serve humanity. God is truly raising up a generation of women who are being empowered to make a difference. I am so excited about the future and all of the possibilities in God. My prayer is that every person rises up to do everything that God has called them to do, and be all that God has called them to be. There has been a definite changing

of the guard when it comes to women in ministry and women’s ministry as a whole. We need always to be grateful to those who paved the way for us; 20 years ago there weren’t many women who were allowed to flourish in ministry; or given the opportunity to do so. Some really had to fight and pay a price to pave the way. Today, overall, there is less resistance to women in ministry and a greater understanding of the value of women coming alongside men, and together representing the full image of Christ. Women are a great strength and dignity to ministry, and help to complete the picture. We still have a way to go, but overall, there are definitely more women functioning at every level of ministry than there were 20 years ago. That is why it is important to attend women’s conferences and be part of the global sisterhood, because it is ministries like these that God has raised up, that help to place value on womanhood. Sydney-based Christine Caine is the co-founder of Equip & Empower Ministries, which helps people to connect with their God-given potential and purpose. Visit www.equipandempower.org for more details. Find out more about Christine in next month’s Joy.

8 june 2008 Joy magazine

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14/05/2008 11:59:20

FRONT SECTION | REVIVAL REPORT

REVIVAL BURNS IN FLORIDA Crowds are flocking to Lakeland, Florida, to witness a spiritual phenomenon where the deaf, blind and mute are claiming to have received a healing miracle from God. Matthew Murray investigates

THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE ARE being supernaturally healed as a spiritual phenomenon begins to sweep through the USA and beyond. As well as the deaf, blind, mute and crippled all claiming to have received a miracle from God, there have even been reports of the dead being raised at the revival, led by tattooed preacher Todd Bentley, in Lakeland, Florida. The move of God received the immediate backing of GOD TV, which has scrapped its normal schedule to show the nightly meetings. Intended as a short healing conference in Ignited Church at the beginning of April, the meetings became so effective that Todd believed God was asking him to continue. He hired a larger venue, but as the international worshippers began to flock, a stadium had to be hired to accommodate the crowds. It’s estimated up to 12,000 people are attending the weekend services, with guests flying in from all over the world. Todd vowed to continue the meetings until the end of May, but it is thought that, as the crowds continue and the miraculous anointing remains, the revival will continue for months. Many pastors have travelled to ‘catch the fire’ and, following special impartation services, at least four churches in the UK are now running identical nightly meetings with the same miraculous results. Former drug addict Todd, 32, told

A woman stands up out of her wheelchair

‘We hear stories every day of just normal ordinary people, businessmen and businesswomen, praying for people in Wal-Mart’ reporters, ‘We’re in 214 nations a night with a potential audience of 400 million. And for 10 hours a day we’re literally around the world, people are seeing what’s happening here in Florida. ‘We hear stories every day of just normal ordinary people, businessmen and businesswomen, praying for people in Wal-Mart, praying for people in Starbucks, and in the mall. There are stories of people getting out of wheelchairs, healed of back conditions, healed of deaf ears. Our focus here in Florida every night is I lay hands on every single person

who comes – whether it’s 5,000 or 10,000 – and I’m praying every night; “God, give it away, give it away, give it away”. And that’s the focus here – impartation.’ Many are likening the revival to the famous healing move of the 1950s, which resulted in hundreds of evangelists receiving a sudden faith to pray for the sick. Others are branding it the next phenomenon after the Toronto Blessing and the Pensacola Revival; moves which reached millions in the 1990s. Toronto chief, John Arnott, agrees. In an exclusive interview with Joy Magazine, the pastor said he believed Todd has what is needed to sustain a successful move of God. ‘I’ve been in touch with Todd several times on the phone, and it’s so neat to see someone 32 years of age leading the next big move of God. I believe also that this is the new thing that God is doing,’ says John. ‘We’re so thrilled this has broken out, and it’s great to see GOD TV and so many Internet feeds backing it.’ Joy Magazine also tracked down Pastor John Kilpatrick, who led the Pensacola outpouring at Brownsville AoG from 1995 to 2000. He and evangelist Steve Hill visited Lakeland to meet Todd and to pray their blessing on the revival. ‘I don’t know much about Todd,’ says Pastor John. ‘However, I know the Lord is with him. When the revival ﬁnished in Pensacola, I made a vow to God that whenever revival broke out in the future,

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REVIVAL REPORT & OPINION | FRONT SECTION

IT IS A MOVE OF GOD Ken Gott

I would be one of the ﬁrst visitors. ‘I felt the presence of God at Lakeland, but it’s only in its infant stages. Every revival has its own signature. When Steve Hill preached in our revival, he would go after souls, souls and souls every night. Todd is more focused on the supernatural healing, but the move of God certainly has distinctive similarities.’ John urges UK pastors to throw their weight behind it and to ride with the new wave. ‘When God moves, you must realise that it’s not church as normal. It’s the power of God unleashed on a body of people. Don’t control it, but make sure you pastor it with wise oversight.’ Despite the praise reports, Todd already has his critics. Many Internet sites have already been created, slamming some of Todd’s claims of angelic visitation. However, many others believe he is truly doing the work of God. What do you think of the revival? Write to Joy Magazine PO Box 777, Nottingham, NG11 6ZZ or email editor@newlifepublishing.co.uk

Todd Bentley www.newlifepublishing.co.uk

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MORE THAN EVER BEFORE, AS God begins to move in Florida and throughout the world, we need to present ourselves before him, desperate and hungry for God to move in our lives. I have no doubt in my mind that this move of God being led by Todd Bentley is authentic. This is truly a sovereign thing that God has decided to do, and for that we will praise his holy name! Todd Bentley is not in the normal mode of preachers. With his tattoos he visually gets some getting over, and some of his comments could be questioned, but it’s so vital that we focus entirely on what God is doing, rather than what we think he is not doing. You can claim you are hungry for God with the words you say or with the volume of your voice, but this is the time when we need to back up our words with action. This is the time to step into revival, to catch the fire that has so clearly been lit in Lakeland, Florida. All revivals have long-term credibility, and already, fires are burning across the world as a result of this outpouring. Remember, when God gives revelation, we have to give up the right for God to explain himself. With this latest outpouring, not every ‘t’ will be crossed and not every ‘i’ will be dotted, but that’s not the nature of revival. Catch this fire, and remember, God doesn’t have to explain himself!

This is a sovereign thing that God has done, and for that we’ll praise his Holy Name! JOY MAGAZINE JUNE 2008 11

15/05/2008 09:53:38

FRONT SECTION | HOW TO...

HOW TO WIN THE GENERATION GAME In the current climate it’s as important as ever to reach the new generation with the Gospel – without pigeonholing them. We ask Pastor Mike Williams how to do it It’s better to do one thing right than 12 things wrong, says energetic pastor Mike Williams. The 29-year-old has seen his church, in the Cadbury Heath district of Bristol, transform into a thriving, fast and furious fellowship since he took over as senior pastor about 18 months ago. Although he insists he’s not pastoring a ‘youth church’, Mike and his team scrapped many of the church’s adult activities and put most of their time and energy into reaching Bristol’s children and teenagers. The results have been phenomenal. More than 75 per cent of suburbschurch’s congregation is under the age of 25, and the lively worship, relevant preaching and the warm welcoming ethos are drawing in the crowds. Mike, mentored by former Youth Alive leader Simon Jarvis, is enjoying his new role. The single pastor says 90 people are attending main services, with a whopping 70 turning out for the Friday night youth service. ‘The church has been rebirthed,’ grins Mike. ‘We’ve found that in our area young people, in particular, are responding to the Gospel. We took on the strategy to do one thing really well rather than do 12 things badly. We changed the way we did things, and thought that the thing we did best was working with young people and children. Lots of our time, energy and resource have gone into this work. ‘Some churches, in a bid to be multi-

generational, lose their effectiveness. They’re spending time and resources where the fish aren’t biting. We were conscious not to be like that. I was the youth leader here for more than eight years, and had never really looked to be a pastor. My whole aim at the beginning was simply to reach people with the Gospel. If the fruit that God has given me is young people, then so be it. ‘We never tried to build a youth church, but what’s happened has happened! We have adults in the church, too, so it’s not simply a youth church. It’s excit-

If you don’t laugh a lot then you won’t have much connection with young people!’ ing for me at 29 to have had some success, but I feel like I’m at the beginning.’ Mike’s advice to pastors and youth leaders wanting to attract more youngsters into church is to be relational in outreach schemes, and to always look at ways of making people feel welcome. ‘Through relationships and excellence we’ve seen a number of people give their lives to Jesus, and go from youth group into main church. I’d say the key is to find people in the church who want to bring love to young people. ‘Most of our youth didn’t join us

because of our theological stance or biblical beliefs, but they came because we were there. Through our relationships they met Jesus. Because of the way they’ve been treated, they’re now there for more reasons than us; but they’re there for Jesus. Loving young people is an absolute necessity.’ Another crucial element is to make the services contemporary and relevant without confusing tones, says Mike. ‘I remember as a youngster leaving church very confused sometimes, so I make the preaching very accessible and applicable to people’s daily lives. I’m here to communicate, not to confuse. ‘Largely churches see their meetings as something for Christians, but we try to focus ours on something that is for the lost; for those who have never met God. The services have got to have life and be enthusiastic. It’s our culture to have fun. If you don’t laugh a lot then you won’t have much connection with young people!’ Social activities are also good ways of inviting people to church. At suburbschurch, trips to the bowling alley, cinema and restaurants have proved a good way of building up friendships. Monthly theological sessions, outlining the basics of Christian faith, are also popular, as are regular worship and preaching events with more serious spiritual input. Find out more about Mike Williams and suburbschurch at www.suburbschurch.com

12 june 2008 Joy magazine

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HOW TO... | F RONT SECTION

top tips for reaching young people

Don’t pigeonhole the next generation

www.newlifepublishing.co.uk

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 Really love them. If you’re trying to build a youth group that lasts, start as you mean to go on, and be determined to love them through it all. They will know if you’re just using them, or trying to hit goals, sooner or later. It’s a lifetime commitment to friendship.  Do really great events. Make some memories with them, so you always have stories to tell, and better still, they have incredible memories of being with your church. If you’re unable to create a great event, drive to one. Youth Alive provides incredible opportunities to get involved in something bigger all over the country.  Be generous. Be generously accessible to them. Do lots of meals together where you pay, or cook, or shout the drinks. Soon, they’ll follow your example. Start a culture where you have to fight over paying the bill at the end of a meal.  Be really real. It’s easy to slip into the trap of portraying yourself as perfect, for fear of your mistakes influencing them negatively. While not sharing every detail, it is possible to show your humanness, and let it be an example to them that we are all trophies of grace, being transformed into Christ’s likeness.  Make church really good. Many churches in our country, while trying to be multigenerational, are actually not. They focus on keeping the earners, or older adults. This leads to an environment that teens find ridiculously boring and inaccessible. Ironically, most people come to faith before 25, and we invest very little in building churches that appeal to them. So take down the net curtains, chuck out the old teapots, and spend some money on an Xbox.

Joy magazine june 2008 13

15/05/2008 08:18:01

Andy Elmes Andy Elmes RESOURCES FROM

SENIOR PASTOR, FAMILY CHURCH, PORTSMOUTH

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OPINION | F RONT SECTION

marion cooper ‘Mum, I’m leaving home!’ These are the words that strike dread in the heart of every parent. At least, that’s certainly how I felt when each of my sons flew the nest. Jason left home within weeks of us returning to the UK; in fact, our sons’ future was one of the reasons we had decided to return. He had been working very successfully in a Spanish bank, but this was not what he wanted for his life. So within a short time of being in the UK, we drove to Cumbria, where Jason had secured a job with a massive drop in salary, working in an outdoor centre! He was 20 years old, and didn’t want his parents to ruin his credibility, so we stopped a mile down the road and watched as he walked away, rucksack on his back, to begin the life he had chosen. About two years later Jarrod, now 19, announced his intention to go to Bible school in West Sussex. Although there was much pride in this, I was also devastated. This was my last child and I felt too young to be childless. On his last Sunday in church, Jarrod sang an emotional song about friendship. I wept before the whole church as I told them God had told me he understood, as he had given his only son. Talk about ‘drama’ – tissue boxes were being passed along the rows! I blamed David because we hadn’t had

more children; his very reasonable answer was, ‘No matter how many children we had, one day they would all leave home’ – but who wanted reason? For some time I suffered quite severely from ‘empty nest syndrome’. Who was I? What was my role now? Did my children still need me or even love me? I had always been a full-time mother. Even in their teens, I wanted to be there for them, because it’s often at that age that peer pressure causes our children to make potentially bad decisions that can affect their lives. But eventually, in the middle of this terrible emptiness, I began to see the value in maintaining a career and in having another life outside of being ‘Mum’. Since that day my sons have provided for themselves; but because they

‘Living by faith’ is not the same as sponging off your parents have both led unusual lives, often with no guaranteed cheque at the end of the month, I have let them know that in our home there will always be a bed and a plate of food available for them. I wanted to give them a safety net, so they could feel free to launch out and be adventurous in God. And just occasionally, they have taken us up on this offer. After a few

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years in outdoor education, Jason began to work for a Christian aid agency. His salary had grown during he previous years, but now he took yet another decrease! Especially during his time in Afghanistan and Kosovo, Jason would return home for that promised bed and a plate of food, to recuperate from the traumas he had faced. Jarrod, too, after seven years in Bible school and related work, asked to return home to establish an itinerant ministry. It was supposed to be for a year, but ended up being six. I did take board from Jarrod at this time. ‘Living by faith’ is not the same as sponging off your parents; if this was God, we wanted Jarrod to prove him financially. Being a good parent does not include being ‘God’ to them. But Jarrod and his wife called in our parental offer of bed and food during the

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Hull floods of last summer. They were moving house with all their belongings in the removal van, they were unable to reach the new house because of flooding. After several hours of detours, a tired voice came on the phone: ‘Mum, can we move in? We’re wet through and homeless!’ Our children leave home, but we are still their parents. If we release them with our love and our blessing, they still come back, even if it’s only for a short while. We talk regularly to both our sons, and at times they ask our advice and opinion. We live vicariously through all the wonderful things they have accomplished. Their lives have widened our horizons. God lends us our children for a short time, and he says to us, ‘Take this child and nurse it for me and I will reward you’ (Exodus 2:9). How great is that reward! Marion Cooper is the wife of leadership team member Pastor David Cooper of New Life Christian Centre, Hull. Visit www.newlifehull.org Joy magazine JUNE 2008 15

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NEWS | MIDDLE SECTION

NEWS No dry eyes at service There weren’t many dry eyes at Retford New Life Church in Nottinghamshire recently, at a baptism service with a unique line-up. Stories of changed lives were told, including those of Georgia Denman, 11, and Tryphena Taylor, 91. Tryphena, who is frightened of water and has been unable to walk over the last few months, believes her baptism was well overdue. ‘I should have done it years ago,’ she says. Senior Pastor, Steve Williams, adds, ‘We were praying for Tryphena recently because the doctors didn’t give her much hope. She had to be helped into the water by several people. In a remarkable turnaround in her health Tryphena has been walking well since her baptism, and declares that she feels really well. In fact, she sang an impromptu solo hymn about salvation a few days after her baptism in Encounter, the ministry for the seniors! ‘Her family and friends can’t believe the change in Try since the baptismal service. She looks so much younger.’

Prayer tour Colin and Madeline Windsor from The Hounslow Missions Trust have begun a 40-stop UK tour, sharing stories of God. At each stop they will spend some time in the town’s centre talking and praying. www.newlifepublishing.co.uk

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Angie Lendon leads worship

Chance to book worship leader Churches can book an AoG worship leader to sing and worship at an event at their church. Angie Lendon of New Life Church in Hull, who leads worship there, is releasing her second album, ‘From Hull with Love’, this month, and will be touring for the rest of the

Pastor is soaring to new heights An ex-RAF fighter pilot, and the new pastor of Grace Community Church in Blackburn, says he wants the church to soar to greater heights in reaching the lost than ever he achieved in a cockpit. Ian Ferguson (pictured) was inducted as minister of what was formerly called the Zion Pentecostal Church earlier this year, after taking up leadership of the church six months before that. The church has an international flavour with many asylum seekers and refugees worshipping there, including some from Iran and Eritrea.

year. She’s available to lead an evening of worship, or perform songs along with a testimony, to churches across the UK. Angie also heads up the 20-strong choir at her church, and has collaborated with other well-known Christian worship leaders, such as Chris Bowater. If you’d like to hear Angie perform first, the album launch is on June 28 at New Life Church. For more information, contact Angie on angie@newlifehull.org or 01482 610705.

In the time that Ian has been at the church, he has hosted a national Iranian Christian Conference, forged links with local Christian leaders, preached in Blackburn Cathedral at services for asylum seekers, and been a guest on BBC Radio Lancashire’s faith programme. ‘Our priority is to preach the Gospel to those in Blackburn, Darwen and the surrounding area,’ he explains. ‘We also have a responsibility as a church to meet the social needs in our community so, as well as supporting refugees and asylum seekers, every week we give food to homeless people.’ Ian can testify to God’s grace and mercy having survived an air crash, and holding the record of ejecting safely at the combined lowest altitude, and fastest speed – something he firmly attributes to God. Although used to travelling at the speed of sound, Ian says that pastoring a church gives him greater joy. Joy magazine june 2008 17

15/05/2008 08:20:23

MIDDLE SECTION | N EWS

New Life for youth centre

Stamp of approval for cathedrals You may have noticed something other than the Queen’s head when popping a stamp on your mail recently. The Royal Mail has released a special issue of six stamps of cathedrals from around the UK, plus four colour stamps making up a

miniature sheet of St Paul’s Cathedral. The special stamps are a celebration of the approaching 300th anniversary of the completion of St Paul’s. The cathedrals featured are Lichfield, Belfast, Gloucester, St David’s, Westminster and St Magnus. Joy is giving five readers a chance to win their own collection of this illustrated presentation pack. Send your name and address on a postcard to Joy Magazine, PO BOX 777, Nottingham, NG11 6ZZ by June 27.

Website launch for young church leaders If you’re a young, budding church leader, this could be for you. A website has recently been launched in an attempt to develop and equip young leaders at a time when the average age of UK church ministers is 52 and rapidly increasing. The Slipstream: Leaders-

in-Formation website provides a platform for information on hot topics and inspires leaders of all ages, but particularly encourages younger potential leaders to step forward. It features regular podcasts from key evangelical thinkers, activists and writers, and seeks to address what’s been identified as the three key needs for

a generation of new leaders. These are the importance of leadership succession; raising the theological awareness of young leaders; and avoiding narrow denominational thinking, which cuts younger leaders off from the wider evangelical network. For further details, visit www.eauk.org/slipstream.

Members of an estate in the East Midlands will soon benefit from a new Christian community centre. The Worksop New Life Community Church has been given a 25-year lease on an old derelict youth centre, ten years of which will be rent-free. Work to restore the building is set to begin soon, using £65,000 that’s already been raised for the first phase. The facility will provide three community rooms, kitchens, toilets and offices to develop community work on the estate and to host new projects. The building, which has a capacity of 70 people, also comes with a football field and space for parking up to 60 cars. Two further phases of work are needed, and it is hoped that the finance will be raised to complete the work by September 2008.

Prophetic conference Worship leaders, singers and musicians have the chance to fine-tune their skills this month at Hull New Life Church’s annual Prophetic Worship Conference. Pastor Jarrod Cooper, along with David Wellington and the KT Band, will host the event on June 14. The day will involve workshops, teaching and ministry, and is open to pastors and technical staff. For details, visit www.newlifehull.org.

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NEWS |MIDDLE SECTION

NEWS PEOPLE  Kathleen Ulyett went to be with the Lord in April, after a short illness. Kathleen was the widow of Sidney Ulyett, former AoG Treasurer, whose last pastorate was Empire Street, Mansfield.  Melvin Burrows, Pastor of Oasis Christian Centre, Ellesmere Port, North Wales, went to be with the Lord suddenly in late April. Please pray for his wife and family.  Emeritus minister Arthur Boston, from Corby, went to be with the Lord on May 4. A thanksgiving service was held on May 16 at the Wellingborough Assembly.  We have received a prayer request from Helen Boot, AoG missionary in Pakistan. Her 20-year-old nephew has recently been diagnosed with with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and has a large growth in his chest. Please pray for continued response to treatment.  Graham Cunnington, London Regional Administrator, has asked us to pray for his son and daughter-in-law, after the death of their five-day-old baby, Dollie.  Following the devastating cyclone in Burma, we feel that we must help where possible. Initially, we will send money to buy whatever is available. Please send cheques made payable to ‘AoG - Incare’ to Assemblies of God, PO Box 7634, Nottingham, NG11 6ZY (mark ‘Burma Crisis’ on the back of the cheque). www.newlifepublishing.co.uk

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marcus Brendling and, inset, his new album; see www.markaos.com or www.myspace.com/ markaosmusic to hear samples

Debut album is ‘having impact’ A pastor’s son and AoG member who has recently released his debut album says he has already heard stories about the impact his music is having. Marcus Brendling, 22, of Taverham Evangelical Church, Norwich, and son of Geoffrey Brendling, left his job at the beginning of 2008 to dedicate his time to his Christian hiphop album, ‘Markaos – Entered the Building’. Since the album’s launch, Marcus – who goes by the stage name of Markaos – has had positive feedback. He explains, ‘I’ve had messages from people in New York and Australia who like the album. I also received a letter from a nonChristian girl who said one particular track on the album brought her to tears. ‘I believe this is what God has called me

to do. In January, I left my job and sold my car to pay for copies of the album.’ He has written, recorded and produced the album without the help of recording and production companies, and is now busy working to raise its profile. He has made contact with many Christian, music-related companies, and has also been in touch with secular music businesses who have shown an interest in what he is doing. His ultimate goal is to win as many people to Christ as possible, and so believes his lyrics are critical. ‘When I started writing, I was at a difficult stage in life where I got involved with things I shouldn’t have. During this time, I used to listen to worldly artists and I didn’t realise the effect the words were having on me. Kids look up to artists and hang on to every word they say. If they’re singing about drugs, kids want to go out and try them. When young people listen to me, it’s easy to think they’re enjoying the beat, but they come up and tell me that they’ve heard what I’m rapping about.’

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MIDDLE SECTION | W HAT’S HAPPENING

around the churches Central Evangelist Jan Slawinski, who attends Sheldon Community Church in Birmingham, continues in his passion to see revival come to the UK. Jan (left) has been taking his ‘Take back the ground’ tour to various churches throughout the region, including an event in April backed by several denominations, as well as AoG’s Christian Life Ministries based in Coventry. Eastern At Living Waters, Cambridge, the church has started Sunday evening services entitled ‘Deeper’, a night of worship, prayer and encounter with God. Elsewhere, at Corby Pentecostal Church in Northamptonshire, Sue Newman recently visited from Taiwan. She shared of how God was using her despite being treated for cancer. East Midlands At Aspley Pentecostal Church a Sacred Assembly meeting was held recently, in preparation for a miracle crusade held last month on the Pentecost weekend. Speakers at the crusade were international evangelist Jim Epley and host pastor Colin Tilley. Both have been used powerfully in the healing ministry. East Pennines At Royston Bethel Community Church, the Generation Builders youth department enjoyed a powerful weekend away in Huddersfield recently. Physical healings and other manifestations of the Holy Spirit accompanied deep times of worship and preaching. Meanwhile, senior pastor John Morgan and wife Ann have returned following a visit to the AoG Bible School in Nairobi, Kenya. Elsewhere in the

region, retired minister Ernest Anderson has returned from India following a successful trip. He said he felt a powerful anointing as he ministered to church leaders.

numbers continue to grow at Audacious City Church in Manchester. A ‘Life in the City’ talk was set to be given at the church by Hope08’s Andy Hawthorne last month, at the church’s BOSS men’s night.

Greater London At Sureway International Christian Ministries, a recent marriage seminar was held, while a couples’ day out and couples’ retreat are also planned. An event for singles was also due to be held last month.

South East At the Mid Sussex Christian Centre in Burgess Hill, a tea dance was held recently as part of the church’s commitment for Hope08. In April, prophetic Mark Dupont held a weekend of meetings at the church.

Northumbria Many of the AoG churches in the region have been backing the ‘Just 10’ event by J John (left), where the popular evangelist holds a huge tenweek soul-winning crusade in two venues, Stockton and Gateshead. It has been reported that three-mile traffic jams surrounded the large tents, which attracted more than 5,000 people each night. Regional Superintendent Cliff Henderson said most AoG churches were providing stewards and prayer team members. Meanwhile, Pastor Cliff’s church, New Life, Billingham, has opened its £750,000 Family Centre, which will run a series of community activities and a children’s centre during the week. North West At Bethshan International Church in Longsight, Manchester, the church is celebrating the 80th anniversary of the original church and the 50th anniversary of the new building. A special event will take place on November 15 and 16 to celebrate many years of God’s blessing. Guest speakers and further details are yet to be released. For more information email George Parrott on geoparrott1@ tiscali.co.uk. Elsewhere in the region,

West Country At Riviera Life in Torquay, a men’s conference entitled A:Men is to be held on Saturday, June 7. The speakers are Senior Pastor and AoG Regional Superintendent Ian Williams, and Andy Elmes of Portsmouth Family Life Church. Meanwhile, on Sunday, June 8 at Dorchester Pentecostal Church, Pastors Peter and Julia Rooke will celebrate the birth of their son William. Evangelist Nathan Morris, of Shake The Nations Ministries, will be the guest preacher at the dedication service. Elsewhere, at Ivy Pentecostal Church in Bristol, two 40ft containers of medical equipment, containing items ranging from theatre beds to artificial limbs have been

The team from the Jamaica Hospitals League of Friends shipped to Jamaica. Men in the church got alongside the Jamaica Hospitals League of Friends and were delighted to send the equipment from storage at Bristol General Hospital.

We want your news

Call Matthew Murray on 07988 781221 or email news@newlifepublishing.co.uk to let us know what is going on in your region.

20 JUNE 2008 Joy magazine

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Joy mag ad May 08

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True stories True stories that will inspire you

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JEFF LUCAS

GANGLAND TO GOD: Tyneside ‘Firm’ boss Davey Falcus led a life of crime and violence from his early teenage years. From 16, he carried guns and machetes, mixing with some of the country’s most dangerous criminals. He was part of the North East of England’s leading crime cartel, but money, power, notoriety, a playboy lifestyle brought him no lasting happiness… An amazing non-stop journey from the ‘ganglands’ of North East England to the revival towns of South America and packed stadiums across Africa! God’s love, forgiveness and life-changing power brought a miraculous transformation! FAITH LIKE POTATOES: The true story of Angus Buchan, a Zambian farmer of Scottish heritage, who left his farm in the midst of political unrest and racially charged land reclaims and traveled south with his family to start a better life in South Africa. With nothing more than a caravan on a patch of land the Buchan family struggle to settle in a new country. Faced with ever mounting challenges, hardships and personal turmoil, Angus quickly spirals down into anger, fear and destruction.

Faith Like Potatoes is the moving journey of a man who, like his potatoes, grows his faith, unseen until the harvest.

ABUSE: John Afleck’s remarkable true story. The turmoils and pain of the breakdown of a family. Accusations. Desertion. Substance abuse. Broken promises and shattered hopes. The challenges of trying to raise difficult kids as a single parent. Bullying and being bullied at school. Then the secrecies and intrigues of a children’s home run by paedophiles and satanists! This true life story grips you from the very beginning. Those who knew John were sure he would never amount to anything and would probably come to a sticky end. REFLECTIONS ON PSALM 23: Ken Curtis explores coping with advanced cancer from personal experience based on the 23rd Psalm. Travel ‘through the valley of the shadow of death’ and explore and enjoy the healing powers of the green pastures and still waters. INFINITE HOPE: We all need HOPE. Without it life becomes a repetitive dirge, a never-ending drizzly day with no rainbow in sight. Through this poignant booklet, Jeff Lucas shows us how hope changes the world, changes us and how true hope can be ours today.

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MIDDLE SECTION|CONFERENCE SPECIAL

brave move is a big success AoG’s leadership team took a bold decision when they agreed to change the way the annual conference operates. Last month, the new format was rolled out for the first time, and 700 leaders were encouraged and inspired during a successful week

More than 700 leaders were encouraged by inspired preaching at this year’s Annual Conference, held at the Abundant Life Conference Centre in Bradford. Daytime teaching from national AoG leaders John Andrews, David Shearman and Doug Williams proved popular, as did evening services led by Paul Scanlon, Andy Elmes and Dave Carr. In the daytime, other sessions were held by various ministers, while the Summit Sessions took care of business in the main auditorium. In a brave move by AoG, the three-

day conference was the first in the fellowship’s history that was exclusively for leaders. And despite the absence of youth programmes and children’s work, representatives from the fellowship’s churches left refreshed, encouraged and challenged. A particularly pleasing point was the turnout, with many churches from all parts of the UK choosing to bring more than one leader, while some churches brought potential leaders to give them a taste of what leadership is all about. The conference also marked the resignation of AoG General Superintendent,

Paul Weaver. The fellowship has yet to appoint a successor, with the four remaining members of the National Leadership Team agreeing to take joint charge for the foreseeable future. NLT member David Shearman, seen by many as a prophetic voice for the movement, admitted AoG was in a crucial period, but remained confident that the future is bright. He said raising young leaders is a priority for the movement. David, who leads one of the fellowship’s biggest churches in Nottingham, told Joy, ‘It’s always a crucial time in a context of transition. Not everyone has the same levels of faith to handle transi-

‘The most important thing in the transition for us as a leadership team is to engage with what some people would call the emerging generation’

The band leads worship during the AoG conference in Bradford

tion so it’s important that we help people. ‘Transition is another way of saying change and we don’t take change brilliantly. We need to help each other manage change. ‘We want to maintain our vision. We are a network of local churches, we need to grow better leaders who will grow better churches which disciple more people

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CONFERENCE SPECIAL|MIDDLE SECTION

FEEDBACK ‘IS encouraging’

Leaders worship during one of the evening celebrations and win more lost people. We need to multiply our fellowship by church planting and growth in more churches. The formula stays the same and stays quite simple. ‘Our core values and the things we’ve talked about before stay in place. The most important thing in the transition for us as a leadership team is to engage with what some people would call the emerging generation. ‘Some of these people are already hugely proven in gifting. They are not emerging but, in fact, have already emerged. ‘It’s a journey of giving them a forum in which they can be heard and they can hear our hearts so we can move forward so www.newlifepublishing.co.uk

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the next generation can take its place.’  The date and venue of AoG’s 2009 Conference has already been announced. It will take place on 5th to 7th May at the Abundant Life Conference Centre in Bradford. AoG’s national leaders were pleased with the success of this year’s leadership conference, and say that a similar format will take place next year. National Leadership Team member, Paul Alexander, told the conference that the Abundant Life Conference Centre was a wonderful venue, and that next year he hoped the fellowship would reach ‘higher heights’. Guest speakers will be announced at a later date.

pastor Gareth Morgan says feedback from the Annual Conference has been ‘overwhelming’. Gareth, who leads Everyday Champions Church in Newark, was involved in planning the conference along with a team from his church and AoG staff. He admitted putting on a conference for a wide range of leaders was difficult but believes the results were ‘very encouraging’. He told Joy, ‘It’s been an excellent three days. In one sense it has surpassed expectations. I always believed it would be a great time but there’s been an overwhelming response to the event. It was always a big ask to pull off a conference saying it’s for leadership in the widest possible context of the word. ‘We had to develop a programme that would meet the diversity of people who attended. To a large degree we did that; or at least made strides towards doing that. ‘The feedback from people has been very encouraging, from all areas of church leadership. ’ Gareth said that moving away from the traditional family event was the right thing to do, and that he was certain that leadership-based conferences were best for the future of the movement and, indeed, the nation. He added, ‘In today’s culture and society things are much busier. The challenge of finding a venue – and a time – which is accessible to families, is very difficult. This has to be the way forward. The ultimate aim is to touch people in our towns, cities and villages. The best, most effective way to do this is to go to the leaders. ‘From a strategy point of view it makes perfect sense to get all the leaders together. If the intention was to get numbers this wouldn’t be the way to go, but the aim is to be effective as a movement, and I know that’s the aim of the National Leadership Team.’ Joy magazine JUNE 2008 23

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MIDDLE SECTION|CONFERENCE SPECIAL

rallying call as gs steps down aog’s outgoing General Superintendent Paul Weaver urged upcoming leaders to be ‘strong, brave and daring for God’. After his resignation, Paul, who has served as a national leader with the denomination for more than 20 years, showed his fatherly passion by addressing the movement’s future leaders. In his annual report, he wrote, ‘I have enjoyed amazing support from the Fellowship that I was birthed in, and want to place on record my deep appreciation and thanks to all who have stood with me and encouraged me along the way. ‘I thank God for the young leaders who are doing wonderful things for God; we have worked hard to provide a better day for you. I say to you, “Be strong, be brave and daring for God, attempt the impossible, but at all times guard your character, your family relationships and love each other with a pure love; people matter to God.” ‘This next stage of the journey calls for us to be strong, loyal and active for the better days that I believe are beckoning us all. This is a time to build, to stand together and to appreciate so much that we take for granted. ‘I strongly believe in the future of our

Paul Weaver and wife Jenn at the conference in Bradford fellowship, and hold to the promise that was given to me in 1984 that “God hasn’t finished with the Assemblies of God”.’ Paul officially stepped down at this year’s annual conference, where he was publicly thanked for 25 years’ service as a national leader in the movement. He has fulfilled roles on the national executive,

great hope for the future The four remaining members of AoG’s National Leadership Team say there is ‘great hope for the future’ as a new chapter in the movement begins. Following the resignation of Superintendent Paul Weaver, ministers David Shearman, Doug Williams, Paul Alexander and John Andrews will take on the leadership of the movement. All have

said they won’t be taking on the role of Superintendent at this stage. Pastor Shearman said it was the team’s job to find who God has anointed to take the movement forward. He added, ‘The heart of the fellowship is to have leadership. There clearly has to be leadership. Anything with more than one head is a monster, so there needs to be leadership.’

as assistant General Superintendent and, latterly, General Superintendent; a role he occupied since 1995. He said his resignation followed ‘prolonged discussions’ with the National Leadership Team on ‘seasons of leadership, style and vision’. And, despite suffering a heart attack last year, Paul says he is fitter than he has been for years, and there is no long-term damage to his heart. At the conference, tributes were made to Paul, including a heartwarming speech from former national leader, Alan Hewitt, and presentation of a watch. An offering was also taken up for Paul and faithful wife, Jenn. Paul, meanwhile, said he didn’t know what he was going to do next. In typical fashion, he publicly offered his services as a mentor to any young leaders wanting discipleship and spiritual input.

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LIFE GETTING ON TOP OF YOU?

MIDDLE SECTION | OPINION AND FORUM

letters Good work! A note of appreciation to you and the team for the enormous efforts you have all clearly put into the production of the new-style Joy. The presentation of the previous magazine had, I think, been overtaken by time. The new style is truly ‘a joy to behold’. I love the new style, glossy and imaginative cover, and am bowled over by the content – it is so inclusive, encouraging and inspiring as we all work together, keeping the main thing the main thing. We have had an interesting response to the April issue, which included mention of our ministry to the homeless in our area. When our homeless friends came over for tea last night we told them that some of them had become stars. There was a scramble to see the article in Joy magazine. When our own folk arrived for Bible study later that evening, we looked to show them the article, only to discover that the page in question had been removed from the magazine. We think it has probably found its way over to the nearby hostel which provides temporary accommodation for some of our homeless folk! Keep up the good work – it’s working! Jean Dobson Liverpool

Present culture Congratulations on the appearance of the revised Joy magazine. It is quite attractive, but very different from the old Redemption Tidings! Perhaps all readers should think about this change before writing letters about how it was in the past. Some seem to think about the

past rather than look at Scripture to see what it really says. We should be adapting to the present culture rather than adopting it. There is nothing scriptural about the necessity of having a Gospel service on Sunday evening. Have it when people are more likely to be able to come in the present culture. When I was a child, people were queueing up to get into church on Sundays, but now they are queueing in the supermarket checkouts on Sundays, mostly with their children. For those with access to the Internet, there are excellent Bible studies available free. These can be looked at at any time, and then you can talk about them with others later, or join a discussion group online. Peter Waring

National apology? I have read Joy magazine and its predecessors since 1969. Over the years there have been many different issues discussed and aired in the letters page about the life of the Church, some with constant regularity such as differences in style of worship. We have taken such a stand over issues affecting the life of the Church that we have consequently sacrificed a great deal in terms of relationships and friendships. Even families have been damaged by our differences over, for example, women wearing hats, men having long hair, and theological issues that seemed so important at the time but today are not, in the main, given a second thought. As I considered this, the people who became so sidelined to the point of them leaving the church, and even to them walking away from their faith and relationship with God came to mind. Some Christians have not spoken to each other

for years, preferring to cross the road rather than speak to a fellow Christian all because we have majored on the minor issues, instead of the more weighty matters of brotherly love, caring for the lost and needy, and reaching a lost and dying world with the wonder of knowing Christ. What can we do? Repent, certainly, but what if we, as a movement, took out a full-page spread in a national daily newspaper and apologised for all the hurt we have caused because of our small-mindedness and petty squabbling over issues no longer important to us? What an impact that would have! Pastor Jamie Tonge Lerwick Shetland

Under attack 2009 IS the year of Darwin; 200 years since his birth and 150 years since the publication of ‘The Origin of Species’. Numerous events are being organised to celebrate this atheistic, humanist ‘religion’. Darwin has done more damage to the church and people’s faith than anything else in modern history. Nearly all the problems facing us today are rooted in a Darwinistic mentality; many church leaders don’t know how to tackle them. Hitler and Stalin used his ideas to commit the greatest mass murders in history. Fundamentalist atheist Richard Dawkins has stated that, in the eyes of evolution, life has no purpose or meaning; neither is there any outside form of morality, conscience or accountability. The Church must rise to this challenge. We need to preach a Gospel that starts with the first Adam and ends with the last Adam: creation, corruption and Christ. Bill Mason, Deacon Leyland Pentecostal Church

If you have an opinion, write to us at Joy Magazine, PO Box 777, Nottingham, NG11 6ZZ or e-mail editor@newlifepublishing.co.uk Please note: individual views are not necessarily endorsed by Assemblies of God or Joy Magazine. Inclusion is at the editor’s discretion and letters are subject to editing and may be reduced in size. We do not acknowledge items sent to Forum. If you require a response, please enclose an S.A.E.

26 JUNE 2008 Joy magazine

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HOW YOU CAN GIVE SOMEONE A BEHIND the front doors of Britain’s 23 million homes, thousands of people are desperate to find something more in life.

The current credit crunch is adding to many people’s problems, leaving them crying out for a new direction. But Christians have the answer – and we have a duty to tell those who are not yet believers. We know that by handing our problems to Jesus and putting our trust and obedience in him, God will help us. Of course, everyone still has to face up to paying the debts they’ve run up, but all things are possible with God. He will come to the aid of those who turn their backs on their sins and cry out for his love. But those who aren’t Christians don’t know this, and if we believers don’t tell them they may never know that God is waiting for them. There are many ways we can spread the Gospel, but for AoG pastor Peter Wreford a simple vision has gripped his heart for 25 years. “I believe there are people who want more in their lives,” says Peter. “They may not tell us, but many lift their

eyes to heaven before laying their heads on their pillows. And I believe God hears those prayers! “And I believe he is sending us – the believers – to answer their prayers and take them the Gospel message.” As a result of his vision, Peter launched New Life newspaper; and for the past 25 years it has been spreading the Gospel through its pages.

PASSIONATE The idea behind the paper is to provide those who don’t yet believe with a tabloid paper that uses eye-catching design like that of a national daily, but with the “friendly” approach of a local evening paper. New Life uses testimonies of everyday people and also well-known faces, and stories of Christians in action who live out the Gospel and bring the message to life. Christians across the denominations throughout the country take copies to give away the Gospel. Through these stories, New Life’s aim is to highlight that by asking Jesus into your life and becoming born again into the family of God, you can lead a Christian life of love and humility. Peter has been passionate not to use New Life to sermonise. New Life cannot carry a three-point sermon about every issue raised, but encourages people to find out  continued on Page 30

YOUR OWN LOCAL ISSUE IS GREAT FOR HOPE08... A pull out and keep guide to help you and your Church spread the Gospel in your community www.newlifepublishing.co.uk

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THE nationwide Hope08 initiative is aimed at getting churches involved in helping our communities through word and deed and to spread the Gospel. Many people have arranged big, exciting events, while others are working hard at smaller local schemes. And some churches and groups of churches are using New Life as part of their Hope08 work. Eleven churches in the Black Country area of Gornal and Sedgley decided to deliver 16,000 copies of a localised edition of New Life.

They provided local news about what the churches were doing in their area, and New Life newspaper staff produced a special edition for those churches. And it was such a success they are hoping to order more later in the year. Methodist minister Steve Jackson, from one of the Gornal and Sedgley churches involved, said: “It has been very positive. What really helped was having local stories in it. “It had a real impact as part of our Hope08 outreach and the feedback we’ve had has been very positive.” JOY MAGAZINE JUNE 2008 27

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IT WORKED FOR US...

“

JUST before Christmas 2007, the Caerphilly Elim Church ‘discovered’ New Life newspaper, and the leadership decided that a Christmas edition, delivered by hand around the newer estates in Caerphilly, would be a great idea. We ordered 3,000 and when they arrived, a number of us set about stamping each copy with the church details – a laborious task to say the least! Furthermore, we inserted a flyer detailing our Christmas services and activities accompanied by a warm invitation to any of our meetings. We had an excellent evening of fellowship as many volunteers turned up on a cold December night to deliver the newspapers. We felt that we were doing a worthwhile exercise in introducing ourselves to these people and giving them something powerful to read over Christmas, challenging them to consider the real meaning of that blessed season. Flushed with the success of the operation, we decided to do the same exercise with the Easter edition; only this time, in conjunction with the very helpful guys at New Life Publishing, we went for the personalised version. For around an extra £300 we were able to save all the effort of inserts and handprinting church deta i l s etc. , h av i n g all our information “We plan to printed on the back u se New Life page in the space again... We provided, as well as having the whole of see it as a Page 3 devoted to great tool fo our own stories and r advertisements. outreach” Additionally, the print run was produced with a personalised ‘banner’ on the front page, which really made it look great. The team at New life carried out our wishes to the letter and the finished product was really superb. We varied our approach to the delivery method for the Easter edition and asked every church member to personally deliver copies to their own street or neighbourhood. The response was excellent. We had several new folks at our Easter meetings as a direct result of this more personal method of distribution. We handed out the leftover copies at an open-air Easter service in the town centre. We plan to use New Life again as a means of evangelism. We see it as a great tool for outreach and we are so grateful for the guys at New Life for their great publication.

“

Sid Head, Elim Caerphilly

MAKE A REAL IM YOUR OWN LOC NEW Life is always bursting with stories about Christians living out the Gospel. We cover every corner of the UK in our pages – and every corner of the world when it comes to our international page. And we also like to talk to people with amazing testimonies that make great reading – whether they’re Joe Bloggs or a famous face. But just think how well received New Life would be in your area if you chose to “localise” an edition of the paper. Circulation manager Simon Schembri explained: “If someone sees a local landmark or familiar face to their area, they are more likely to find out what the stories are about. “An edition we produced for Liverpool looked fantastic because the front page clearly showed that it was a newspaper for that city. There was no mistaking it and it was warmly received.” So, how does it work for you? All you have to do is decide which kind of issue you want. To make life simple, we give you two choices, a gold and platinum package. So what do you get?  Gold package: You will get your own front page “promo panel” with pictures promoting your own stories inside the paper. We’ll also include a line on the panel which says, for example, “Birmingham Churches Together Special Edition” which emphasises which audience it’s aimed at. Page 3 of your edition will contain all your stories, which you send to us. We headline and design the page and panel for you in the New Life style. And we’ll also put all your contact information on the back page.  Platinum package: As well as the Page 3 and back page contact information changes, you get the entire front page for YOUR news. You may want to put a complete story on there, or two or three in total… it’s up to you. As part of the package, we will get a journalist to you to write your stories and to guide you through the process. And then we will design and headline those edition pages. In Merseyside, churches decided to opt for a platinum package to promote the Festival of Hope, a major outreach

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pe08.com TION VISIT www.festivalofho FOR MORE INFORMA

28 JUNE 2008 JOY MAGAZINE

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15/05/2008 11:47:51

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

L IMPACT WITH OCAL EDITION A designer works on an edition of New Life. Below, the Festival of Hope special edition

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ting and finishing at the car park of the lican cathedral.” Mike said many churches had already part be of the of the festival and park the carto tstered ed more to do so. City Sings already 08 is the culminahad Gospel urches inclusion project that a three-year nofofthe festival and ported and developed new and existing offering individuals an opchoirs pel the culmina08 is many for the first time. sing – that tunity to project clusion contact Chrissie Irlam at details, Fornew and existing ed office on: 0151 648 1200 or Merseyfest individuals an opadmin@merseyfest.com ail:for the first time. ny ct Chrissie Irlam at .com n: 0151 648 1200 or fest.com

event that took place over three weeks. John Manwell, who organised the edition, said the festival’s trustees were delighted with the edition that was produced. He said: “I want to commend you for the professionalism and courtesy with which you work.

PLEASURE “It was a pleasure and encouragement to work with people who are evidently committed to the Kingdom of God and doing a thorough job at the same time. “The churches who have taken copies have been positive about the paper, and quite a few have used the paper on previous occasions. www.newlifepublishing.co.uk

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“We are hoping to achieve two goals with the distribution of this edition – telling people the Gospel and promoting the Festival of Hope on 14th June. We will let you know how we get on with both these aims. “Tha n k you for you r help and good work in producing an excellent product in a timely manner. I hope we can do this again soon.” Choosing your own edition is a cost-effective way of spreading the Gospel in your area. If you want to produce your own edition, then contact Simon Schembri today on 0115 921 7280 with your requirements.

IT WORKED FOR US... EL EV EN chu rches i n the Gorna l a nd Sedgley area of the Black Country decided they wanted to speak with one voice in the run-up to Easter and advertise special Hope08 events. The group chose to produce their own local issue of New Life newspaper – and saw positive results. Associate Pastor of AoG’s Sedgley Community Church Steve Hyde explained: “We wanted to give out the Gospel as ‘The’ local church, and New Life was a great way of doing that. “We were able to use great local stories and promote Hope events in a product that looked professional and like a national publication.” One event the churches wanted to promote “We were ab was an evening with le comed ia n Syd L itto use great t le , w ho gave h i s local stories testimony. and promote Pastor Hyde said: “We found that there Hope events ” were some people from outside the locality who wanted tickets. We think relatives must have passed on copies of the newspaper. “We distributed 16,000 copies and 200 people came to the Syd Little event. It was a real success!” A number of people who attended the event did not have a church background, and the churches were encouraged by the turnout. Steve Jackson, the minister of the Methodist church in the area, added: “We saw this as a seed-sowing exercise.” The churches are planning on circulating a local edition again later in the year after people visited church following the circulation of New Life at Easter.

LISTEN OUT F OR THE ‘NEW LIF E’ STORY OF FR ANK AND SANDRA ON UCB RADIO JOY MAGAZINE JUNE 2008 29

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HOW LOGGING ON HELPS FIND ANSWERS

SITE FOR ALL EYES GIVE SOMEONE A continued from Page 27 more through the paper’s website where stories are explained and added to. Each issue also carries contact details for a number of key Christian organisations we work together with. In this way, New Life becomes a brilliant evangelism tool that allows every church to get involved with spreading the Gospel in their communities. Peter explained: “The vision for New Life is clear: produce a Gospel newspaper – in the popular tabloid style – pack it full of testimonies and news of God’s goodness, written without any ‘Christianese’, and post it through the door of every house in our nation. “Then, in a month’s time, do it again, feeding that desire for something more.” And it is not the huge size of the task that is daunting, so much as how very possible it is, says Peter. “Even the very worst figures show that more than five per cent of our population are active Christians, so each person only has to reach 19 more! “Of course, New Life is posted to households, not just individuals. And not every believer is likely to get involved. But what if just half of the believers simply covered the street where they live? The job would be done in no time.”

I love New Life

JOHN Clayton is one of the people behind Christians in Motorsport. As well as racing cars, he’s a flight lieutenant in the RAF and subscribes to New Life. John (right) also sends a copy to a chaplain in Kandahar, Afghanistan. He said: “It’s a good read and I know it is circulated to the troops in Kandahar and I pass my copy around the base. “It has a wide variety of stories and isn’t just about bad people turning good. We have to tell people they don’t need to have been an alcoholic before they find God. New Life shows Christians living the Gospel and that’s refreshing.”

New Life’s website, and the key Christian organisations we work with

NEW Life has the added evangelistic advantage of a fantastic website that complements the newspaper.

While we cram in great stories, we can’t quote scripture and verse with everything. Also, many churches say they don’t want that because they want the paper to introduce people to Christianity in a way that feels friendly and approachable. And that’s where newlife.co.uk comes into its own. Readers are directed to the site if they want to find out more. The website is updated regularly with stories from the newspaper and other Christian news – such as how New Lifebacked racing driver Hector Lester is doing in the British GT Championships. We’ve also ensured that questions about Jesus, the Bible and the faith are answered in a simple way to help people who decide to find out more once they’ve read New Life. Editor Peter Wreford explained: “It’s all about taking the next step. “The newspaper is produced to get the Gospel into every home in Britain, but it has to be bright and informative without being a turn-off. “We want people’s awareness to be raised so that they make their own decision to make the next step and commit their lives to Christ. Knocking on doors and preaching is something a lot of people are not happy with today. People feel like you’re intruding in their personal space. But if you post a newspaper that can be read at their leisure and with no

pressure, then you are more likely to raise interest. “And once those people turn to the website, they’ll find it equipped with everything they need to take the next step.” At newlife.co.uk you’ll find a host of information about Christian faith, as well as a number of helpful ways to take things forward. A number of key Christian organisations, including the well-known Alpha Course, are recommended to every New Life reader and can be accessed directly from our home page. Churchfinder.co.uk has also teamed up with New Life, and from the website browsers can find a list of all the churches in their area, simply by tapping in their postcode or address. We also partner with Christian broadcaster UCB, and you can listen to any of the UCB stations direct from newlife.co.uk. Well-known Bible distributors The Gideons are also on the site, generously offering a Testament to anyone who wants to come to Jesus and doesn’t have a Bible. Peter added: “By exploring the site, readers can find a great selection of stories, find out about an Alpha Course, get hold of a Bible and find a church near them while listening to Christian radio. “New Life is all about exceeding expectations and showing that Christians understand the pressures of the modern world – and can give answers to help people live life to the full.”

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LEISURE |MIDDLE SECTION

COFFEE TIME FUNNY SIDE OF LIFE A YOUNG BOY HAD JUST passed his driving test. He asked his father, who was a minister, if they could discuss the use of the car. His father took him to his study and said to him, ‘I’ll make a deal with you. You get good marks in your exams, study your Bible a little and get your hair cut and we’ll talk about it.’ After about a month the boy came back and again asked his father if they could discuss use of the car. They again went to the father’s study

QUOTES where his father said, ‘Son, I’m really proud of you. You’ve done well in your exams, you’ve studied your Bible diligently... But you didn’t get your hair cut!’ The young man replied, ‘You know, Dad, I’ve been thinking about that. You know, Samson had long hair, Moses had long hair, Noah had long hair, and even Jesus had long hair...’ His father responded, ‘Yes, and they walked everywhere they went!’

Christianity is not a theory or speculation, but a life; not a philosophy of life, but a living presence. Samuel Taylor Coleridge Life is an adventure in forgiveness. Norman Cousins Going to church doesn’t make you a Christian any more than going to a garage makes you a mechanic. Anon

KAKURO

CROSSWORD

The measure of a Christian is not in the height of his grasp but in the depth of his love. Clarence Jordan

10 YEARS AGO from Joy archives

Fill in the squares using the digits 1 to 9 so that each row and column adds up to the clue given. Numbers cannot be used twice in any answer.

SUDOKU DOWN 1. Communal (6) 2. Fraud (4) 3. Uncovers (7) 4. Greek island in the E Aegean (5) 5. Spree (5) 6. Qualified (8) 7. Little (5) 11. Prod (4) 13. Make active (8) 14. Tribute (4) 16. Cuddle (7) 17. Fragrant (5) 19. Fixation (4-2) 21. Whet (5) 22. Choose (5) 24. Demonstrative pronoun (4)

LAST MONTH’S ANSWERS

ACROSS 1. Own (7) 5. An Afrikaner (4) 8. Anthropoid (3-4) 9. River in S Africa (7) 10. Distinct sort or kind (7) 12. Red Bordeaux (6) 15. Steeps (5) 18. Entangle (6) 20. Writhe (7) 23. Become less dark (7) 25. Scrutinise (7) 26. Sell (4) 27. Uppermost part of a tree (7)

AOG PROPERTY TRUST announced the setting up of ‘Springtime Housing Association’. It was aimed at the ‘relief of poverty, sickness and old age, by the provision of suitable housing accommodation and nursing homes in England and elsewhere, and the provision of day-care facilities for the elderly and sick’.

Fill in the blank squares so that each row, each column and each 3-by-3 block contain all of the digits 1 to 9

Answers appear next month JOY MAGAZINE JUNE 2008 31

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MIDDLE SECTION|FEATURES

mission statements This March, every student at one UK Christian college went on a mission trip to a different part of the world – from South Africa to Doncaster In March 2008, Mattersey Hall, Nottinghamshire, sent the entire college on mission as part of their course. Principal Paul Alexander explains: ‘Three years ago Mattersey Hall made a significant decision, which has resulted in every undergraduate student being mobilised into mission at least once per year. This has produced a number of strategic changes. ‘First, it creates a context for ministry training and development. Reaching other people groups, touching the lives of those in need and seeing people come to Christ helps to contextualise study. ‘Second, almost nothing impacts on a student’s values and priority system more than a missions trip. We believe that character will always precede effective ministry and the pressure and spiritual demands of a missions trip helps tremendously in character development. Then, of course, there are the people that are reached, touched, blessed and helped. This year nearly 150 people were mobilised to 11 different nations.’

Amman, Jordan

Carol Alexander took a team of eight people to Amman Jordan. ‘Jordan is an amazing nation with an incredible destiny,’ she recalls. ‘We were hosted by Pastor Dikran and Ani Salbastian. One of the joys was the opportunity to spend time with refugees, teach English classes, take children’s meetings, youth meetings and generally encourage believers. We had so many “God moments” on our trip God is awesome and doing amazing things in the Arab world.’

Members of the Jordan team

Romania

Glenn Balfour, Vice Principal, took a team of ten students to Santana in North Western Romania. They were involved with the work of Dina and Aurel Ardeau, who are church leaders and run a social outreach canteen for the poor in the area. They were involved in children’s work, preaching, giving testimony, orphanage work and even unloading a 40-foot lorry. ‘My highlight of mission was seeing how the ministry to the poor and vulnerable was such a central and fundamental expression of the church which Aurel leads,’ says Glenn.

South Africa

Eleven students accompanied Paul Alexander to South Africa. The mission began in the growing and sprawling

city of Johannesburg. Often said to be the most dangerous city on earth, Johannesburg has huge social and spiritual needs. ‘We were based with kind families from Liberty Church and became involved in their community outreach programmes,’ explains Paul. ‘This involved working to help people living in informal settlements as well as afternoons spent with children in an orphan home. Other ministry opportunities involved youth services, church services and a civic and businessperson’s luncheon. Although exhausting, it was amazing to see people respond and the whole trip proved to be a life-changing experience for everyone.’ Mattersey Hall has 23 students doing a Master of Theology course in South Africa, so Paul took the opportunity of meeting and teaching them at the same time. ‘Many of these students are pastors of significant churches and have been greatly helped by being able to complete graduate level studies,’ he claims. ‘South Africans are amazingly hospitable but feel the economic and political pressures of their country. They need our prayers and support. It was a privilege to serve in this way.’

Rotherham

Dee and Steve Wilkins took a team to Rotherham New Life Church in South Yorkshire. They were involved in gardening, litter picking, schools’ work, teaching English to foreign nationals, a homeless project, community cafe, house groups, 

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FEATURES|MIDDLE SECTION

A collection of photos of Mattersey students on their missions www.newlifepublishing.co.uk

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MIDDLE SECTION|FEATURES

 the White Swan homeless project, as well as preaching, evangelism and outreach. Before the mission, Dee received a word from the Lord stating that this mission would have eternal implications. In the end, 23 decisions were made for Christ during the mission; nine of them after a quiz and outreach at a homeless project. Sadly, one homeless lady who committed her life to the Lord has since died in a hit and run accident.

Doncaster

Sharon Budhi led a team of 12 students to Edenthorpe Pentecostal Church in Doncaster, South Yorkshire. The team were involved in children’s work, schools’ work, leafleting, cultural evenings and litter picking. Their objectives were to raise the profile of the church, establish links with the schools and deliver leaflets; including 2,000 Edenthorpe newspapers. Sharon’s defining moment on mission was seeing over £600 raised for missions in Zimbabwe through the mission. Links with local schools were made and doors are now open for the church to participate in the teaching of Christianity in one of the schools.

Spain

Ruth Brightwell and Rachel James took a team of 11 to Nerja in southern Spain. They were working with the Fellowship of the King, which is a network of churches which minister mainly among the British expatriate community. The team was involved in ministering among the churches through testimony, song and preaching. They were also able to visit people who live an alternative lifestyle in the mountains. The highlight of the mission was seeing God moving among the expatriate communities in southern Spain and seeing South American believers setting up lively churches. ‘It is clear God has a great plan for this nation,’ says Ruth.

Greece

Rachel and Daryl Erickson took a team of students to Greece. They ministered in an international church in Athens, several

Some of the team who went to Greece Greek-speaking churches and a gypsy church. At the time, the power companies in Greece were having strikes so the power would go off without warning and one student, who was preaching by candlelight, had his notes catch fire! The students ministered through music, drama, testimonies and preaching. ‘The greatest highlight for Daryl and I was the opportunity of being with such a great group of young people who love the Lord and are dedicated to serving him with their creative and energetic gifts and talents,’ says Rachel. ‘The receptivity of the people everywhere we went was a joy and touched the hearts of all of us. I believe that we all came back changed in our hearts and minds; especially about how we view missions outside the United Kingdom. ‘Several of the students already have a call to foreign missions, and this trip seemed to confirm that in many ways. Another highlight was the opportunity of visiting a few historical and biblical sights, such as Philippi and Corinth, walking where Paul and others walked and preached the love of Jesus.’

The Philippines

John Andrews took a team of 11 to the Philippines to visit AoG missionaries Mark and Mary Ritchie, and spend a day and a half with Catherine Young, AoG

missionary with SIL International. They worked in churches, a prison, a hospital, with children and young people, attended a leaders’ conference, helped with feeding programmes and spent time with pastors. ‘Ministering in the local hospital and witnessing difficult conditions and watching a young man of 18 die had an impact on us all,’ says John, ‘as was visiting a prison and seeing an average of 30 people sharing 12-by-12-foot cells. Despite this, we witnessed God doing an amazing work of revival there. We baptised ten people from the prison in an oil drum! We were shocked to discover that, in the Philippines, you are guilty until proven innocent. One man had been waiting two years in prison, just for a trial!’

Thailand

Anne Dyer took a team of 11 to Thailand. The team worked with Rowena and Barry McKnight, who are church leaders at Hatyai City Church. The team also took English lessons at Teach Education Centre Hatyai and at the church’s English camp. ‘We had to be sensitive to the Thai culture,’ explains Anne. ‘The highlight in sharing the Gospel came at the finale at Teach Education Centre, where we were able to do a low-key presentation of the Gospel after a two-hour stint of games for English; Mattersey student Christophe Davy performed the glass box to freedom mime. One girl wanted to make a commitment to follow Jesus at the camp, through seeds sown previously before the mission.’

France

Dave Garrard took a team of nine to Agen Assemblies of God, south-west France, which is led by Bill Chaney. The team was involved in street work, house visits, evangelism in local halls, evangelistic training with local church members, and participation with youth work. Dave’s defining moment on mission was seeing those who made a decision for Christ and the encouragement of local church members to get involved in evangelism for themselves.

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FEATURES|MIDDLE SECTION

GooD neiGHBoURs a nottinghamshire village is benefiting from being home to an international Christian college, as part of Hope08 and beyond rESIDENTS OF ThE QUaINT aND picturesque village of Mattersey, Nottinghamshire, are hearing the Gospel at points throughout 2008 as part of initiatives for hope08, partly because of the proximity of Mattersey hall Christian centre. Mattersey student and upcoming evangelist Clyde Thomas is heading the hope08 team at the college. ‘It’d be easy to go into Doncaster or a big city and do a mission, but we don’t want to miss our own doorstep,’ he explains. ‘hope08 is an incredible initiative and every Christian should, in some way, be involved in it. There have been one or two negative responses to the college in the village, and we want to show that we want to be a real part of building up the community.’ Mattersey Principal, Paul alexander says that it is vital that mission focus continues beyond this year. ‘hope08 is a great thing for us to be involved in, but I must

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stress that this is not a one-off effort. Not only are the activities in the village our involvement in hope08, they are also an addition to our efforts to make a positive commitment in our community for ever. ‘Our students are very missionsfocused, and support the parish church, do children’s work and pretty much run the summer fete. They have also been involved with offering free gardening services and, over recent years, have been committed to a positive involvement in various other village activities. ‘hope08 should represent a good platform for continued ministry but not a programme that is time-bound, costs a lot of money and fizzles out at the end of the year. What we are doing this year

should be normal, and things should even intensify. revival should not be abnormal, but normal! ‘At Mattersey, we want to teach theology in the context of mission. That was my entire PhD – I argued that theology without mission is dead.’ Paul explains that the village of Mattersey has changed over the last few years. ‘It’s a small Nottinghamshire village, with a pub, post office and small school. It’s changed from being primarily a rural village into a more upmarket housing area.’ Paul also praised Clyde for his work in organising the outreach work.

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revival SERMON Have you ever felt like giving up? Well-known preacher David Wilkerson reveals how he deals with difficult circumstances in his daily life A growing number of ministers have written to me in recent months, telling of their concern for those in their flock who are simply giving up. Today, more and more Christians are at breaking point. None of the talk about giving up has anything to do with the Lord. Few Christians would even dare entertain thoughts of quitting on their love for Jesus. Most despairing Christians think only of giving up on themselves. No wonder our young people give up in defeat. They can’t live up to the image created by the religion of a happy-go-lucky, rich, successful, always positive-thinking Christian. Their world is not that idealistic. They look in a mirror reflecting a face covered with ugly pimples. They live with heartbreaks, hour-by-hour crises, and horrible family problems. They look into the uncertain future, frightened and worried. Positive thinking won’t make their problems go away. Confessing that these problems don’t really exist doesn’t change a thing. These ‘apostles of the

positive’ should not exclude the Gethsemane experiences of life. The cup of pain, the hour of isolation, and the night of confusion were all part of the Master’s lifestyle. Our great achievements, our successes, ought to take place at Gethsemane, not Fort Knox! The longer I live for Christ, the more difficult it is for me to accept

Church planting Most young pastors would be happy to see nine people converted in their first year, but not Claudio and Mariella Couquet. The fiery couple expect God to move in Peterborough, as he is doing in their home nation, Argentina, where that amount of people come to know Christ each day in the average church. Claudio has seen Church of the Way in Peterborough grow to nearly 50 regulars since it was formed in January 2007; remarkably, on the same day the couple’s son, David, was born. www.newlifepublishing.co.uk

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Claudio says, ‘Yes, January 7, 2007 was an important day. The church was birthed, as was my son. We had a prophecy that the two events are linked. It was a time of new beginnings. ‘Nine converts in one year is dreadful. I’m from a revival background, so am ashamed at the poor results. But we trust God for more.’ The couple have inherited the old AoG church building in Peterborough, and are doing assemblies in five schools, preaching the Gospel to 2,000 children each month.

easy, cure-all solutions. But in my own struggles, I’ve found great comfort and help in two wonderful absolutes. The first absolute is: God really loves me. God is not in the business of condemning his children – failures or not. He yearns over us as a loving father, wanting only to lift us out of our weaknesses. God is with us, even when we fall. He does not abandon us on our way down. Our Lord never gives up on any of us! Often, we can recognise his great love only when we have hit bottom. Don’t panic. Deliverance will come. God answers us by showing his love. And when we have learned how weak we are and have learned to trust his love and forgiveness, he will stoop down and gently help us back to the nest. The second absolute is: it is my faith that pleases him the most! ‘Without faith it is impossible to please Him’ (Hebrews 11:6). God wants so much to be trusted. That trust he counts as righteousness (Romans 4:3). What do I do when temptation rolls over me like a flood? When my inadequacies overwhelm me and I see the reality of my weaknesses? Give up? Quit? Never! I bring to God all I’ve got left – my faith in him! I may not understand why he seems to take such a long time to intervene, but I know he will. He will keep his word to me. I am convinced Satan wants to rob me of only one thing – my faith. He really doesn’t want my morals or good deeds or my dreams. He wants to destroy my faith and make me believe God has forsaken this earth. A fall is never fatal to those who keep their faith intact. In spite of despair and pressures that bog the mind and sap the strength, I believe God. I believe he will ‘keep you from stumbling, and to make you stand in the presence of his glory blameless with great joy’ (Jude 24). Joy magazine JUNE 2008 37

15/05/2008 08:33:10

BACK SECTION | OPINION & TESTIMONY

Relationships stuart Keir

I am writing this with my six-year-old son running around the house, demanding a new toy that he feels he has been promised! I have no recollection of said promise, and my wife is out. Things are not going well. As a parent, I feel that getting along with me is based solely on doing what I say; and doing what I say at the exact moment that I say it. Any sooner than I say it, and you are being smart; any later than I say it, and you are being lazy, disobedient or insolent. None of which is good. Getting on with your parents means going to bed when they tell you to, and bringing them a cup of freshly ground and brewed coffee in bed in the morning, at the time they instructed you to do so. However, I am also a son; and the thought of having to deliver a steaming

The thought of having to deliver a cup of coffee to my parents 250 miles away is making me rethink things... mug of coffee and a healthy hot water to my parents 250 miles away every morning is making me rethink the above! Paul gives great advice to both sides, and I use the word ‘sides’ on purpose: ‘Children, obey your parents because you belong to the Lord.’ We honour God and our parents at the same time; also, honouring your parents makes for a long life… which means you have longer for your children to honour you! Then Paul says, ‘Fathers, don’t provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them…’ I need to go now resolve the deepening toy crisis and cancel the coffee order for the morning...

ALFIE KNOWS WHAT IT’S ALL ABOUT! After a happy childhood, Alfie Hale turned to crime before repenting, but then his life took another turn for the worse... Growing up, life for Alfie Hale was not much different from that of any other young boy. Born in the Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire, and one of three children, he lived with his mother, who was a Christian, and his father, who was a Freeminer – a coalminer born in the Forest of Dean district who has earned the right to mine personal plots in the royal forest. Alfie loved sport at school and continued to play rugby and football after he left, while working for his father. He got married at 22 and had three children. It was shortly after this when life took a dramatic turn. ‘In 1965, my mother was told she had breast cancer, and she had to have one of her breasts removed,’ he recalls. ‘After the operation, the doctors told us that everything was fine and there was nothing to worry about.’ But for Alfie and his family the worst was yet to come: ‘Some time after this she was taken ill. Then, in 1968, she died.’ Alfie was very close to his mum and describes her as his ‘best friend’. He believes when he lost her, a part of his life went with her. Unfortunately for him, his father died exactly one year after his mother, and it was at this point that problems in other areas of his life began to surface. ‘The shock really hit me and I was at rock bottom, my marriage was not working and I was drinking heavily. My wife and I decided to part; I found it really hard because of the children and I tried to save

Alfie uses his ‘speaking’ board to good effect!

the marriage, but we drifted apart and went our separate ways.’ Life for Alfie began to spiral and he was introduced to a whole new, darker life. ‘I got involved with people in crime. One day I got into a fight and received a jail sentence – that was the first of many to come. During this time, I just went wild; I was in and out of prisons up and down the country, and I saw some nasty things inside them.’ The turning point for Alfie came when he was in prison for the seventeenth time. He knew that something in his life had to change. ‘My life was at pit bottom and I started to think a lot. I began attending a Bible class organised by a pastor and his wife who

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TESTIMONY |BACK SECTION

Above: Alfie in his beloved Forest of Dean; inset, with Joan, who reads out his prayers at church

were such a lovely couple, very loving and caring. I really took to them. The word started to get to my heart and I surrendered my life to the lord while still in jail.’ After completing his sentence, Alfie moved to plymouth where he joined a church and got baptised. He lived in plymouth for ten years and then moved back to the forest of the Dean to be with family and friends. He found employment in the building trade and spent some time working in the republic of Ireland. But his life was to take another turn – this time it was his own health that was in question. ‘I started having problems with my throat and my speech. One day I was walking by the river bank and suddenly took ill and had to be rushed to hospital.’ Alfie was discharged that day but was diagnosed with throat cancer shortly after. ‘I was shocked, and I had to find a way to tell my family,’ he says. ‘I got myself into a terrible state and drifted away from the lord. I was scared I was going to die. www.newlifepublishing.co.uk

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‘I know in my heart I had to get myself right with the lord, so I went to the Mount of Olives Church in Coleford, Gloucestershire, one Sunday evening and rededicated my heart to the lord. I was so glad and grateful to jesus.’ Alfie’s health continued to deteriorate and even his family thought he was going to die. His brother and sister began to make his funeral arrangements while around his sickbed, and they planned to bury him beside their parents. Alfie couldn’t breathe and his lungs and brain were getting no oxygen. The doctor’s verdict was that even if Alfie did survive, he would be brain-damaged. Members of the Mount of Olives Church were praying for him continuously and Alfie says that he’s alive because of God. ‘I know in my heart that a miracle happened. It was as though the doors of heaven opened and the lord reached down and touched me. I remember opening my eyes and seeing the nurses standing over me.

‘The doctors were amazed at my progress. They told me how it was touch and go, and explained how they struggled to stop the bleeding in my throat. My heart had even stopped because my lungs weren’t getting air. The best part was I didn’t have any brain damage. praise the lord!’ Alfie’s tumour was removed and, along with it, went his voice. He communicates everything today by pen and paper, but continues to thank God for healing him from his cancer and restoring his life. ‘I thank God because I’ve been clear of the cancer for 18 months. The lord means so much to me and I love going to the meetings and church and getting involved. ‘I’m very grateful to so many in the church, including joan who reads out my prayers.’ looking back, he knows he’s here today because of the prayers of his mother and aunt, and he is hopeful about the future. ‘when my time on earth is over, I shall see my mum and my Saviour in glory.’ JOY MagazINE juNE 2008 39

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BACK SECTION |FEATURE

GIFT IDEAS EVERY month Joy features some great gift ideas. We scour the stores that promote and sell goods for Christians and feature some of the best Christian and ethical products on the market

Gadget fans will be able to get out into the summer sun and enjoy ďŹ&#x201A;ying this solar-powered helicopter. It costs ÂŁ15.99 from ethicalsuperstore.com

Despite the rise in console games, board games are still hugely popular. Inklings Board Game is a biblically based question and answer game that needs strategic thinking. Available for ÂŁ22.99 from Christian Life resources on 0845 2713203 or log on to christianliferesources.co.uk

This pen and notes holder â&#x20AC;&#x201C; with a choice of scripture verses â&#x20AC;&#x201C; is the perfect addition to any desk. Just ÂŁ4.99 from Christian Life resources. Call 0845 2713203 or log on to christianliferesources.co.uk

Camping fans will be getting set for the summer. And this Cyba-lite mini clockwork lamp will mean no fumbling about for batteries. It never needs bulbs, so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a perfect companion. Costs ÂŁ19.99 plus ÂŁ4 packing from selectsolar.co.uk

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15/05/2008 08:38:56

SPORT |BACK SECTION

IT’S BRUCE ALMIGHTY! Footballer Bruce Dyer heard the voice of God during a crucial match, and was inspired to score an impressive goal IT’S THE YEAR 2000, AND THE atmosphere is tense at the crucial Division One play-off semi-fi nal. Both Barnsley and Birmingham know that a win will earn them a dream fi nal day out at Wembley, giving them a chance of promotion to the Premiership. Leading comfortably 1–0, Barnsley look to double their lead as a tidy through-ball leaves star striker Bruce Dyer facing the opposition’s goal. Preparing to blast the ball, he kicks back his leg and is ready to put his bulky strength into the shot. But, just as he’s about to unleash, he pauses, as what he describes as a ‘still, small voice’ causes him to change his mind. Instead, he chooses to sidefoot the ball and, to his amazement, watches the ball calmly slot past the goalie and into the net. The elated forward then runs to the wild army of Barnsley supporters while lifting his hands in the air and praising God. Bruce, who now plays for Chesterfield, believes it was the voice of God that caused him to change his method and allow him to score the crucial goal. ‘I’ve never publicly shared what happened during the Birmingham game,’ he explains, ‘but I know what happened to me. The still voice told me not to blast it. It might sound crazy, but I know what I experienced. I believe in the power of God and believe he can communicate with us. ‘The Bible says in all your ways acknowledge God. I ask him for strength, for health and for my family, I literally www.newlifepublishing.co.uk

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Bruce Dyer scores a vital goal during the Division 1 play-off semi-final against Birmingham, 13 May 2000; inset, Bruce at new club Chesterfield pray about everything. True success in life is being a Christian and fulfilling God’s plan, not about winning a football match.’ Raised in a Pentecostal family, Bruce never took God seriously. When he left home at 16, he began a life of womanising, drinking and wild partying. He became the first teenager in English football to be transferred for over £1m, when he was sold to Crystal Palace. However, in August 1998, he realised money and fame hadn’t brought him happiness, and soon turned to God. ‘It was while I was talking to my

brother, who was born again while in prison, that I realised Jesus was real. I sat on my bed and said “sorry” to the Lord. I asked him to help me to live the right way. I had tried to battle issues for years, but could never overcome them in my own strength. However, as soon as I asked the Lord Jesus Christ into my life everything changed.’ Moving to Barnsley a couple of months later, Dyer became an evangelist in the dressing room. He was known for lifting his hands to God after scoring, and for gathering the team in a prematch prayer huddle before every game. JOY MAGAZINE JUNE 2008 41

15/05/2008 08:59:15

MELVIN BANKS CRUSADES IN 2008 – AT LAST SOMEONE WHO SPEAKS UP FOR GOD IN OUR NATION GREAT BRITAIN’S MOST SUCCESFUL AND POPULAR EVANGELIST, REACHING MASSES OF NON-CHURCHED BRITISH SINNERS TODAY

REVIVAL IN THE RAIN – RECENTLY IN MIDDLESEX IN EUROPE’S LARGEST GOSPEL TENT, he started with 100 people and 1,000 sinners came in a weekend, in floods, storms and tornadoes. 320 responded to the powerful Gospel appeal. Atheists and Government officials tremble when he comes to town.

A GIANT OF FAITH

THE BRAVEST COMMUNICATOR EVANGELIST IN UK TODAY MELVIN BANKS BURNS “The Golden Compass”, “God is not great”, and other atheist - humanist DVD’s, films books. WITH GREAT PRESS COVERAGE

ACTS CHAPTER 19 IN 2008

IN THE CALIBRE OF KNOX, WHITFIELD, FINNEY, DUNCAN CAMPBELL, EVAN ROBERTS, PERCY BREWSTER, JACK COE, A.A. ALLAN ONE OF THE LAST GREAT REVIVALISTS

“THE SECOND SMITH WIGGLESWORTH” INVITE EVANGELIST MELVIN BANKS TO YOUR CHURCH

LARGE CHURCHES AND SMALL EXPLODE IN GROWTH AND REVIVAL, NEW CHURCHES BORN, some move hall after his visits, they have so many new people attending.

YOU WANT REVIVAL? BRING IN GOD’S HARVESTER.

The presence of God is so AMAZING, in one town even the dogs were silent EXODUS 11 V 7

SINNERS FLOCK LIKE A MAGNET TO THESE REVIVALS. THIS IS THE BIBLE PENTECOST. THE GOD OF FIRE, RESURRECTION AND MIRACLES IS WITH US!

HE RECEIVED 133 INVITATIONS TO PREACH LAST YEAR.

NO CHURCH OR PASTOR IS DISAPPOINTED, THIS IS GOD’S TIME FOR YOU – RING US TODAY NO FEE, NO CHARGE, LOCAL REVIVAL. EVERY CHURCH SHOULD BOOK THIS EVANGELIST SOON. THERE ARE STILL DATES AVAILABLE FOR YOUR CHURCH

Order Melvin’s Fantastic Books. Tick the boxes below and send to:

CRUSADE OFFICE, 44 Monks Way, Chippenham, Wilts, SN15 3TT, England

BOOK ORDER FORM His bestseller: ‘PRAYER POWER’

Prison doors open - Astounding - mighty miracles. £5.99 ‘IT’S TIME TO RECEIVE YOUR MIRACLE NOW’ £6.99 Please send me all Melvin’s top books ALL DISCOUNT PRICES

Pastors, Ministers, Elders - ﬁll in the slip at right-hand bottom of page - post to crusade ofﬁce or tel: 01249 655712

FOR MINISTERS AND CHURCH LEADERS

I would like a crusade with Melvin Banks. I want a Revival and to experience this miracle ministry in my fellowship.

‘OVERFLOWING LIFE WITH GOD’

I want Melvin Banks to come to my church this year. Please send details.

His latest how to have new energy daily. £6.99

This is a serious, prayerful, earnest request.

‘LAY HOLD OF THE POWER’ STUNNING! £5.99 I would like to donate one book to H. M. Prison. £5.99

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I know Melvin makes no charge! Church name: ...................................................................................................

I enclose £.... .................(Payable to ‘Revival Healing’) Includes P&P. All discount prices.

Minister/Elder’s name: .......................................................................................

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Postcode: .................................... Telephone: .................................................. Small and large churches welcome to apply – send to the above address

POSSIBLY GOD’S CHOSEN INSTRUMENT TO BRING REVIVAL TO THE BRITISH ISLES IN 2008/9

PERSECUTED CHURCH | BACK SECTION

Never miss out on

persecuted church Mervyn Thomas, Chief Executive of Christian Solidarity Worldwide, keeps us up to date with the oppression of Christians around the world

Christian Solidarity Worldwide is a human rights charity working on behalf of those persecuted for their Christian beliefs. They also promote religious liberty for all. For more information, contact CSW direct on 0845 4565464 or visit www.csw.org.uk

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the newly published rules, any convert to another religion could face a year’s imprisonment if they fail to explain to the District Magistrate how long they had followed their previous religion, and the reason for their conversion. The Gujarat law prohibits the conversion of another person by ‘force’, ‘fraudulent means’ or ‘allurement’, although these conditions are very loosely defined. However, the Gujarat law is unique in stipulating that the priest performing a ‘ceremony’ for converting another person must take prior permission from the District Magistrate. Christian leaders are concerned that this will constitute a major obstacle to religious freedom under Gujarat’s extremist Hindu nationalist government, known for its antagonism towards religious minorities. CSW Advocacy Director Alexa Papadouris, said, ‘This law is entirely at odds with India’s avowed respect for human rights. ‘The authority given to District Magistrates to deny permission for a conversion “ceremony” is completely unacceptable. ‘It is a nonsense to demand the “time and date” of a person’s conversion, which is a matter of their private conscience.’

2008 (Introduc 75 March 162 £1. Issue

Christians in SRI Lanka have seen a ‘dramatic’ increase in violence recently, according to the National Christian Evangelical Alliance of Sri Lanka. In March, the Zion Mount Prayer House in Mulaitivu District was set on fire. The pastor, his wife, child and two other people were inside, although it is believed they were able to escape. The previous day, a mob of 200 people surrounded a local pastor’s home in Udugama, Galle District, and told him to leave the village or face death. The crowd warned that his church, Opma Bible Ministry, could be accused of complicity with terrorism. These attacks are the latest in a series of incidents since the beginning of February. On March 3, the Provincial Council in Kelaniya, Gampaha District, revoked approval for the construction of a new church building. The Foursquare Gospel Church had received approval for the new building, but was then ordered to stop construction immediately. No reason was given. Please pray for all those Christians in Sri Lanka who are living in precarious circumstances.  CSW has also condemned the implementation of the anti-conversion law passed in Gujarat state, India. Under

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15/05/2008 08:41:19

BACK SECTION | CDs

Nick Jones

CD RACK pick of the month

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The first time I heard Andy Hunter’s music was back in 2006, at a gig at ‘Grapevine Celebration’. Up to that point I totally despised dance music, and hadn’t given it much of a chance. But that all changed after my ears were opened by the beats and sounds of Andy. After the gig I rushed over to the merch stand and bought all his CDs – yes, it really was that good! Since then I have been looking forward to his next set of juicy mixes, and now – lucky for me and you – ‘Colour’ has just been released. This is truly his best work yet, and I highly recommend it. Andy has a passion to see people worshipping God through his music, and although it isn’t the original style people are used to, he believes that people can connect into the throneroom of God. I agree with him; I remember being in one of his DJ sessions and meeting with God in a powerful, life-changing 15:51:45way. This album really allows you to tap into that. One of my favourite tracks is ‘Sound Pollution’, as it has a very beautiful and gentle opening that is accompanied by a subtle ‘synth string’ sound, which then moves into the immense beats and sounds that lead us to the chorus. Another favourite is ‘Stars’, with its blazing vocals ‘shine a light on us’ mixed into the soft beat. Overall, this is a masterpiece! Tracks: 12 • Label: Nettwork • Price: £11.99

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FINCHLEY No Clouds

vineyard uk Thank You for the Cross

This passionate new album from singer-songwriter Finchley has echoes of Coldplay and Richard Ashcroft.

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15/05/2008 08:42:52

BOOKSâ&#x20AC;&#x2030;|â&#x20AC;&#x2030;back SECTION

THE BEST BOOK FOR DISCIPLING NEW CHRISTIANS

ann Ramsdale

BOOKEND PICK OF THE MONTH identity theft John Andrews Every individual has a purpose determined by God from eternity, for which he or she is divinely equipped. Each is an original, designed by God, precious to him. However, there is an enemy who wants to steal that identity. Identity Theft gives examples of those who refused to allow themselves to be robbed: for example, Daniel and his three companions; and, in more recent years, Rosa Parks; those who did not value who they were and so lost everything, such as Esau; and those who had a negative self view, such as Gideon. We are shown how to take hold of Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s view of us, through the greatest example of all, Jesus, not just for our own sake but because the world needs us to be who God intended us to be. New Wine Press â&#x20AC;˘ 127 pages â&#x20AC;˘ ÂŁ6.99 â&#x20AC;˘ paperback

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A Handy Guide to Successful Christian Living

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what happened to the ark of the covenant? Nick Page An intriguing investigation, providing exciting, thoroughly reseached background information in an informative, humorous way. Authentic â&#x20AC;˘ 216 pages ÂŁ6.99 â&#x20AC;˘ paperback

burn up or splash down Marion Knell Returning from a time of living and working abroad, people experience stress. This book seeks to cover every aspect that they and those receiving them back should consider and prepare for. Authentic â&#x20AC;˘ 184 pages ÂŁ6.99 â&#x20AC;˘ paperback

james John Dickson Latest of the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Reading the Bible Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; series. Very readable, wellresearched study of Jamesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; epistle, bringing its practical teaching alive for individuals or small groups. Chapters include reflections and discussion questions. Aquila Press â&#x20AC;˘ 118 pages ÂŁ8 â&#x20AC;˘ paperback

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Looking at practical and spiritual issues within a Christian context Wednesday 12th November City Temple, Holborn Viaduct, LONDON Following our popular 1st major conference, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The World, the Church and Older Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; last November, we are holding a conference on dementia to look at practical and spiritual aspects within a Christian context. Dementia affects everyone - friends, families and churches and, with something like a new diagnosis every two minutes, it is a growing issue for concerned Christians.

Available with discount at the conference

It is an opportunity to talk to the authors of our new book and buy copies at a discount. But above all, to be encouraged, uplifted and better enabled to help those with dementia. Cost ÂŁ48; ÂŁ40 for advance booking before 31 August. Cost includes lunch. For booking forms, send to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Dementia Conferenceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, Pilgrim Homes, 175 Tower Bridge Road, London, SE1 2AL, or email, giving full postal details info@pilgrimhomes.org.uk. info@pilgrimhomes.org.uk

www.pilgrimhomes.org.uk Joy magazineâ&#x20AC;&#x201A;â&#x20AC;&#x2030;april 2008â&#x20AC;&#x201A;â&#x20AC;&#x2030;45

15/05/2008 08:44:20

BACK SECTION | T REASURE KIDS

Have you ever seen a string of pearls or a pearl necklace in a jeweller’s shop? They look very beautiful. Help the merchant find the pearl. Read his story in Matthew ch 13 verses 45 and 46.

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Can you put this string of seven pearls in the right order?

‘Pearl, is it true you came from an ugly old oyster?’ asked Jasper one day in the treasure chest. ‘Yes,’ said Pearl. ‘Sometimes when a little bit of grit or sand gets trapped inside an oyster shell it irritates the oyster which then covers it with layers of a substance that make it into a beautiful pearl!’ ‘Wow, that makes you really special!’ said Jasper.

Pearl

The merchant gave up everything to buy the finest pearl that he found.

Jesus is worth giving up everything for. He wants us to know him and give him our lives. Treasure Kids, 26-32 Bridgegate, RETFORD, DN22 6AA 01777 711600 info@treasurekids.co.uk www.treasurekids.co.uk

There are 10 pearls on this page.

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Pearls were really important to the merchant. What things are really important to you? Write or draw them here.

The right order for the string of pearls is: SPECIAL

in JOY Magazine

u S A E

Jesus told a great story about a merchant and a beautiful pearl. The merchant searched high and low to find the finest pearls. One day the merchant found a pearl that was very fine and very valuable. He sold everything he had so that he could buy it.

46 june 2008 Joy magazine

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15/05/2008 08:45:13

OPINION | BACK SECTION

cavanna Divine guidance can be tricky. Perhaps you have decided to go in a certain direction, but are not 100 per cent certain that it is God’s will for you, especially if it is a big step. In mild confusion, you turn to a Christian friend and say, ‘I think I’m doing the right thing, and that it’s in the will of God, but how can I know?’ To which your adviser answers, seemingly wise, with this burning question: ‘Well, do you have a peace about it?’ Where did this concept come from? Everywhere you go, people seem to say it: ‘You’ll know you’re in God’s will because you’ll have a peace about it.’ This is very strange, because it can’t be found in the Bible. It has become received wisdom, but is perhaps no more than a charismatic myth. Some may point to Colossians 3:15, ‘Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts’, but this verse is encouraging peace and forgiveness, and has nothing to do with guidance. Of course, there are times when the Lord can graciously trouble a man or a woman about to do something unwise, leading them aside from God’s plan. For example, I fled an educational college in my early years as a Christian because of a ‘troubled spirit’. But let’s wise up a minute. It would be fatal to our destiny if we automatically interpreted every feeling of unease or fear as a red light from heaven. When we are about to do something big, it takes courage. Courage, as we know, is not the absence of fear but

the conquering of it. Ask a bride on the night before her wedding if she has a ‘peace about it’, and often she’s too busy being sick with fear in the bathroom to answer you. A first day at a fresh job is far from relaxing. Doing something new can be stressful, not peaceful. But it doesn’t mean it isn’t God’s will. Unfortunately, it is perfectly possible to be going in the wrong direction and feel fine about it. Billions of unsaved people will live that way today. Sometimes ‘Do you feel a peace about it?’ is no more than a pseudo-spiritual way of saying ‘How do you feel about it?’ I am not suggesting that this is not a valid question occasionally, but how we might feel about a certain

I fled a college in my early years because of a ‘troubled spirit’ situation should not be an indicator of how God feels about it. If you are still unconvinced, or not ‘feeling a peace’ about reading this article, consider some biblical data. Disobedient Jonah was told to go to Nineveh, but he fled to Tarshish, the exact opposite direction and the very edge of the world map at the time. No one would deny that Jonah was purposefully going the wrong way and speeding out of God’s will. Yet as the divine stormy seas beat against his boat, terrifying the sailors, where was Jonah? He was below deck,

Idiot’s guide to... the holy spirit. The Person of God, sent as a gift from Jesus and the Father, to come and live inside the believer. Through him, Christians are able to experience God’s presence and www.newlifepublishing.co.uk

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asleep. He had a peace about where he was going. But he was wrong. In Gethsemane, Jesus battles with an agonising choice. His direction is the cross, his destination is the Father’s divine road, one created before the world was made. Yet, the Lord was not enjoying peace in the garden. So great was his anguish, his lack of peace, that he sweat blood. There was no peace for the shaking apostle in Corinth, nor the anxious Joshua, to whom God had to say, ‘Be strong and very courageous.’ To me it suggests that he was weak and fearful. But each of these were in the perfect will of God. Fearful, but right. Many years ago after church I shook

power, overcome sin and temptation, and enjoy all the benefits of his guidance and fellowship. He isn’t offended, and doesn’t leave; he sticks closer than a brother! Receive him as soon as possible.

hands with a lady who was on holiday. In conversation, she told me that she was about to move home, leave loved ones and begin a new chapter in her life. As she was telling me this her face was full of angst, so I mentioned to her that in all this change she should not expect to ‘feel a peace about the situation’. As I spoke these words, tears began to flow. The stress had made her doubt God was in it. Thank God for the nearness of the presence of the Lord Jesus, the only peace we truly need. The fruit of the Spirit is peace, and he does indeed fill our hearts with confidence in the day of trouble. But truly to find God’s will is to study his word, hear his heart and be guided by mature people. Newsflash: ‘If it feels good, do it’ may lead only to a whale’s mouth. Peter Cavanna is the senior leader of Living Waters, Cambridge. Visit his website at www.signsandwonders.co.uk Joy magazine june 2008 47

15/05/2008 08:45:58

BACK SECTION | T EACHING

from here to eternity The concept of eternity isn’t preached about enough in church, says Rotherham New Life pastor Adrian Dexter I don’t know if it’s just me, but can anyone tell me what has happened to the concept of eternity? I have been a Christian a long time and I’ve heard some wonderful preaching. But in recent years those great eschatological truths that once formed the dominant themes of our preaching seem now almost completely absent. In fact, it would appear that the longing to see Christ return – which once burned in the hearts of those early Christians – seems to have all but burned itself out. Yet Paul encourages Titus to ‘wait for our blessed hope – the glorious appearing of our Great God and Saviour Jesus Christ’ (Titus 2:13). In English the word ‘wait’ can often convey the image of inactivity. However, the Greek word used is ‘prosdechomai’ which means, in the words of Max Lucado, to wait forwardly, with eager anticipation and desire. The word is also used of Simeon, who waited in the temple for

the first advent of the Messiah; Simeon was ‘standing on tiptoe, waiting wide-eyed and watching expectantly for the Christ’ (Luke 2:25). As a movement we were once nicknamed the ‘Second-Comers’ because of our eschatological emphasis; unbelievers heard that Christ was coming and they needed to be ready, and that Jesus loved them and died to rescue them from a lost

‘If we focus too much on the here and now it is possible to lose sight of the there and then’ eternity. Slap me in the face and call me old-fashioned, but I still believe it! But I doubt the nickname still applies. One major factor for the change of focus could be that in recent years there has been an emphasis, especially within new church networks, that has centred on a strong realised eschatology; that is, that the Church can experience the in-breaking power and presence of the Kingdom of God today – an emphasis that I believe we should pursue and wholly embrace.

DID YOU KNOW... that there are 1,260 promises recorded in the Bible? There are 6,468 commands in the Bible, and 3,294 questions. Meanwhile, the longest chapter in the Bible is Psalm

119; the shortest is Psalm 117. The longest verse is in the book of Esther (8:9), while the shortest verse is John 11:35. Experts reckon the Bible has been translated into more than 1,200 languages.

However, like in most things, we need balance. We all long for the days when we will see greater manifestations of the gifts of the Spirit on the streets and in the marketplace. But if we focus too much on the here and now it is possible to lose sight of the there and then. In our preaching, the emphasis must not solely focus on what Jesus saved us for, but also what he saved us from – sin, death and hell. Sadly, today our favourite Gospel verse is no longer John 3:16 but John 10:10: ‘I have come that you might have life in all its fullness’. If we lose sight of eternity then it is possible for the Gospel to be misrepresented as a mere life-improvement message that would sit comfortably alongside all the other self-help books you can find in leading bookshops. Admittedly, many of us have signed on the dotted line and accept the doctrinal truth about Christ’s return, but as Tozer said, correct doctrine ‘will never take the place of a love-inflamed desire to look upon his face’. Giving mental assent to a creed is not enough. Eternity should not be treated as a life insurance document that once signed we tuck away out of sight. Rather, the reality of eternity should burn within our hearts and so impact all that we say and do. This concept of eternity is foundational to many areas of life and ministry, but especially with regard to the area of mission. Humour me for a second. Suppose what the Bible says is true, and Jesus is coming back ‘like a thief in the night’. Should that not stir us with a sense of

48 june 2008 Joy magazine

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15/05/2008 08:46:34

TEACHING & OPINION|BACK SECTION

www.godtube.com

WEBSITE OF THE MONTH 

urgency? And suppose for a second that those who are not Christians are heading to a lost eternity. Should that not drive us to fervent prayer and to a passionate declaration and demonstration of the love of God to a lost and dying world? we really cannot afford to go back to the days of weekly hell-fire preaching; it would alienate this modern generation. what we need to see, though, is a church whose missionary drive and passion is fired by the love of God and by the reality of a lost eternity for those who don’t belong to Christ. www.newlifepublishing.co.uk

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Like the moravians, we need to recapture the reality of Christ’s return and regain confidence in seeing God’s power manifest in mission. If we can, then maybe a new generation could emerge who are willing to leave everything, to live and die, to see ‘the Lamb that was slain receive the reward of his suffering’. It is time to revisit some ancient truths, even though they may be unpalatable to modern ears. It is time to speak about eternity and in doing so maybe some perspectives and understanding will change. It is only in the light of eternity that life in this world makes sense.

BASEd ON ThE pOpuLAr YouTube Internet phenomenon, the launch of its Christian counterpart, GodTube, has caused an equal amount of controversy. It may be rejected by critics such as mal fletcher championing the cause for Christians to use secular media sites to put across their message, but that hasn’t stopped almost 400,000 people worldwide signing up to become members. where the more famous site has the strapline ‘broadcast yourself’, GodTube carries the predictable Christian alternative ‘Broadcast him’ – and that’s what its ever-increasing membership does. The site allows browsers access to a library of video clips uploaded by other members. You can watch, comment on, download, upload and discuss what is displayed, as well as join forums, enter a prayer room and ‘bring the Bible to life’ via an interactive link. The majority of the available media has an obvious evangelistic use, and so the site is an excellent tool for pastors and church leaders hoping to be inspired or to also find usable video footage for church services. The site is exceptionally easy to navigate and within a few minutes of browsing you will be able to source or enjoy a range of short clips to suit the purpose of your visit. for Christians who love web-browsing and who dare to venture into multi-media for church presentations, this is an excellent tool. Definitely worth a visit. JOy mAGAzINE juNE 2008 49

15/05/2008 08:46:35

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Abersoch & Nefyn, North Wales Self-catering holiday accommodation for families and groups. Tel 01758 721630. www.ccet.org.uk Cambrian Coast Evangelical Trust. (FB87) BLACKPOOL Lochinvar Christian Guest House. For a relaxing holiday with good food, fellowship and fun. 01253 351 761. www.lochinvar(CP08) christianholidays.co.uk Bracklesham Bay, West Sussex Self-catering chalets. Well appointed, sleep 4-6. Outdoor pool, close to pebble/wet sand beach. Other properties UK and abroad. 0845 644 0717. www.windrush-holidays.com enquiries@windrush-holidays.com (EI34) C A R M A RTHE N SH I RE , near Llanelli. Beautifully appointed and equipped bungalow. Outstanding coastal views. 2 ensuite bedrooms. Sleeps max 7. Tel 01554 758876. (EI58) www.gowerview.co.uk. Comfortable accomodation. Ensuite rooms. Wheelchair access. B&B from £25 PNpp sharing doublle room.Single room from £35 PN. Tel 01275 874 477. Cavell House, 1 Elton Road, Clevedon, BS21 7RA (CQ69) www.cavellhouse.com Costa Blanca Spain 2 Bedroomed, terraced. Sleeps 4. Quiet location. Ideal for families/golfers. On site swimming pool. 5 mins walk to bar restaurants, shops & Drive to 3 golf courses. 10 mins beaches. 20 mins Airport. Contact Dave & Pam 07787 (FR35) 572 977 CZECH REPUBLIC Large flat near Petrovice village on the German / Polish borders. Protected scenic region. tel 08444 620 620 followed by 00420 487 521 115 (2p/min) (FM97) FR A N CE BR I TT A N Y P o n t Aven. Charming historical town. Beautiful Natural sandy beaches. Cliff walks. Delightful apartments from £ 240.0 0 Per week. Email: p o nt avenholi d ays@yaho o.c o.uk (FN12) Tel: 0033 (0) 298 091 506

isr ael , mediterr anean, Europe, UK ‘weekend breaks’. All excellent value (ATOL 3669); brochure Lifetime Christian Holidays, PO Box 55, Newport, NP19 8XT. Tel: 01633 277167 Email: info@lifetime-holidays.co.uk (CJ11) I SLE OF A RR A N F a r m accommodation. 3 bedrooms plus spa bathroom, sleeping 8. Private troutfishing, alpacas, sea views. 01770 700488 www.arranalpaca.co.uk (EQ47) KESWICK , L AKE DISTRICT Primrose Cottage. Self catering. Well equipped. Sleeps 5/6. 2 double bedrooms and single bedroom. Cot and high chair if needed. 10 minutes walk on level ground to the town centre. For further details contact Steve Jones (CE93) 01768 774 463 Kernow Trek Lodge Mawgan Porth. Bed And Breakfast from £25.50 pppn. On the beautifull North Cornwall Coast. Families and Groups Welcome. www.kernowtrek.co.uk 01637 860437 (FS94) LANCASTER - LITTLE ACORNS Homely B&B. In pretty riverside village close M6 Junction 34. Ideal North/ South Stop over. Tel: Alison 01524 811 (EJ33) 408 LLANDUDNO. Beth Eden Christian Guest house with superb views overlooking sea and Snowdonia mountains. We welcome individuals, families and groups of up to 30. Times of fellowship and bible ministry. www.betheden.co.uk 01492 877057 (CJ13) betheden@btinternet.co.uk LONDON HAMMERSMITH Nice B&B. Comfortable, central, quiet family home. Direct line to all attractions, airports/ Eurostar. Double/twin £50p.n. Single £36p.n. Children’s reductions. 020 7385 4904 (EH35) www.thewaytostay.co.uk LOV ELY A R D E N N ES region of Belguim: Christian B&B (from £19) plus self catering apartment. www.pierresblanches.com email: info@pierresblanches.com Tel: 0032 843 87800 (FC02) Near Cromer North Norfolk 4/6 Berth Caravan. Quiet site. Near to Beach. Lovely walks near to National Trust properties. Tel: Nigel 01502 560 457 or email: (FQ45) nigelofsuffolk@tiscali.co.uk. N ORTH N ORFOL K m o d e r n Bungalow sleeps 3 / 4. Near sea, bird reserves and other holiday attractions. (FF86) Young. 07702 747 218. P E ACE , P ERFECT P E ACE . Attractive bungalows (Sleeps 2-6) pool, gardens, glorious panoramic rural views, idyllic looking. Near Looe. Tel 01503 272 570 (CJ07) www.catherinepark.co.uk

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torQUAy De VoN Receive a warm Christian welcome at our 10 bedroom licensed accommodation, situated in quiet central location, seafront 400m rail station 600m Good sized rooms all en-suite with teamaking, CTV Home-cooked food with choice breakfast and dinner Colour brochure from Nigel and Angela Pearce Grosvenor House Falkland Road Torquay TQ25JP 01803-294110 www.grosvenorhousehotel.co.uk (EW41)

shoresh stUDy toUrs 20th to 31st August 2008. A Narrow Bridge: Jewish Life in Poland Then & Now We are offering our second tour to Poland, formerly home to the second largest Jewish community in the world. Join us as we embark on an in-depth study tour of this once vibrant society and how it has been lost forever. Other tours available.For more Information contact Shoresh@cmj.org.uk or 01727 (EH82) 810817/833114

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Can you help our editorial team design exciting and eye-catching pages? Based in our Nottingham office, you will also be able to edit stories using InDesign. Write to: Peter Wreford, Editorial Director, New Life Publishing, PO Box 777, Nottingham, NG11 6ZZ, or email: md@newlifepublishing.co.uk

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Salary £19,362 to £25,365 for the right person (Dependent on qualifications and experience)

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The church is now looking for the right individual to further develop an existing youth programme and expand into the community. The aim of this project is to further establish the church’s place as a focal point for children and young people offering them the opportunity to realise and develop a relationship with Christ. Applications and information pack can be requested from ymcyouthworker@aol.com

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BACK SECTION | OPINION

steve hill tHe momentum or speed of God has always challenged me. He is always moving forward. He never sleeps. He never slumbers. He never tires. He is constantly working to bring about his plan. Yet for many, understanding how he moves is a mystery. Have you ever wondered about the timing of the Lord? Or how about the Lord’s quickness in tackling a task? At times when we think we’re waiting on God, is it possible that he is waiting on us? He can do in an instant what we could never accomplish in a lifetime. This is what ‘God speed’ is all about. Just look at the incredible momentum of Jesus’ life. Everything he needed to accomplish, he did in just three and a half years! In Luke 9:57-62, Jesus spoke of the urgency, the quickness and the speed of God. He then said, ‘No one, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.’ Jesus was telling the disciples, ‘There’s no time to waste. You’d better get up, go outside your house, take hold of the plough, set your eyes on the field and start moving.’ Then, he closed his life. Talk about speed! In less time than young people spend in high school, Jesus accomplished his mission on earth! Let’s see what the Bible has to say about the quickness of the Lord. First, when it comes to being fast, God holds

the record! In Genesis 1:3, God simply spoke, ‘Let there be light.’ And there was. Think about it. While we’re still hooking up electrical wires, God is moving on. The Space Shuttle travels a whopping five miles per second (17,500 mph), yet light travels 238,860 miles from earth to the moon in a mere 1.28 seconds! When God wants to get something done, he can do more in a nanosecond (one billionth of a second) than we can do in a lifetime. Doesn’t it make sense, then, to get in touch with him when your request is urgent? Second, when it comes to going further faster, everyone else falls short.

Speed the plough — God is in a hurry to reap the harvest! On the Day of Pentecost, a group of 120 disciples were gathered in the Upper Room praying. There were no church growth experts to guide them. No how-to seminars; no programmes; no financial advisors. God accomplished in a day what the disciples could have never done in their entire lives. He catapulted the Church forward, filled them with power, and added 3,000 people to their numbers in one single day!

revival snippet Lepers are turning to Christ for healing and forgiveness as God continues to move in parts of India. Gospel for Asia reports that Faram Aziz, who lives in a segregated leper colony in West Bengal, has been healed of a large wound on his leg after receiving prayer. Another man, Jaya Bagchi, couldn’t walk due to the disease. After prayer, he

Third, when it comes to instant faith, God cannot be equalled. One of the most incredible stories in the Bible is the demon-possessed man from Gadera found in Mark 5. The man lived in the tombs, he’d cut himself, and everyone was afraid of him. Then Jesus came on the scene and set him free. In just a few, short moments, this man went from being the town maniac to becoming the town missionary! I’d much rather have God’s ‘suddenlys’, his ‘right nows’, and his quickness; I’d rather have ‘God speed’ any day compared to a long, drawn-out process. Fourth, when it comes to forgiveness, Jesus is straight to the point. Friends,

was supernaturally healed. Since July 2007, several missionaries have devoted their time to ministering to people in all different colonies in West Bengal. They have witnessed several lepers come to Christ, with many being healed. One of the missionaries is Anisur Roze, who was himself healed of leprosy after Gospel for Asia staff prayed for him.

please grasp the importance of what I’m about to say: Jesus is quick to forgive. But so often we’re not. We harbour and carry hurts for ever. We could be away from a person for five years, and then see them in the shopping centre, and a whole avalanche and cesspool of bitterness and hatred surfaces because of what they did. But the Lord is not like that. He forgives in a nanosecond. What does this have to do with ‘God speed’? Everything. You can’t move forward in God if you are always looking back and holding on to the past. It’s impossible. Finally, when it comes to work in his fields, God is always in a hurry. My God is a master farmer. When the harvest is ripe, you’ll not find him sleeping or taking it easy. He’ll work in shifts 24/7, and will run that combine all night long with the lights on to bring in the harvest. That’s my God! If you want to experience God’s momentum in your life, then be quick to work in his fields and bring in the harvest! I’m so thankful that his speed is different from our’s, aren’t you?

54 june 2008 Joy magazine

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