Now it
Shall Spring Forth
God’s Promise to Perform Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert. - Isaiah 43:19
And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform. - Romans 4:21
THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK
“GOD’S PROMISE TO PERFORM”
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020
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EXECUTIVE OFFICERS BISHOP THEODORE L. BROOKS, SR. PRESIDING BISHOP First Assistant Presiding Bishop
Second Assistant Presiding Bishop
The Episcopal address is: 3939 Meadows Drive Indianapolis, IN 46205
Bishop Mark C. Tolbert, Sr. General Secretary
Assistant General Secretary
The Episcopal Staff: Mrs. Dana Felton Chief of Staff-Board of Bishops 313-543-6063 / Fax: 313-543-6067 dfelton@hq.pawinc.org
Bishop Michael D. Hannah, Sr. General Treasurer
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Assistant General Treasurer
Mrs. Jordan Brooks-Adams Chief of Staff-Auxiliaries and Departments / 203-376-6089 jbrooks@beulahheightschurch.org
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Elder Alan Burroughs Executive Liaison for Special Committees and Director of Apostolic Day of Prayer 301-893-7300 aburroughs@pawinc.org
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Suffragan Bishop Craig High
Suffragan Bishop Ann Storey Pratt
Suffragan Bishop Maxie D. Dobson
Suffragan Bishop Leon E. Parker
Ms. Roxanne McDaniel PAW Headquarters’ Office Manager Your first point of contact 317-547-9541 / Fax: 317-543-0513 rmcdaniel@publishing.pawinc.org
BOARD OF BISHOPS w Former Presiding Bishops Enebong E. Ephraim ** Charles Davis ** Ronald L. Young v George F. Austin Clifton Jones v Vanuel C. Little ** Leo C. Smith, Jr. Immanuel Paul Joseph S. Montinor Richard E. Young Horace E. Smith wv Nealon Guthrie ** James Gaiters v Charles H. Ellis III wv Michael D. Hannah, Sr. v William R. Jones **
v Member of Executive Bishops Council
Noel L. Jones Lance R. Foster v Theodore L. Brooks, Sr. v Roland E. Hairston Charles Sims Gregory W. Newman v Sherman L. Merritt v Moses E. Butler Nathaniel J. Davis, Sr, ** Frank Cuomo ** Richard D. Howell, Jr. v Billy G. Newton Joseph D. Guthrie v Edgar A. Posey Ellis J. Farrington Alfonso Madden
** Emeritus Bishops
Carl Lewis Leo Simpson Marion E. Wright, Sr. v Mark C. Tolbert, Sr. v Tutai Pere Isaac Tumo Mthimkula C. Wayne Brantley v Michael D. Franklin Samuel R. Moore v Lourenco Vieira Ira Combs Gary H. Harper Larry O. Jones v Samuel Nice Nkanang Charles M. Finnell v Robert Thomas
William A. Ellis A. Glenn Brady v Earnest Pendleton Robert A. Baker James Daniel Edgar Robinson Rufus G.W. Sanders Carl Turner v Thomas Davis Jeffrey D. Goldsmith Jones Foote v Robert T. Douglas Donnie McGriff Bruce Shaw Barrington Smith v Melvin Brown
+ Honorary Bishops John Thorpe James Greg Rodges Mona Reide Gwendolyn Weeks Fredrick Jackson Leroy Horne Donald L. Golder Harry Grayson Gregory Irvin v Stephen Zondo Arthur Fletcher Kevin Dobbs Stewart Reese + Eulah Nelson + Ernest Miller + Marvin Donaldson +
PENTECOSTAL ASSEMBLIES OF THE WORLD, INC. HEADQUARTERS OFFICE
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The CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK Magazine (ISSN10894217) is published bi-monthly, and is the official organ of the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Inc. Headquarters: 3939 Meadows Drive, Indianapolis, Indiana 46205; phone (317) 547-9541. Please let it be known that all rights are reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced, stored in an electronic system, or transmitted in any form by means of electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, or otherwise, without the prior permission of both the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Inc., and its entity the Department of Publications. Periodical postage paid at Indianapolis, IN 46206. Printed in the United States of America. All rights reserved. Over 60 years of continuous publication in the interest of Christian perfection according to Ephesians 4:11-13, and emphasizing Apostolic faith and practice, the Second Coming of Christ, and the preparation of the people to be the Bride of Christ. SUBSCRIPTION: USA. $30.00: Foreign, please call the office for rates at: 317-547-9541. Single copies and back issues $5.00 each. SUBMISSIONS: Please contact Roxanne McDaniel for rates at: 317547-9541. We assume no responsibility for and are not obligated to print any article or advertisement either solicited or unsolicited. Views expressed are not necessarily those of the PAW, Inc. or The Christian Outlook magazine. POSTMASTER: send address changes to: 3939 Meadows Drive, Indianapolis, Indiana 46205. MAILING ADDRESS The Christian Outlook Magazine 3939 Meadows Drive Indianapolis, IN 46205 (317) 547-9541 (317) 543-0513 FAX www.pawinc.org
TABLE OF
CONTENTS 4
Executive Officers
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Letter from the Presiding Bishop
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From the Editor
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Making Full Proof of Thy Ministry
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The Question
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Face Down and Rise Up
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Hold Fast the Profession
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In Loving Memory: Bishop Alphonso Scott
Evangelist Mona Thomas-Green Associate Director/Graphic Design
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History: Howard Archibald Goss
First Lady Jennifer Slaughter Content Administrator & Assistant to Editor in Chief
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Cover Story: Fight Like a Girl!
Elder Demarcus Williams/FRESHDESIGNZ, LLC Creative Director/Graphic Design
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Business: I’m a Boss
Minister Erick Bowens/Bowens Enterprises Cover Design
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Straddling the Fence: Moving from Defense to Offense
Sister Dawne Hill/DHDesigns Graphic Design
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Editorial: Trustworthy
Sister Gabrielle Louden Graphic Design
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Money: Investing - Getting Started
Roxanne McDaniel Office Manager/Accounting Director
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Recipe
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Bible Trivia: The Books of Mark and Luke
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Adopt-A-Soul: All Souls Matter to God
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Where is the Justice?
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Book Review: Let the Daughters Prophesy
EDITORIAL Evangelist Neechy Dumas Editor in Chief and Director of Publications
Elder David Hollis, Jr. Minister Timothy Moore Dr. Lillian Lockett Robertson Suffragan Bishop Harold E. Rayford Suffragan Bishop Leonard S. Scott Minister Ramona Ward Dr. Ruth Tyson Newton Executive Contributors Stacey N. Monger Mary Sanford Production Associates
THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK
“GOD’S PROMISE TO PERFORM”
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020
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From the Desk of the Presiding Bishop
Bishop Theodore L. Brooks, Sr.
Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Inc.
Greetings in the prefect Name of Jesus Christ! Just a few months ago, the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Inc. experienced another historic first for our organization—an entirely virtual summer convention! The year 2020 has been an unprecedented one, wherein we have experienced uncertainty, fear, the unknown, and unrest. Yet, thus far God’s Hand has remained over our lives, and we are grateful for His continued divine comfort, inspiration, innovation and peace. The 2020 Virtual Convention was a testament that God can use uncertain situations to provide greater impact than we could ever expect—and He did just that! With tens of thousands of viewers for each day, the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World shared the Gospel of Jesus Christ throughout households and communities we would have never been able to reach if we had gathered as planned for Baltimore. While I missed seeing each of your faces, our collective praise, and greeting old friends and extended family in convention center halls, I am truly blessed by the move of God in this new digital space. Indeed, through it all, God has promised to perform in our lives, and we believe it shall be so! Now, as the autumn season emerges, many are embarking on the next stage of this new age. We must keep all of our educators, students, families, facility workers and school administrators in prayer as we confront the challenge of the new school year head on. Lady Brooks and I ask that you join us as we continue to pray for the health and safety of our educators and students, for the wisdom of the decision and policy makers, the parents and guardians who are juggling multiple demands as co-educators and workers, and for the grace as we all grow in uncertainty. Above all, we pray for future generations, that they may be positively impacted for the Kingdom of God, their holistic success and development, and for the peace of God to prevail as we re-learn learning in the COVID-19 era. Lady Brooks and I love you all to life, and pray God’s richest blessings be upon you! The Master’s Servants, Bishop Theodore and Lady L. Janice Brooks
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THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK
“GOD’S PROMISE TO PERFORM”
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020
FROM THE EDITOR Evangelist Neechy Dumas
Thank you to the many readers and subscribers of the July/August issue of The Christian Outlook magazine. Your continued support of this distinguished magazine has once again amazed us as we’ve experienced another SOLD OUT edition! Over the past several weeks, we’ve received remarkable correspondence and feedback from readers just like you and we thank you!
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hank you to our Presiding Bishop, Bishop Theodore L. Brooks, Sr., for the continued opportunity to serve our great organization in this capacity. In light of our current national and global environment, I am grateful to our Presiding Bishop, who has remained steadfast, while continually creating opportunities to keep our churches and communities engaged. The unexpected challenges that we’ve had to face over the past several months, have required us to refocus both spiritually and naturally. We’ve become more intentional about prayer and spending intimate time with God, made more preparations for our financial future and prioritized what’s important in our lives. As we nestle into what seems to be the new normal, I’ll still declare that God is a good God. I’m encouraged in knowing that He loves us and that we don’t have to live in fear of what tomorrow holds. God gave us a promise, “Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” (Matt. 28:20)
THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK
As you navigate through these pages, it is my hope that you will be blessed by the empowering testimony of VICTORY in spite of moments of despair, by Lady Emelda Tolbert; that you’ll find the motivation and inspiration to move forward in life by reading the empowering article by Dr. Rayvann Kee II, PsyD, MBA; and that you’ll gain tips on how to grow your entrepreneurial endeavors from my own personal reflection, “I’m A Boss.” May you find solace in knowing that we serve a God who has continually kept and preserved us throughout this year and, it is my prayer that you will lock arms with us, as we continue to stand on the promises of God, which assures us that “He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 1:6) Blessings, Evang. Neechy Marketing & Publications Director @Neechy | www.Neechy.com
“GOD’S PROMISE TO PERFORM”
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020
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PREACHER’S CORNER
MAKING FULL PROOF OF THY MINISTRY By Bishop Francis L. Smith, written in 1954
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are great potentialities hidden in most men that they do not realize and perhaps do not develop. Like riches that are hidden in the mountains over which men trample for untold years without realizing what wealth is there, so there are abilities that lie quietly within the soul of men while they are busy doing other things that appear more on the surface. Exploration is necessary to find out these abilities and bring them to the front where they can be put to use. Let’s explore a bit into the ministry. Paul wrote to Timothy, the young pastor under him, and admonished him to “make full proof of his ministry.” Along with his pastoring he, he was to do the work of the evangelist and such else as would be the full expression of the gifts within him. Apparently, Paul wanted to be sure that Timothy did not take too narrow a view of the ministry. There is altogether too narrow an aspect of the ministry prevalent today among Pentecostal ministers. It is felt generally that preaching is all there is to ministry. Even the older idea of visitation is dying out among the younger generation of ministers. In the earlier days of Pentecost, there was a passion for souls, and all means were used to win them. Now if souls don’t come to the church little will be done to get them. The admonition of Paul needs to be revived in the minds of the holiness ministry, “Make full proof of thy ministry.” Notice that Paul told Timothy not to neglect the work of an evangelist. To our general usage this would mean that Timothy was to go out and get some revivals to hold. Evangelism simply means to spread the Gospel as a messenger, and there was no defined for prescribed way that it should be spread. On the surface however, it would appear that the speaking ministry is all that should be employed. This is not true. Blessed men of all ages have been men who used all possible, available means to spread the gospel. The apostles wrote letters which really amounted to books, and we are indebted to them this day for the new Testament.
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THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK
Presiding Bishop Smith (pictured far left), General Secretary Paul Bowers, and outgoing Presiding Bishop Ross Paddock The broader and mare correct concept of the Christian ministry includes the ministry of teaching, writing, song composing, as well as the speaking ministry. Very few men are so meagerly equipped that they have only one ministry. Most men have two or more of these ministeries, only they allow all but the speaking ministry to lie undiscovered and undeveloped. Making full proof one’s ministry must mean the development of all ministerial potentialities. In this article I am particularly interested in encouraging the development of the ministry of the written word. There are several reasons why we should not neglect the ministry of the written word. Let’s look at some of them.
FAR REACHING
The written word is more far reaching than the spoken word. The written word can be dispensed through the mails, passed out by hand, printed, copied, and reach person after person. One simple tract may pass through the hands of a dozen or more people with each one receiving its message. It can be sent in all directions at the same time. It can also travel into places where the author may never have the opportunity to travel.
LONGER LASTING
The words of the spoken message often are forgotten in their exact hearing soon after they are spoken, but the written word is far longer lasting. The words of such men as Spurgeon, Wesley, Thomas Aquinas, Paul, Peter, Jesus, Ezra, and Moses are still with us, thank God, though they are no longer with us in person. And if the world stands another ten thousand years, there is no reason why their words will not be available for the generations that shall then inherit the earth. Many books of an earlier generation are right now enjoying a revival of interest. Their messages are thus continuing to spread although the author may be forgotten.
“GOD’S PROMISE TO PERFORM”
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020
BLESSED
There are some that feel that the written word is inferior to the spoken word because it cannot be anointed in utterance and thus be made effectual. I will agree that the inflection of the voice does have much bearing on the effectiveness of preaching, but I disagree with the idea that the written word cannot be “anointed” and made effectual. There are means by which emphasis and force can be put into writing. The use of proper illustrations, good punctuation, and descriptive words all help to make the written word effectual. But for those who believe in the power of prayer, there is an even more effectual way of making the written word powerful, i.e. praying over the writing as it is being done. It is possible by this means to transmit the very spirit of the writer to the reader. The Holy Spirit is responsible for this phenomena and this is why we must pray. We ask God to anoint the words and make them bless the reader. Men have been saved as a result, souls revived, hardened hearts melted, faith strengthened. But even though the written word may not be as effective as the spoken word, yet it is so important that we cannot afford to neglect this part of our ministry. If we would “make full proof of” our ministry, we must write. There is a great demand and need for all forms of writing. We have neglected to write our doctrines down. We have failed in later years to produce very important tracts. We have delegated the writing of textbooks and treatises to someone else, mostly outside of our own connection. We absorb the Sunday School literature of another group that is somewhat like ours, but yet we have to adapt it to our use. We allow the boys in service to go lacking instead of writing to them encouragement from the Word of God. All of this because we do not make full proof of our ministry. When approached about writing for the magazine or writing booklets or tracts, I have been told repeatedly, “I just hate to write.” But my reply to this is, “That is no justifiable reason in the sight of God for writing.” I am afraid that many ministers are going to stand condemned in the judgment for having been concerned about fully carrying out their ministry. You should discipline yourself enough to do what you know to do in spite of the fact that you may not like to do it. Consider your responsibility to spread the Word of God, and make fuller proof of your ministry by writing for the Lord.
Some tools of the ministry that are much neglected.
Bishop Francis Smith (pictured far right) with District Elder Thomas Streitferd, Elder Arthur Brazier at the 1965 PAW Jubilee Convention in Indianapolis
Presiding Bishop Francis L. Smith with wife, Natalie at the 1974 PAW Convention in Denver
Bishop Francis Leonard Smith was born December 18, 1915 to Helen and Samuel Balsamo in a small town called Ironspot (OH), just south of Zanesville. He, along with his sister, were raised by his grandparents (the late Henry and Mary Smith) who later adopted him and gave him the surname Smith. In 1974, Smith was elected Presiding Bishop of the organization. He served as Presider for two, three-year terms from 1974 - 1980. Bishop Francis L. Smith departed this life on October 10, 1995, following a heart attack at the age of 75. THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK
“GOD’S PROMISE TO PERFORM”
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020
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THE QUESTION
Q
Dorothy A. Taylor Isaiah 55:11- So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing where to I sent it.
2020 REFLECTIONS
Dawnay Small
What are some of the lessons that 2020 has taught you?
1. Trust God in all things. 2. Intensify my prayer life and take it to another level 3. Be thankful to God in everything and at all times. 4. Wait patiently on Lord and let him have his way and will in my life.
Karen Turner It has taught me to be ready for change. The world both spiritual and natural have forever changed.
Sharquila E Harris No matter the season the world is facing He will protect and provide for HIS people!!!
Christy Spencer I knew God was a provider, sustainer waymaker, and protector...but I really got to see just how powerful He is. My prayer life helped me so much through it all.
Brenda Averett Being reflective on the question what lessons have I learned thought this pandemic. I have learned God is forever in control, and that He works everything out for our good to show is miracle working power. I also knew that my mind, and body needed to rest and when we don’t stop He will stop the world and give his children what they need.
Gwen Thomas 1. That my prayer life needed improving. 2. That I can praise Him in the midst of a pandemic in my home all by myself. 3. That God keeps his promises to never leave us or forsake us. He has seen to all of my needs. 4. What a mighty God we serve!!!!
Macosha La’Selle Brewer Be patient & wait, because God will always succeed with his plans!
Christy Spencer I knew God was a provider, sustainer waymaker, and protector...but I really got to see just how powerful He is. My prayer life helped me so much through it all.
Adrienne Trotter That God fulfills His promises to you even in the midst of a pandemic. Nothing stops God’s plans for you!
Our Next Question WHAT NEW PROFESSIONAL OR BUSINESS GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR 2021?
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“GOD’S PROMISE TO PERFORM”
Send your response to TheChristianOutlook@pawinc.org SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020
inin 2020 2020
FAMILY
healthy healthy relationships relationships SinglesSingles
ear 2020 The year has 2020 been has unprecedented been unprecedented on so many on levels. so many A levels. A theNow Now is perfect is the time perfect to become time tointrospective become introspective and investigate and investigate mic,pandemic, police brutality, police brutality, protests and protests political and unrest politicalhave unrestareas have in your areas life in that your need lifeattention that needand attention healing. and If you healing. pick someone If you pick someone ateddominated the headlines. the headlines. Our routines Ourhave routines beenhave disrupted. been disrupted. We’ve from We’ve an unhealed from an and unhealed unhealthy and unhealthy heart or from heart a place or from of insecurity, a place of insecurity, romgone physical frombuildings physical to buildings cyber sanctuaries, to cyber sanctuaries, from preaching from preaching is deceitful deceitful all above all you mightyou pickmight the wrong pick the person. wrong “The person. heart“The heart isabove gregations to congregations to preaching to preaching to cameras. to We cameras. have also We have felt the also felt things the, And things desperately , And desperately wicked; Who wicked; can know Who can it?” (Jeremiah know it?” (Jeremiah 17:9 17:9 t of beloved impact of public beloved figures public such figures as Kobe such Bryant as Kobe andBryant Chadwick and Chadwick NKJV) NKJV) an to Boseman name a to few. name Despite a few. the Despite challenges the challenges of this yearofwe this areyear We we are must take We must a deep take look a deep at who look weatare who internally we are because internallythis because this d theoffered opportunity the opportunity to reflect on tothe reflect health on the of our health relationships. of our relationships. governs our governs desires, ourbehaviors, desires, behaviors, and how we andperceive how weand perceive pursue and pursue others. You others. need You introspection need introspection and the power and the of power the Holy of Spirit the Holy Spirit emier Ourrelationship premier relationship must be the must onebewe thehave onewith we have God. with It’s God. It’s to heal your to heal history your so history you can so embrace you can your embrace destiny. your During destiny. the During the o confuse easy to “doing” confuse for“doing” God with for“being” God with with “being” God. It with is possible God. It is possible internal assessment, internal assessment, remember remember that being that single being does single not mean does not mean ve, sing, to serve, teach,sing, andteach, preachand andpreach still beand distant still be from distant God. from We God. We being being incomplete. We are complete We are in complete Christ, and in Christ, shouldand weshould desire we desire can often seek to can satisfy seek our to satisfy insecurities our insecurities by chasingbyapplause chasing and applause andincomplete. companionship, companionship, our spouse our should spouse simply should compliment simply compliment what God has what God has ation, affirmation, not knowing notthat knowing impressing that impressing people is not people synonymous is not synonymous already completed. already completed. Stop waiting Stop on waiting someone on else someone to enter else your to enter life your life mpacting with impacting them. My desire them. My is todesire be a better is to beperson a better than person I am than I am in order for in yours order to for begin. yours While to begin. you While are single, you are get single, another get degree, another degree, or. My a pastor. desire is Mytodesire impress is to God impress in private God more in private thanmore I impress than I impress advance your advance career, your lower career, your lower debt, your engage debt, in activites engage in that activites stretch that stretch e in people public. in God public. reignite Godour reignite passion ourforpassion your presences, for your presences, a a your creativity your and creativity feed your and feed mind your and mind spirit. and Insist spirit. on maximizing Insist on maximizing r and hunger thirst for andrighteousness, thirst for righteousness, and love for and prayer love and for prayer fasting. and fasting. this seasonthis by season becoming by becoming everythingeverything God created God you created to be. you to be.
For married For married couples couples
In 2020 it isInimportant to remind to ourselves marriage the covenant God uses 2020 it is important remind that ourselves thatismarriage is thethat covenant thatto God uses to describe the relationship between Christ and Christ the Church. DoChurch. not make of mistake of describe the relationship between and the Dothe notgrave makemistake the grave comparingcomparing the marriage have inyou realhave life to the marriages you see online. Posts do not theyou marriage in real life to the marriages you see online. Posts do not always match reality. Thereality. reality The is that marriages require work and effort. In Gary Chapman’s always match reality is that marriages require work and effort. In Gary Chapman’s 4 Seasons of 4 Seasons Marriageof, he Marriage asserts, he thatasserts through thatmarriage throughwe marriage will feelwe thewill fluctuations feel the fluctuations of the of the seasons. The seasons. Fall season The Fall of marriage season ofcan marriage bring feelings can bring offeelings dejection, of dejection, sadness, and sadness, feelingand feeling underappreciated. underappreciated. Winter canWinter be a cold can season be a cold characterized season characterized by feelingsbyoffeelings hurt, anger, of hurt, anger, and disappointment. and disappointment. Spring brings Spring emotions brings of emotions joy, hope of and joy, hope optimism and optimism for the future. for the future. Summer brings Summer happiness, brings happiness, satisfaction, satisfaction, and connection. and connection. It is imperative It is imperative that our marriages that our marriages are strongare enough strongtoenough survive to every survive season. every A bad season. dayAdoes bad not day denote does not a bad denote marriage. a bad marriage. Take this time Take to thisstudy timeyour to study spouse, youranticipate spouse, anticipate their needs their andneeds respect andthat respect you both that you both might interpret mightlove interpret differently love differently and make and it your make responsibility it your responsibility to show love to show the way love your the way your spouse desires spouse to receive desires to it. In receive a timeit.when In a time the world when is the attempting world is attempting to redefinetomarriage, redefine marriage, it is imperative it is imperative that we as that the body we asof the Christ bodysolidify of Christ andsolidify represent and God’s represent ideaGod’s of marriage. idea of marriage. Relationships Relationships require intentionality. require intentionality. Let’s makeLet’s a concentrated make a concentrated effort to improve effort to our improve our vertical relationship vertical relationship with God through with GodJesus through Christ Jesus andChrist our horizontal and our horizontal relationships relationships with with others. When others. our When relationship our relationship with Christwith is solidified, Christ is when solidified, our singles when our andsingles marriages and marriages are are strengthened, strengthened, the body of the Christ bodyisof better Christatislarge. better at large.
Christopher Christopher Foster,Foster, M. Th. M. | Lead Th.Pastor, | Lead The Pastor, Rock The Church Rock Church
Pittsburg,Pittsburg, CaliforniaCalifornia | therockchurchbayarea.org | therockchurchbayarea.org
Facebook:Facebook: @Christopher @Christopher Foster, @The Foster, Rock @The Church RockBay Church Area Bay Area Instagram:Instagram: @christopher_foster, @christopher_foster, @therockchurchbayarea @therockchurchbayarea | Twitter: @ChrisFoster1, | Twitter: @ChrisFoster1, @TRCBayArea @TRCBayArea MARCH/APRIL MARCH/APRIL 2020 2020 “NOW IT SHALL “NOWSPRING IT SHALL FORTH” SPRING FORTH” THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK “GOD’S PROMISE TO PERFORM”
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THE CHRISTIAN THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOKOUTLOOK SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020
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TESTIMONIAL
RISE RISE UP UP FACE FACE DOWN DOWN and and
ByBy Sharon Sharon Thompson-Hill Thompson-Hill
“Jehoshaphat “Jehoshaphat bowed bowed down down with with hishis face face to to thethe ground, ground, and and allall thethe people people of of Judah Judah and and Jerusalem Jerusalem fellfell down down in in worship worship before before thethe LORD…Jehoshaphat LORD…Jehoshaphat appointed appointed men men to to sing sing to to thethe LORD LORD and and to to praise praise HIM…they HIM…they went went outout at at thethe head head of of thethe army, army, saying: saying: “Give “Give thanks thanks to to thethe LORD, LORD, forfor HISHIS mercy mercy endures endures forever”…As forever”…As they they began began to to sing sing and and praise, praise, thethe LORD LORD setset ambushes ambushes against against [the [the enemy]… enemy]… and and they they [their [their enemies] enemies] were were defeated.” defeated.” (2 (2 Chronicles Chronicles 1818 & 20) & 20)
FF
ACE ACE DOWN DOWN PRAYER PRAYER is an is an actact of total of total surrender surrender andand submission submission to the to the SOVSOVEREIGN EREIGN GOD GOD on on behalf behalf of of people, people, places, places,andandsituations situationsthatthatconcluconclusively sively assert assert by by virtue virtue of of thisthis action; action; “ONLY “ONLY GOD GOD CAN CAN FIXFIX THIS!” THIS!”With With every every FACE FACE DOWN DOWN monthly monthly PRAYER PRAYER gathering gathering in physical in physical sanctuaries sanctuaries andand homes homes across across thethe nation, nation, andand in at in least at least 17 17 countries, countries, thisthis movement movement continues continues to grow. to grow.It would It would be be thisthis year, year, 2020, 2020, (denoting (denoting clear, clear, visual visual acuacuity)ity) thatthat GOD GOD would would prompt prompt thethe organizorganizers,ers, Bishop Bishop Donald Donald L. Golder L. Golder andand EvangeEvangelistlist Barbara Barbara Golder Golder withwith a directive; a directive; “IT“IT IS IS TIME.” TIME.” Time Time to take to take what what waswas andand is done is done in ain private a private setting, setting, to to a public a public arena, arena, thethe streets streets of our of our cities. cities.
andand surrounding surrounding areas. areas. TheThe selected selected PRAYER PRAYER WARRIORS WARRIORS areare to be to be a combination a combination of churches, of churches, denominations, denominations, andand ethnicities, ethnicities, committed committed to the to the cause cause of the of the Kingdom Kingdom mandate mandate found found in Matthew in Matthew 28;28; “GO” “GO” intointo all all thethe world, world, andand make make disciples disciples of of all all nations…” nations…”
GOD’S GOD’S directives directives areare clear. clear.It isIt to is to be be a a “PRE-EMPTIVE “PRE-EMPTIVE PRAYER PRAYER STRIKE!” STRIKE!” It is It is to be to be a “BOOTS a “BOOTS ONON THE THE GROUND GROUND WARWARFARE FAREPRAYER PRAYERMARCH!” MARCH!”comprised comprisedof of men, men, women, women, andand youth youth from from across across thethe citycity
Strategy Strategy & Battle & Battle Plan: Plan:TheThe battle battle plan plan is is to to launch launch an an all-out all-out assault assault in THE in THE STRONG STRONG NAME NAME OFOF JESUS JESUS AND AND BYBY THE THE POWER POWER OFOF HISHIS SHED SHED BLOOD BLOOD against against HELL, HELL, “FACING “FACING DOWN” DOWN” thethe enemies enemies of darkness, of darkness, principalities principalities andand powers, powers,
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How How it happens: it happens: Select Select PRAYER PRAYER WARRIORS WARRIORS when when signaled, signaled, literally literally FACE FACE DOWN DOWN on on thethe ground, ground, while while others others PRAY PRAY & & MARCH! MARCH!AndAnd again, again, when when signaled, signaled, FACE FACE DOWN DOWN WARRIORS WARRIORS “RISE “RISE UP,” UP,” andand joinjoin withwith thethe Marching Marching Prayer Prayer Warriors! Warriors! Where Where it happens: it happens: Locations Locations areare prompted prompted by by thethe HOLY HOLY SPIRIT. SPIRIT.Each Each PRAYER PRAYER MARCH MARCH location location is reminiscent is reminiscent of deployment of deployment intointo battle battle accordaccordinging to Ephesians to Ephesians 6:12. 6:12.
“GOD’S PROMISE TO PERFORM”
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30:18b]. spirit of undefined of undefined proportion. proportion. “This “This is worth is worth dying dying30:18b]. spiritual spiritual wickedness wickedness in high in high places, places, andand thethe rulers rulersspirit thethe protestor protestor responded. responded. At At thatthat moment moment I exI exof of thethe darkness darkness of of thisthis world. world.OurOur weapons weapons arearefor”for” The Future: Future: AsAs forfor thethe future future of Face of Face Down Down & Rise & Rise perienced what what cancan only only bebe described described as as a paraa para-The FASTING, FASTING, THE THE WORD WORD OFOF GOD, GOD, AND AND PRAYER, PRAYER,perienced Up Up Prayer Prayer Marches, Marches, Evangelist Evangelist Golder Golder asserts: asserts: digm digm shift shift in in thethe Spirit. Spirit. I pondered; I pondered; if these if these indiindithethe realreal weapon weapon of mass of mass destruction! destruction! viduals viduals areare willing willing to to riskrisk their their lives lives forfor thethe cause cause “GOD “GODshowed showedmemethat thatthetheFace Face Relativity Relativity andand Activation: Activation: It isIt not is not by by coincidence coincidenceof civil of civil injustice, injustice, how how much much more more should should thethe body body Down Down && Rise Rise UpUp Prayer Prayer Marches Marches thatthat FACE FACE DOWN DOWN & RISE & RISE UP,UP, anan arm arm of the of the Face Faceof CHRIST of CHRIST bebe willing willing to FACE to FACE DOWN DOWN AND AND RISE RISE areare to to bebe a template a template forfor other other cities cities Down DownInternational InternationalPrayer PrayerMovement Movementis isbeing beingUPUP THROUGH THROUGH PRAYER PRAYER in the in the streets?” streets?”That That is is and and nations nations to to mirror mirror in in their their own own launched launched at at thisthis time time in in a season a season thatthat sees sees ourourwhen when THE THE FACE FACE DOWN DOWN & RISE & RISE UP,UP, BOOTS BOOTS ONON communities.” communities.” country country andand thethe world world thrust thrust intointo thethe midst midst of of a aTHE THE GROUND GROUND PRAYER PRAYER MARCH MARCH was was activated! activated! global global pandemic. pandemic. It isIt not is not by by coincidence coincidence thatthat wewe AsAs a matter a matter of of confirmation, confirmation, at at thethe writing writing of of thisthis addition, addition, some some of of thethe actions actions demonstrated demonstratedarticle, areare directed directed to to kick kick offoff thisthis FACE FACE DOWN DOWN & RISE & RISEIn In article, thethe firstfirst Face Face Down Down && Rise Rise UpUp Prayer Prayer thethe protestors protestors were were metaphorical metaphorical at at best. best. The TheMarch UPUP PRAYER PRAYER MARCH MARCH at at thethe backend backend of of worldworld-by by March outside outside of of thethe Indianapolis Indianapolis headquarters headquarters protestors took took a knee a knee andand laidlaid prostrate prostrate in in thetheis slated wide wide protests protests against against racism racism andand civilcivil injustice injustice in-in-protestors is slated to convene to convene in our in our nation’s nation’s capital, capital, WashWashstreets in deference in deference to to racism racism andand civilcivil injustice, injustice,ington, volving volving hundreds hundreds of thousands of thousands of men of men andand womwom-streets ington, D.C. D.C. Just Just as as wewe began began thethe launch launch of of thisthis appealing to to those those in the in the seat seat of of human human governgovern-initiative en.en. These These protest protest marches marches areare precipitated precipitated by byappealing initiative in the in the heart heart of of thethe citycity of of Indianapolis, Indianapolis, it it ment. WeWe take take to our to our knees, knees, andand laylay prostrate prostrate ononis strategic thethe murder murder of aofyoung a young man man whose whose name, name, George Georgement. is strategic thatthat thethe firstfirst FDRU FDRU March March take take place place bellies bellies in PRAYER in PRAYER in deference in deference to the to the attacks attacksin in Floyd Floyd was was relatively relatively unknown unknown to the to the world world before beforeourour thethe heart heart of of ourour nation. nation. ForFor wewe realize realize thatthat thethe enemy, enemy, appealing appealing to to thethe oneone upon upon whose whosewhich hishis death death by by excessive excessive force force at at thethe hands hands of of lawlawby by which ailsails men, men, women, women, andand children children is is a mata matshoulders all all governments governments rest; rest; JESUS. JESUS. The The propro-terter enforcement. enforcement. HisHis death death sparked sparked outrage, outrage, evoking evokingshoulders of the of the heart. heart. AsAs GOD GOD heals heals thethe heart, heart, families families testors in reference in reference to to thethe victims, victims, shouted; shouted; “Say “Sayheal, memories memories of of similar similar accounts accounts of of excessive excessive force forcetestors heal, communities communities heal, heal, thethe nation nation heals, heals, a world a world Name!” Name!” WeWe tootoo shout; shout; “SAY “SAY HISHIS NAME!”; NAME!”;heals. over over thethe years, years, unleashing unleashing a rash a rash of arsons, of arsons, lootloot-HisHis heals. however, thethe name name wewe shout shout is is “JESUS!” “JESUS!” ProProing,ing, violence, violence, andand rage. rage. According According to to Evangelist Evangelisthowever, It is written; written; “I “I have have setset watchmen watchmen upon upon your your testorschanted; chanted;“NO “NOJUSTICE, JUSTICE,NONOPEACE!” PEACE!”It is Golder, Golder, “the “the callcall to to FACE FACE DOWN DOWN AND AND RISE RISE UP,UP,testors walls…who shall shall never never hold hold their their peace peace dayday or or FACEDOWN DOWN& &RISE RISEUPUPdecreeing decreeingandandwalls…who taking taking PRAYER PRAYER to to thethe streets streets was was activated activated as asWeWeFACE night. YouYou thatthat make make mention mention of the of the LORD, LORD, keep keep declaring; “GOD “GOD willwill keep keep in in perfect perfect peace peace thethenight. I witnessed I witnessed a journalist a journalist interviewing interviewing a protestor. a protestor.declaring; not not silent!” silent!” [Isaiah [Isaiah 62:6 62:6 kjv]. kjv]. whose whose mind mind remains remains onon HIM!” HIM!” [Isaiah [Isaiah 26:3]. 26:3]. When When asked asked why why they they were were risking risking health health andandoneone And as as forfor Justice; Justice; “For “For thethe LORD LORD is ais GOD a GOD of of safety safety by by marching marching during during thisthis COVID-19 COVID-19 PanPan-And justice. Blessed Blessed areare all all who who wait wait forfor HIM!” HIM!” [Isaiah [Isaiah demic, demic, thethe response response given given setset offoff anan alarm alarm in my in myjustice.
Interested Interested in in organizing organizing a Face a Face Down Down & Rise & Rise UpUp (FDRU) (FDRU) Prayer Prayer March March in in your your community? community? Email Email usus at at facedownprayer@gmail. facedownprayer@gmail. com com Lady Lady Golder’s Golder’s book book “Face “Face Down” Down” details details thethe importance importance of of laying laying prostrate prostrate while while praying praying in in thethe Holy Holy Spirit Spirit and and sets sets thethe foundation foundation forfor thisthis powerful powerful prayer prayer movement. movement.ForFor more more information information and and to to receive receive updates updates please please subscribe subscribe to to ourour website: website: www.wotfd. www.wotfd. com com/ “THE / “THE WAY WAY UP…IS UP…IS FACE FACE DOWN” DOWN”
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Sharon Sharon Thompson-Hill Thompson-Hill Executive Executive Director Director Upon Upon This This Rock Rock Productions Productions THE THE PASSION PASSION PLAY PLAY Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana Indiana
“GOD’S PROMISE TO PERFORM”
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020
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YOUTH SPEAK
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HOLD FAST HOLD FAST ,, theProfession Profession the By Elder Denzeil Tubbs By Elder Denzeil Tubbs
he life of any believer, particularly with a ministry In reflection, one of my greatest waiting periods was upon In reflection, of my greatest waiting he life of any believer, particularly with a ministry entering one the ministry. I literally had periods to “holdwas fastupon to my calling, is comprised of testing and triumph. The defining entering the ministry. I literally had to “hold fast to my ing,transition is comprised of testing and triumph. The defining the however, is brought about by the believer’s profession...” God favored me to sit under the tutelage of profession... ” GodPaul favored me toAnd sit under theknew tutelage the nsition however, is fourth-generation brought about by the believer’s late Bishop A. Bowers. we who himofclosely, obedience. Being Apostolic Pentecostal, late knew Bishophim Paul And we itwho knew him pursuit closely,of edience. Being Apostolic to A. beBowers. very firm when came to one’s I know whatfourth-generation it means to wholly depend onPentecostal, God and remain him toMy betime verywas firmnowhen it came to one’s pursuit of nowfaithful, what it when meansHe toiswholly depend onhis God andinconvenient remain knew ministry. exception. intentional with often My time was no exception. hful,process when He is intentional with hisrealize often inconvenient for our lives. Yet, we must that God’s wordministry. is in regards to waiting onrealize Him; as ourGod’s confidence ocessclear for our lives. Yet, we must that word isin His After years of having the desire and hearing countless I finally the hearddesire the call God for countless myself, and may not expedite butinwill Afterprophecies, years of having andof hearing ar inpromises regards to waiting on Him;His as performance, our confidence His give felt the burden in my soul to preach the Gospel Jesus us the grace and strength to trust His timing. Isaiah 40 lends omises may not expedite His performance, but will give prophecies, I finally heard the call of God for myself,of and Christ. I was 15 old at time the and Gospel was as sure of this to us aand familiar thought concerning waiting on40 God. But we felt the burden in years my soul to the preach of Jesus the grace strength to trust His timing. Isaiah lends as I was my own name. After prayer, fasting and casting out must notice that there is no emphasis on God’s handiwork, us a familiar thought concerning waiting on God. But we Christ. I was 15 years old at the time and was as sure of this the spirit of fear, I finally the confidence to out go to but more on the posture of the ofhandiwork, God when they as I was my own name. Afterdeveloped prayer, fasting and casting ust notice thatso there is no emphasis onchild God’s But they that wait upon the my pastor about it. How does a teenager tell a Preacher par don’t know what is to come. “ t more so on the posture of the child of God when they the spirit of fear, I finally developed the confidence to go to ” wait upon the my pastor Lord shall THEIR “STRENGTH... excellence, anit.Evangelist Pastor oftell overa Preacher 50 years, and But they that about How doesand a teenager par a n’t know whatRENEW is to come. Though a young man, I’ve had seasons of waiting; and I former Presiding Bishop, that God called you to preach? d shall RENEW THEIR STRENGTH...” excellence, an Evangelist and Pastor of over 50 years, andI was a know that they will come in other contexts throughout life. petrified! But I knew what God said. ough a young man, I’ve had seasons of waiting; and I former Presiding Bishop, that God called you to preach? I was ow that they will come in other contexts throughout life. petrified! But I knew what God said.
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THE MARCH/APRIL CHRISTIAN2020 OUTLOOK
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“GOD’S “NOW ITPROMISE SHALL SPRING TO PERFORM” FORTH”
“NOW IT SHALL SPRING FORTH”
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I entered his office, asked if I could speak to him about something important. And with his unique smirk, he says, “Sure son! Take a seat.” I proceeded to tell him how I had been profoundly seeking God and was certain that He has called me to preach. After a few moments of looking at me up and down swinging in his chair, Bishop responded - “Well, I knew that already!” Even now, I cannot articulate the feeling of relief that came over me in that moment. But of course such words from him were “too good to be true” as his approval was not his release. Such is the case with God. His “Yes” does not always suggest “Now” but there is always need for development in between. So Bishop continued to encourage me, but he gave clear pastoral instruction that every young gifted individual should receive from his/her pastor.
‘‘
His “Yes” does not always suggest “NOW ” but there is always need for
development in between.
‘‘
He said to me, “I know that God has His hand on you, but there is little that you can minister, if you have not experienced life. I want you to finish high school but during that time, really consume yourself with the Word of God and stay in prayer. If God is still dealing with you, which I know He will, come back to me and you will be given time for your initial endeavor to preach.”
I
Naive, I thought to myself, “What does he mean? Sure, I’m not an adult, but I’ve experienced some things. God, you gave this burden; only to be told to wait another 3-4 years? I’m ready to go!” Then I remembered Ecclesiastes 3:1 - “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven...” and a sense of peace and clarity came to me. Though I didn’t fully appreciate it at the time,
I responded “Yes sir.” I literally had to hold fast to my profession! In those 3-4 years, there were times where my faith, conviction and other life aspects were challenged, as with any adolescent. But in hindsight, those moments came to strengthen me for the seasons ahead. I encourage young aspiring ministers, that what God wants to do in you will not come through instant exposure, but a process is necessary to prepare you for a Lifestyle of service to God. What a dangerous disservice it would be to yourself and the Kingdom, to launch into ministry unprepared and unconsecrated.
This reflection is not meant to sermonize, but to stir you. When you wait on God to perform, He has a way of blessing you in ways that will blind-sight you. What would be the threshold of my next level was right before me, to where I was shocked! But I held fast to my profession without wavering, and God proved himself faithful that promised. We agreed on a date the following month and I embarked upon my ministry journey. This journey is filled with swift transitions, but has been rewarding because of obedience. In less than a decade of evangelistic ministry, God has opened doors that I could not even imagine. I’m learning that many of these doors aren’t even a result of gifting, but of noticeable servanthood. I urge gifted youth of any kind, to hold fast and keep serving. The times that we are in, amid pestilence and social injustice, render us without excuse regarding Kingdom service. Not only must we hold fast, in the context of Christ-centered consistency, but we must be more creative and flexible. Serve God and serve His people however and wherever you can; with integrity and righteous intent. We’re human, so it is natural for one to want appreciation for their efforts. But do not allow entitlement to hinder God’s glory. For when God is honored, you are favored! It may feel like a delay because it doesn’t align with your timing, but whoever God calls, He sends. And who He sends, He enables to accomplish. Whatever it is, Hold fast, the profession!
Three years later, I returned to Bishop Bowers on the matter. By this time, I was a freshman in college - adjusting in that setting while yet grieving untimely loss in my family. Yet, the burden never left. In fact, I was even more assured that God called me. This time around, I told Bishop that I’ve prayed, waited and remained obedient, to which he responded, “I’ve been waiting on you!” He proceeds by saying, “Sometime before the end of the year, I will give you a chance to share...BE READY!” So again, I waited and waited; and studied and waited. It had been well over eight or nine months since the last conversation. The last Saturday of the year, Bishop calls me, saying, “Son, are you ready?” I respond, “I believe so.” He says, “Well, how about tomorrow night?” With great fear, I exclaimed, “NO SIR!” as he laughed uncontrollably! My opportunity was right before me, and though I was prepared, I was not ready!”
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“GOD’S PROMISE TO PERFORM” “GOD’S PROMISE TO PERFORM”
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IN LOVING MEMORY
The Life and Legacy of Honorable
Bishop Alphonso Scott, Presiding Prelate of the Dr. Phyllis Ann Scott, First Lady Lively Stone Church of God Fellowship Churches Incorporated
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he Most Reverend Bishop Alphonso Scott, the Presiding Prelate of the Lively Stone Church of God Fellowship Churches Incorporated, transitioned from this life on July 19, 2020 at his home in Ferguson, MO. He was born on July 10, 1937 in Saint Louis, MO. He is survived by his two sons, Dwight Scott and Lee Scott; two daughters-in-law, Taya and Sonja; and seven grandchildren, Alphonso Demetrius, Lee Alexander II (Sariah), Lawrence Robert, Davon Tyrese, Julia Grace, Joelle Alexis; and one great granddaughter, Avery Jael; a sister, Mary Scott; one brother, Lee Granderson Scott and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his wife of sixty-one years, Phyllis Ann Scott. Elder Alphonso Scott was installed as pastor of Lively Stone Church in Nortonville, Kentucky. During his pastorate there, he served as District Elder and Chairman of the First Apostolic Council of Kentucky and Tennessee. In 1987, after the death of his father, he relocated to St. Louis, Missouri to pastor Lively Stone Church of God, St. Louis.
In 1989, Elder Scott was appointed to the episcopacy and was consecrated Bishop in the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World. From 1989-1995 he served as the Diocesan of the 38th Episcopal District, which encompasses the country of Haiti. From 19952000, he served as the Diocesan of the 11th Episcopal District, which is the First Apostolic Council of Kentucky and Tennessee. Bishop Scott also served two terms as Auxiliary Bishop of the Interna-
tional Young People’s Union. From 2000 – 2011, he served as the Diocesan of the 12th Episcopal District - The Midwestern District Council. While serving as the Diocesan of all councils, churches were added, and many pastors sought his guidance and advice. After many years of service, with much prayer and counsel, Bishop Scott resigned the position of Diocesan becoming Bishop Emeritus as conferred by the Board of Bishops of the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Incorporated in August of 2010.
in a beautiful hat and white dress, dedicated her life to serving God and humanity for over 65 years. The “First Lady and Missionary of Lively Stone Church of God who knew no boundaries,” passed quietly in her sleep at the age of 80, in a St. Louis hospital on the morning of June 19, 2020, a day celebrated as Juneteenth, the Emancipation Day for African Americans. Doctors at the hospital remarked how Mother Scott was a strong-willed lady because she was already battling with severe diabetes, leukemia and suffered complications from the coronavirus, yet she never wavered in her faith and continued praying for others to seek God’s will. Hitherto her soul is now free indeed and resting in the bosom of Abraham. Humble Beginnings
Dr. Phyllis Ann Scott
First Lady Phyllis Scott was born to Alex Alexander and Carrie Lee Boyd in rural Nortonville, Kentucky, on July 21,1939. At the tender age of 9, her father was tragically killed in the Kentucky coal mines in 1948. She was the firstborn of six children and took an active role in caring for her five siblings while her mother served as an industrial worker. Her resilience rivaled that of her mother who was also regarded as a prayer warrior. There was no “play” time for young Phyllis Scott – only prayer time and work. While she prayed ceaselessly and admonished others to follow suit, she served her family to lessen the burden on her mother. In March of 1954, Sister Phyllis was baptized in the name of Jesus in Old Hickory, Tennessee and received the indwelling of the Holy Ghost the same year in Nortonville, Kentucky. Unequivocally, Dr. Scott was serious-minded, relentless and revered prayer warrior. As the five wise virgins, when she heard the call, she arose with her lamp that was trimmed and shone brightly. “Pursue [follow] peace with all men, and holiness, without which no one shall see the Lord” (Hebrews 12:14 KJV).
Doctor Phyllis Ann Scott, often adorned
Mother Scott was educated in the Hopkins
As Bishop Scott persisted in the involvement of community development and the expansion of the church, his responsibilities as mentor, teacher, and administrator also continued to grow. The demands on his time and expertise were formidable. Recognizing the scope of the assignment upon him, the church called for the evaluation of Bishop Scott for elevation and apostolic succession. Bishop was elevated to Presiding Prelate of Lively Stone Church of God on June 22nd, 2012 where the expansion of the Lively Stone Fellowship rapidly grew to over 80 churches.
County Public School System and graduated from Rosenwald High School located in Madisonville, Kentucky, in 1958. In the late 1990’s, she received her honorary doctorate from the International Apostolic College of Grace and Truth in Indianapolis, Indiana. Her body of work is transformative and inspiring. First Lady Scott became a pillar of truth, holistic strength and hope regardless of her extremities because of her confidence and alignment with the Sovereign One. A Virtuous Woman - Called to Serve On August 28, 1958, the Honorable Bishop Alphonso Scott married First Lady Phyllis Scott, the embodiment of beauty, integrity, wisdom, honesty, love and excellence. For 61 years, First Lady Scott modeled a trusted helpmeet, united in love and dedicated as a servant of the Lord working alongside her esteemed husband and friend. Mother Scott exemplified the essence of the Proverbs 31 Woman in her own right as she served her husband and family with dignity. To their unshakable union, two sons were born, Elder Dwight and Bishop Lee Scott; both are servants of the Gospel. Sister Scott also traveled the world with her husband who at the time was a sergeant in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. Missionary Scott modeled St. Mark 16:15 where Jesus delivers the Great Commission to His disciples to “go [ye] into all the world.” Indeed, she heeded the call to serve people from all walks of life and was given to hospitality by making strangers feel welcomed and loved. Several prayer bands emerged overseas in homes and meeting places under her servant leadership style. Dr. Scott epitomizes, a “missionary without walls” because she touched the lives of many people from diverse cultures, regardless of their political, social or economic status. While her pulpit was situated in local and global communities, she continued until her death by speaking oneness with her common language, that is, calling on the name of Jesus. Whether she traveled to the Azores islands in Portugal… Okinawa, Japan…Germany or Africa, she was committed to prayer and fasting in the Kingdom of God. By all accounts, Mother Scott was content and intentional about winning souls for Christ. Her passion for God was infectious as she served in various positions in the ministry. She was an avid cook and baker, and orchestrated many successful fundraisers that assisted in expanding the blueprint of the churches in Nortonville, St. Louis, Haiti, the Bahamas and abroad. Through her spirit of collaboration, she organized the first Missionaries and Christian Women’s Convention in 1987 in St. Louis while serving as the “First Lady.” In the spirit
THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK
of unity, she brought women together in worship and praise as they endeavored to form a 100 voice choir for the Women’s Convention for a number of years. And likewise, she also started the 5th Sunday Choir, which later became known as the Brotherhood and Sisterhood Choir. The Annual Women’s Convention was also the platform that she used to minister to the “whole” woman—physically, mentally and spiritually. It was important to teach women how to serve both in the church as well as in the home for their family. Through Dr. Scott’s leadership, this auxiliary also placed an importance on serving the older generation, thus began the Annual Senior Citizens Dinner, making sure that every Senior had a Thanksgiving meal second to none. This endeavor continues to this day. To name a few other leadership roles, in addition to her role at Lively Stone St. Louis, she served as the First Lady in numerous other regions and countries, including: • The Lively Stone Church of God in Nortonville, Kentucky from 1974 to 1987, • The First Lady and President of the Ministers’ Wives of the 11th Episcopal District of the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World (the First Apostolic Council of Kentucky and Tennessee), • The First Lady and President of the 12th Episcopal District of the P.A. of W. (Midwestern District) in Missouri and Southern Illinois, • The First Lady of the Lively Stone Fellowship of Churches in Haiti and Bahamas. Many were benefactors of her teaching, health and spiritual wellness workshops and community outreach. Recently, the Guided Learning & Academic Development (GLAD) Summer Enrichment Program of Madisonville, Kentucky donated 55 Bibles to a hospital and a jail so that Mother Scott’s work in sharing the Gospel to the saving of souls for the Kingdom will continue. And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, how beautiful are the feet of them that preach the Gospel of peace and bring glad tidings of good things (Romans 10:15 NLT). During these unprecedented times in our history at the crossroads of a global health threat, COVID-19, racial tensions and political vices, Mother Phyllis Scott remained steadfast to her calling; she was absolute and resolute. An excerpt from the poem titled, Soldier’s Story, describes her so exquisitely, “You have been a tower of strength in our darkest hour, comforting our souls with God’s healing power. As her voice resonated to one of her favorite songs, “Kings and kingdoms shall all pass away, but there is something about that Name [Jesus]. I’ll see you in the morning on that Great Day.”
“GOD’S PROMISE TO PERFORM”
A Virtuous Woman of Great Wisdom As previously stated, Dr. Phyllis Scott was the epitome of the virtuous woman spoken of in Proverbs 31 and more specifically, Proverbs 31:20, which says, “She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.” Dr. Scott felt that even those of us with limited resources could greatly enhance our finances by consistently saving and investing small amounts of money. With this thought in mind, she facilitated the start of the Ten Talent Investment Club in January 1998 with 21 members. Each member committed to attending monthly meetings, researching stocks, and contributing a set amount per month to be pooled and invested in the New York Stock Exchange. For nineteen years, Dr. Scott hosted monthly meetings in her home where great conversations were had, strategic direction was set, and good food was enjoyed by all. The club adopted families at Christmas time, gave to others in need, and, members withdrew funds at will for personal reasons. Despite those reductions, with God’s favor, Ten Talent Investors was dissolved in 2017 with $140,000 in assets and eight (8) remaining members. Dr. Scott was not only a financial visionary to the Ten Talent Investors, but to anyone that stepped in her office, she would give words of wisdom about the importance of saving and investing money. She was a wise woman indeed and freely shared her knowledge with others. A Legacy of Love and Blessings And thy seed shall be as the dust of the earth and thou shall spread abroad to the west and to the east and to the north and to the south; and in thee and thy seed shall all the families of the earth be blessed (Genesis 28:14 KJV). Dr. Phyllis Ann Scott leaves to cherish her memory, her loving and devoted husband, the Honorable Bishop Alphonso Scott; [whom passed away 30 days after his beloved wife] mother, Missionary Carrie Boyd Stafford; sons, Elder Dwight (Taya) Scott, Bishop Lee (Sonja) Scott; siblings, Eva Pugh of Detroit, MI, Clarence (Diane) Boyd of Atlanta, GA, Joyce Bournes of Long Island, NY, and Ruby (Forrest) Scisney of Las Vegas, NV, James (Stephanie) Boyd of Detroit, MI, Larry Boyd of Detroit, MI; brother-in-law, Dr. L.G. Scott of Columbus, OH; beloved sister-in-law, Mary Scott; grandchildren, Alphonso Demetrius Scott, Lee Alexander (Sariah) Scott, Lawrence Robert Scott, Davon Johnson, Julia Grace and Joelle Alexis Scott; one great grandchild, Avery Jael Scott; a host of nephews, nieces, grandnephews, grandnieces, cousins, extended Stafford family by way of marriage, friends and her beloved Lively Stone Church of God Fellowship.
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PILLARS OF ONENESS PENTECOSTALISM
HISTORY
HOWARD ARCHIBALD GOSS
By Minister Timothy Moore
E
lder Howard A. Goss had a prominent role in most of the major flashpoints in 20th century Pentecost. His impact was felt in glorious, revelatory, and controversial times, including the formative years of the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World (PAW). He eventually became the first General Superintendent of the United Pentecostal Church.
Elder Goss came to Pentecost in 1903 through the ministry of Reverand Charles Fox Parham in Texas. He reported being baptized in “Jesus’ name” a decade before the Arroyo Seco Campmeeting that birthed the modern “oneness” movement. However, Elder Goss broke ranks with Reverand Par-
ham in 1907, following Parham’s arrest on Pinson called for “a convention of Pentecostal saints desiring greater unity” in the allegations related to morals. Word and Witness magazine. This meeting Elder Howard Goss received the Holy resulted in the formation of the all-caucasian Ghost, speaking in tongues, during a train Assemblies of God (AG) in 1914, with Elder ride from Orchard to Angleton (TX) on April Goss being elected one of the original pres16, 1906. byters of the Assemblies of God. He was Elder Goss reportedly visited Bishop C. H also chosen to issue credentials to ministers Mason in 1910, and received ministerial in the South and West. credentials from the Church of God in Christ During Arroyo Seco (in April 1913), Cana(COGIC). Bishop Mason granted Goss audian minister R. E. McAllister preached that thority to issue credentials to his associates, the apostles never baptized using titles Faunder the banner of the COGIC. Dissatisther, Son, and Holy Ghost in the Bible. That faction with this arrangement grew, so Elder message spread throughout the nation via Goss made plans to form another Pentecospreachers like Frank Ewart and Glen Cook, tal organization. who convinced Elder G.T. Haywood, two On December 20, 1913, Elders Goss, D.C.O years later. Elder Haywood then re-baptized Opperman, E.N. Bell, A.P. Collins and M.M. his entire Indianapolis congregation.
United Pentecostal Church Presbyters (cira 1945)
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with Elder Samuel J. Grimes as its leader. Interestingly, most of the PAW leaders that left to join the PAJC in 1931 returned to the PAW in 1938. In 1939, Elder Howard A. Goss again became the General Superintendent of the Pentecostal Church, Incorporated (formerly PMA). He continued in that post until 1945. At that time, the PCI merged with the PAJC and became the United Pentecostal Church (UPC). Elder Howard A. Goss became the first General Superintendent of the new UPC, and served in that capacity until 1951. General Superintendent Howard Archibald Goss was one of the most impactful figures in 20th century Pentecostal ministry . . . PAW Convention 1919 (Tomlinson Hall) and another significant tributary that flowed Indianapolis, Indiana Interestingly, Elder Goss and Elder A.D. a proposal from the Texas District (to the through the Pentecostal Assemblies of the Urshan had already been baptizing in the General Board of Presbyters) calling for World. name of Jesus for some time (in the Assem- separate Eastern and Western Divisions of blies of God). And at a 1915 service in Jack- the PAW.” The proposal also asked that the son (TN), Eudorus N. Bell, the first General organization’s name be changed to “PenteChairman of the AG, was re-baptized in Je- costal Assemblies of Jesus Christ,” accordsus’ name, along with several other minis- ing to historians Arthur and Charles Clanton. ters. When the proposal was rejected, Elder HowIt became such a big issue, that the AG ard A. Goss and Elder W.E. Kidson chaired brought the issue to the floor of their con- a two-day meeting (at the convention site) vention in 1915. Elders G.T. Haywood (who and formed what became the Pentecostal was not a member of the AG) and E.N. Bell Ministerial Alliance (PMA). The majority of defended the “Jesus Name” position there. the caucasian ministers of the PAW abruptly The result was that Elder Goss and more left the organization. This was also the conthan 150 ministers were disfellowshipped vention that Elder G.T. Haywood was electfrom the AG in 1916. ed Chairman. After the oneness ministers left the AG, Elder Goss helped form The General Assembly of Apostolic Assemblies (GAA), a oneness organization, in January 1917. However, being a new organization, GAA ministers could not qualify for travel discounts nor non-combatant exemption from World War 1.
In July 1931, Elder Howard Goss led a delegation of PMA Ministers to the PAW Convention in Detroit, just five months after Bishop Haywood’s passing, according to historian Bishop Morris Golder. Elder Goss proposed that the PAW join the PMA. He also invited PAW officials to a unity meeting of apostolic organizations in Columbus, (OH) in two months.
On the other hand, the PAW had those perks, existing and holding meetings as PAW officials attended the unity meeting, early as 1906. but later met with another oneness organization – the Apostolic Church of Jesus In late 1917, Elder Howard Goss joined Christ (whose members had also left the Bishop Haywood and Elder Frank Ewart to Goss (circa PAW in 1924). Most PAW congregations call a special joint meeting of the GAA and merged with this group instead, and the PAW in St. Louis. At this January 22, became the Pentecostal Assemblies 1918 meeting, the GAA joined the PAW. of Jesus Christ (PAJC) in November Minister Timothy Moore Elder Goss was elected treasurer and re1931. An Associate Minster mained in leadership until 1924. Greater Mt. Zion Only two PAW Bishops (Lewis and However, during the October 1924 PAW Pentecostal Church Douglas) remained; and they re-esconvention in Chicago, Goss, William MulBluefield (WV). tablished the PAW (the next month) ford, and William Booth-Clibborn presented THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK
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COVER STORY
fight
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GIRL!
Not just a Conqueror. MORE than a Conqueror! Lady Emelda Tolbert Breast Cancer is the most common cancer among women, next to skin cancer. This year alone, about 325,010 women and 2,620 men will be diagnosed. One in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. I never thought I would be part of the 1 in 8 statistics. Nevertheless, I remember the day that I was diagnosed with breast cancer. It was October of 1998. The woman in me became emotional and began to cry. However, the Lord reminded me that there was also a winner in me. Immediately, the scripture in Romans 8:37 came to my mind; Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. I had read the scripture, quoted the scripture, as well as heard it preached by others many times. I said, “Lord, what does it mean to be more than a conqueror? If you defeat something, you conquer it. How can you be more than a conqueror?” God said, “when you get the victory over something, you are a conqueror. When you keep the victory, you are more than a conqueror!” At that very moment, I professed with my mouth; “I am going to get the victory over breast cancer, and I am going to keep the victory because I am more than a conqueror!” My calendar which was once filled with family activities, business commitments, church events, and travel, was now filled with lab tests and consultations. My husband, Bishop Mark C. Tolbert and I met with several teams of specialists before making a commitment to move forward. We settled on a team that believed in prayer and in taking nutritional and herbal products. In December 1998, I started on my cancer treatment journey which consisted of: surgery, four months of chemotherapy,
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31 radiation treatments and five years of an estrogen blocker- tamoxifen. In addition, I was taking Neolife organic whole food supplements to strengthen my immune system, increase my energy level, and lessen the side effects of the harsh cancer treatments. Throughout the entire process: I had energy, was not sick, nor did I lose my hair. I remained very active in ministry, as well as assisted my husband, Bishop Mark C.Tolbert in opening the Lee A. Tolbert Community Academy Charter School, serving as the Chief Administrator. My affirmation throughout the process was I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth. (Psalms 34:1)
I began to quote that scripture, speak in tongues and praise God in spite of the devastating news. I had to get out of my physical mind, move into my spiritual mind, so that I would not lose my mind. When life brings you something so traumatic that you feel like you can’t praise God, it is the reason to praise him even the more. I believe while I was yet praising God: he was healing my body of cancer, fixing my broken heart, strengthening my family, and healing my mind of depression that I did not know was coming. You can either breakdown or break through. Your breaking point will be your breakthrough point!
In this life we shall have tribulation. It is not what happens to us that determines our destiny but how we respond to what happens to us. It is in our deepest moments of despair that we experience God’s miraculous power. I would not take anything for my journey. My journey has afforded me the opportunity to know God personally as a healer, a heart fixer, a mind regulator, a miracle worker, and most of all my Savior. Through it all, God did not leave me nor did he forsake me. I attribute my victory to faith in God, prayer, a strong support system of family and church, a competent medical staff and the Neolife organic whole food supplements that we continue to take today. I celebrate those who have won the battle against cancer. You are not just a survivor, you are more than a conqueror!
Mark C. Tolbert, Jr.
Things were going well, but little did I know that breast cancer would be the beginning of an avalanche of tests and trials to come. While being treated for breast cancer, on December 22, 2000 my husband and I lost our 19 year-old son, Mark C.Tolbert, Jr., whom we affectionately called Marky, in a car accident. He had just completed his first semester of college at the University of Kansas.
Aunt Emelda and Desi
The next year my sister Lucille was diagnosed with breast cancer and lost her battle to it. Upon her transitioning, I agreed to raise her 11 year- old son, Desi. Before I could get him out of high school, my mother Ms. Faciane at the age of 78, lost everything in hurricane Katrina. She had several health challenges at the time: cancer undergoing chemotherapy, diabetes on insulin twice a day, high cholesterol on statin medicines and obesity. I had two choices: I could get the help or I could be the help. I made the choice to be the help. My mother moved in with us and I became her full time caregiver. I made changes to her diet and started her on Neolife organic whole food supplements as well. Today, she is 93 years old, free of all those health challenges, no longer on the medications, weighs 118 pounds and is in very good health. To God be the glory; she is living a life of more than a conqueror!
Bishop Mark C. Tolbert, Sr. and son Britton
Unfortunately, Marky was our 12-year old son Britton’s only sibling, who he looked up to as his best friend, mentor, basketball coach, chauffeur, and confident. I said, “Lord, how am I going to get through this? I am already going through cancer.” I heard the voice of the Lord in such clarity as never before. He said, “But Emelda, you said that you would bless me at all times, and my praise would continually be in your mouth.” I said, “Lord, I said it, and I will.”
MARCH/APRIL THE CHRISTIAN2020 OUTLOOK
Bishop Mark C. Tolbert, Sr. & Lady Emelda
First Lady Emelda Tolbert, CNC, CCMH is the wife of 42 years to 1st Assistant Presiding Bishop Mark C. Tolbert. She is a Certified Nutritionist Consultant, a Certified Clinical Master Herbalist, and a Director with Neolife Nutritionals. She can be contacted at etolbert4neolife@aol.com or www.shopneolife.com/ tolbertteam for information regarding the organic whole food Neolife supplements.
Lady Tolbert and mom, Ms. Faciane
“NOW SHALL SPRING FORTH” “GOD’SITPROMISE TO PERFORM”
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fight The Lord has blessed me with a testimony of being a two-time cancer survivor! In 2003, I discovered a lump in my breast. I kept my discovery to myself and took a moment to consider how to proceed. I have 35 years of nursing experience at several medical facilities and hospitals throughout the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, but I still had reservations about pursuing medical care for myself. For years we were taught concerning divine healing, but we were not always taught the many divine ways that God can use for our healing.
Evangelist Fannie Twilley Faith, Hope & Charity Ministries Lanham, MD
After prayer and medical consultation, I learned that the lump, though not painful, was cancerous. I was scheduled for surgery in 2004. Yes, I battled with my nerves and fears. I only informed my family days before the procedure. The Lord blessed me to have a successful surgery but I experienced a great deal of pain and soreness during my recovery. Even in this, the Lord was good. While I did have to take a prescription for 5 years post-surgery, chemotherapy was not required. I was cancer free!
I began to share my testimony with others facing cancer, but in 2019, I found myself facing the same fears again. I was again diagnosed with breast cancer and was scheduled for another surgery. My prayer was for the Lord to take me through the procedure but to relieve me of the pain that I felt in 2004. God is faithful! At 85 years young, I came through with no complications and NO PAIN! Today, I can testify yet again that I am cancer free!
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If you have any illness, pray for the Lord to lead you. Put it all in the hands of the Lord and you will have nothing to fear. I thank the doctors for their care, but I recommend the Lord for your healing. Through these experiences I can say without a doubt, “It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.” (Lamentations 3:22-23)
I thank the doctors for their care, but I recommend the Lord for your healing. After going to the store one day to buy groceries, I waited my turn to pay for the things I wanted to purchase. After paying for the groceries with my credit card, I carried the card in my hand because I had no pockets or wallet. Trying to carry my groceries to get them in the car, I had to decide what I was going to do with my card. So, I decided to put the card in my bra, a bad habit that women at one time had. After I transported my groceries home, I continued to go about my day, not remembering I still had my credit card in my bra. As the day went by and night fell, I noticed I had a little itch where I had placed my card. Well into the night I was preparing for bed and the credit card fell out of my bra and at that time I had noticed some skin removal from my breast. I did not think too much of it I felt like I knew why the skin had come off and that was because of the hard plastic from the credit card being placed there. In trying to take care of it myself with creams and ointments, even going braless thinking maybe if air can get to it, it would help the healing process. After several months had passed and no sign of healing, I thought maybe I better go to the doctor. After going to the doctor in 2005 this is where I learned I had been diagnosed with breast cancer. I never knew that breast cancer could form on the outside of the breast.
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Minister Vanessa Dunlap Cancer Conqueror
I am HEALED!
Several surgeries took place during the course of that year. Some things did not go well at all; skin grafts were used to no avail. My body did not accept whatever skin they were trying to use. Things led to a mastectomy and many weeks of therapy, but By HIS stripes I AM HEALED.
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GIRL! My life and marriage broken, my career success interrupted, then miraculously healed to save other lives. I am a Stage III Ovarian Cancer (2003); 3 tumors on my lung (2004) Conqueror. Survivors like me rarely live to tell it. Ladies, you must remove stressful and toxic situations out of your lives and get regular Pap Smears, Mammograms, and CA125 screenings for those of female birth. Men, born of male gender, must get regular breast, PSA blood tests and bend over and cough exams! It will not usurp your manhood! Facts are early detection of these are exceptional, especially in communities of any color. What you don’t know, will KILL you! I was proactive, but BRCO Cancers nor Covid19 have no respect of persons!
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Evang. A’ngela Winbush
God BROKE My Life! Disease, Divorce, Depression, Destruction
I endured a year of what was called “the Red Devil Cocktail” which almost killed me. At my first infusion, 6 bags of Taxol and 1 bag of Cisplatin burned off my flesh when the nurse improperly inserted the needle and missed the vein. The Taxotere inserted in my port (a Hohn) removed all my hair, eyebrows and lashes. I contracted pneumonia. My platelets were dangerously low, consequently I was administered Procrit and Neulasta while being on Morphine, Percocet, and Neurontin for the neuropathy in my feet and hands. The side effects were suicidal. I was informed I’d possibly never sing hitting high notes again or travel for work, if I survived. I was not given medical guarantees. But God! Pain pushed me to Purpose, Ministry & Counseling. The Lord told me He would not heal me miraculously the first bout but my panacea was “TRUST and Go through his process.” I wouldn’t trade my journey, but I wouldn’t have picked this journey!
I went to have my annual mammogram, which I have faithfully and always with anxiety. After the films were processed I was asked to wait and see the radiologist. I thought maybe they saw a cyst or mass that they would want to watch. (Been there done that). I went to the office and the films were on the screen, she directed my attention on a very small spot that could have easily been overlooked, but she said it looked suspicious and further tests needed to be taken. An appointment was scheduled for me to have an ultrasound. I left the office talked to myself, prayed and tried not to think about it. A few weeks later I went for the ultrasound, as the technician finished, she asked me to lay still while she talks to the radiologist. She returned with someone else and they told me something was there and they wanted to do a biopsy. Things were moving so fast and I didn’t have time to think and take it all in, but I was thankful for the biopsy so the negative report would end the matter. Three (3) days later I received a call from the nurse navigator who very kindly asked me to stop by the imaging building. When we met, she told me that I had an aggressive form of infiltrating ductal carcinoma, i.e. breast cancer.
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I shared the information with only a handful, because I knew God would get the glory out of it. My caring surgeon performed a lumpectomy and removed lymph nodes from under my arm and sent everything away for the pathology report. The final results showed no cancer in the lymph nodes and all the cancer was removed, however the numbers showed that the cancer could return in less than 10 years. With this information I decide to have 4 rounds of chemotherapy, 7 weeks of radiation and hormone pill. I believe this process was God telling me to close the door. To the glory of God I have recovered all.
MARCH/APRIL THE CHRISTIAN2020 OUTLOOK
“NOW SHALL SPRING FORTH” “GOD’SITPROMISE TO PERFORM”
Sheila Wagner-Brantley
To the glory of God I have recovered all. THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020
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fight In October 2014, I found a lump on my left breast. In November, I received an appointment for a mammogram. During this visit, something was found in both breasts. I could tell that the nurses were concerned about my peacefulness. My prayer was that I would put this in the Lord’s hands. As I was returning back to the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World headquarters, I called my husband, my son, and my daughter to share my results. They were set back, but knew that we could only trust the Lord, and my faith journey was starting. But I had no fear and knew the Lord makes no mistakes.
Sister Carolyn A. Darring Comptroller Aenon Bible College Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Inc.
“In the Lord’s Hands: My personal testimony of how God healed my body.”
I thank God for this faith journey and those who went with me: my family, friends, spiritual mothers, pray warriors, my Butterflies and adopted daughters, Bishop Lambert W. Gates Sr., Bishop Charles H. Ellis III, Bishop Michael D. Hannah Sr., cancer survivors, my medical team, the PAW headquarters staff, and many, many others. December was a month of many happenings: cancer treatment plans (6 months of chemotherapy with 4 aggressive treatments and 6-7 weeks of daily radiation treatments); insert of port-a-catheter (port) in my chest; surgery to remove two cancers one from each breast and 7 lymph nodes (some had cancer cells). A few days later, I had my first treatment; I received a blood clot located in my jugular vein that never moved. If it had moved, then the result could have been death. I am surely thankful. God had the clot remain in the same place until it was dissolved with blood thinner injections, I administered in my abdomen every 12 hours for months. The first port was removed, but another one was inserted on the opposite side of my chest and the result was no complications. But Jesus makes no mistakes.
During my journey, I had side effects from chemo and radiation treatments: low blood count, discolored and damaged nails, medical bruising, two admissions to the hospital for blood transfusions, lack of energy and fatigue, numbness in both feet and both hands, radiation burning, and yes, complete hair loss. As of today, I continue to have side effects. Through all of my chemotherapy, God never permitted any vomiting or any nausea. I find no fault in Him. If the Lord was not on my side, I do not know where I would be. I thank God for my children’s strong support and their love. I also thank God for my husband, who has since gone from labor to reward. He was a pillar of strength each and every day. He provided whatever my needs were and are, as well as his unconditional love. Also my medical team was given to me. God gave them knowledge for and about me. With many, we have become family and friends. God gave me the determination and strength to have His faith during these treatments. I worked during this journey unless I had medical appointments. I thank God for this journey of life, His love, and a mind of no fear. I believe God permitted this journey so that I could give Him all the praise. I thank Him for all valleys and the mountaintops (mostly the valleys), but most of all to help others who might come this way. I know He did it for me; He can do it for you.
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...I had no fear and knew the Lord makes no mistakes.
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GIRL! Healthy Living & Personal Risk Guide*
SAVES LIVES.
MARCH/APRIL THE CHRISTIAN2020 OUTLOOK
* This content provided by https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/wp-content/uploads/Healthy-Livingand-Personal-Risk-Guide.pdf?utm_medium=email&_hsmi=46235920&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8gBekAx3UAAxR_MQ84rLmgboID1AwFGmhFX1-rhfxDkqmqLl01dUMOZDwg9M4FjpCAn3wbgPKC-T92O MTaVSU3Eq9vIDTnJtI6MyYmtfnOZFVCYjo&utm_content=46235920&utm_source=hs_automation. Used with permission.
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BUSINESS
G
rowing up, my parents taught us many things. My mom would sit us down…show us how to write a check, how to make a proper business inquiry, how to look up information and for me…she taught me how to sew.
I never picked up a sewing machine again. I had no desire to sew, and honestly, I had forgotten what my mom had taught me…or so I thought. As time went on, I would begin to understand the benefits of having a garment that was tailored JUST FOR ME.
In addition to my father going from being a worker for a major automobile corporation, to partnering with my mother to develop a successful construction and maintenance company that afforded him the opportunity to work for himself and fully support our family…my mom was an amazing seamstress. We would often have a house full of giddy and excited bridal parties that entrusted her to carry out the vision for their most sacred day. I watched as she navigated her own profitable business while helping my father to run an entire business while raising three children.
One day, I was looking for a black, church appropriate skirt…I’d gone to every single department store only to find that everything would ultimately be too short or too tight. I was annoyed by this and decided to try to make something myself. While I had watched my mother growing up and while she was adamant about teaching us new skills, I had never really fully picked up the full craft of sewing enough to create a garment on my own…but I knew enough about a sewing machine to at least thread it, purchase some fabric and see what the outcome would be. I went onto the internet, saw a sewing machine on sale for $30 in my area. I met the seller at a local coffee shop. When I got there, she said that a piece was missing so she sold it to me for $20. I took the machine home, sat it on my kitchen table, watched a few tutorials and made my first skirt. I couldn’t believe it! Everything that mom had taught me rose up in me right when I needed it!
I remember two very distinct outfits that my mom let me freestyle and sew/put together pretty much on my own. One was a two-piece outfit…floral jacket with buttons and a two-tear white skirt…and a leopard jumper style dress. While my skill level was nowhere near that of my mother…I was excited to pick out my own fabric. I mean…LEOPARD?? Who wears an entire leopard jumper to church? Me! I wore it with my favorite black top and I felt excited, accomplished and proud whenever I wore it. The flower top with white skirt…I had a pair of white shoes that my mom allowed me to pick out and purchase with my own money. I felt that they were the perfect complement to this outfit and I wore this combination often. To top it all off, I had convinced my mom to let my aunt, who was a long-time hair stylist, to give me my first official stylish haircut. You couldn’t tell me NUTHIN!
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I started making tulle skirts and posted a few on my social media pages, the next thing I knew, people started asking me to make garments for them. I turned everyone down because I didn’t feel qualified to create for others; I was still learning how to create for myself! I began to research, research more tutorials and defer back to my mom for instruction. A popular worship leader reached out to me for one of my skirts. I remember it like it was yesterday…it was a green, white and black maxi skirt. I charged her $45 and before I knew it, Neechy Made
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It was a full-fledged company. I’ve created beautiful garments that have been featured or worn by The Clark Sisters, Tina Lifford (Queen Sugar), The Essence Festival, a pleather of amazing First Ladies, The Emmy’s Red Carpet and a ton of beautiful women in a variety of unique environments. I don’t kiss and tell…so I can’t tell you EVERYONE, but my custom garments have been worn by many.
4. At some point, you have to allow others to support your vision.
I’m often asked how I maintain being a BOSS. I’ll be honest with you…running your own business requires work and dedication.
5. Scared money doesn’t make money!
If I had to give you a few tips on how to maintain entrepreneurship, I’d say (in no particular order):
1. Be okay with the fact that you can love God AND be successful or wealthy.
Yep…it’s a real thing…as Christ followers… sometimes we don’t feel that we deserve wealth, prosperity or success. Proverbs 16:3 Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.
This was a challenge for me. I’d had a few scenarios where my trust had been broken…so when it came to allowing someone into my personal/business space…I was hesitant. I learned to pray and ask God to send me those who will help me build my business and who are trustworthy.
Geesh…how many times have you heard that phrase? It’s true! You have to take the leap.
6. Reinvest in your business.
When you make a profit, that’s the time to keep the money separated and use it to reinvest back into your business. Depending on your respective field it could be a photo shoot, website upgrade, inventory, paid internships, commercials, etc. This will be one of the actions that can make or break your business
7. Keep good relationships and for the relationships that 2. 1 Kings 2:3 And observe what go sour, do your best to still the Lord your God requires: navigate them with integrity. Walk in his ways, and keep his decrees and commands, his laws and requirements, as written in the Law of Moses, so that you may prosper in all you do and wherever you go. The Lord showed me early on, in the various areas of my BOSS JOURNEY, to remain committed to Him and His word…whether I was successful or not.
3. Understand that being an entrepreneur is hard work, but rewarding.
I often hear stories of those who think that success is based upon what we can physically see (perhaps via a social media feed, a car that someone drives, etc.) but the success is birthed within the threads of the hard work behind the scenes.
THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK
Once you get into the entrepreneurial world…it tends to be less than 6 degrees of separation. I can’t even begin to tell you how many times I’ve had to work with someone from a previous project that I thought I’d never see again.
8. Pay your tithes.
This goes without question.
9. Be consistent.
Work your business in some way on a daily basis. My rule of thumb is...introduce 5 new people to your business every single day.
As of today, I’ve recently launched a faith based T-shirt line, NO FEAR, that allows you to be bold in representing your faith. You can check them out on www.NeechyMadeIt.com or on Instagram.com/NeechyMadeIt.
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NEVER MISS AN ISSUE!
SAVE BY PURCHASING A YEARLY SUBSCRIPTION! C A L L ( 31 7 ) 5 4 7 - 95 41 O R E M A I L T H E C H R I S T I A N O U T L O O K @ PAW I N C . O R G F O R D E TA I L S.
ADVERTISEMENTS Bishop Charles H. Ellis III and the Greater Grace Temple Mass Choir are excited to present their new single entitled COVERED, featuring Gospel recording artist Chrystal Rucker. COVERED is a powerful, choir supported ballad, that brings the 100 voice choir impact back to the music forefront. Bishop Charles H. Ellis III and the various Greater Grace Temple choirs are known for their musical history, with past members and musicians that grew up at the church. Artists like national recording artist, Grammy, Dove, and Stellar Award-winning artist Fred Hammond as well as and MultiStellar Award-winning artist Byron Cage, just to name a few. Going as far back as the 1970’s, having choir directing recording artist Donald Vails as the church’s music director, shows the rich musical history. Over the years, Greater Grace Temple has hosted a number of major events, live recording albums for their own choirs and other national artists, which has always brought a quality gospel sound. The new single, entitled COVERED, was studio recorded at Greater Grace Temple (The City of David) in Detroit, MI . COVERED is written and produced by Deerico Loyd. Loyd is the minister of music at Greater Grace Temple and has worked with William Murphy, Tasha Cobbs, J.J. Hairston, as well as other national recording artists. This release features songstress Chrystal Rucker, who can be heard on other well known gospel albums. “You know in times like these, we find ourselves going through all kinds of challenges, and sometimes you just seem like you can’t catch a break. Maybe nothing seems to go your way...that Murphy’s Law, whatever could go wrong will go wrong. I bring you good news on today...we live in a spiritual environment as well as a natural environment, and I’m so glad that I’m a child of God, because the blood that Jesus shed for me, it helps to turn chaos into victory.” ~ Bishop Charles H. Ellis III COVERED is available now for download on all digital outlets. The full album is scheduled for a February 2021 release. Visit www.GreaterGrace.org/Music for more details. THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK
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MENTAL HEALTH
Straddling the Fence: Moving from Defense to Offense Dr. Rayvann Kee II, PsyD, MBA
“For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds; Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ…” 2 Corinthians 10:4-5 (KJV)
A
As a clinical psychologist, having worked with individuals and organizations for 13+ years, I have had both the pleasure and challenge of assessing for, identifying, and addressing the challenges and barriers that have caused individuals and/or organizations to feel “stuck,” stagnate, and ineffective in their efforts to self-actualize. Clearly, times are rapidly changing and this year, in particular, has almost forced a need to revisit and reevaluate whether or not what we (as individuals, churches, and organizations) have been used to doing is still working. We have prided ourselves on the great works that have been accomplished in meeting the spiritual needs of people (and for the most part have perfected those strategies); however, at this point in history, something is different – something has significantly shifted. It always amazes me, when individuals find their way to my office (particularly those who have a faith background or charismatic church roots), to discover how broken, confused, frustrated, and almost hopeless they are in terms of the condition of their lives from a holistic perspective. I am talking about individuals that I have seen with my
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own two eyes who appear to be committed to their faith, demonstrate a love for God, and outwardly seem to have it all together. But then, in speaking with them, I find that this is not the case—from individuals in episcopal leadership down to youth in Vacation Bible Schools. This often drives me to sit and think, “what’s happening? what’s not happening? what’s missing? what’s in the way? what are we doing? what are we not doing?” Consequently, my motive to write this article is drawn from the feelings of internal conflict. As a secularly trained clinical psychologist and a preacher of the gospel, I am strongly compelled to find psychological answers from a theological/ biblical text, that I also must translate into language that the faith community and religious organizations have yet to become comfortable with and fluent in. The Message Bible states the theme scripture I presented this way, “The tools of our trade aren’t for marketing or manipulation, but they are for demolishing that entire massively corrupt culture. We use our powerful God-tools for smashing warped philosophies, tearing down barriers erected against the truth of God, fitting every loose thought and emotion and impulse into the structure of a life shaped
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“
Fortunately, God is raising up individuals who live on the intersection of psychology and spirituality to help the body of Christ...
”
by Christ. Our tools are ready at hand for clearing the ground of every obstruction and building lives of obedience into maturity.” 2 Corinthians 10:4-6 (MSG) Wait…Demolish? Smash? Tear down? Clear obstruction? There is nothing DEFENSE-like about these words. These are works that strongly imply going on the offense. What are we supposed to be going after? What needs to be changing? Corrupt culture; warped philosophies; barriers to the truth of God; undisciplined thoughts, emotions, and impulses; obstructions; and spiritual and psychological immaturity are what we must strategically fight! Did this fight just begin? Absolutely not. However, our tools have largely focused on modifying behavior(s) through fear and guilt. We have been hesitant to launch an all-out strategy to transform the mind—a strategy explicitly supported by scripture (Romans 12:1-2). We have focused so much on the “what to do” and “what to think” that people struggle with how to think, which we know from the discipline of psychology and biblical teaching will impact, influence, and transform behavior. Fortunately, God is raising up individuals who live on the intersection of psychology and spirituality to help the body of Christ to: 1) learn the “languages” of the psyche and emotion; 2) develop strategies and ministry and resources that give attention to the psychological/emotional aspect of the self; and 3) change the culture or fear, threat, exposure, condemnation, judgment, perfectionism, and invalidation, in order to facilitate healing and spiritual growth and health.
Here are a few tips to consider:
1. Don’t be afraid as an individual, leader, and/or
organization to address the discomforts you may have regarding psychological and emotional phenomena.
2. Acknowledge the impact that people’s (individual
and collective) patterns of thought and emotional make-up on a person’s/organization’s spiritual growth and health.
3. Work to make church/organization an institution of safety, confidentiality, trust, and community with emphasis on holistic well-being.
4. Validate feelings and perspectives without feeling like it is a compromise of faith [in God].
In conclusion, it is easy to be on the DEFENSE. The gospel of Jesus Christ is worth defending. The doctrine of Christ is worth defending. Nonetheless, what we want to steer clear of is becoming DEFENSIVE. As a body of believers, we are to progress, and in certain instances, aggress. We must take a stance of offense with tools appropriate for what we want to accomplish. In this time in history, if we are going to not just see people saved; but saved, healed, and whole, we must speak to people’s minds and address ALL of who they are, otherwise we are left to operate, at best, dysfunctionally. How do we move from DEFENSE to OFFENSE? We simply decide to move. Let’s mourn what was and embrace what will be by GETTING OFF OF THE FENCE!
Dr. Rayvann Kee II, PsyD, MBA Clinical Psychology I Wellness Consultant Member of Committee on Health Education & Wellness www.drrk2.com
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EDITORIAL
Trustworthy O By Minister Tim Harris II
ur society is full of criminals: rapist, molesters, abusers, murders, conmen, and thieves. The ones who do not fit any of those descriptions may still be liars, cheaters, talebearers and let’s not forget backstabbers. Many people have had encounters with some or all of these types of people. Would not knowing whom to trust be nice? No more getting in the car with a stranger only to be abducted and killed. No more letting your family member watch your child only to learn 20 years later they had been molested. I would like to introduce to some and remind others of God’s method of trust. Consider a Bishop –
Paul taught that a man who desires to be a Bishop must have a good history of raising his children and ruling his house. His philosophy was that if a man cannot rule his own flesh and blood, he will not be able to properly rule the house of God, which has more people and are not obligated to follow him. Part of Paul’s testimony regarding his promotion in ministry was that God counted him faithful. Paul did not start off in the office of an apostle, he grew from his first role as a saint, then missionary. Concerning Abraham, God said, “For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the LORD” (Genesis 18:19). God trusted Abraham to be the father of nations because He knew what kind of father he would be to his children. Why would God trust a bad father to lead many nations? Since Abraham could lead a house, God knew he could lead a nation. Jesus said, “If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches?” (Luke 16:11). Again, this shows you the way Jesus thinks when it comes to trust. If a person were not faithful with things of the world, why would he trust them with someone’s soul? He continued to say that if you will not be faithful in another man’s possession, why would you be trusted with something of your own (Luke 16:12)?
hearing someone was killed by a person they just met online. But again, someone the victim knows kills most people. Whether in romantic or platonic relationships, people are most likely killed by someone they know. Consider the recent tragedy of Nipsey Hussle... The Bible says, “Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go” (Proverbs 22:24). If your “boyfriend” is yelling at you or can’t control his temper, run. The Bible has warned you not to befriend yourself to angry people. Why trust your safety with an angry person? Likewise, if a man has roaming eyes that is a clear sign of the struggle in their heart. Why trust them to be faithful with their body, if their eyes are not faithful? Jesus taught us to watch what people look at in order to understand who they are (Luke 11:34). 95% of children molested were taken advantage of by someone they know and trust. Family members account for 50% of molested children. For us to trust someone, we must consider him or her trustworthy. The worth of trust someone is given depends on not what you feel but what you know. The biggest mistakes come to people who “felt” like they could trust that person. If your mind or heart is tainted by what you feel, can you truly trust yourself to know whom to trust? Feelings are misleading and there is no full proof but God’s method is the best to follow. While this idea may seem like common sense, we would make better decisions if we applied this same principle to our lives. Why trust people with everything and they have not proven faithful over a little? Why would we marry someone who has not proven to be faithful as a boyfriend or girlfriend? When they cheat, do not waste your time blaming him or her, you signed up to marry a cheater. It’s your fault.
Trust, according to God, has varying levels of degrees. The worth of trust placed on someone must grow over time by trusting with a little and watching how they act. I hate
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Minister Tim Harris II is a member of Turning Point Family Worship Center in Indianapolis, IN. He is also the author of “We Are Not Like Them” and publisher of the Harris Study Bible.
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020
MONEY
INVESTING
Getting Started
T
he Bible says a good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children. Proverbs 13:22.
How does that begin? What steps does a person take to lay the foundation to leave an inheritance to his children’s children? How can the stock market play a part? It is widely known that time in the market is important in order to accumulate wealth in the stock market. The sooner one starts investing, the greater likelihood of success. To emphasize my point, I want to use a hypothetical illustration, utilizing a well-known mutual fund called the Growth Fund of America. If a person would have put $5,000 in this fund on 8/1/2010, as of 7/31/2020, it would have grown to $18,502, with no other investments. (subject to 5.75 initial sales charge) If another person would have put in $5,000 five years later on August 1, 2015, and put in $200 per month up until July 31, 2020, that person’s investment would have totaled $16,800 and the money would have grown to $25,602. So, as you can see, time in the market is a valuable tool for accumulating wealth or laying the foundation to leave an inheritance to your children’s children. A mutual fund is not for everyone but it is a viable option in getting started investing in the market. It provides for diversification and gives you the added safety of not having all of your eggs in one basket.
For example, if you would have invested $10,000 in Facebook in May of 2012 when it was first made available to the public or in its initial public offering, which is called an IPO, your investment would be worth approximately $53,540 as of May 14, 2020, almost exactly 8 years later. To drive my point home even further, if you had invested just $1,000 in Netflix stock approximately eleven years ago, (June 2010), as of May 29, 2020, that one thousand dollars would be worth approximately $71,765.85. (source, NextGen personal finance) Another way to achieve leaving your children’s children an inheritance is by not being a consumer of apparel but investing in it. For example, every time you bought your child a pair of Nike apparel, you should spend the same amount on stock. A thousand dollars investment in Nike stock ten years ago, is worth approximately $5,400 today. Another well-known name that is highly recognized because we use the service every day is Amazon. A $1,000 investment in Amazon in June 2009 would be worth well over $20,000 today. So, this highlights the fact that investing in individual stocks is a great way to accumulate money for a trust fund or college education or whatever your goals are for your grandchildren to inherit. Get started with your legacy. Call your financial advisor and determine how you can get on the road to success. Remember time in the market is your greatest tool to achieve your goals.
Investing in individual stocks could yield a greater monetary return; however, there is more risk involved.
THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK
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RECIPES
Recipe Page
Savannah Joe’s Fried Corn with Bacon Ingredients 6 slices of bacon chopped ½ cup of onion diced 6 ears of corn 1 green bell pepper diced 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon season salt ½ teaspoon black pepper 1 stick of butter
Mt. Calvary Pentecostal Church 1812 Oak Hill Ave, Youngstown, OH 44507 330.747.4445 www.calvary4u.org
Suffragan Bishop C. Shawn Tyson Pastor
Elder Joseph Bowers Director of Culinary Services
Red Velvet Cake Ingredients 1 cup buttermilk 1 tsp. vinegar 1 tsp. baking soda 1 One oz. bottle red cake coloring 2 cups of sugar 2 eggs (room temperature) 1 ½ cup of Wesson Oil 2 ½ cup of cake flour 1 tsp. salt 1 tsp. vanilla 1 Cp chopped pecans
Low Country Oxtails
Instructions 1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Lightly oil and flour three 8 or 9 inch round inch cake pans. 2. In a large bowl, mix together the oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vinegar, and vanilla. 3. Using a mixer, mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until combined and a smooth batter is formed. 4. Divide the cake batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. 5. Remove cakes from oven and invert them onto a cooling rack. Let cool completely. 6. Frost the cake and sprinkle the chopped pecans between the layers and over the top of the cake. Icing 1 box confectionary sugar 1 Stick of Butter (Softened) 1 8oz Cream Cheese (Softened) 1 tsp Vanilla Mix all ingredients until combined.
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Instructions 1. Cut corn off the cobb 2. Place bacon in a large frying pan. Cook over medium heat until halfway done. 3. Add the onion and bell pepper to the pan and cook for another 3 minutes until the bacon is done and the onions and bell pepper is translucent. 4. Add the butter, corn, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, season salt, and black pepper. 5. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Ingredients 3 pounds beef oxtails 1 ¼ cups all purpose flour 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce 2 tsp salt 2 tbsp garlic powder 2 tbsp onion powder 1 tsp black pepper ¾ cup canola oil 3 cups beef broth 1 large yellow onion 1 green bell pepper chopped 3 cloves garlic chopped Instructions 1. Season the oxtails with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce and let marinate for 4 to 6 hours. 2. Toss oxtails in ¼ cup of flour and ensure they are coated. 3. Heat canola oil over medium heat until hot. 4. Add the oxtails to the oil and brown on all sides. 5. Once the oxtails are brown transfer them to your crock pot. 6. In the oil that you browned the oxtails, add the chopped onions, bell pepper, and remaining flour. 7. Stir the flour mixture continuously until the flour is brown. 8. Once the flour is brown, deglaze your pan by pouring the beef broth in the pan and continue to stir until everything is lump free. Make sure you scrape the bottom of the pan and get anything that is stuck to the bottom of pan. 9. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to the gravy. 10. Once the gravy reaches a full boil, pour the gravy into the crock pot and cover the oxtails. 11. Set your crock pot to high and cook for 8 hours.
“GOD’S PROMISE TO PERFORM”
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020
Bible Trivia The Books of Mark and Luke 1 2
3
4 5 7
6
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
ACROSS 4 In which city did Jesus meet Zacchaeus? Luke 19:1-2 7 When Jesus is baptized, the Spirit of God descends on him in the shape of a? 8 How many silver coins did the woman have in the parable of the lost coin? Luke 15:8 11 By what did the Pharisees make the word of God of no effect? Mark 7:13 13 How did John the Baptist die? 15 What did the Sadducees not believe in or practice? 16 Who went to the tomb of Jesus with Mary Magdalene and Mary (mother of James) to anoint Jesus? DOWN 1 How many loaves did Christ mention when he spoke about a hungry friend arriving at midnight?
THE CHRISTIAN OUTLOOK
Luke 11:5-6 2 Where did Jesus say that those in Judea should flee to when they saw the abomination of desolation set up? Mark 13:14 3 Who is the first prophet quoted in the Gospel of Mark? 5 When Jesus met the ten lepers who did he tell them to go and show themselves to? Luke 17:11-14 6 On what day did the disciples pluck ears of corn, much to the anger of the Pharisees? Mark 2:23 7 What did Jesus tell the twelve to shake off their feet if people refused to hear the gospel message? 9 What did the Prodigal son ask for in advance? 10 Who had been told by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord's Christ? 12 What was the name of the angel who visited Zacharias? 14 Who was Jesus referring to when he said "go and tell that fox"?
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ADOPT-A-SOUL
ALL SOULS MATTER 2 GOD ADOPT A
SOUL
Psalm 25 1 2
Unto thee, O Lord, do I lift up my soul.
O my God, I trust in Thee: let me not be ashamed, let not mine enemies triumph over me.
3 Yea, let none that wait on thee be ashamed: let them be ashamed which transgress without cause.
Shew me Thy ways, O Lord; teach me Thy paths.
4 5
Lead me in Thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day. Remember, O Lord, Thy tender mercies and Thy lovingkindnesses; for they have been ever of old.
6
PRISON MINISTRIES Today’s Prayer and Scripture Dear Heavenly Father, We are thankful for this day; for this is the day that You have made. We will rejoice and be glad in it. We are thankful for the Blood of Jesus, knowing it cleanses us from all unrighteousness and allows us to come boldly to the throne of grace. Therefore, we draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. I am thankful for the power in the Blood of the Lord Jesus Christ of Nazareth to protect, cleanse, heal, deliver, sanctify, redeem, justify, and to make all things new. We look unto the hills from which cometh all of our help and all of our help cometh from the Lord who created the heavens and the earth. Because your loving kindness is better than life, our lips will praise Thee. So will we praise You as long as we live. Lord, we pray for, and cover all those who are incarcerated, we pray Your protection for them through this pandemic, who are particularly vunerable to the spread of this virus: God give wisdom to the prison officials, protect the inmates and staff from both violence and illness. Deliver them all from fear, and if any of them have the virus (covid-19), we pray for complete healing and raise them up in Jesus’ Name. Lord God, we pray for those who have put their trust in You. Please help them to know that You are sovereign over all things, and in spite of the bad things we experience much good still can be found in our darkest hours. Lord, You are our true source of light which is found in Jesus Christ. We pray You give us all peace that Your Word promised for those who believe in Jesus Christ. Lord, thank You for giving us Your comfort and peace like only You can. In Jesus‘ name we pray, Amen. Evangelist Johnetta Tate
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7 Remember not the sins of my youth, nor my transgressions: according to Thy mercy remember thou me for Thy goodness’ sake, O Lord. 8
Good and upright is the Lord: therefore will He teach sinners in the way.
9 The meek will He guide in judgment: and the meek will He teach His way. 10 All the paths of the Lord are mercy and truth unto such as keep His covenant and His testimonies. 11 For Thy name’s sake, O Lord, pardon mine iniquity; for it is great. 12 What man is he that feareth the Lord? him shall He teach in the way that he shall choose. 13 His soul shall dwell at ease; and his seed shall inherit the earth. 14 The secret of the Lord is with them that fear him; and He will shew them His covenant. 15 Mine eyes are ever toward the Lord; for He shall pluck my feet out of the net. 16 Turn Thee unto me, and have mercy upon me; for I am desolate and afflicted. 17 The troubles of my heart are enlarged: O bring thou me out of my distresses. 18 Look upon mine affliction and my pain; and forgive all my sins. 19 Consider mine enemies; for they are many; and they hate me. 20 O keep my soul, and deliver me: let me not be ashamed; for I put my trust in thee. 21 Let integrity and uprightness preserve me; for I wait on thee. 22 Redeem Israel, O God, out of all his troubles.
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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020
WHERE IS THE
JUSTICE? H
he doesn’t have to face his. Mine you, this child molester is allowed to go to church, embrace his children hold his grand kids, and I can’t even afford to talk to mine. I’m sure this is not what my family members who died, serving this country proudly fought for only to end up defending and protecting the rights of a child molester/sex trafficker/rapist. Wow! God Bless America. The motPresently, I am currently incarcerated at White- to for this country is, “In God We Trust!” and Anville Correctional Facility Annex, in Whiteville, nuity coeptis (Latin), and is translated by the U.S. Tennessee. I have been incarcerated since State Department, the U.S. Mint, and the U.S. 5/4/17. I am currently in servitude for protecting Treasury as, “He (God) has favored our undermy wife, and child from a child molester, and I takings” motto on the reserve of the Great Seal of miss them, and I have an urgent request from the the U.S., and Epluribus Unum (Latin) describes saints of the Most High God that you and your an action: Many uniting into one. An accurate church family pray for me and my family. For the translation of the motto is “From Many, One’ or effectual fervent prayer of the righteous availeth Out of Many, One”-a phrase that captures the much. My request is that Jesus, my ABBA, Fa- symbolism on the shield. Do you think God apther will restore what satan has stolen and I know proves of this type of justice that protects a child He Will. rapist? I don’t think so. I can’t find it in my Bible On 5/4/20 I mailed the Governor of the state of and I have read it 35 times. I’m the SCUM-bag Tennessee a petition for a full pardon due to the according to my Government and a slave under injustice that was served in Carter County Ten- Article XIII of the U.S. Constitution, as well as the nessee by their justice system, and on 4/16/2020 state of Tennessee’s constitution. I had a parole hearing, and it went extremely As far as the parole hearing goes, one of the well. The gentleman that was conducting the paboard members was not on my side at first, but role hearing was at first not on my side, but then then he asked me a question, “Mr. Stapp why did Jesus took the reign of the meeting, and now I you commit your crime?” I said “I went after the will explain how I got to this point. individual on 5/4/17, because he was trying to I went to the home of the perpetrator on 5/4/17 molest my child, and giving my wife a hard time after his attempts to molest my child, and stalking and stalking her sir.” After I had stopped speakmy wife. I confronted him and he denied it and ing he started typing on his keyboard and apparcalled my wife and child a liar. Then things esca- ently found out I was telling the truth. After he got lated and here I am. This man is a convicted sex up, about a 5 minute in a discussion with another offender who tried to buy a 12, and 13 year old board member he came back and asked me, “Mr. for sex at the same time, and this is the injustice Stapp, do you think you belong in prison?” And I’m facing when a judge, a District Attorney along to my shock I answered slowly, “Well sir, I don’t with the sheriff, who protected a convict, a child want to be in prison.” On top of this I thought the molester who used his political power, and only question might have been some kind of ploy to received a sentence of 5 years probation, and to embarrass me, but he then spoke, with reverbe registered on the National Sex Offenders list, ence to me, Mr. Stapp I don’t think and we don’t while I was sentenced for 20 years for going after think you belong in prison, but we have to investigate this matter and I am sending you for a menthis rapist. WHERE IS THE JUSTICE? tal evaluation, and we will see you in October. The last thing this child molester said to me Later, I found out that the Carter County Justice was, “we all have to face our consequences of System ran by individuals I won’t name in this our decisions,” so I guess he meant me, having article at this point, covertly left out the reason to face “mine/my “ consequences of “my” deci- I went after this man who was a child molester sions to come after him and protect my family who is 6ft/ 4in and these law officials saw a need while as long as he has connections, and power to protect this man and gave him more protection ello, my name is Timothy David Stapp, and first and foremost I want to start out by praising our Lord Jesus Christ and thanking Him for saving my soul with His amazing grace, and like Paul said, in Philippians 1:18b Christ is preached and I therefore rejoice.
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A FATHER, AND A HUSBAND VS A CHILD MOLESTER WHERE HAS RIGHTEOUS JUDGMENT GONE? than children in their community who they are all by oath supposed to be protecting, instead of a child rapist. Presently, I am frighten as to how deceitful they have been with their reports, so what else could they be hiding from the State, and the public? This justice system in Tennessee is unjust in the manner in which it formed judgment, and passed a 20 years against me which shows its predilection of a child rapist which was predisposed before the court room doors opened to proceeding. Sister Green, I always tell my prayer circle that I lead here at Whiteville, that I am one verse closer to the doors here opening. I’m also in prayer for stamps, and supplies to get my testimony out to the churches, civic groups, and political leaders. It has been 1,130 days ago since I prayed with my wife, and children. I do have a testimony: I’ve been shot at by at least 16 officers, and after that they called me “Hero,” they could not figure out how they all missed, but, I have the answer it was the Lord’s Will! I am a father of 4, a preacher, and since I’ve been standing up for my beliefs, I have suffered severe head, and neck trauma which I could not afford treatment for, and still have a hard time turning my neck, and have pain daily, but the God I serve is still rich in mercy. I love God and His Word, and I’ve read the Bible 28 times since I’ve been in lockup and 35 times throughout my life. I’ve learned Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic; I have received 14 plus certificates, graduated 2 correspondence courses, and 2 Bible School courses. I’m enrolled in 8 Bible studies, also I’m enrolled in College/Seminary studying for my Associates in Biblical studies degree, and I’m also enrolled at the school here at the prison. Finally I’m asking the Lord to give the Governor of the state of Tennessee wisdom, knowledge, understanding, and spiritual discernment, whereas he will grant me a pardon, and look into the corruption in Carter County Tennessee, and also uphold in our Government strict laws, care and concern for our children. Thank you, your brother in Christ, and slave to Jesus Christ, Timothy David Stapp
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020
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Let the Daughters
BOOK REVIEW
ProPhesy By Dr. Jane A. Sims
T
he topic of women in leadership positions in the Church at large, as well as in the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World has been a taboo for years. Let the Daughters Prophesy started as a manuscript to fulfill the requirements for a degree of Doctor of Ministry in Pastoral Care & Counseling at Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis, IN is now in book form for your learning.
The author focuses her research to explore how the church has utilized Scripture, culture, and patriarchy to diminish the voice and influence of women within its ranks. The 21st Century Churchwomen are still battling against stereotypes that diminish their opportunities to serve in ecclesiastical leadership positions in some church institutions. These elements have become systemic within some religious institutions and continue to impact the roles, images, and status of women in present day Christian churches and denominations. The Scripture proclaims no gender discrimination by the Holy Spirit of God as found in Acts 2:17 which states: “And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of My Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy…” The Scripture also declares that the Holy Spirit will teach us all things. This teaching by the Spirit of God is not gender restricted. Therefore, are the daughters to be held in silence what the Spirit of God has taught her to share, because of her gender? Order this great work today done by one of Pentecostal Assemblies of the World’s own-Dr. Jane A. Sims.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Dr. Jane A. Sims, D. Min is the wife of Bishop Charles A. Sims, and the First Lady of the 4th Episcopal District, Indiana Council of the Apostolic Bible Students Association (ABSA) of the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Inc. Jane Ann Rice Sims is a life-long member of the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World. She was baptized in Jesus Name at an early age and received the baptism of the Holy Spirit as a young teen. She sat under the ministry of the late Bishops Edwin Vaughn and Morris E. Golder. Jane Sims is a graduate of Butler University, with a degree in Journalism and received theological degrees from Indiana Bible College, and Pentecostal Bible College. She has also received a Master of Theological Studies Degree from Christian Theological Seminary and an M.T.S. and Doctor of Ministry Degree from Calvary Midwest Bible College, and a DMin from Christian Theological Seminary in 2015. Jane Sims an established editor was the Editor-in-Chief of the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Christian magazine, The Christian Outlook. Dr. Sims is a writer, teacher, and seminar leader; she has a passion for ministry to women in the Body of Christ. She’s a mother of five adult children; and currently assists her husband of 49 years as Co-Pastor at Calvary Church founded in 1975, in Columbus, Indiana.
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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020
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