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Category: Our Beliefs
The vitaƖ roƖe of the Church Administration in ensuring our saƖvation
The vitaƖ roƖe of the Church Administration in ensuring our saƖvation
It is only right and proper that the members of the Church Of Christ remain in fellowship with the Church Administration. They work so diligently so that we can reach spiritual maturity for us to receive the promised eternal inheritance.
By ROLAND A. AGUIRRE
WE FONDLY REMEMBER certain people especially during memorable occasions. Thus, the 31st of October cannot pass unnoticed by members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) across the globe because it is the date of birth of Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, the Executive Minister of the Church Of Christ. Such occasion elicits a variety of positive emotions in the hearts of brethren—joy, pride, respect, gratitude, and inspiration.
But more than the heartfelt sentiments that linger in us is the firm belief in the vital role the Church Administration, led by the Executive Minister, fulfills in ensuring our salvation on Judgment Day. Hence, his birth anniversary gives us a good opportunity to reflect and examine if we have maintained proper fellowship with the Church Administration and to determine, through biblical precepts, how this fellowship can be made stronger.
Working for our edification
Through the authority given by God, the Church Administration works for our edification, as stated by Apostle Paul, one of those who administered the first-century Church Of Christ: “Therefore I write these things being absent, lest being present I should use sharpness, according to the authority which the Lord has given me for edification and not for destruction” (II Cor. 13:10 New King James Version).
In view of this, the Executive Minister continues to fulfill the function to preach God’s commandments (Col. 1:25) entrusted by Him. Standing firm and holding fast those truths preached to us will make us stronger in the faith, thereby, ensuring our salvation:
“Moreover, brethren, I declare to you the gospel which I preached to you, which also you received and in which you stand, by which also you are saved, if you hold fast that word which I preached to you—unless you believed in vain.” (I Cor. 15:1-2 NKJV)
Conversely, those who refuse to listen to those entrusted to preach the words of God will not escape punishment or will not be saved (Heb. 12:25). Also, the Church Administration continues to exhort us to be “blameless in holiness before our God” (I Thess. 3:13 NKJV) by renewing our lives because those who walk in crooked paths will perish—their paths are headed toward death (Prov. 5:5-6). The death that awaits those who live unrighteous or ungodly lives refers not only to the cessation of breath but also to the second death or the eternal punishment in the lake of fire (Rev. 20:14).
It is only right and proper, then, that the members of the Church Of Christ remain in fellowship with the Church Administration. They work so diligently so that we can reach spiritual maturity for us to receive the promised eternal inheritance.
Ensuring our feƖƖowship with God
The apostles have stated in unequivocal terms that one who has fellowship with the Church Administration also has fellowship with the Father and with His Son, Jesus Christ: “That which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ” (I John 1:3 NKJV).
It is imperative then that we maintain our fellowship with the Church Administration or make it stronger. The Bible makes it clear how it can be done: “Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you” (Heb. 13:17 New International Version).
It behooves us then to completely unite with, recognize, obey, and submit to the Church Administration placed by God in the Church Of Christ, given the significant blessing such endeavors entail: fellowship with God and with Christ.
Admonishing and teaching
The Church Administration teaches us the words of God both by means of preaching and by letter: “So then … stand firm and hold on to those truths which we taught you, both in our preaching and in our letter” (II Thess. 2:15 Good News Bible).
To this end, the Executive Minister painstakingly prepares the lessons for the congregational worship services to make sure that we receive the truths from the Bible. Also, we receive, from time to time, pastoral letters. Through both methods, we are guided on how to conduct our lives and fulfill our duties to God. Clearly, the Church Administration does not tire in “admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom” (Col. 1:28 NIV).
Therefore, true servants of God take very seriously every preaching done in the Church Of Christ, inasmuch as we are not being taught opinions or mere human knowledge but the words and the wisdom of God (I Thess. 2:13). Indeed, we should constantly obey, even if the one who leads us is not physically present with us or even if we are out of his sight (Phil. 2:12).
In addition, Brother Eduardo Manalo, just like Apostle Paul, reminds us to endure and remain faithful amid persecutions and hardships, making us worthy of entering God’s eternal kingdom: “We proudly tell God’s other churches about your endurance and faithfulness in all the persecutions and hardships you are suffering. But God will use this persecution to show his justice. For he will make you worthy of his Kingdom, for which you are suffering” (II Thess. 1:4-5 New Living Translation).
Sacrificing and suffering for our sake
Like previous Church presiding elders, Brother Eduardo Manalo continues to endure many sufferings for the sake of the brethren whom he teaches. However, these sufferings do not cause him to be discouraged nor disheartened; instead, he even rejoices in his sufferings, because all the afflictions he is experiencing, is for the sake of the Church (Col. 1:24). As Apostle Paul said, “I am ready not only to be bound but even to die … for the name of the Lord Jesus” (Acts 21:13 New Revised Standard Version).
This is what Brother Eduardo Manalo is doing for us: he is devoting his whole life for the sake of the Church—sacrificing and suffering and even offering his own life, if need be—firmly believing, just like Apostle Paul, that to die is gain (Phil. 1:21). And so, such service above self and personal aggrandizement should be imitated by Church members around the globe in the performance of their God-given duties and responsibilities.
Laboring for our saƖvation
So noble and holy is the purpose of the Church Administration behind its labors and sacrifices in performing its God-given tasks: to present us perfect in Christ. Apostle Paul attested to this: “We proclaim him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ. To this end I labor, struggling with all his energy, which so powerfully works in me” (Col. 1:28-29 NIV).
Consequently, such spiritual perfection for which Brother Eduardo is laboring and sacrificing tremendously will make us worthy of receiving salvation, as Apostle Paul made it clear: “Therefore I endure all things for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory” (II Tim. 2:10 NKJV).
This article was originally published in the Pasugo: God’s Message magazine.
For more articles, visit www.pasugo.com.ph
Our most important appointment
Our most important appointment
God is already putting the finishing touches on the salvation work. We must make every opportunity count because the day of salvation is truly near.
By SIEGFRED T. GOLLAYAN
THINK ABOUT IT: What for you is the most important part of your day? What takes up much of your time and effort? Is it in taking care of your obligations? Is it in earning a living?
More often than not, we plan out our activities for the day, for the week, or even for the year—prioritizing important schedules and appointments—according to what we desire and hope to achieve. We do this also to have enough money to spend for our basic needs such as food, shelter, clothing, and education; to be physically healthy and fit; have a sound mind; be successful at work; enjoy a clean and safe environment, among others.
Do not waste precious hours
While we also keep ourselves busy with things that bring about happiness and contentment in our lives, we, members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ), are taught a very valuable lesson concerning spending our time, thus:
“The night is about over, dawn is about to break. Be up and awake to what God is doing! God is putting the finishing touches on the salvation work he began when we first believed. We can’t afford to waste a minute, must not squander these precious daylight hours in frivolity and indulgence, in sleeping around and dissipation, in bickering and grabbing everything in sight. Get out of bed and get dressed! Don’t loiter and linger, waiting until the very last minute. Dress yourselves in Christ, and be up and about!” (Rom. 13:12-14 The Message)
We are instructed not to be preoccupied with the things of this world, because God is already putting the finishing touches on the salvation work. In other words, we must make every opportunity count because the day of salvation is truly near.
For us not to waste but make good use of the precious daylight hours, we are instructed to never forget God’s teachings but store them in our hearts:
“My child, never forget the things I have taught you. Store my commands in your heart, for they will give you a long and satisfying life. Never let loyalty and kindness get away from you! Wear them like a necklace; write them deep within your heart. Then you will find favor with both God and people, and you will gain a good reputation.” (Prov. 3:1-4 New Living Translation)
As such, let us spend our time wisely by obeying God’s commands. We are also advised to plan carefully what we do and avoid evil for our benefit:
“Plan carefully what you do, and whatever you do will turn out right. Avoid evil and walk straight ahead. Don’t go one step off the right way.” (Prov. 4:26-27 Good News Bible)
Never a loss
Living in this world is indeed a big challenge for all. Regardless of our status in life, each of us goes through various problems—poverty, injustice, calamities, dreadful illnesses, and all kinds of difficulties. When faced with such problems, many are likely to prioritize the things that they think would help them in their plight. Sadly, there are those who fail in handling problems in these troubled times and consequently drift away from the right direction and, in effect, take the path toward destruction. However, for us, the key to God’s blessings is clear:
“The Lord your God will bless you in the land that he is giving you. Not one of your people will be poor if you obey him and carefully observe everything that I command you today.” (Deut. 15:4-5 GNB)
We must never think that the reason we are exhorted by the Church Administration to obey God’s commands is to burden us. Neither should we complain nor refuse when we are instructed to obey. Let us have faith that our obedience has a great bearing on our receiving God’s help and graces. Like the servant of God, Job, let us treasure the words of His mouth more than our necessary food (Job 23:12 New King James Version).
Our Lord Jesus Christ Himself guaranteed that one is not at a losing end whatever and no matter how much he has sacrificed in obeying the will of God:
“Then Peter said, ‘See, we have left all and followed You.’ So He said to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or parents or brothers or wife or children, for the sake of the kingdom of God, who shall not receive many times more in this present time, and in the age to come everlasting life’.” (Luke 18:28-30 NKJV)
One who constantly obeys God’s commands will receive many times more in this life and even more in the life to come.
Our most important appointment
What are some of the commandments of God that we must pursue to receive His favor even though living in this world is very difficult? King David, a servant of God, tells us of his experience, thus:
“The danger of death was all around me; the waves of destruction rolled over me. The danger of death was around me, and the grave set its trap for me. In my trouble I called to the Lord; I called to my God for help. In his temple he heard my voice; he listened to my cry for help.” (Ps. 18:4-6 GNB)
We can only imagine how difficult David’s situation was back then. And yet, did he give up? Did he stop obeying God? No. Instead, he went to the temple and there he communed with God—he worshiped and prayed to Him for help. And David testifies that God heard his voice and listened to his cry for help.
Hence, we must never neglect the worship service no matter how severe our problems are. Let us make use of the house of worship to pray to God and ask for His help. As servants of God, what are we certain of when we pray as we gather to worship Him? The Psalmist declared:
“He gives me new strength. He guides me in the right paths, as he has promised. Even if I go through the deepest darkness, I will not be afraid, Lord, for you are with me. Your shepherd’s rod and staff protect me. … I know that your goodness and love will be with me all my life; and your house will be my home as long as I live.” (Ps. 23:3-4, 6 GNB)
Considering the value of praying to and communing with God during worship services, we can definitely say that our most important appointment is our appointment with Him. Our most important commitment is our meeting together, which is the congregational worship service, to worship Him.
This article was originally published in the Pasugo: God’s Message magazine.
For more articles, visit www.pasugo.com.ph
The Church Administration: Helping Christians believe in, trust in, and rely on God
The Church Administration: Helping Christians believe in, trust in, and rely on God
Like the apostles whom God appointed to administer the first-century Church Of Christ, the Church Administration in these last days desires to help the members of the Church believe in, trust in, and rely on God, and receive salvation.
By GLADY C. GADDI
THE ULTIMATE GOAL of the present Executive Minister, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, is the same as that of the ones who administered the Church Of Christ before him—to help its members believe in, trust in, and rely on God (Jer. 17:7 Amplified Bible) and, thus, receive salvation.
The Church Administration in these last days has this desire similar to that of Apostle Paul who was appointed by God to administer the first-century Church in the Gentile lands. The apostle pronounced:
“Therefore I endure all things for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.” (II Tim. 2:10 New King James Version)
Administering the Church in the Gentile lands
When the Lord Jesus Christ ascended to heaven, He entrusted His flock to His apostles. Apostle Paul, moved by love and concern for the Church, taught the helpers in administering the Church to carefully tend the flock of Christ:
“Take heed therefore to yourselves and to all the flock over which the Holy Spirit has appointed you overseers, to feed the church of Christ which he has purchased with his blood.
“And from Miletus he sent and called the elders of the church of Ephesus.” (Acts 20:28, 17 Lamsa Translation)
Apostle Paul met with the elders and made sure that those present would also love, care for, and feed the flock or the Church Of Christ. While performing his duties, he encountered severe persecutions and hardships. Nevertheless, in fulfilling his ministry, he was willing to give even his life so he could finish the race and complete the task given to him by Christ (I Thess. 2:18; Acts 20:35, 24 New International Version).
The Church Administration in these last days
The present Executive Minister, Brother Eduardo Manalo, is making every effort possible to ensure that God’s elect in these last days will attain salvation. Everything is being put in order so that the labors and sacrifices of the members of the Church will not be in vain—they are assured of the promised reward of the Savior on His Second Advent. Why does the Church Administration deeply want to put in order everything in the Church? Apostle Paul enlightens us, thus:
“For this reason, when I could stand it no longer, I sent to find out about your faith. I was afraid that in some way the tempter might have tempted you and our efforts might have been useless.” (I Thess. 3:5 NIV)
Apostle Paul wanted to make sure that those who already had the true faith would not be tempted and deceived by the tempter or the devil, but be saved on Judgment Day.
This is also the deep concern of the Church Administration in our time. They do not want those who already know the truth be misled by the devil. That is why he is also taking great measures for God’s chosen people to remain firmly grounded in their faith.
The Church Administration exhorts the true Christians today, thus:
“Do not lose your courage, then, because it brings with it a great reward. You need to be patient, in order to do the will of God and receive what he promises. For, as the scripture says, ‘Just a little while longer, and he who is coming will come; he will not delay. My righteous people, however, will believe and live; but if any of them turns back, I will not be pleased with them.’ We are not people who turn back and are lost. Instead, we have faith and are saved.” (Heb. 10:35–39 Good News Bible)
Members of the Church who obey this commandment wholeheartedly do not turn their backs on God and are assured of the promised salvation.
Obedience is a must
Members of the Church Of Christ understand that they are not on the losing end if they fully obey the teachings of God taught to them by the Church Administration and follow all the rules which are being implemented in the Church (Acts 16:4–5 GNB). That is why it is only right to obey and submit to the Administration placed by God in the Church (Heb.13:17). When the Executive Minister makes a decision for the sake of the Church, its members listen and follow him, because salvation awaits those who are obedient.
What about those who are stubborn and hardheaded—those who refuse to listen and do not obey the Church Administration? What awaits them? Our Lord Jesus Christ says:
“And whoever will not receive you nor hear your words, when you depart from that house or city, shake off the dust from your feet. Assuredly, I say to you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment than for that city!” (Matt. 10:14–15 NKJV)
Those who reject the one entrusted to administer the Church will end up in perdition. Members of the Church remain united with the Church Administration even if this entails making sacrifices or self-denial. What reward awaits those who have sacrificed and persevered for the sake of the faith and kingdom of God? The Lord Jesus Christ answers:
“Then Peter said, ‘See we have left all and followed You.’ So He said to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or parents or brothers or wife or children, for the sake of the kingdom of God, who shall not receive many times more in this present time, and in the age to come eternal life.’” (Luke 18:28–30 NKJV)
Great blessings await those who obey even if it means leaving everything and everyone. Not only will they be blessed here on earth, but most especially, they will be counted worthy to live in the kingdom of God or the Holy City just as He promised:
“Therefore, among God’s churches we boast about your perseverance and faith in all the persecutions and trials you are enduring. All this is evidence that God’s judgment is right, and as a result you will be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you are suffering.” (II Thess. 1:4–5 NIV)
This is the Church Administration’s role—to help every member of the Church Of Christ believe in, trust in, and rely on God to attain salvation.
For more articles, visit www.pasugo.com.ph
Why Iglesia Ni Cristo members recount God’s blessings on the Church’s anniversary
Why Iglesia Ni Cristo members recount God’s blessings on the Church’s anniversary
When we recount the victories that God has blessed the Church with, we do so not for self-gratification but for the glorification of God.
By MARLEX C. CANTOR
ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS in the Church Of Christ are held with heartfelt thanksgiving to God for all the successes and achievements He has been blessing it with. On top of all other commemorative activities, the members all over the world gather together in a thanksgiving worship service to proclaim His praises and bring with them their thank-offerings to glorify Him.
In commemorating the 109th anniversary of the Church this year, we recount the many triumphs of the Church in its various fields of endeavor for the year that has passed. We share our joy not just with our brethren but also with people of other faiths. In this age of social media, the brethren’s happiness over such blessings reverberates throughout cyberspace for millions of netizens to see, hear, and read about.
Expectedly, detractors of the Church disapprove of this. Some accuse us of being self-serving when we explicitly express the wonderful accomplishments of the Church, and many go as far as undermining the Church’s triumphant contributions to society. Such criticisms, though, do not hamper the grateful spirit of the brethren, for while others may think of it wrongly, the truth remains:
“It is a good and delightful thing to give thanks to the Lord, To sing praises to Your name, O Most High.” (Ps. 92:1 Amplified Bible 2015)
Not for self, but for God
When we recount the victories that God has blessed the Church with, we do so not for self-gratification but for the glorification of God Who made them possible:
“For You, O Lord, have made me glad by Your works; At the works of Your hands I joyfully sing. How great are Your works, O Lord! Your thoughts are very deep [beyond man’s understanding].” (Ps. 92:4–5 AMP2015)
Indeed, so deep are God’s thoughts and ways that they are beyond man’s understanding, which is why there will always be those who will look at His blessings to His people with envy and disdain. For, “A senseless man [in his crude and uncultivated state] knows nothing, Nor does a [self-righteous] fool understand this” (Ps. 92:6 AMP2015). We cannot avoid encountering such haters and detractors—“My eye has looked on my foes; My ears hear of the evildoers who rise up against me” (Ps. 92:11 AMP2015)—but we face them with confidence in our hope in God’s promise to the people He counts righteous in His sight—“The righteous will flourish like the date palm [long-lived, upright and useful]; They will grow like a cedar in Lebanon [majestic and stable]” (Ps. 92:12 AMP2015). The ones whom God counts as righteous are those sanctified and put right with Him by our Lord Jesus Christ—the members of the Church Of Christ which the Savior redeemed with His blood (I Cor. 6:11 Good News Bible; Acts 20:28 Lamsa Translation).
Instead of minding the criticisms and the rumors that our detractors spread, we carry on and all the more glorify God because He has filled His nation in these last days. It is not about us, really. It is about God Who is the true Upholder and Defender of this work begun by His Messenger and continued by the Executive Ministers who have succeeded him in leading this Church. The increasing number of houses of worship built, local congregations and ecclesiastical districts established, men ordained in the ministry, and the other growth statistics of the Church are all but a testimony to God’s mercy and lovingkindness to His elect, His chosen people. “[They are living memorials] to declare that the Lord is upright and faithful [to His promises]; He is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in Him” (Ps. 92:15 AMP2015).
The specific promises
We commemorate the Church’s establishment on July 27, 1914 not merely to count the age of its existence in our time but more profoundly to remember the fulfillment of God’s prophecy in the Bible that testify to our divine calling and election.
In Isaiah 41:9–14, God spoke of His chosen people who would come from the “ends of the earth”—a time reference for the pre-Judgment Day era that would start with World War I. The prophesied place of origin of God’s elect from the end times is stated in the phrase “called from farthest corners [of the earth]”, which in related verses point to “distant east” or “far east” (Isa. 43:5 GNB; Moffatt Translation). Thus, it happened that 109 years ago, the Iglesia Ni Cristo emerged and was registered in the Philippines (an archipelago in the Far East) on July 27, 1914 (concurrent with the outbreak of World War I).
Also specified in the same prophecy in Isaiah 41 are the promises of God to this Church. Among these promises is God’s declaration, “I have chosen you and have not cast you off”—similar to Isaiah 62:11–12 stating with finality that this is God’s unforsaken nation and it will not apostatize as did the first-century Church. Moreover, God made a promise to strengthen, help, and uphold this Church with His victorious right hand—a promise that is being kept to this very day, which explains why the Church continues to flourish in all aspects of its religious life despite all the hurdles, odds, and obstacles.
Humbled and awed by God’s wondrous works for the Church, the faithful worldwide echo what the Psalmist once proclaimed:
“The LORD will fulfill that which concerns me. Your loving kindness, LORD, endures forever. Don’t forsake the works of your own hands. … I will bow down toward your holy temple, and give thanks to your Name for your loving kindness and for your truth; for you have exalted your Name and your Word above all.” (Ps. 138:8, 2 World Messianic Bible)
Thankfully re-affirming our stand
In commemorating its anniversary, as the Church Of Christ sincerely thanks God for the victories He has been granting it through our Lord Jesus Christ, the members once again affirm their stand to remain solid in the faith, in keeping with the timeless reminder of the apostles not to let anyone “move you off the foundation of your faith” but to “always excel in the work you do for the Lord” because “the hard work you do for the Lord is not pointless” (I Cor. 15:57–58 Names Of God Version).
To remain unmoved and unshaken in our faith, each Church member ought to heed the constant call for unity which administrators of the Church, such as Apostle Paul, exhort all the brethren to do:
“Fill up and complete my joy by living in harmony and being of the same mind and one in purpose, having the same love, being in full accord and of one harmonious mind and intention. Do nothing from factional motives [through contentiousness, strife, selfishness, or for unworthy ends] or prompted by conceit and empty arrogance. Instead, in the true spirit of humility (lowliness of mind) let each regard the others as better than and superior to himself [thinking more highly of one another than you do of yourselves]. Let each of you esteem and look upon and be concerned for not [merely] his own interests, but also each for the interests of others. Let this same attitude and purpose and [humble] mind be in you which was in Christ Jesus: [Let Him be your example in humility].” (Phil. 2:2–5 Amplified Bible)
Tests and trials in life will still worsen, but none of those will ruin the faith of the true members of the Church Of Christ in these last days. Instead of pushing them away from God, such troubles will only draw them closer to Him who made this truthful promise to them:
“When my people in their need look for water, when their throats are dry with thirst, then I, the Lord, will answer their prayer; I, the God of Israel, will never abandon them. I will make rivers flow among barren hills and springs of water run in the valleys. I will turn the desert into pools of water and the dry land into flowing springs.” (Isa. 41:17–18 GNB)
This article was originally published in the Pasugo: God’s Message magazine.
For more articles, visit www.pasugo.com.ph
Scriptural testimonies prove that Brother Felix Y. Manalo is a Messenger of God
Scriptural testimonies prove that Brother Felix Y. Manalo is a Messenger of God
Brother Felix Manalo differs greatly from the self-appointed preachers in these end times. His being a messenger of God is not without biblical basis. The veracity of these testimonies does prove that he was indeed God-sent.
By MARLEX C. CANTOR
MANY OF TODAY’S GENERATION of Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) members may not have met Brother Felix Y. Manalo in person as he was laid to rest six decades ago. Nevertheless, we firmly believe that he is God’s Messenger in these last days. We recognize him as the instrument God used to preach the true Church Of Christ through whom we have been brought to the true service of God and have gained the firm hope for salvation on Judgment Day.
Of course, those who deny this truth would question our faith and belief in God’s messenger. They could not accept that God had sent a messenger in our time. This teaching comes to them as a new doctrine—something they think that we only made up for ourselves.
But those who have ample knowledge of the Bible can never deny that the sending of messengers is a work of God (John 6:29). No one can claim for himself the honor of being sent by God, for such calling is from Him. One has to be called or chosen by God to earn His approval. Otherwise, he would only be commending himself, and those who do so are “without understanding”—hence, they do not speak God’s truth and are unworthy of belief and acceptance. (Heb. 5:4; II Cor. 10:12, 18 English Standard Version)
It is on that regard that Brother Felix Manalo differs greatly from the self-appointed preachers in these end times. His being a messenger of God is not without biblical basis. The veracity of these testimonies does prove that he was indeed God-sent.
Prophecy as testimony
Others think that to be sent by God is to be spoken to by Him face to face, in the same way that Moses (Exod. 3:11) and other prophets of yore were appointed by God. However, such direct approach is not the only way by which God calls His messengers whom He assigns to start a divine mission. Another is by means of prophecy.
Examples of those whose calling from God is attested to by prophecy are John the Baptist, Apostle Paul, and no less than our Lord Jesus Christ, the greatest of God’s Messengers. Although John’s name was not specifically mentioned beforehand in the Scriptures, to him was fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah regarding the voice in the wilderness who would prepare the way of the Lord. (Isa. 40:3; Mark 1:2-4). The same is true with Apostle Paul. He derived his authority to preach from the prophetic pronouncement about the servant whom God would give as a light to the Gentiles (Isa. 49:6; Acts 13:46-47).
As for our Lord Jesus Christ, not only did He cite the Old Testament prophecy attesting to His being God-sent, He Himself read the scripture that testifies to His divine authority:
“So He came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up. And as His custom was, He went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and stood up to read. And He was handed the book of the prophet Isaiah. And when He had opened the book, He found the place where it was written: ‘The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, Because He has anointed Me To preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives And recovery of sight to the blind, To set at liberty those who are oppressed; To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord.’ Then He closed the book, and gave it back to the attendant and sat down. And the eyes of all who were in the synagogue were fixed on Him. And He began to say to them, “Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.” (Luke 4:16-21 New King James Version)
In the same note, Brother Felix Manalo’s authority as a true messenger of God is validated strongly grounded on biblical prophecies. Like his predecessors, his name is not specified in the prophecies but they undeniably point to him because the signs were all fulfilled in him and in the work that he accomplished.
Date of commencement
One of the prophecies attesting that Brother Felix Manalo is God’s Messenger is Isaiah 41:9-14. We are sure about this because the time element was specified. The prophesied servant would emerge in the period known as “ends of the earth” (Isa. 41:9).
“Ends of the earth” sounds like but is entirely different from “end of the earth.” Both are expressions of time, but, while the latter refers to the time when the world will meet its end, which is on the day of Judgment (Matt. 24:3), the former pertains to the time when the end is near or at its doors (Matt. 24:33). Our Lord Jesus Christ gave signs that, when seen happening, will signify that the end is near or that the time “ends of the earth” has already begun to unfold:
“So you also, when you see all these things, know that it is near—at the doors! And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of sorrows.” (Matt. 24:33, 6-8)
Among the signs that portend the unfolding of the period “ends of the earth” is the war that would be rumored or widely talked about. In fulfillment, this war is World War I of 1914:
“Jesus now tells His followers how they could discern when the world was actually entering into the beginning of the birth pangs that would bring about the rebirth of Israel and ultimately the establishment of the Kingdom of God on earth. The approach of the end of the age would see several phenomena on the earth occurring at the same time. Those phenomena, would be: 1. Many nations rising up against many other nations 2. Kingdoms rising against kingdoms 3. Famines 4. Disease epidemics 5. Earthquakes in various places. In Mark 13 the word troubles is used by our Lord instead of disease epidemics. ... Wars between nations, or even between kingdoms, is and has been a common occurrence. History has recorded famines at various times. There have been times of great disease epidemics. There have been earthquakes in the past, but increasingly so in the present day. Jesus tells His disciples, however, to be awaiting a specific time during which all of these phenomena would be in evidence at the same time. The first such time in world history occurred during the years of World War I (1914-1918) and immediately following ...” (Matt. 24:6-8a footnote, Last Days Bible)
It is during this period when the prophesied messenger in Isaiah 41:9 would emerge. And so it was that Brother Felix Manalo registered the Iglesia Ni Cristo with the Philippine government on July 27, 1914—the exact same date when World War I broke out:
“The first great campaign on the southeastern battle grounds of the Great War began on July 27, 1914, when the Austrian troops undertook their first invasion of Serbia.” (The Story of the Great War, Vol. 3, p. 923)
Place of origin
There can be no mistaking that Brother Felix Manalo is the messenger being prophesied in Isaiah 41:9-16 and other related prophecies because the place of origin was also specified. Isaiah 46:11 mentions that the “man who executes God’s counsel” whose work is to bring God’s righteousness near to people for them to be saved would come from “the east”, from “a far country” or, as rendered in Isaiah 43:5, from the “Far East” (Moffatt Translation).
It is no secret that Brother Felix Manalo is a Filipino. It is also a fact that his homeland, the Philippines, is in the Far East—almost in its geographical center at that (Asia and the Philippines, p. 169). Surely, then, it could not be just coincidence that the prophesied messenger’s place of origin and the date of commencement of his mission were both fulfilled in Brother Felix Manalo.
But, if these were not yet enough proof of his being sent by God, digging a little deeper would take us to understanding that even the nature of his mission was prophesied in the Bible.
Nature of mission
Isaiah 46:11 describes the messenger from the Far East as a “bird of prey”. This is because the work of salvation involves “snatching others from the fire” (Jude 1:23). Precisely so, since God’s messenger from the far east and from the ends of the earth would have to bring people out of the “South” and the “North” which are holding them back:
“Fear not, for I am with you; I will bring your descendants from the east, And gather you from the west; I will say to the north, ‘Give them up!’ And to the south, ‘Do not keep them back!’ Bring My sons from afar, And My daughters from the ends of the earth.” (Isa. 43:5-6 NKJV)
In fulfillment, Brother Felix Manalo’s preaching function did involve “snatching” or “bringing out” people from two main religions—Catholicism and Protestantism, which were represented by South and North, respectively:
“Others have suggested in broader terms that Protestantism was the form of Christianity suited to the temper of the northern peoples, Catholicism to that of the southern. Plausibility is lent to the thesis because, in the final stabilization, northern Europe was largely Protestant and southern largely Catholic.” (New Encylopaedia Britannica Macropaedia, 15th Edition, Vol. 15, p. 547)
There may be other countries in the Far East and other preachers who emerged in the World War I era, but there is no one else from such particular place and time whose mission entailed bringing people out specifically from those two mainstream religions—no one except Brother Felix Manalo.
Messenger for Christ
What are presented herein are only some of the scriptural testimonies proving that Brother Felix Manalo was sent by God as His messenger in these last days to preach the true Church Of Christ so that people would be gathered in it and be assured of salvation. By believing ever so firmly in his election or calling as a messenger of God, we members of the Church Of Christ never intend to replace Christ for him. Rather, it is clear to us that the role Brother Felix Manalo fulfilled is no different from that of the apostles, that is, to speak on Christ’s behalf the genuine words of God so that man will heed His call and be saved through the sacrificial death of our dear Savior Jesus. As Apostle Paul said:
“God was in Christ. He brought the world back to himself. He forgave them for the wrong things they had done. And he gave us the message that will bring people back to himself. So we are messengers for Christ. God is using us to call people. So we are standing here for Christ and begging people, “Come back to God!’” (II Cor. 5:18-19 Bible in Worldwide English, emphasis added)
This article was originally published in the Pasugo: God’s Message magazine.
For more articles, visit www.pasugo.com.ph
The blessed nation of God
The blessed nation of God
Being truly blessed is not based on a person's place of origin nor on what status in life he has. Rather, it is a matter of divine election.
By DENNIS G. DULAY
NO MATTER HOW GREAT or small a particular nation may be, its people usually feel that they have something that makes them distinct. This is why individuals from every walk of life, whether they be from a small island colony or a recognized superpower of the world, feel a sense of pride and patriotism. One thing is for sure: every group of people considers their being distinct as a blessing or as something special according to one’s own standards.
On who are truly blessed, the Holy Bible is the sole authority—and this is not based on where a person originates from or even what his status in life may be. Rather, it is a matter of divine election:
“Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, The people He has chosen as His own inheritance.” (Ps. 33:12 New King James Version)
The divine election
One has to be chosen or elected by God for him or her to be counted among the people of His “nation” or the people who are truly special in the Lord’s sight. Those chosen by God are the ones who can rightfully call Him Lord.
What is promised to those who, by virtue of their divine calling, belong to God? The Bible further states:
“Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble; for so an entrance will be supplied to you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” (II Pet. 1:10–11 NKJV).
Thus, the chosen ones of God and of Christ are fortunate indeed! Their inheritance is the everlasting kingdom of the Lord.
The difference
Some people might find this matter about being elected by God offending and others may insist that any given nation or group of people is as good as the others. But biblically speaking, there is a difference between the chosen people of God and those who are not. Notice the statement of Apostle Paul in Ephesians 2:12:
“That at that time you were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world.” (NKJV)
Thus, not all people are under the grace of God and not all people have the hope to receive His promised salvation. As written in the Bible, only those who have that covenant with Him are entitled to such great blessing.
The nation of God in these last days
The looming question now is, “Who are God’s chosen people in these last days?” What is the distinctive trait of those who truly belong to God, according to the Holy Scriptures? The apostles stated:
“And you also became God’s people when you heard the true message, the Good News that brought you salvation. You believed in Christ, and God put his stamp of ownership on you by giving you the Holy Spirit he had promised.” (Eph. 1:13 Good News Bible)
Thus, the people who belong to God are sealed with His stamp of ownership, the Holy Spirit. Because of this, Apostle Paul says they are known or recognized by God (Gal. 4:9). To be sealed with the Holy Spirit, one has to hear and firmly believe in the true gospel preached by God’s messengers or those whom He sent (Rom. 10:14–15).
In these last days, the one whom God used as His instrument, who would seal those whom He recognizes as His chosen people, is the “angel” or “messenger” spoken of (mentioned) in Revelation 7:2–3:
“Then I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal of the living God. And he cried with a loud voice to the four angels to whom it was granted to harm the earth and the sea, saying, ‘Do not harm the earth, the sea, or the trees till we have sealed the servants of our God on their foreheads.’” (NKJV)
Through the instrumentality of the “other angel ascending from the east, having the seal of the living God” who would preach the true gospel in these last days, those who believe would receive God’s Holy Spirit in their hearts as a mark or stamp of His ownership (II Cor. 1:21–22).
Notice that this prophesied angel (or “messenger” according to the Young’s Literal Translation of Revelation 7:2) would come from the “East.” The members of the Church Of Christ in these last days believe that the prophecy concerning the angel or messenger of God in this verse was fulfilled in the person of Brother Felix Y. Manalo. He began his preaching function in the Philippines, a country located in the Far East. This messenger of God was instrumental in the re-emergence of the true Church Of Christ in these last days which is, according to Christ, are His “other sheep” or those whom He acknowledged would be called in the future (John 10:16, Easy-to-Read Version).
Brother Felix Y. Manalo preached about the indispensability of the true Church Of Christ for the attainment of God’s grace of salvation. Becoming a true member of this Church, thus, entitles one to be sealed with the Holy Spirit and have the assurance of receiving God’s blessed reward.
An invitation to all
Christ invites all people from all walks of life to enter His Church. He declared:
“I am the door; anyone who comes into the fold through me will be safe …” (John 10:9 Revised English Bible, emphasis ours)
So, no matter what a person’s background may be or wherever he or she may have originated from, Christ encourages everyone to enter through Him in order to be saved. Where can we find those who have accepted His call? They are in the fold or flock which, according to the teachings of the apostles, is none other than the Church Of Christ:
“Take heed therefore to yourselves and to all the flock over which the Holy Spirit has appointed you overseers, to feed the church of Christ which he has purchased with his blood.”
(Acts 20:28 Lamsa Translation)
What did Christ mandate so that His invitation would be extended to all nations? The following is recorded in Matthew 28:19–20:
“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you …” (NKJV)
Therefore, baptism into the body or the Church is required by the Savior
(I Cor. 12:13; Col. 1:18). And as Christ promised, those who hear the gospel, believe in it, and are baptized will be saved (Mark 16:15–16).
In order to be counted among those truly fortunate, all people are being invited to join the Church Of Christ. As the blessed nation of God in these last days, the members of the Church Of Christ may not be the most affluent or prominent people in this world, but without a doubt they are truly the blessed ones because, as Apostle Paul proudly declared: “Our citizenship is in heaven” (Phil. 3:20 NKJV).
This article was originally published in the Pasugo: God’s Message magazine.
For more articles, visit www.pasugo.com.ph
True worship
True worship
True Christian worship is so much more than just praising God through hymn-singing and prayers, or hearing the sermon or the preaching of the words of God.
By ROLAND A. AGUIRRE
CHRISTIAN WORSHIP IS often thought of as a form of religious practice with its creeds and rituals; or, a heartfelt reverence, admiration for or devotion and gratitude to a divine being; thus, singing hymns of praises is an essential part of the worship service and it is not uncommon for many to say, “I was really moved by the hymn-singing.” Another picture of such service is the sermon; and often people will emerge from the worship service saying, “The sermon was indeed wonderful and inspiring.”
Nevertheless, true worship is not confined to singing or hearing the sermon or the preaching of the words of God—although they are both parts of a congregational worship service (I Cor. 14:26, 15). True Christian worship is so much more than these things. One thing is clear though: all people—including all those who profess to be Christians who may differ in the manner they worship God because of their different doctrines and beliefs—are hoping that their worship is true and acceptable to God.
And so, who are the true Christians whose worship will be accepted by God? What are the components of a true worship of God? What manner of worship is acceptable to Him?
True worshipers
The ones whom God holds responsible to worship Him is His nation or the people whom He has elected:
“Oh come, let us worship and bow down; Let us kneel before the Lord our Maker. For He is our God, And we are the people of His pasture, And the sheep of His hand. Today, if you will hear His voice.” (Ps. 95:6–7 New King James Version)
As the nation elected by God in these last days (Isa. 62:11–12; John 15:16; Col. 1:18; Acts 20:28 Lamsa Translation), the Church Of Christ considers worshiping God as the primary obligation of every member. Moreover, to worship and serve God is to recognize that He is our Creator:
“Serve the Lord with gladness; Come before His presence with singing. Know that the Lord, He is God; It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; We are His people and the sheep of His pasture.” (Ps. 100:2–3 NKJV)
To worship God—who is just, perfect, and our Creator who gives us all we have—must be the primary focus of our worship services.
Of course, all of mankind has been created by God—everyone has the basic obligation to worship and serve Him. Yet the many people of the world reject and abandon this primary obligation of man: they do not recognize the Creator or fail to worship God. There are those who even though they belong to a religion or engage in worship, they “worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator”, the images of other humans, “and birds and four-footed beasts and creeping things”
(Rom. 1:21, 25, 23 NKJV).
Thus, we should not abandon our responsibility to worship our Lord God because He expects that we who are in His nation will fulfill this obligation. Turning away from this inherent obligation will result in His wrath to be revealed (Rom. 1:18, 28–31). Furthermore, because of this violation of God’s commandment to worship and serve Him, not only have the people of this world been given over to a debased mind to do those things that are not fitting—hence, many kinds of immorality and evil are now taking place in the world—but also they will be punished with everlasting destruction on Judgment Day (II Thess. 1:8–10).
Returning to God
For man to once again receive the right to worship and serve God, he must enter His gates:
“Serve the Lord with gladness; Come before His presence with singing. Know that the Lord, He is God; It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; We are His people and the sheep of His pasture. Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.” (Ps. 100:2-4 NKJV)
Christ is the way so that man may come to the Father (John 14:6 nkjv). He also made clear that He is the door or the gate and that those who enter Him are in his fold (John 10:9 Revised English Bible). The fold or flock being referred to is the Church Of Christ:
“Take heed therefore to yourselves and to all the flock over which the Holy Spirit has appointed you overseers, to feed the church of Christ which he has purchased with his blood.”
(Acts 20:28 Lamsa)
Therefore, it is in the Church Of Christ that we can find those who have entered Christ who is the door-way introduced by the Bible. So that man may receive the right to return to and worship God, he first needs to enter the Church Of Christ. Without a doubt, therefore, the Church of Christ is indispensable so that man may fulfill his basic duty to serve and worship God.
It goes without saying then that we who are already inside the Church Of Christ are expected by God to dedicate ourselves in fulfilling this obligation. We should not belittle nor take for granted, much less abandon this duty. Let us never fail God in what He expects of us: to worship and exalt His name together in His temple or in the house of worship
(Ps. 48:1, 9–10).
Offering true worship
We can surely glorify God in our congregational worship service if we offer true worship to Him. This can be accomplished if we offer ourselves as “a living sacrifice to God, dedicated to His service and pleasing to Him …” (Rom. 12:1 Good News Bible). The New King James rendition of the same verse states that “you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God …” Thus, we should shun all things that would make us unholy so that our worship service to God would be true and acceptable to Him. We should uphold righteous lives, resisting temptations and putting away sin from our lives.
And if we are already inside the house of worship, we should always observe holiness which befits the house of worship (Ps. 93:5). Needless to say, we should never sleep nor allow our minds to wander off during the congregational worship service especially during the sermon. Instead, we should be good listeners—doing or obeying, not forgetting what we have heard. Neither should we bring food, cellphones, etc. inside—among others, it is not a place for eating and engaging in meaningless conversation with anyone or sending instant messages to others. Nothing should distract us from our obligation to worship God. Any activity then that interferes with worshiping Him must be avoided; the sanctity and solemnity of the occasion must be respected.
Participating actively in the hymn-singing, listening intently during the preaching of God’s words, and expressing agreement with “Amen” at appropriate times during the congregational prayers are also a must in rendering true and acceptable worship to God.
In addition, God’s elect show their dedication to worshiping Him by fulfilling it “at all times” and praising Him “continually” (Ps. 34:1 NKJV). Amid escalating poverty, terrorism, pandemic diseases, disasters and other challenges of the 21st century, God’s children vow to be dedicated to the worship service. They show their dedication in praising God by adhering to the apostles’ strict instruction not to forsake it:
“Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching. For if we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and fiery indignation which will devour the adversaries.” (Heb. 10:25–27 NKJV)
Proper conduct and attitude
Moreover, in order for the congregational worship service to truly glorify God, and be true and acceptable to Him, it must be done “in a proper and orderly way” (I Cor. 14:40 GNB). Hence, we should heed the Church officers who see to it that proper conduct and attitude is being observed by the worshipers—from the time they enter, sit down and listen to the sermon, and until the time they leave the worship building—to show our respect to God.
We must put a premium on proper behavior during worship services for “God is not a God of disorder but of peace” (I Cor.14:33 New International Version). In worship, everything must be done in harmony and with order. Clearly, we will not feel His presence if there is disorder or confusion during our holy gathering.
Proper and appropriate attire must be observed as well:
“Worship the LORD in holy array; tremble before him, all the earth!” (Ps. 96:9 Revised Standard Version)
We should follow the instruction about the proper clothes to wear during congregational worship services to show we accord utmost respect to God.
Indeed, proper decorum during our worship services plays an important part in offering true worship to God and praising Him. On the other hand, worshipers who displease God are those who come near to Him with their mouth and honor Him with their lips, but their hearts are far from Him (Isa. 29:13). God wants wholehearted service be offered to Him: serving Him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind (I Chr. 28:9), and to serve Him with gladness (Ps. 100:2). Undoubtedly, God demands nothing less than our full attention.
Therefore, we should prepare our hearts and minds for worship. Our worship service should not become routinary. It is not just another ordinary activity in a busy schedule; that we are just going through the motions, so to speak. Let us always remember that God is watching the heart of His servants who worship Him, expecting them to do what glorifies and pleases Him (Deut. 10:12).
Significance of the Holy Spirit
Showing that He also gives great importance to our congregational worship service, our Lord Jesus Christ had this promise:
“For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them.” (Matt. 18:20 NKJV)
This can be done through His spirit or the Holy Spirit which is also the “Comforter” which God sends into our hearts (Gal. 4:6; John 14:16–17 King James Version). The Holy Spirit is the power that strengthens us (Eph. 3:16–17).
Thus, even though this world has been filled with so much worries and troubles, we find comfort and strength when we feel the power of the Holy Spirit. On the other hand, the reason others are overcome by problems in life is that they do not feel the Holy Spirit in the worship service. That happens because they grieve the Holy Spirit with the works of the flesh—bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, evil speaking, and malice—that they do (Eph. 4:30–31).
So, let us make sure that we constantly feel the power of God or the Holy Spirit every time we come to worship Him. Let us lead a life of holiness in His sight. Let us never allow sin to take control of our lives.
Another significance of the Holy Spirit is that God pours out His love into our hearts through it during the worship services:
“And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.” (Rom. 5:5 NIV)
More importantly, the Holy Spirit testifies that “we are God’s children” and thus, “heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ” (Rom. 8:16–17 NIV) because the seal of the Holy Spirit is the guarantee of our being redeemed and of being God’s purchased possession (Eph. 1:13–14).
Immense blessings, such as experiencing the Holy Spirit as the most important, are indeed in store for us every time we worship God. Conversely, our worship services will not be complete, hence, meaningless if we do not feel the presence of the Holy Spirit.
Longing to worship
God’s servants long for Him every time they gather themselves together to worship Him:
“O God, You are my God; Early will I seek You; My soul thirsts for You; My flesh longs for You In a dry and thirsty land Where there is no water. So I have looked for You in the sanctuary, To see Your power and Your glory.” (Ps. 63:1–2 NKJV)
Furthermore, we should always remember His kindness everytime we gather together; and His goodness should inspire us to worship with thanksgiving and praise:
“Praise the Lord, my soul! All my being, praise his holy name! Praise the Lord, my soul, and do not forget how kind he is. He forgives all my sins and heals all my diseases. He keeps me from the grave and blesses me with love and mercy.” (Ps.103:1–4 GNB)
Even in the most trying times and amid the most difficult circumstances, we should never forget God and neglect the worship service—we should all the more put our hope in God and praise Him (Ps. 42:5–6). We should earnestly seek God in our worship service because it is during this holy gathering that He answers our prayers and delivers us from all our fears:
“I will extol the LORD at all times; his praise will always be on my lips. … I sought the LORD, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears. … Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him.”
(Ps. 34:1, 4, 8 NIV)
This article was originally published in the Pasugo: God’s Message magazine.
For more articles, visit www.pasugo.com.ph
Will Judgment Day come?
Will Judgment Day come?
By VENICIO T. BASCO
THE DAY OF JUDGMENT is something that people who want to receive the Lord God’s promised salvation look forward to. Blessed are the ones who will be saved on that day.
But there are those who ask: Will that day really come? If there are those who will be saved, what will happen to those who will not receive this blessing?
Judgment Day in the Bible
The pronouncement about the Day of Judgment dates back to the time of the patriarchs—long before our Lord Jesus Christ. According to Jude 1:14–15, Enoch, seventh from Adam, prophesied that “the Lord” will come “to execute judgment on all” (New King James Version). The One who will come is none other than the Lord Jesus Christ. This was the statement of the Lord:
“Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.” (John 14:1–3 NKJV)
Because of man’s sins before God, the Day of the Lord or Judgment Day was set when all the things in this world, including man will be devoured by fire (Zeph. 1:14–18).
Although there are those who are skeptic about the Day of Judgment, the Bible proves that just as death is experienced by man, so will the Day of Judgment happen because the One who appointed death is the same God Who appointed Judgment Day (Heb. 9:27). On the other hand, there are also many who believe that it will come, and some even made predictions of its fulfillment. But can just anyone predict or be able to determine the exact date of the world’s end? Our Lord answered this in Matthew 24:36:
“But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only.” (NKJV)
No one knows the exact day and time of Judgment Day, not even the angels, not even Christ Himself who will be coming. Only the Lord God knows. It is only befitting then that man prepares for that day (Matt. 24:44).
Signs when Judgment Day is near
It is not only during our time but also during the time of Christ that people asked about Judgment Day:
“Now as He sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying, ‘Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?’
‘So you also, when you see all these things, know that it is near at the doors!’
‘And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of sorrows.’” (Matt. 24:3, 33, 6–8 NKJV)
While we know not the day and time, the Lord gave the signs that would be seen or would happen when His Second Advent is near. There would be wars and rumors of wars, nations and kingdom rising against each other, famines, pestilences, earthquakes, and sorrows. The wars being referred to were fulfilled when World War I and World War II broke out on July 27, 1914 and September 1, 1939, respectively. Famines, pestilences, and earthquakes that happened in the past are continuing up to the present, with more intensity and frequency. Thus, Judgment Day is truly very near.
Salvation come Judgment Day
The Bible made certain that there will be people who will be saved on Judgment Day (Heb. 9:27–28). Who are they? Apostle Paul explains, thus:
“But God has shown us how much he loves us, it was while we were still sinners that Christ died for us! By his blood we are now put right with God; how much more, then, will we be saved by him from God’s anger!” (Rom. 5:8–9 NKJV)
Those who were forgiven from their sins through the blood of Christ are assured to be saved from God’s anger. Apostle Paul also proves that those who were purchased or redeemed with the blood of our Lord Jesus Christ are the members of the Church Of Christ:
“Take heed therefore to yourselves and to all the flock, over which the Holy Spirit has appointed you overseers, to feed the church of Christ which he has purchased with his blood.” (Acts 20:28 Lamsa Translation)
Those who belittle the importance of knowing who the true God is are committing a grave error. The absence of the true knowledge about God has been the cause of man’s present sorry state of life in this world:
“Because those people refuse to keep in mind the true knowledge about God, he has given them over to corrupted minds, so that they do the things that they should not do. They are filled with all kinds of wickedness, evil, greed, and vice; they are full of jealousy, murder, fighting, deceit, and malice. They gossip and speak evil of one another; they are hateful to God, insolent, proud, and boastful; they think of more ways to do evil; they disobey their parents; they have no conscience; they do not keep their promises, and they show no kindness or pity for others.” (Rom. 1:28-31 GNB)
All the wickedness and iniquities present in the world today are the consequence of man’s refusal to keep the true knowledge about God. The world has been cursed because of such people and God has given them over to corrupted minds and left them to do evil deeds. What misfortune awaits those who have not known God and have worshiped a god other than the true one? What will God do to them?
“In flaming fire taking vengeance on those who do not know God, and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. These shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power.” (II Thess. 1:8-9 NKJV)
God will exact vengeance on those who have not known and recognized Him. He will punish them with everlasting destruction on the Second Advent of our Lord Jesus Christ. Such eternal punishment will be in the lake of fire (Rev. 21:8).
Another distinction of those who will be saved is that their names are listed in the book of life in heaven (Dan. 12:1). Others might say that enlisting in a church has nothing to do with salvation. The apostles state:
“To the church of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the judge of all men, to the spirits of righteous men made perfect.” (Heb. 12:23 New International Version)
The apostles mentioned that the names of the members of the Church are written in heaven. Enlisting in just any church indeed does not lead to salvation, but joining the true Church does. The Church referred to that will reach the heavenly city is the Church Of Christ:
“But you have come into the reality (of which the symbols only pointed to), to Mount Zion, the New Jerusalem—the heavenly city of the living God—and you are part of that city. You have come to join millions upon millions of angels rejoicing in God’s presence, into the heavenly sanctuary—the true church of Christ—whose identities are stored in heaven. You have come to God—the source and standard of righteousness for all people; to the archived individualities of righteous human beings perfectly restored into Christlikeness of character.” (Heb. 12:22–23 The Remedy)
Therefore, those who will receive salvation on Judgment Day—which will truly come and is very near—are the members of the Church Of Christ. One must make sure then that he is a member of this Church on that blessed day.
This article was originally published in the Pasugo: God’s Message magazine.
For more articles, visit www.pasugo.com.ph
Got problems? Turn to God!
Got problems? Turn to God!
He who can expect God to help him as he deals with worries and problems is the one who puts his trust in Him. So, if we want God to help us, we must put our trust in Him.
By JOHNNY J. MARTIN
GOT PROBLEMS? You are not alone. In recent years, how many millions of people have had to deal with troubles associated with job loss, home loss, natural calamities, wars, etc.? When faced with difficulties, many have turned to other people, like government leaders, for aid. But whom should we really rely on for help with whatever problems we face?
Depend on God
We can solely depend on our Lord God for help because He cares about us. Apostle Peter said:
“God cares for you, so turn all your worries over to him.”
(I Pet. 5:7 Contemporary English Version)
As we live in this world, there are times when we are worried about what will happen to us, especially nowadays with all the problems people face. Many have literally lost everything because of some calamities that struck them. It is thus comforting and encouraging to know that the Lord God truly cares about us.
However, he who can expect God to help him as he deals with worries and problems is the one who puts his trust in Him. So, if we want God to help us, we must put our trust in Him. King David said:
“Give yourself to the Lord; trust in him, and he will help you.” (Ps. 37:5 Good News Bible)
We should not hesitate to put our trust in God, because if He takes care of birds, flowers, or other living things He created, He will take care of us, for we are worth much more than them. Look at what our Lord Jesus Christ taught in Matthew 6:25–29:
“This is why I tell you: do not be worried about the food and drink you need in order to stay alive, or about clothes for your body. After all, isn’t life worth more than food? And isn’t the body worth more than clothes? Look at the birds: they do not plant seeds, gather a harvest and put it in barns; yet your Father in heaven takes care of them! Aren’t you worth much more than birds? Can any of you live a bit longer by worrying about it? And why worry about clothes? Look how the wild flowers grow: they do not work or make clothes for themselves. But I tell you that not even King Solomon with all his wealth had clothes as beautiful as one of these flowers.” (GNB)
Our Lord Jesus Christ shows here that man needs food and drink to stay alive and that he also needs clothes to put on his body. Although we need these things, He teaches us not to worry about them. He points out that life is more important than food and that the body is more important than clothing. Remember that we have our bodies and life because God created us and He can provide us with what we need to sustain our life in this world. Hence, our Lord Jesus Christ guides us to put our trust in the Lord God. We ought to be confident that God is Someone whom we can fully depend on.
What God can do
The extent of what God can do for us is revealed in Mark 10:27:
“But Jesus looked at them and said, ‘With men it is impossible, but not with God; for with God all things are possible’.” (New King James Version)
Our Lord Jesus Christ says that while there are things that are impossible for men, all things are possible with God. No matter how wise, rich, and successful a man may be in this life, there are still things that are impossible for him to accomplish. For example, he cannot completely eliminate problems in life or stop death from ever coming. But with God, all things are possible. The Holy Scriptures show us that “God can do anything” (Luke 1:37 New Century Version).
For us to benefit from what God can do for us, we need to approach Him in prayer and ask Him for His help and blessing. This is what our Lord Jesus Christ taught us to do:
“Ask, and you will receive; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks will receive, and anyone who seeks will find, and the door will be opened to those who knock. Would any of you who are fathers give your son a stone when he asks for bread? Or would you give him a snake when he asks for a fish? As bad as you are, you know how to give good things to your children. How much more, then, will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask him!” (Matt. 7:7–11 GNB)
Our Lord Jesus Christ shows us something that all parents can relate to. He shows us that if our own children would ask us for bread, we would give them bread, not a stone, and that if they would ask for fish, we would give them fish, not a snake. If we, who are sinful know how to give good things to our children, more so will God give good things to those who ask Him. But, it is not enough to just know that God is surely capable of providing our needs. We should approach Him and ask Him for what we need. And our Lord Jesus Christ assured us that we would receive what we are asking for.
Thus, prayer should be an important part of one’s life. While people put time into getting an education or earning a living—which are good things to do—we should always make time to talk with our Lord God by means of our prayers to Him. Those who pray to God show that they put their trust in Him.
Whom God does not hear
However, it is important to understand that although it is good for one to spend time in prayer, there are those whose prayers will not be heard by God. Those are the prayers offered by sinners. Isaiah 59:2 says this:
“It is because of your sins that he doesn’t hear you. It is your sins that separate you from God when you try to worship him.” (GNB)
Sin is the breaking of the law of God (I John 3:4). Everyone has sinned against God (Rom. 3:23). And sin has damaging effects upon man. As the verse cited above reveals, sin has caused man to be separated from God, and has resulted in his losing the right to worship Him and not being heard in his prayers. Isaiah 64:7 shows us that God hides Himself from people because of their sins:
“No one turns to you in prayer; no one goes to you for help. You have hidden yourself from us and have abandoned us because of our sins.” (GNB)
Therefore, God is not the one to be blamed if our prayers are not heard. If our prayers go unheard it is not because God is failing us or is it because He is weak or unreliable. It is man who is at fault for our own sins caused God not to hear us.
Whom God will hear
One may ask, “How can I be sure that my prayers will be heard and answered by God, if I am guilty of sins?” We need to have our sins forgiven and the forgiveness of sins is through the blood of Christ. This is what Apostle Paul said:
“But by the free gift of God’s grace all are put right with him through Christ Jesus, who sets them free. God offered him, so that by his blood he should become the means by which people’s sins are forgiven through their faith in him. God did this in order to demonstrate that he is righteous. In the past he was patient and overlooked people’s sins.” (Rom. 3:24–26 GNB)
If we want to have our sins be forgiven and our prayers be heard by God, then we should have faith in our Lord Jesus Christ and we need to be redeemed by His blood. Notice what Apostle Paul says here about those who were redeemed by the blood of Christ:
“By his blood we are now put right with God; how much more, then, will we be saved by him from God’s anger! We were God’s enemies, but he made us his friends through the death of his Son. Now that we are God’s friends, how much more will we be saved by Christ’s life!” (Rom. 5:9–10 GNB)
The ones being referred to here by Apostle Paul as having been put right with God and forgiven of their sins through the blood of Christ are those who are inside the Church, which is Christ’s body. It is for this Church that Christ died. Here is what Apostle Paul said:
“For a husband has authority over his wife just as Christ has authority over the church; and Christ is himself the Savior of the church, his body … Husbands, love your wives just as Christ loved the church and gave his life for it.” (Eph. 5:23, 25 GNB)
The name of this Church is the Church Of Christ:
“Take heed therefore to yourselves and to all the flock over which the Holy Spirit has appointed you overseers, to feed the church of Christ which he has purchased with his blood.”
(Acts 20:28 Lamsa Translation)
So, if we want to be sure that our prayers are being heard by God, then we should become members of the Church Of Christ (Iglesia Ni Cristo). Once we are inside this Church our sins shall be forgiven through the blood of our Lord Jesus Christ. God will now hear our prayers.
For those who are still outside the Church Of Christ, to have their prayers heard, they should heed the invitation of Christ to come into the fold or the Church:
“I am the door; anyone who comes into the fold through me will be safe …” (John 10:9 Revised English Bible)
This is why we, Church members, value our membership inside the Church Of Christ. Now that we are in this Church, we have benefited from the blood of Christ, which means that our sins have already been forgiven by our Lord God. And if our sins have now been pardoned, then we can be sure that God will hear our prayers. No matter what kind of problems we face or is thrown at us, we know that we can count on God to be there for us, to help us, and most of all to grant us salvation on the Day of Judgment.
This article was originally published in the Pasugo: God’s Message magazine.
For more articles, visit www.pasugo.com.ph