Raise The Praise Publications March 22, 2020 by Raise The Praise Publications

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WATTS HEALTHCARE CORPORATION ACTIVELY WORKING TO REDUCE SECONDHAND SMOKE EXPOSURE & TOBACCO USE WITHIN WORKSITES IN SOUTH LOS ANGELES, THAT ARE EXEMPTED BY 6404.5-THE STATE SMOKE-FREE WORKPLACE LAW. Los Angeles County remains neighborhoods, remains far prevalence rate at 11.0 percent. a national leader in tobacco behind the county. Cigarette Still it is believed the true control and prevention, with smoking as well as secondhand prevalence rate may be higher. a current smoking prevalence smoke increases an individual Therefore, the residents of SPA rate of 11.0 percent. However, risk of developing lung cancer, 6, who are mainly African S e r v i c e P l a n n i n g A r e a heart disease, emphysema and American and Hispanics, are (SPA6), comprised of several stroke. SPA 6 has the second watts healthcare continued on page 7 South Los Angeles cities and highest documented tobacco

COVID-19 in California b y t h e N u m b e r s :

Praise God from Whom all Blessings Flow!!! Holy Chapel M.B.C., under the leadership of Rev. Dr. George L. Thomas, invites you: Compton, Los Angeles, and surrounding communities to join us in our second FRIENDS & FAMILY DAY of this 2020 year, “PALM SUNDAY”, APRIL 5, 2020 at 7:30 & 11:30 A.M. It does not matter if you have a church home and have just wanted to attend our service, or if you are a current member who has been away for a while, we would simply enjoy your presence. Also, in this year of 20/20 Vision, Holy Chapel

As of March 18, 2020, 6 p.m. Pacific Daylight Time, there

are a total of 675 positive cases and 16 deaths in California

(including one non-California Covid Information continued on page 11

FRIENDS & FAMILY DAY HOLY CHAPEL M.B.C.

Dr. George L. Thomas, Pastor

M.B.C. and CCUNAT will join forces during Passion Week and Good Friday Services, April 10, 2020. On Friday, April 10th

at 12 noon, Holy Chapel will present “Last Seven Sayings from the Cross”, with both outside and staff ministers. This will be the only service of the “Sayings”.On this same date, Friday, April 10th at 7:00 p.m., CCUNAT, Rev. Dr. George L. Thomas/President, will present a “Community Communion Service” and the Spoken Word to the community will be brought by Dr. Thomas. Remember, this is truly a time for Christians and churches to come together and

pray. “If my people, which are called by name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and turn from their wicked ways: then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”Holy Chapel is located at 1016 E. Rosecrans Avenue (near the corner of Rosecrans and Central), in the City of Compton, CA. For further information, please call 310-537-3149. Rev. Dr. George L. Thomas, Pastor

CALL FOR FREE QUOTE 323-210-3658 LIFE, BURIAL & DISABILITY INSURANCE AVAILABLE

2020

Bethel baptist Church CELEBRATES 73RD CHURCH ANNIVERSARY PAGE 2

PRAISES OF ZION B.C. 2 ND YEAR ANNIVERSARY YOUNG WOMEN OF FAITH PAGE 3

Next week Sunday School NEED FOR JUST LEADERS

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RAISE THE PRAISE CHURCH INFORMATION SISTER MATTYE WHITE PARK WINDSOR BAPTIST CHURCH CELEBRATED & HONORED Women’s Ministry presents The Senior Choir of Holy Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, along with many outside guests will give honor to whom is due. We will Celebrate and Honor none other than Sister Mattye White – 85/75. Eighty five years old and 75 years of service to the Lord in playing the piano. The name is one that everyone knows

and we invite you to come to Holy Chapel, located at 1016 E. Rosecrans Avenue (between C entral and Avalon), on Sunday, March 22, 2020 at 3:30 p.m., to show our appreciation to her. This promises to be an outstanding service, so don’t miss it!! Sis. Melba Griffin, President; The Rev. Dr. George L. Thomas, Pastor

…she believed she could, so she did. Girls Symposium

GIRLS’ EMPOWERMENT SESSIONS/WORKSHOPS:

Pastor George E. Thomas

BETHEL CELEBRATES 73RD CHURCH ANNIVERSARY

Pastor Reginald A. Pope

Bethel celebrates 73 years of dedicated and faithful service; the preaching of the Gospel; the equipping of the Saints; the evangelizing of the undecided;

Pastor Prentiss Lewis

the ministering to the sick; the feeding of the hungry; the clothing of the naked; the sponsoring and tutoring of students; the administering of

the ordinances: all undergirded by the power of prayer. So, we celebrate 73 years and rededicate ourselves to the mandate of the Master. Your presence is sincerely solicited and anxiously anticipated in this celebration. Our Church/ Anniversary theme for 2020 is Going for What Christ Offers (St. John 10:10b), “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly”, the date is March 22nd. Our theme speakers are as follow: 8:00 a.m. Worship Service will be Associate Minister McKinley Moore; 11:00 a.m. Worship Service will be our Dean of

“The Power of Your Voice” *TOPIC* Self-Expression and Communication with Others Saturday, March 28, 2020 9:00 AM-2:00 PM Middle and High School Ages 10-18 A light breakfast and lunch will be provided. The church is located at 1842 West 108th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90047. Rev. Terrell Taylor, Pastor For more information, contact Ashley Taylor, Coordinator by email girlssymposiumPWBC@gmail.com / 323-756-3966

Evangelism, Mrs. Brenda Hawkins; and at the afternoon service at 3 o’clock will be Evangelism Registrar and Associate Minister Xezakia Rouse. Also, at 3:00 p.m., our Anniversary Celebration will conclude with the anointed and gifted Pastor Prentiss Lewis of Greater Starlight Baptist Church and his congregation as our special guest. My Lord! Bethel is located at 10905

Reginald Alton Pope Way, aka South Compton Avenue, Los Angeles. The pastor, anniversary committee, officers, and members are inviting you to share with us in our Services. Listen to Moments of Inspiration from Bethel each Sunday at 7:30 a.m. on KALI Radio 900 on the AM dial. Reginald A. Pope, Pastor, Lillian Smith, Anniversary Chairperson, B. Sweet, Reporter

YOUNG WOMEN OF FAITH CELEBRATE 2ND YEAR T h e Yo u n g Wo m e n o f Faith (Y.W.F.) are prayerfully an nou nc i ng t he i r i nte nt to celebrate their 2nd year an nive rs ar y. The y have faced many obstacles and have been able to over-come many disappointments before arriving to this point in time. Because of their steadfast faith in God they have triumphed through the storm and the rain. How you might be asking? It is simply this: These “Young Women of Faith” trust in the Lord in their very being, which means they trust God in His promises, and therefore follow Christ’s example in keeping their own promises. These “Young Women of Faith” always keep themselves in the Word. These “Women of Faith” do so by keeping themselves rooted and grounded with daily meditation in the His Word. Also, which is

not surprising to all who know them, these “Young Women of Faith” never cease to pray, and listen attentively to what the Holy Spirit has to say. The members all state that, “It is the goal of this group to continue to create a safe haven for your mental, spiritual, and physical space. This group was designed to assist you in becoming who you were designed to be in connection with God. Every member is encouraged to be brave enough to be present in the moment and be willing to move forward. Within this group we study, participate in community service, and learn to enjoy life as we continue on this journey.” We invite you all to come and experience YWF. It might be just what you need. Our theme this year is “Faith and the Holy Spirit”. This event will be held at Victory Park

Banquet Hall, 429 MLK, in Carson, California. March 28, 2020. To mark the occasion of the second year, we are

honoring several amazing young people for their excellent work and achievements in their respective fields. Perhaps you

already know them? Pastor Akiliah Saunders (speaker), praise of zion Cont. on page 11

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RAISE THE PRAISE CHURCH INFORMATION one faith fellowship “nuggets for the soul”

Live Cautiously, But Not In Fear

dr. tonya lewis

The words of the title are widespread, covering various areas of life. It can relate to how we think, what we say, how we act or react. To “Live Cautiously” means to live carefully, guardedly, with

attention to how it is being done. The Scripture 1 Cor. 13:11 states: When I was a child, I talked like a child; I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. Socially, this can reference that as children, we were immature in how we thought, what we said and did. As children, we were not fully mindful of the dangers we encountere d. We did not understand the overall consequences or results of how we thought or acted. The latter part of that Scripture states: When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me. As one matures, one understands that we must put away childish thoughts, behaviors and actions and to

live cautiously. To “Live Cautiously” means to be alert, mindful and in tune of the moment and being aware that at any given moment anything harmful or detrimental can happen to us. Using the example of cautiously crossing the street; we observe the car we are about to step in front of and being watchful even when we have the right of way to step out. To “Live Cautiously” also means that we watch what and how we say things that might set off a negative reaction in the recipient of our words. To “Live Cautiously”, means to allow wisdom to govern and direct our lives. For Followers of Christ, it means allowing the Word of God to govern our lives. While we “Live Cautiously”, we cannot “Live in Fear” for there is a damaging element of fear. This kind of fear is paralyzing, destructive and hinders any progress of desires and goals in the heart of people. There will always be issues in life that challenge or try to prevent us from soaring in victory and experiencing the success nuggets cont.on page 10

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RAISE THE PRAISE CHURCH INFORMATION SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON

Need for Just Leaders Devotional Reading • Psalm 50:1–15 Bible Background • Malachi 2; 3 JUSTICE AND THE PROPHETS Unit 1: God Requires Justice LESSONS 1–5 Lesson Aims

1. Describe the conduct of the Judean priesthood of the late fifth century BC.

MARCH 29, 2020 Bible Study Guide

Focal verses: NIV Malachi 2:1–9, Malachi 3:5, 6 1 “And now, you priests, this warning is for you. 2 If you do not listen, and if you do not resolve to honor my name,” says the Lord Almighty, “I will send a curse on you, and I will curse your blessings. Yes, I have already cursed them, because you have not resolved to honor me. 3 “Because of you I will rebuke your descendants; I will smear on your faces the dung from your festival sacrifices, and you will be carried off with it. 4 And you will know that I have sent you this warning so that my covenant

with Levi may continue,” says the Lord Almighty. 5 “My covenant was with him, a covenant of life and peace, and I gave them to him; this called for reverence and he revered me and stood in awe of my name. 6 True instruction was in his mouth and nothing false was found on his lips. He walked with me in peace and uprightness, and turned many from sin. 7 “For the lips of a priest ought to preserve knowledge, because he is the messenger of the Lord Almighty and people seek instruction from his mouth. 8 But you have turned from the way and by your teaching have caused many to stumble; you have violated the covenant with Levi,” says the Lord Almighty. 9 “So I have caused you to be despised and humiliated before all the people, because you have not followed my ways but have shown partiality in matters of the law.” 5 “So I will come to put you on trial. I will be quick to testify against sorcerers, adulterers and perjurers, against those who defraud laborers of their wages, who oppress the widows and the fatherless, and deprive the foreigners among you of justice, but do not fear me,” says the Lord Almighty. 6 “I the Lord do not change. So you, the descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed.”

Introduction A. A Model for Leadership In the late 1940s, Billy Graham’s ministry was becoming well known. Graham realized that he needed to hold himself and his ministry to an extremely high standard of conduct for the sake of the gospel message he proclaimed. In 1948, Graham and his staff created what they called the “Modesto Manifesto.” They pledged themselves to follow the highest standards of conduct in every area of their lives. When the evangelist died in 2018, tributes to Graham poured in. Many of them cited his uncompromising integrity. Even those who did not accept Graham’s message had to acknowledge that he was a man who practiced what he preached. During a time when many public figures were caught up in scandalous behavior, Graham remained a consistent model of faithfulness to Christ. In the days of the prophet Malachi, the leaders of God’s people took the polar opposite approach. What we might call “Malachi’s Manifesto” exposed the corruption of these leaders and called attention to what God has always desired.

B. Lesson Context Malachi mentions no kings at the beginning of his book. This makes establishing an approximate date for the prophet’s ministry challenging. Even so, the book’s contents offer some clues. The issues addressed by Malachi are similar to those facing God’s people in the time of Nehemiah in the fifth century BC. With permission from King Artaxerxes of Persia, Nehemiah had traveled from Persia to Judah around 445 BC to rebuild Jerusalem’s walls. Some issues addressed by both Nehemiah and Malachi include mixed marriages (Nehemiah 13:23–27; Malachi 2:11), the failure to tithe (Nehemiah 13:10–14; Malachi 3:8– 10), and corrupt priests (Nehemiah 13:4–9; Malachi 1:6–2:9). These similarities point to a date for Malachi that is post-exilic. That means the setting is an era after the exile in Babylon ends in 538 BC (see Ezra 1:1–4). Bolstering the conclusion that Malachi is post-exilic is the use of the title “governor” (Malachi 1:8). This was Nehemiah’s official title (see Nehemiah 5:14; compare Haggai 1:1; 2:21); before the exile, Judah had kings, not

2 . E x p l a i n w hy G o d h e l d t h e priesthood to a high standard. 3. Create a plan to improve one aspect of his or her own priestly ministry (1 Peter 2:5). Key Verse: “If you do not listen, and if you do not resolve to honor my name,” says the Lord Almighty, “I will send a curse on you, and I will curse your blessings. Yes, I have already cursed them, because you have not resolved to honor me.” —Malachi 2:2

governors. Based on these and other facts, scholars conclude that Malachi is chronologically the last of the prophets, of about 430 BC. The Babylonian captivity occurred between the ministries of Micah (see lesson 4) and Malachi. The delinquent leadership against which Micah spoke so passionately had resurfaced in Malachi’s day. And it was just as displeasing to the Lord in Malachi’s time as it had been in Micah’s. I. Failing the Call (Malachi 2:1–9) Up to the point where our lesson text begins, Malachi has written in dialogue format. This involves first stating a proposition from the Lord or presenting a scenario, then anticipating a response. That response is followed by the Lord’s rejoinder. Variations of this technique are found throughout the book. This is Malachi’s method of challenging his audience to rethink their practices and alter their way of living. A. Hear the Lord (vv. 1–4) 1. “And now, you priests, this warning is for you. At the point where our lesson begins, Malachi has already said much about the poor quality of leadership demonstrated by the priests. When the prophet first mentions the priests, he describes them as despising the Lord’s name (Malachi 1:6). The priests are abusing their sacred office by offering defective, unacceptable sacrifices (1:7, 8). God has made it clear in the Law of Moses that only the best is to be brought to him in worship. In the case of animals, only those unblemished are to be brought (examples: Leviticus 1:3, 10; 3:1). But instead of finding delight in the privilege of preparing such offerings, these priests look on their work as a “burden” (Malachi 1:13). The warning about to be voiced is an invitation to hear God anew and repent. The verse before us therefore begins the transition from problem to solution—or consequences for allowing the problem to continue. 2. “If you do not listen, and if you

do not resolve to honor my name,” says the Lord Almighty, “I will send a curse on you, and I will curse your blessings. Yes, I have already cursed them, because you have not resolved to honor me. The Lord issues a solemn warning to the delinquent priests. Their ministry is intended to bring honor to the Lord’s name (compare Matthew 15:7–9; 1 Timothy 6:16; Revelation 5:12, 13). He is the one they serve. The work they do is to be viewed as a privilege. But if the priests are unwilling to resolve to take seriously what the Lord says, then the Lord will send a curse on them and even curse their blessings (compare Deuteronomy 11:26; 28:20; Jeremiah 13:17). This may refer to the blessing that the priests are to pronounce on the Israelites (Numbers 6:22–27). If so, then God will make that declaration null and void. The unfortunate truth is that unholy priests cause suffering for all the people. Another possible interpretation is that God will curse the harvest so that the crops will not produce as they should. This happened in the time of Haggai nearly a century earlier (Haggai 1:5– 11). Since the Law of Moses commands that a tithe of the harvest be given to the Levites (Numbers 18:21), a poor crop means a reduced provision for them. (We remind ourselves that all priests were Levites but not all Levites were priests.) What Do You Think? What are some ways to discern a pending problem of cursed blessings today? Digging Deeper When difficult times do come, how will you determine if the problem is one of cursed blessings rather than random occurrence? Referring to God as the Lord Almighty, which literally means “Lord of hosts,” emphasizes his power, especially as a warrior in prophetic books (examples: Isaiah 10:24–26; Jeremiah 11:20; Nahum 2:13). So serious is the heart condition of these priests and the shameful conduct that is the outcome,

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COLUMNS sunday school continued from page 6 God says he has already cursed their blessings. 3. “Because of you I will rebuke your descendants; I will smear on your faces the dung from your festival sacrifices, and you will be carried off with it. Sinful behavior of a person or group often has consequences for their descendants (example: 1 Kings 14:9, 10). God declared this to be so in his instructions that accompanied the second commandment (Exodus 20:4, 5). The Lord’s rebuke is depicted in a most shocking manner. Normally the dung of animals that are sacrificed, along with the contents of their intestines, is to be taken outside the camp of the Israelites and burned (Exodus 29:14; Leviticus 4:11, 12). To have dung on one’s face is to be massively dishonored. The language is probably not to be viewed in literal, physical terms. Rather, it is a way of vividly describing how repulsed the Lord is by the priests’ conduct. What Do You Think? How can churches do a better job in the area of holding their leaders accountable? Digging Deeper Which of these texts best support your response: Matthew 18:15–17; Romans 16:17, 18; 1 Corinthians 5:11–13; 2 Thessalonians 3:14, 15; 1 Timothy 6:3–5; Titus 1:10–16; 3:10? Why? Take That! In the early twentieth century, the pie-in-the-face sight gag was introduced as a staple of slapstick comedy. Later, it became an act of political protest. Though pieing was originally intended primarily to be funny, as a political act it is intended to make an opponent look foolish. Thomas King Forcade was probably the first to employ this method of political protest. In 1970, he pied Otto N. Larsen, chairman of the Commission on Obscenity. Aron Kay witnessed the event and went on to have a storied pieing career himself, hitting the likes of William Buckley Jr., E. Howard Hunt, G. Gordon Liddy, and Andy Warhol. Noel Godin, another noted pie thrower, hit Bill Gates and several others. Malachi spoke of God’s threatening to smear the faces of his delinquent priests with something far less palatable than a whipped cream-topped pie! Such a humiliation would be accompanied with very real consequences. In what way does your conduct most invite humiliation—or worse—from the Lord? —J. E. 4. “And you will know that I have sent you

this warning so that my covenant with Levi may continue,” says the Lord Almighty. The delinquent priests have forgotten, either through passive carelessness or by active intent, the roots of their sacred office and heritage. The priestly covenant goes back to Jacob’s son Levi, some of whose descendants are assigned the priesthood (Numbers 3:5–13). Anytime a role is inherited instead of earned by merit, the danger is greater that a person will simply go through the motions. Those of the Levitical priesthood are not immune to this pitfall. B. Fear the Lord (vv. 5–7) 5. “My covenant was with him, a covenant of life and peace, and I gave them to him; this called for reverence and he revered me and stood in awe of my name. The special blessings promised to Levi were life and peace, spiritual blessings associated with the Levites’ special place in God’s service. Levi’s descendants in turn were to respond to these favors with reverence, expressed as grave respect for the godly tasks they were given (compare Hebrews 12:28, 29). When one looks at the life of Levi himself, he does not appear to exemplify a great deal of fear toward the Lord. He and his brother Simeon misused the covenant sign of circumcision to avenge the cruel treatment of their sister, Dinah, by Shechem (Genesis 34; 49:5). The Lord’s words here perhaps describe what was true of Levi’s descendants when Moses pronounced his final blessing on that tribe (Deuteronomy 33:8–11). Later, the Levites did prove themselves to be a God-fearing tribe (see Exodus 32:25–29; Numbers 25:6–13). 6a. “True instruction was in his mouth and nothing false was found on his lips. Three important responsibilities for priests are highlighted in this verse. First, they are to give true instruction faithfully (Deuteronomy 33:10). That involves communicating the Lord’s requirements to his people (17:9–13). Nothing false is to be found in a priest’s speech, a characteristic highly commended by James for the new covenant era (James 3:2). 6b. “He walked with me in peace and uprightness, Second, the priest’s daily walk is to be consistent with his faith profession (compare Genesis 5:22). To be a person of peace goes hand in hand with loving God’s law (Psalm 119:165). The Hebrew word underneath the translation uprightness can also be translated “level” or “smooth” as opposed to “rough” (see Isaiah 40:4; 42:16), and that

is the sense here. It indicates that the person is virtuous and lacks any deceit (compare John 1:47). The faithful priest exhibits high moral character (compare Psalm 25:21). 6c. “and turned many from sin. Third, the faithful priest is dedicated to helping others (compare James 5:19, 20). The priest is to set the kind of example that draws others to follow and imitate his righteous lifestyle. 7. “For the lips of the priest ought to preserve knowledge, because he is the messenger of the Lord Almighty and people seek instruction from his mouth. The priests in Malachi’s day neglect and even abuse the divinely given role they are called to fulfill: every priest is the Lord’s messenger. Priests are, in a very real sense, the Lord’s representatives to the people as those priests bring God’s message (examples: Ezra 7:11; Nehemiah 8). Priests are to look to him for the knowledge and instruction found only in his law (compare Leviticus 10:11). What Do You Think? In what ways is the admonishment to the priests applicable to Christians today, given the reality of our own priesthood (1 Peter 2:9)? Digging Deeper If no one seeks God’s Word from you as a messenger of the Lord, what problem and solution do you see? Reliable Delivery In most parts of the United States, packages can be delivered efficiently by car or truck. But in the central business districts of crowded metropolitan areas, motor vehicles can be hindered. In such areas, businesses often count on bicycle messengers for reliable delivery. In 1945, one of the earliest recorded American bicycle courier companies was founded. Carl Sparks began Sparkies, an allbicycle delivery service in San Francisco. By the late 1970s, bicycle messenger and delivery services existed in many of this country’s major cities. Though the end of bicycle couriers has been predicted, technological innovation has not yet significantly reduced the demand for their services. Many items can be sent most efficiently by bike: corporate gifts, original artwork, clothes for photo shoots, and original signed documents are but a f e w. S o m e c o m p a n i e s would rather send sensitive information by courier to avoid the risk of having their email hacked. God established a type of delivery service when he founded the nation of Israel. Pri e st s w e re t o t ra nsmi t God’s law from generation

to generation. Theirs was precious cargo that the people needed. But there’s an even bigger picture to consider: the nation as a whole was to communicate the future arrival of the Messiah to the waiting world. The task of communicating the reality of that arrival now belongs to Christians. What will be your part in doing so? —J. E. C. Follow the Lord (vv. 8, 9) 8. “But you have turned from the way and by your teaching have caused many to stumble; you have violated the covenant with Levi,” says the Lord Almighty. The task of keeping the covenant with Levi means nothing to the delinquent priests (compare Jeremiah 2:8). Whether the problem is one of mere negligence or of active rebellion, the result is the same: many people stumble (compare 18:15; Hosea 4:6; Mark 9:42). What Do You Think? What are some good ways your church can acknowledge its leaders who are doing the opposite of Malachi 2:8? Digging Deeper What will be your part in this initiative? 9. “So have I caused you to be despised and humiliated before all the people, because you have not followed my ways but have shown partiality in matters of the law.” This verse makes the case that the problem is not just one of negligence; if it were, the verse could stop with the phrase you have not followed my ways. The phrase but have shown partiality in matters of the law points to conscious, intentional disregard of God’s ways (compare, from the era of the judges, 1 Samuel 2:27–33). To be partial in applying the law is abhorrent to the Lord; frequent warnings against doing so are found within the Law of Moses (examples: Leviticus 19:15; Deuteronomy 16:19). II. Renewing the Call (Malachi 3:5, 6) The Lord does not merely state a problem and stop there. He goes on to state the solution, which begins in Malachi 3:1 (not in today’s text): his “messenger” will “prepare the way” before him. John the Baptist is the one who will fulfill Malachi’s prophecy (Matthew 11:10). Malachi goes on to speak about a second messenger’s coming, actions, and results. The refining and purifying mentioned fit Jesus’ work in raising up in his church those who will faithfully serve him (Malachi 3:3, 4). Though judgment will be brought against all individuals who have violated the covenant, the Levites are still called

out specifically (3:3); as teachers, theirs is the greater accountability. A. Trying Offenders (v. 5) 3:5a. “So I will come to put you on trial. I will be quick to testify against sorcerers, adulterers and perjurers, This half-verse and the next elaborate on the judgment and trial to be carried out by the second messenger (see Malachi 3:2, not in today’s text). Sorcery and related practices are strictly forbidden in the Law of Moses (example: Deuteronomy 18:9–14). This prohibition in part prevents Israel from seeking to manipulate the Lord with “secret arts” and “spells” (examples: Exodus 7:11; Isaiah 47:9). Adultery violates the seventh commandment (Exodus 20:14; compare James 2:11; 2 Peter 2:12– 14); to swear falsely breaks the ninth (Exodus 20:16; compare Leviticus 19:11, 12; Jeremiah 7:9). 5b. “against those who defraud laborers of their wages, who oppress the widows and the fatherless, and deprive the foreigners among you of justice, but do not fear me,” says the Lord Almighty. The Lord also calls to account all who take advantage of the most vulnerable in Israelite society. The Law of Moses included specific directives to care for each of these groups (examples: Leviticus 19:13; Deuteronomy 24:14–22). Although the laborers and the widows and the fatherless are likely fellow Israelites, the foreigners refers specifically to those who do not belong to the covenant people by lineage. God shows a special concern for the foreigners who live in Israel. He calls his people to remember their own time of oppression while they lived as foreigners in Egypt and to treat foreigners in their own land quite differently (Exodus 22:21). Ultimately such disregard for these peoples in need and for the principles found in the Law of Moses can be traced to a lack of reverence for the lawgiver, the Lord himself (compare Deuteronomy 31:12, 13; Isaiah 1:2). The fear of the Lord has always been “the beginning of knowledge” (Proverbs 1:7); lack of such fear leads to certain ruin (example: James 5:1–6). What Do You Think? In what ways can you use Malachi 3:5 as a source of comfort or encouragement in the face of today’s negative headlines? Digging Deeper In what ways can you be an emB. Prayer pathizer in passing Father, thank youthat forencourgodly agement along to thepower oppressed leaders! May the of as named in this text? your Holy Spirit help us all to

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raise the praise in your teaching ministry EVENING STAR BAPTIST CHURCH

HOLY CHAPEL BAPTIST CHURCH

211 West 59th Street Los Angeles, CA 90003

Phone: (323) 231-2391 Keith B. Williams Senior Pastor

Website: www.ESMBC.ORG

Early Morning Service ................................7:30 & 8:30 A.M. Sunday School ......................................................8:45 A.M. Morning Worship ................................................ 10:00 A.M. Spanish Ministry ................................................... 6:00 P.M. Prayer & Bible Study .....(Wed.) ..... 12:00 Noon / 7:00 P.M.

FIRST ANTIOCH MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH 8725 South Central Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90002 Phone: (323) 589-2551 REV. GERALD BURGESS SR., PASTOR “KINGDOM BUILDING MINISTRIES” Early Morning Worship ....................................... 8:00 A.M. Sunday School.................................................... 9:30 A.M. Morning Worship................................................ 11:00 A.M. Mid-Week Prayer ................(Wed) ......................6:30 P.M. Bible Study .........................(Wed.) ......................7:00 P.M.

REV. DR. GEORGE THOMAS, PASTOR 1016 East Rosecrans Avenue Compton, CA 90220 / Phone: (310) 537-3149 Early Morning Worship ................................. 7:30 - 9:30 A.M. Sunday School ....................... 9:30 - 9:45 A.M. & 10:15 A.M. New Member’s Class (Sunday) .............................. 9:45 A.M. Mid-Morning Worship ............................................ 11:15 A.M. Holy Communion (1st Sun.) ........................ 7:30 & 1:15 A.M. Broadcast (KALI 900 AM - SUN.) ................. 2:00 - 3:00 P.M. Mdwk. Prayer & Bible Study (Wed.) ...... 7:00 P.M. - 8:30 P.M.

JUDSON BAPTIST CHURCH 451 East 223rd Street Carson, CA 90745 Office (310) 834-2630 Fax (310) 513-0943 Web: judsonbc.net

Dr. Johnny V. Baylor, Pastor/Teacher Sunday Worship Service :.......................................... 9:30 AM Children’s Church Available: .(Except 5th ) ................ 9:30 AM Speak Life Youth Ministry: (2nd & 4th Sunday) :........ 12:30 PM & (5th Sunday) ........... 9:30 AM Bible Study: (Wed.) .............................................. 12:00 Noon Mid-Week Worship In The Word w/Dr. Baylor (Wed.) 7:00 PM

GREATER EBENEZER.B.C. 5300 S. Denker Avenue. Los Angeles, CA 90062

NEW MT. CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCH 402 E. El Segundo Blvd, L.A. Ca, 90061 CHURCH: 310-324-0644 FAX: (310) 769-1287

REV. SONJA DAWSON., Pastor REV. LONNIE DAWSON, SR., Founder (1962-2010) Sundays .................................................. 7:30 & 10:45 A.M. Sunday School ...................................................... 9:30 A.M. Bible Study Monday ......... except.1st Monday ........... 5:00 & 7:00 P.M. Wednesdays .........................................................12 Noon Prayer Meeting .............1st Monday .......................7:00 P.M.

“PRAISE CITY” PRAISES OF ZION B.C. 8222 So. San Pedro St. L.A., CA 90003 Office: (323) 750-1033 Fax: (323) 758-6030

Website: www.wordonnet.com/hardwick

DR. J. BENJAMIN HARDWICK, SR. PASTOR Sunday Broadcast (KJLH 102.3) ……………..…….. 5:30am Sunday Worship Services …...… 6:45am, 10:45am, 5:00pm Sunday School (Educational Hour) …....……………. 9:30am Mid-Week Bible Study (Wednesday) …….…….…… 7:00pm

VICTORY BAPTIST CHURCH OF LOS ANGELES 4802 South McKinley Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90011

Phone: (323) 759-4996 Website www.gembcla.org

PHONE: (323) 231-2424 DR. W. E. JENKINS Pastor

REV. DENON PORTER, Pastor REV., DR. SOLOMON DRAKE, Pastor Emeritus Sunday Worship Services ................. 8:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Live Streaming @gembcla.org Live Broadcast KALI 900 am .................................11:00 a.m. Sunday School ....................................................... 9:30 a.m. Mid-Week Bible Study ... (Tues) 7:00 p.m. & Wed. 7:30 p.m. Prayer Meeting (Wed) ...................... 12:00 p.m. & 6:30 p.m.

Morning Worship ........................................... 9:00 A.M. Sunday School ............................................ 10:45 A.M. Children’s Church (1st Sun.) ....................... 10:00 A.M. Mdwk. Prayer (Wed.) ............................. 12 & 7:00 P.M.

855 778-8548

BAPTIST MINISTERS CONFERENCE of Los Angeles Regular Meeting Location is MT. MORIAH M.B.C. 4265 S. Figueroa Street Los Angeles, Ca 90037

every monday at 11:00 AM

Pastor KW Tulloss, President

Is looking for a few good MEN & WOMEN call today 323-210-3658 RAISE THE PRAISE MINISTRY CONNECTION • $90.00 PER MONTH SINGLE SPACE B/W• 50 PAPERS PER WEEK • DISCOUNTED DISPLAY ADS • ONE EDITORIAL PER WEEK • WE WILL BEAT ANY COMPETITOR WITH SAME DISTRIBUTION

â&#x20AC;˘ MARCH 22, 2020 - PAGE

COLUMNS

WHAT IS SECONDHAND SMOKE? Secondhand smoke can be a mixture of two kinds of tobacco smoke:

1. Smoke that floats from the burning tip of a cigarette, cigar, or pipe. 2. Smoke that comes from a smokerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mouth or nose when he or she is smoking.

WHAT IS A SMOKE-FREE HOME? A smoke-free home is one in which smoking is not allowed in any room at any time.

For tips and information to quit smoking, contact the free tobacco quitline at:

1-800-NO-BUTTS (662-8887) www.nobutts.org 1-800-45-NO-FUME (Spanish) 1-800-838-8917 (Mandarin/Cantonese) 1-800-556-5564 (Korean) 1-800-778-8440 (Vietnamese)

watts healthcare continued from front

at much higher risk of suffering from various health disparities associated with secondhand smoke exposure and tobacco use. The Watts Healthcare Corporation Tobacco Control Program actively works to reduce secondhand smoke exposure and tobacco use by implementing an intervention that focuses on working with community worksites that are exempted by 6404.5the state smoke-free workplace law, in South Los Angeles area SPA 6. The Tobacco Control Program staff assists exempted 6404.5 worksites, in putting into practice a voluntary smoke free policy development and implementation. The program educates the community on the dangers of secondhand smoke exposure and the dangerous health hazards of tobacco use. The purpose of the intervention is to lead to less exposure to secondhand smoke as well as decreasing the high prevalence of tobacco use in South Los Angeles. Worksites exempted by 6404.5-the state smoke-free workplace law located in South Los Angeles, Service Planning Area 6, such as, the Sands Motel, the Mirror Motel, the Central Inn Motel and the Apache Inn Motel, have adopted either a smoke free or doorway smoking policy to help aid in the fight to decrease secondhand smoke

exposure and tobacco use. This will help keep smoke away from the elderly, the sick, and children. Organizations that adopt smoke free policies receive free signage that states their facility prohibits smoking on the grounds. Organizations also received free incentives, such as pamphlets, stress reliever balls, and as well as free educational presentations regarding tobacco prevention and smoking cessation. Watts Healthcare Corporation wants to continue to be a catalyst for the South Los Angeles community by providing excellent primary healthcare to improve the health of residents. To receive assistant in implementing a smoke free policy at an exempt 6404.5 worksite, please call Deserie Thomas at (323) 564-4331.

• MARCH 22, 2020 - PAGE

raise the praise in your teaching ministry CITIZENS OF ZION M.B.C.

12930 South Lime Avenue, Compton, CA 90221 Phone: (310) 638-0536 Email- citizensofzionmbc@gmail.com

MT. ZION MISSIONARY B.C. 1300 EAST 50TH STREET LOS ANGELES, CA 90011 PHONE: (323) 235-2103 REV. EDWARD V. HILL II, PASTOR

www. DR. B. T. NEWMAN SR. BOBBY T. NEWMAN JR. Pastor Emeritus Pastor citizensofzion.org SERVICE TIMES:

Concentration Period ………................……………….. 9:00 a.m. Sunday School ……………..........……………………… 9:30 a.m. Morning Worship ………….............…………………… 10:45 a.m Wednesday Prayer ………..….............……. 9:30 a.m.-6:45 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study …….............…… 10:00 a.m.- 7:30 p.m.

Intercessory Prayer ............................................ 9:15 A.M. Morning Worship..................................................9:30 A.M. Sunday School ................................................. 11:30 A.M. Prayer/Bible Study (Tues.) ................................... 7:45 P.M. Prayer (Wed.) ................................................ 12:00 NOON

TRINITY BAPTIST CHURCH

MT. TABOR MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH 6614 SOUTH WESTERN AVE., LOS ANGELES, CA 90047

2040 W. Jefferson Blvd., - Los Angeles, CA 90018 Phone: (323) 735-0044 Fax: (323) 735-0219 E-Mail: Trinitybaptistc@sbcglobal.net WebSite: Trinitybaptistchurchla.org

REV. ALVIN TUNSTILL, JR., PASTOR

Sunday Worship Service ......................... 7:30 & 10:30 A.M. Church School ....................................................... 9:00 A.M. Broadcast (KJLH) - 102.3) .................................. 9:00 A.M. Prayer & Bible Study (Wed.).............. 12:00 P.M. & 7:00 P.M.

BETHEL M.B.C. OF SOUTH L.A.

EBENEZER BAPTIST CHURCH

10905 S. Compt., Ave., L.A., CA 90059 Phone: (323) 566-5286/Fax: 566-3224 Email: rapope2014@aol.com REGINALD POPE, DP.TH., PASTOR

4901 S. Avalon Blvd. L.A. Ca 90011

Ph: (323) 232-0398 Fx: (323) 232-7183 Email; ebc4901@sbcglobal.net

DR. KENNETH E. LITTLE, PASTOR Intercessory Prayer.............. 8:30 A.M. Sunday School ..................... 9:30 A.M. Morning Worship..................11:00 A.M.

Worship ............ 8:00 A.M. & 11:00 A.M. Sun. School & Bible Train. .... 9:30 A.M. Evangelism/Prayer (Mon.) ..... 7:00 P.M. Prayer/Bible (Wed.) 11:30 AM/6:30 P.M. Radio KALI 900 AM ..( Sun).. 7:30 A.M.

Night Service . (2d & 4th Sun.) 7:00 P.M. Mdwk. Prayer/Bible Study (Wed) .7:00 P.M.

BIBLE FELLOWSHIP BAPTIST CHURCH

FAITH COMMUNITY B.C.

8703 Cedar St.,Bellflower, CA 90706

6915 S. Broadway Ave Los Angeles, CA 90003-1846 Phone: (323) 751-3532 (323) 751-7331 REV. DeSHAY L. WARD, SR PASTOR Sunday School ..................... 9:45 A.M. Morning Worship ................ 11:15 A.M. Prayer & Praise.. (Tues)..... 12:00 P.M. Choir Rehearsal ..(Thurs)..... 4:00 P.M. Bible Class ...(Thurs)............ 7:15 P.M

Ph: (562) 452-4512 www.faithcbc.org https://www.facebook.com/faithcbc

PASTOR A.D. GARTLEY, PASTOR Sunday Worship..................8:30 A.M. Wednesday in the Word .........7:00 P.M.

GRACE TEMPLE BAPTIST CHURCH 7017 Gramercy Place, LA Ca Phone: (323) 971-8192

RODENY J. HOWARD, SR PASTOR/TEACHER Life Groupsl ............................8:30 A.M. Morning Worship ................... 9:30 A.M. Intercessory Prayer..(Wed.)..... 6:30 P.M. Wednesday Worship. (Wed).... 7:00 P.M.

“Family of Purpose” CHURCH Phone: (888) 294-5545 www.FOPLive.com

REV. FREDERICK E. HOWARD Senior Pastor/Teacher Editor/Publisher Sunday School ...................Sunday....................... 9:30 A.M. Worship Celebration...........Sunday..................... 10:45 A.M. Mdwk. Prayer ......................Wednesday................ 7:00 P.M. Choir Rehearsals................Thursday.....................7:00 P.M. LIVE BROADCAST * SUNDAY 11:00 AM FOPLive.com

BEULAH BAPTIST CHURCH 1454 E. 100th St., L.A., CA 90062

www.BeulahBaptistLa.org

REV. TICEY BROWN PASTOR

CHRIST SECOND BAPTIST CHURCH 1471 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave. Long Beach, CA 90813 Phone: (562) 599-3421 www.csbclb.org REV.WELTON PLEASANT II, PASTOR Sunday School ........................8:30 A.M. Morning Worship ................... 9:40 A.M. Midweek Prayer (Wed.) ........ 7:00 P.M.

10400 S. San Pedro Street, L.A. Calif. 90003

CHURCH: (323) 564-4983

PHONE: (323) 753-3189 PASTOR (323) 753-3180

Early Worship ....................................................... 8:00 A.M. Sunday School ..................................................... 9:40 A.M. Morning Worship ................................................. 11:00 A.M. Mid-Week Prayer Mtg. (Wed.) ............................... 7:00 P.M.

SOUTHSIDE BETHEL BAPTIST CHURCH

GREATER HOLY ST. JOHN, M.B.C.

5536 Morgan Ave. L.A., CA 90011 (323) 581-8488 email: ghsjchurch@sbcglobal.net ELDER J. L. SORRELLS, SR. Pastor/Teacher Sunday.School ............................. 9:30AM Morning Worship ……….........…. 11:00AM Wednesday Prayer/Bible Study … 7:00PM 4th. Saturday YSG Night ……...… 6:00PM

YOUR CHURCH NAME Your Church Address Your Church Phone

Your Church Website Your Pastor’s Name

Sunday Morning Services ............ 10 a.m. Sunday School Members ......... 9:35 a.m. Bible study: Tues. 7 p.m. & Wed. 12 noon. Published EVERY Week & you get 50 Papers per week 1 Editorial Article per week

REV. ROBERT L. TAYLOR PASTOR

Sunday School .....................................................9:00 A.M. Morning Worship ............................................... 10:00 A.M. Bible Study (Wednesday) .................................... 7:00 P.M.

GREATER NEW LIGHT B.C.

1154 E. 92nd Street Los Angeles, Ca 90002 Ph: (323) 567-1993 Fx: (323) 567-1407 E-mail: info@GreaterNewLightBC.org DR. PATRICK D. ROSS, PASTOR Sunday Morning Prayer .......... 8:30 A.M. Christian Education Hour ........ 9:30 A.M. Morning Worship Service ....... 11:00 A.M. Prayer& Bible Study. (Wed) .... 7:00 P.M. Saturday Morning Prayer ........ 9:00 A.M.

YOUR CHURCH NAME Your Church Address Your Church Phone

Your Church Website Your Pastor’s Name

GOSPEL MEMORIAL C.O.G.I.C.

1480 Atlantic Ave., L.B., CA 90813 Phone: (562) 599-7389 BISHOP JOE L. EALY, PASTOR Sunday School ..................... 9:30 A.M. Morning Worship ................ 11:00 A.M. Evening Worship ................... 6:30 P.M. Wednesday Night Prayer ..... 7:00 P.M. Pastoral Teaching (Wed) ...... 7:30 P.M.

GOSPEL MISSION BAPTIST CHURCH

7301 So. Avalon, L.A., CA 90003 Phone/Fax: (323) 759-8087 REV. RAYMOND A. DENNIS, PASTOR Sunday School ..................... 9:00 A.M. Morning Worship ............... 10:30 A.M. Mission Mtg. (Wed.) ........ 12:00 Noon Bible Study/Prayer Mtg. (W) 7:00 P.M.

• MARCH 22, 2020 - PAGE

raise the praise ADVERTISEMENT YOUR CHURCH NAME Your Church Address Your Church Phone

Your Church Website Your Pastor’s Name

ST. JOHN M.B.C.

936 W. 49th Street Los Angeles, CA 90037 Phone (323) 752-0855 stjohnbc@att.net REV. JAMES A. BROOKS PASTOR Sunday School......................9:30 A.M. Morning Worship...................10:45 A.M. Prayer/Bible Study..... (Wed)....6:00 P.M.

GREATER MT. HERMON M.B.C.

2302 West 132nd St., L.A., CA 90059 Ph: 310-635-1958 FAX: 310-635-1938 REV. A.R. BILLINGLY Organizer/Builder REV. KENNETH A. HALL, PASTOR Sunday School ...................... 9:00 A.M. Morning Worship ................. 10:45 A.M. Evening Worship .................... 6:00 P.M. Mdwk. Prayer (Wed) 12 Noon/7:30 P.M.

PLEASANT VIEW M.B.C. 7524 S. Compton Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90001

Ph: (323) 581-9900 Email Address: pvmbc54@yahoo.com REV. MICHAEL WHITE - PASTOR Sunday School ............9:15 - 10:30 A.M. Morning Worship Service ........11:00 A.M. Wednesday Night Prayer...........7:00 P.M. Wednesday Night Bible Study....7:30 P.M.

ROCK OF FAITH M.B.C.

5151 South Normandie Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90037 Off.: (323) 296-5840 / 751-2658 Rev. E.A. Taylor, Founder

REV. WILLIAM G. DAVIS, JR., PASTOR

Sunday School ..................... 9:05 A.M. Morning Worship ................ 10:15 A.M. Afternoon Worship ............... 3:30 P.M. Mdwk. Prayer (Wed.) ............ 7:00 P.M.

ST. REED BAPTIST CHURCH

656 East 79th Street - L.A., CA 90001 Ph: (323) 752-7807; Fx. (323) 758-8529 E-mail: StReed@sbcglobal.net REV. C.R. JONES, PASTOR Sunday School ..................... 9:30 A.M. Morning Worship ................. 11:00 A.M. Bible Study (Wed.) .............. 10:00 A.M. Prayer Service (Wed.) .......... 6:30 P.M. B.T.U. ..................................... 5:30 P.M. Teacher’s Mtg. (Thurs.) ......... 5:30 P.M.

TRAVELER’S REST M.B.C. 1417 East Florence Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90001

Phone: (323) 582-7797 Fax: (323) 582-1191

E-mail: travelersrest@sbcglobal.net REV. SIDNEY O. SMITH, PASTOR

Morning Worship .......8:00 & 11:00 A.M. Sunday School ...................... 9:30 A.M. Prayer Meeting ... (Wed) ....... 6:40 P.M. Bible Study ...... (Wed) .......... 7:20 P.M.

TRUE FRIENDSHIP MISSIONARY B.C. 7901 South Van Ness Avenue Inglewood, CA 90305 Ph: (323) 750-7304 Fx. (323) 565-2894 REV. JAMES A. PERKINS, PASTOR Morning Worship ..... 8:00 A.M./10:45 A.M. Bible Adventure Hour ............... 9:30 A.M. Prayer & Praise/Bible Study (Tues.) 7:P.M. Prayer & Praise/Bible Study (Thur.) 12 Noon

GREATER MT. SINAI M.B.C. #2

“A Church Bible-Based, ChristCentered & Spirit Led” 12317 S. Wilmington Ave. Compt., CA 90222 Phone: (310) 631-0261 REV. KALVIN E. CRESSEL, SR., PASTOR/TEACHER Bible Institue (Sun.) ............. 9:15 A.M. Morning Worship ............... 10:45 A.M. Mission (Tues.) ................. 10:30 A.M. Teachers Mtg. (Tues.) ......... 6:30 P.M. Bible Study/Discipleship (Wed)7:00 P.M.

MOUNT ISRAEL M.B.C.

230 W. 103rd Street, L.A., CA 90003 (323) 757-3090; Fx: (310) 532-8498 Email; jessiewalker@ca.rr.com DR. JESSE L. WALKER, PASTOR Sunday School ........................ 9:30 A.M. Sunday Morning Worship ..... 11:00 A.M. Midwk. Worship Serv/Prayer Mtg 7:P.M. B.T.U. (Sunday)......................10:15 A.M. Choir Rehearsal (Friday.) ...... 7:00 P.M.

NEW PROVIDENCE M.B.C.

10200 South Normandie Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90044 Phone: (323) 754-3779 Rev. Q.E. McKinney, Pastor Early Morning Service .......... 8:15 A.M. Sunday School ..................... 9:30 A.M. Regular Morning Service .....11:00 A.M. Prayer Call (Tues) ................ 5:30 P.M. Bible Study (Wed) ............ 12:00 Noon

THE LIBERTY CHURCH 14725 South Gramercy Place Gardena, CA 90249 CHURCH: (310) 715-8400 Email Address: libertytabmin@sbcglobal.net DAVID CROSS - PASTOR/TEACHER Worship Services ........9:00 & 11:00 A.M. Word Power/Bible Study (Wed.) 7:00 P.M. “I Care Ministry” (Sat.) ................ (TBA)

UNION MISSIONARY B.C.

1812 E. 110th St. - L.A., CA 90059 Phone: (323) 566-5315 REV. ADELL MCDANIEL, PASTOR Sunday School ...................... 9:30 A.M. Morning Worship ................. 11:00 A.M. Prayer Mtg./Bible Study (Tue.) 5:00 P.M. UBU Club (Ages 13-19) 4th Wed. 6: P.M.

VILLAGE MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH

1521 East 111th St., L.A., CA 90059 Los Angeles, CA 90061-0218 Phone: (323) 566-5303 villagembc@gmail.com www.villagewatts.faithlifesites.com REV. W. CHARLES HARRIS, II, PASTOR Sunday School ....................... 9:30 A.M. Morning Worship .................. 11:00 A.M. Prayer Meeting (Wed.) ............ 6:30 P.M. Bible Study (Wed.) .................. 7:00 P.M.

ONE FAITH FELLOWSHIP P.O. BOX 56641, LA, CA 90056 E-MAIL: OneFaith2007@aol.com www.onefaithfellowship.org Phone: (323) 481-6724 Dr. Tonya Lewis, Founder/President

1st Saturday - Fellowships Celebration of Youths - March Celebration of Adults - August

PARK WINDSOR BAPTIST CHURCH Park Windsor B.C. is a Church of “Inclusion, Not Exclusion” 1842 W. 108th Street, L.A. Ca 90047 Phone: (323) 756-3966 F: (323) 756-3969

REV. TERRELL TAYLOR - PASTOR

Morning Worship Service ..8:00 & .11:00 A.M. Sunday School ...........................9:30 AM Noon Bible Study...Wed............... 12:00 PM Prayer Meeting/Bible Study Wed... 7:00 PM

NEW HOPE B.C. LONG BEACH

1160 New York St. Long Beach, CA 90813 Ph (562) 599-3509; Fx (562) 591-7314 REV. COLEMAN L HART, PASTOR Sunday School ........................ 8:45 A.M. Morning Worship ................... 10:30 A.M. Sun. Discipleship Training ..... 5:00 P.M. Mon. Night Men’s Bible Study .. 7:00 P.M. Tuesday (Mission) WMU ......... 6:00 P.M. Wednesday Youth Family Night 6:00 P.M. Wed. Night (Mid-Week) Prayer 7:00 P.M. PILGRIM’S HOPE BIBLE CHURCH 7016 S. Compton Ave, L.A. Ca 90001 Phone: (323) 581-7672 Fx: (323) 581-6466 Email: phbc7016@att.net

Dr. T. Delbert Robinson, Senior Pastor CESOM ..................................... 9:00 A.M. Morning Worship ......................10:30 A.M. Pastoral Bible Institute ...WED....7:00 P.M.

TABERNACLE BAPTIST CHURCH 4155 McKinley Ave., L.A., CA 90011 PH: (323) 233-3289; FX: (323) 233-9356 E-Mail: Tabernacle_bc@yahoo.com PASTOR LESTER MOSLEY 8:00 A.M. ........ Early Morning Worship (1st, 3rd, & 5th Sunday) 9:30 A.M. ....... Sunday Church School 11:00 A.M. ................ Worship Service 7:30 P.M. (Wed.) Mid-Week BibleStudy & Prayer Service

TABERNACLE OF FAITH B.C.

11328 S. Central Ave., L.A., CA 90059 Phone: (323) 569-4162 Website: gotothetab.org Email: thetab@gotothetab.org

REV. JOHN D LONG, PASTOR Sunday School .................... 9:00 A.M. Morning Worship ................ 11:00 A.M. Bible Study (Thurs) .............. 7:00 P.M. School of Prayer (Wed.) ...... 11:00 A.M.

YOUR CHURCH NAME Your Church Address Your Church Phone

Your Church Website Your Pastor’s Name

• MARCH 22, 2020 - PAGE

#10

INTERVIEW columns sunday school continued fron page 5 B. Unchanging God (v. 6) 6a. “I the Lord do not change. God can change his mind (example: Jonah 3:10), but he does not change his character (see James 1:17). His standards of right and wrong always hold true. He will be consistent in carrying out judgment on those who violate these standards, as he has made abundantly clear throughout Scripture. 6b. “So you, the descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed.” The descendants of Jacob, referring to the Israelites,

have not been destroyed by God’s wrath—yet (compare Hosea 11:8, 9). The Lord is merciful because of his promises—and his unchanging character means he will keep those promises. Conclusion A. “Familiarity Breeds Contempt” Malachi’s words should serve as sobering warnings to leaders in the church. Dangers abound when we become casual about doing God’s work. It’s a small step from an attitude of indifference to one of antibiblical rationalizing by those who serve the Lord in leadership positions. The late Dallas Willard once observed,

“The greatest threat to devotion to Christ is service for Christ.” Those who earn wages by serving the church or a parachurch ministry can come to see what they do merely as a source of income. They forget that theirs is a ministry done in service to the Lord and for his glory. Certain words and actions become part of the routine, of what is expected according to their job description. It’s a slippery slope. One source of help may be for the leader to arrange to meet with a group of fellow leaders (either within or outside of the congregation)

for mutual prayer and encouragement. Many have found such accountability groups greatly beneficial in keeping them spiritually sharp and providing valuable counsel when temptations or other challenges occur (compare Malachi 3:16). Speaking honestly to one another can be of immeasurable value in avoiding the spiritual barrenness that brought God’s harsh criticism of the priests in Malachi’s day. Inviting candid feedback from a fellow servant of Christ is always preferable to being on the receiving end of God’s correction! B. Prayer Fa t h e r, k e e p u s f r o m

handling sacred duties in such a way that we lose sight of you. Empower our church to remember our covenant with you. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen. C. Thought to Remember Working for God requires faithfulness.

have we proven ourselves wrong by trying and succeeding? How many times have we told ourselves we couldn’t do this or that, only to be forced into doing it and achieved or surpassed our goal? Those types of fears are detrimental to our success. We are to “Live Cautiously, But Not in Fear.”

There is another element of fear, cautiousness and concern that is needed to govern our lives for good. Because of the consequences that follow, one should be fearful to commit crime and DEFINITELY SIN. It also reminds us that we must prepare and grow into whatever we are to do. We cannot be

loose cannons running out and doing what we think we should be doing, want to do, and when we want to do it. So there is a healthy element of fear necessary to set boundaries for our lives. There is wisdom in “Living Cautiously” and with a certain degree of fear. But when we trust in the Lord, even

those times when the unhealthy element of fear grips our hearts, our trust in God reminds us that we do not have to fear! It pays to serve the Lord! The Great Almighty God who has power beyond measure! As long as we are hidden in Him, trust in Him, and stay close to His

Redford, D., Eichenberger, J., & Lockhart, M. (2020). Need for Just Leaders. In R. L. Nickelson, J. A. Kenney, M. K. Williams, & J. Gerke (Eds.), The NIV Standard Lesson Commentary, 2019– 2020 (Vol. 26, pp. 261– 267). Colorado Springs, CO: Standard Publishing.

nuggets cont. from page 10

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And Church Frederick Howard

sunday school .. continued ON page 11

7 6 A P V

rtp word puzzle

CALL TODAY 1-877-571-6139 PRIMERICA REPRESENTATIVE FREDERICK HOWARD | SOLUTION # 76APV

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that we could experience. That damaging fear makes us think that we can’t accomplish what we actually can do. Thus, that fear keeps us from stepping out and trying to do it. Fear to speak, to act, to contribute our thoughts amid opposition. Fear of not being loved. Fear of not succeeding. How many times

• MARCH 22, 2020 - PAGE #11

COLUMNS want ads vacancies announments EVENTS MUSICIAN WANTED | The True Friendship Missionary Baptist Church is looking for a Minister of Music. Candidates who are knowledgeable and skilled in piano, organ, Gospel music, and have a heart to serve God , please email your resume with two references to carolynjlez9wis @gmail.com or, mail to: 7901 S. Van Ness Avenue, Inglewood, CA 90305, Attn: Carolyn J. Lewis. STRONG ORGANIST Needed at New Providence Familiar with Traditional and Contemporary Gospel music. Ability to help with teaching parts. Choir rehearses two Sundays per month after morning worship. Spirit-led in worship flow, professional attire and timeliness a must! Pay rate negotiable. Contact Information; (310) 997-6684 nuggets cont. from page 10

heart through our obedience, we can stand boldly in the truth of the Scripture that states; 1 John 4:4b- greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world. He, (Satan) that is in the world or anything harmful or could drive us to fear: sickness, coronavirus, diseases, threats, any and everything that could put us in bondage. 1 Peter 3:14But even if you suffer for doing what is right, God will reward you for it. So don’t worry or be afraid of their threats. When we are in bondage we cannot advance the Kingdom of God. We won’t be able to speak an encouraging and bold word

to those who do fear the obstacles of the world. When fear has us in bondage, we cannot maximize usage of our gifts and talents that the Lord has ALREADY given us. Fear will prohibit us from stepping out in faith. However, Exodus 15:26 reminds us: He said, “If you will listen carefully to the voice of the LORD your God and do what is right in His sight, obeying His commands and keeping all His decrees, then I will not make you suffer any of the diseases I sent on the Egyptians; for I am the LORD who heals you.” The mature Christian realizes that there are deadly situations including diseases on earth that are harmful or deadly even for us. However as mature Christians, we realize this is why we must live “TRANSITIONALLY READY”, so that if we transition from any disease of this world, that it is only the doorway into our joyful eternity. An eternity that diseases, challenges, tears or death

will no longer be a part of in that environment. Matthew 10:28 -“Don’t be afraid of those (or any illness) who want to kill your body; they cannot touch your soul. Fear only God, who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Isaiah 35:4- Say to those with fearful hearts, “Be strong, and do not fear, for your God is coming to destroy your enemies. He is coming to save you.” Isaiah 41:10- Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. Therefore Saints, even in spite of the coronavirus crisis, remember: Zephaniah 3:16b- "Do not fear, Zion; do not let your hands hang limp. (“Cheer up, Zion! Don’t be afraid!” , "Don't be discouraged or grow weak from fear!”) The Lord reminds us even today of Haggai 2:5-My Spirit remains among you, just as I promised when you came out of Egypt. So do not be afraid.’ Isaiah 41:13-For I hold you by your right hand— I, the LORD your God. And I say to you, ‘Don’t be afraid. I am here to help you. Therefore, we can “Live Cautiously, But Not in Fear”, for the Great “I Am” is with us! God bless you and yours~ Contact Info: onefaith2007@aol.com , One Faith Fellowship, P. O. Box 56641, LA, CA 90056, www.onefaithfellowship.org. (323) 481-6724.

praise of zion Cont. on page 11

Sister Jamea Hill, and Brother Kevon Gulley. The deadline to purchase tickets is March 1, 2020. Tickets are on sale now. For a small donation, you may

share in this event. Tickets may be purchased by cash, cash app, Zelle, PayPal or EventBrite. A small processing fee will be added to the price of the ticket.

No tickets will be sold at the door. For further information, you may contact any member of the group directly, or call Praises of Zion MBC church

office, at (323) 750-1033. Please plan to support these young women in their efforts. To God be the glory! Dr. J. Benjamin Hardwick, Senior

Pastor; Sisters Jovana Nettles (310 848-9538), and Joedda Williams, Chair-persons; and Sister Clarice Holmes, Reporter.

Covid Information continue from front

communities, on March 18, the state is no longer collecting information about California t ravelers retur ning f rom countries that have confirmed COVID-19 outbreaks. Community transmission of COVID-19 has been identified in California since late February, and since early March, most of the confirmed cases in the state were not related to travel outside of the United States. Twenty-two public health labs in California are testing samples for COVID-19. These labs include the California Department of Public Health's Laborator y in Richmond, A l ame d a , C ont r a C o st a , Humboldt, Long Beach, Los Angeles, Monterey, Napa-

Solano-Yolo-Marin (located in Solano), Orange, Riverside, Sacramento, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Francisco, San Joaquin, San Luis Obispo, San Mate o, Sant a C l ara, Shasta, Sonoma, Tulare and Ventura County public health laboratories The Richmond L ab or at or y w i l l prov i d e diagnostic testing within a 48-hour turnaround time. More public health labs will soon be able to test samples for COVID-19. This means California public health officials will get test results sooner, so that patients will get the best care. W h at s h o u l d y o u d o i f you think you're sick? Call ahead: If you are experiencing symptoms of

COVID-19 and may have had contact with a person with COVID-19, or recently traveled to countries with apparent community spread,

call your health care provider before seeking medical c are s o t hat appropr i ate precautions can be taken.

resident). This total does not include passengers from the Grand Princess cruise ship currently docked in Oakland. Ages of all confirmed positive cases: Age 0-17: 13 cases, Age 18-64: 448 cases, Age 65+: 209 cases, Unknown: 5 cases, 24 – Cases of positive tests related to federal repatriation flights, 675 – Cases not related to repatriation flights, 97 – Travel related, 92 – Person-to-person acquired, 181 – Community acquired (see map of local health jurisdictions reporting community t ransmission - P N G ) , 2 8 1 – Un d e r investigation, In order to better focus public health resources on the changing needs of California

• MARCH 22, 2020 - PAGE

#12

raise the praise ministry connection

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