God’s watchman who strives for the welfare of His people day and night

Posted on September 7, 2022September 7, 2022 by pasugoeditor

Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, the Executive Minister of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) while preaching God's words

God’s watchman who strives for the welfare of His people day and night

As a watchman appointed by God over His nation, the one who administers the Church plays a crucial role in leading the Lord’s work and bringing the true Christians towards perfection and salvation.

By RONNIE H. MUTYA

TRULY A LEADER placed by God, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, the Executive Minister, has proven his heartfelt dedication to watching over the entire Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ).

September 7, 2022 marks the 13th year of his dynamic leadership and guardianship of the Church Of Christ. It is his earnest desire to see its members, who are the elect of God, continue fighting for their faith until the end.

How vital is Brother Eduardo Manalo’s God-given task of watching over His people in these last days? Why is it only fitting and proper for the members of the Church to abide by his administration as the Executive Minister?

A God-given task
To keep watch over His people and warn them of the impending dangers that may hinder them from gaining salvation, God places watchmen in His nation. During the time of ancient Israel, for instance, Prophet Ezekiel was among the watchmen appointed by God (Ezek. 3:17).

Such is also the case in the Church Of Christ in these last days. A prophecy about this Church says:

“On your walls, O Jerusalem, I have set watchmen; all the day and all the night they shall never be silent. You who put to the LORD in remembrance, take no rest.” (Isa. 62:6 English Standard Version)

“For Zion’s sake I will not keep silent, and for Jerusalem’s sake I will not be quiet, until her righteousness goes forth as brightness, and her salvation as a burning torch.” (Isa. 62:1 ESV)

The “Zion” being referred to symbolizes the Church redeemed with the blood of Jesus Christ (Heb. 12:22–24)—the Church Of Christ (Acts 20:28 Lamsa Translation; Master Study Bible, p. 1840) during the time of the apostles.

However, Prophet Isaiah also prophesied about the “daughter of Zion” that would emerge in the time period called “ends of the earth” (Isa. 62:11–12 King James Version 2000). The fulfillment of the prophesied “daughter of Zion” is the Church Of Christ that emerged in the time when the end of the world is near. This period of time was signified by, among others, the outbreak of the First World War on July 27, 1914 (Matt. 24:3, 33; footnote, Matt. 24:6–8 Last Days Bible).

Entrusted, therefore, with the noble task of looking after the welfare of every Church member, God’s “watchmen … all the day and all the night they shall never be silent.” This is the reason the “watchmen” not only tirelessly teach the “righteousness” or the words of God but they also strive to make it bright in the lives of the chosen ones by faithfully upholding His teachings so that our salvation will be like a “burning torch.”

In the Christian era, who serves as the watchman entrusted by God with the task of proclaiming His words and bringing His servants to perfection to ensure salvation? Apostle Paul taught in Colossians 1:25, 28–29:

“I have become its minister, according to God’s administration that was given to me for you, to make God’s message fully known … We proclaim Him, warning and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone mature in Christ. I labor for this, striving with His strength that works powerfully in me.” (Holman Christian Standard Bible)

Just as what He did with the first-century Church, God has also placed a minister in the Church Of Christ in our time whom He has given the administration of the Church and the authority to preach His truths that must shine brightly in us until we become mature in faith. Today, it is Brother Eduardo Manalo who administers the Church, thus, the watchman who ensures our faith is perfect by teaching God’s words. Among the watchmen whom God also placed to lead the entire Church were Brother Felix Y. Manalo, God’s messenger in these last days, and Brother Eraño G. Manalo.

We, therefore, have the responsibility to always obey what the Executive Minister teaches to us in order to reach the condition that God wants us to be in when Christ returns (Phil. 2:12, 15).

Giving utmost respect
As instructed by the apostles, it is also our duty to abide by the administration appointed by God to administer the Church Of Christ:

“Dear brothers and sisters, honor those who are your leaders in the Lord’s work. They work hard among you and give you spiritual guidance. Show them great respect and wholehearted love because of their work. And live peacefully with each other.” (II Thess. 5:12–13 New Living Translation)

As a watchman appointed by God over His nation, the one who administers the Church plays a crucial role in leading the Lord’s work and bringing the true Christians towards perfection and salvation. Thus, it is only proper to give our “great respect and wholehearted love” to him. We know and see how Brother Eduardo Manalo works hard to give the spiritual nourishment that we truly need, most especially in these times of great sorrows. Hence, we must recognize his labors by according him respect and love. As taught by Apostle Paul, this is how we can show and prove our love to the Executive Minister:

“Obey your spiritual leaders, and do what they say. Their work is to watch over your souls, and they are accountable to God. Give them reason to do this with joy and not with sorrow. That would certainly not be for your benefit.” (Heb. 13:17 NLT)

The salvation of our souls is at stake if we do not obey our spiritual leader. Apostle Paul cannot emphasize enough how vital the role of the spiritual leader is in ensuring that we are well-guarded from anything that may keep us from dwelling in the heavenly abode. Hence, obedience and submission to God’s teachings in the Bible taught to us by the Executive Minister is essential to receiving eternal life.

Safeguarding the faithful
Fully aware of the trials that we go through day by day, the Executive Minister safeguards our faith so that we will not be defeated by our enemy. To be able to do so, he exhorts us the same way as Apostle Peter urged the brethren then to “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world” (I Pet. 5:8–9 NKJV).

The devil, who is our enemy, is redoubling his efforts in deceiving and destroying our true faith to hinder us from achieving our goal. Now more than ever, we must be sober and vigilant because “the devil … is filled with fury, because he knows that his time is short” (Rev. 12:12 New International Version).

As the time of the fulfillment of our redemption or salvation is getting closer and closer, the time for the devil to carry out his evil schemes is getting shorter and shorter as well. In deceiving people, he uses instruments, among them are false preachers:

“At that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other, and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold.” (Matt. 24:10–12 NIV)

That is why Brother Eduardo Manalo never ceases to remind us to prioritize our worship of God and our services to Him. For when we constantly obey God’s true teachings, we are protected from evil and become more certain of our salvation.

Placing our faith in God
To help us receive what we ultimately hope for, another biblical teaching that we often hear from the Executive Minister is this advice given by Apostle Peter:

“Cast every worry you have upon Him, because He cares for you. … And God, the giver of every spiritual blessing, who through your union with Christ has called you to His eternal glory, after you have suffered a little while, will Himself make you perfect, firm, and strong.” (I Pet. 5:7, 10 Williams New Testament)

Apostle Peter’s counsel to the Christians back then is still relevant nowadays because many people are overtaken by worry and anxiety due to the worsening situation of the world. Thankfully, we often receive encouragement from our Executive Minister, through God’s words, by reminding us to cast our worries upon God.

Remember how the love of God was manifested in us by calling us into the true Church Of Christ. Thus, we can always cast our worries upon God who is the “giver of every spiritual blessing.” There is no reason for us to get weak even when obstacles abound in our journey toward the Holy City because God truly cares for us and will help us overcome all of these. When we are beset with woe, He will certainly make us “perfect, firm, and strong.”

The untiring efforts and loving concern of Brother Eduardo Manalo for the entire Church only shows that he is indeed the God-appointed watchman who strives day and night to bring us all to salvation. Thus, the Church members all over the world remain one with him in striving to live in obedience and holiness as God’s elect whom He will grant life eternal.

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The true Church established by Christ

Posted on July 26, 2021July 26, 2021 by pasugoeditor

The true Church established by Christ

Is there any particular church which is of Christ?

By GERSON S. NONATO

WITH THE PROLIFERATION of Christian-professing churches and religious movements, people may find it quite difficult and confusing to determine which is the one that is truly of our Lord Jesus Christ. Of course, most, if not all, of those churches would claim to be so, yet, do these claimants truly belong to Christ? Is there any particular church which is of Christ?

Let’s find out, in light of the teachings of the Bible, which Church people should join and become members of, for it is the true one that belongs to Christ.

“I will build my church”

In Matthew 16:18, Christ proclaims:

“… And on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.” (New King James Version)

Indeed, Christ established a Church. Note that Christ said, “I will build my church”—He did not say “my churches.” Christ’s statement should eradicate once and for all the wrong notion that all churches belong to Him. It is clear that He built only one Church upon Himself, as He is the rock or chief cornerstone placed by God (Eph. 2:20-22; Acts 4:11).

This Church founded by Christ was aptly called by the apostles after its founder and owner: Church Of Christ (Acts 20:28 Lamsa Translation). Therefore, the one and only Church that truly belongs to Christ is the Church that He Himself established and was called after His name—the Church Of Christ.

The Church Of Christ comprises three groups of people

In Acts 2:39, Apostle Peter underscored that there are three groups of people who were promised to receive the Holy Spirit:

“For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.” (NKJV)

The first two groups whom Apostle Peter referred to as “to you” and “to your children” were the Jews and the Gentiles, respectively, who were called into the Church Of Christ during the time of Christ and of the apostles (Acts 2:36; Rom. 9:24; I Cor. 4:15). Whereas the third group, which was not yet called by God during that time, would come from “afar off.” They were far not only in place but also in time (Acts 2:39 Rieu Translation).

Thus, the third group of people called in the Church Of Christ are not the Gentiles as what of other faiths believe so; they were far from God (Eph. 2:11-12) but they were not far in time and place from the apostles. Who are then those people called in the Church Of Christ that would come from a far place and time as referred to in the prophecy?

The “other sheep” of Christ

How does our Lord Jesus Christ recognize this third group of people prophesied by the apostles? In John 10:16, Christ declared this prophecy:

“I have other sheep too. They are not in this flock here. I must lead them also. They will listen to my voice. In the future there will be one flock and one shepherd” (Easy-to-Read Version)

Christ prophesied about His “other sheep” who “in the future … will be one flock.” Christ is not referring to literal sheep but to the members of His fold or flock, which 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)

Hence, when Christ said “I have other sheep” and they “will be one flock,” it means that there would be people who would become members of the Church Of Christ far ahead “in the future” or distant times. They are the third group of people who are “afar off” both in place and in time as prophesied by the apostles.

What is that far or distant place and time being referred to?

The prophesied place and time

In a related prophecy, Isaiah 43:5-6, God has foretold the calling of His children from a far place and at the time referred to as the ends of the earth:

“Fear not: for I am with thee: I will bring thy seed from the east, and gather thee from the west; I will say to the north, Give up; and to the south, Keep not back: bring my sons from far, and my daughters from the ends of the earth.” (King James Version)

The distant place, therefore, mentioned in the prophecy of the apostles refers to the “far” place from where God would bring or call His sons and daughters. This is the “far east”:

“From the far east will I bring your offspring, and from the far west I will gather you.” (Isa. 43:5 Moffatt Translation)

As the distant place refers to the far east, the distant time refers to the “ends of the earth”—the time when the end of the earth or end of the world is near (Matt. 24:3, 33). Christ prophesied the events that would happen when His Second Advent is near or when the time is already at the ends of the earth:

“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. 24:6-8 NKJV)

Foremost among the events that would herald the Second Advent of Christ is a war that would be rumored and would involve nations and kingdoms. The Iglesia Ni Cristo has long held and stands its ground that the fulfillment of this is the First World War. And even certain Bible scholars now agree to this:

“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 this 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… ).” (footnote, Matt. 24:6-8 Last Days Bible)

Thus, the start of World War I indicates the beginning of the time “ends of the earth”—the prophesied time when the third group of people or the other sheep of Christ would become one flock or Church Of Christ in the place prophesied as the Far East.

The fulfillment of the prophecy

On July 27, 1914, concurrent with the outbreak of World War I, the Church Of Christ was registered with the government in the Philippines. This is the official beginning of the Church Of Christ the Philippines, a country in the Far East:

“The Philippines … is the only Christian nation in the Far East.” (International Security and the United States: An Encyclopedia, Vol. II, p. 614)

Therefore, the last and third group of people, which composes the true Church established by Christ, are the members of the Church Of Christ or Iglesia Ni Cristo that began in the Philippines in 1914. Now after 107 years from its inception, transcending cultural barriers the Church Of Christ has already reached 158 countries and territories and continues to grow by leap and bounds. “Like a raging flood tide driven by the breath of the Lord” (Isa. 59:19 New Living Translation) His work of salvation in these last days cannot be hampered for God Himself declared, “I work and who can hinder it?” (Isa. 43:13 Revised Standard Version)

It is not a coincidence that the time and place proclaimed in the prophecy were fulfilled in the Church Of Christ that emerged in the Philippines on July 27, 1914. Because even the manner of how Christ’s other sheep would be drawn into this Church was prophesied and fulfilled. According to Christ’s prophecy cited above, His other sheep would listen to His voice and they would become one flock or Church Of Christ (John 10:16; Acts 20:28 Lamsa). Thus the other sheep of Christ became the Church Of Christ because they listened to Him.

Christ did not have to descend from heaven for Him to be heard by His other sheep in 1914. In Luke 10:16 (NKJV), He said that “He who hears you hears Me”—referring to the those whom Christ and God sent (John 13:20). Therefore, through the preaching of the true messenger sent by God, Christ’s other sheep were able to listen to and follow Him and become one flock or Church Of Christ.

The Iglesia Ni Cristo firmly believes that Brother Felix Y. Manalo is the fulfillment of the one sent and prophesied by God to bring people to the true Church Of Christ in these last days or end times (Isa. 41:9-10; 46:11-13; Rev. 7:2-3). Through his preaching, the members of the Church Of Christ in the last days heard what Christ wants them to do, which they did. One of these is what Christ commanded people to do to be saved:

“So, Jesus spoke again: ‘In very truth I tell you, I am the door of the sheepfold. … I am the door; anyone who comes into the fold through me will be safe. …” (John 10:7, 9 Revised English Bible)

As the door of the sheepfold, Christ commands anyone who wants to be saved to enter the fold. As already proven, the sheepfold or flock Christ referred to is the Church Of Christ (Acts 20:28 Lamsa).

Believe before it’s too late

Regarding entering or joining His Church through Him as the door, Christ commanded in Luke 13:24:

“Strive to enter by the narrow door [force yourselves through it], for many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able.” (Amplified Bible)

Christ emphasizes the need to be in the Church Of Christ. He teaches that man should strive to enter the door Who is Christ Himself. To enter Christ as the door of the sheepfold is to be part of His flock—the Church Of Christ.

In one of the parables of Christ, He made it clear that only His sheep will inherit the kingdom of heaven:

“When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory. All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats. And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left. Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: …Then He will also say to those on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels:” (Matt. 25:31-34, 41 NKJV)

If we truly believe in Christ and yearn to enjoy the eternal life in the Kingdom of Heaven, then we must make a firm decision to become His sheep and be part of His flock by joining the Church Of Christ, for He said:

“But you don’t believe me because you are not part of my flock. My sheep recognize my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life and they shall never perish. No one shall snatch them away from me.” (John 10:26-28 The Living Bible)

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Reflecting on the Lord’s guidance to His nation

Posted on December 30, 2020December 30, 2020 by Paul Matthew Cascante

Reflecting on the Lord’s guidance to His nation

By SIEGFRED T. GOLLAYAN

THE YEAR 2020 has been a horrible year for many because of the various problems they faced, such as ongoing armed conflicts, economic difficulties, violence, and social evils that have made living especially difficult. Aggravating the already bad situation are the Covid-19 pandemic that up to now is still plaguing the entire world and the onslaught of destructive calamities.

For members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ), despite all that has happened this year, they still consider it a matter of great blessing that they are able to hurdle life’s challenges while remaining in the true service of the Lord God. They count the Almighty God’s blessings—both material and spiritual—and marvel at His continued guidance to His chosen people in these last days. Hence, as the year finally draws to a close, they take a moment to pause and reflect on the goodness of God as manifest in the victories He granted in their holy endeavors.

Successfully spreading the gospel

Despite community quarantines or lockdowns that governments implemented to keep the populace safe from the pandemic, the Church Of Christ has consistently pursued its mission of spreading the gospel of salvation (Mark 16:15-16) while following health safety protocols. Through mass media and social media, the Church continues to air its radio and television programs and the brethren were able to share the links of online evangelical missions to their loved ones and friends.

Reflecting on the Lord’s guidance to His nation

One of the religious programs of the Church aired on INCTV

Online evangelical mission in Japan

Online evangelical mission in Western Europe

The tireless efforts of the brethren in sharing the faith have not been in vain as new converts were added to the Church. Baptisms were held in various parts of the world, while observing health protocols.

Baptism in Espiritu Santo GWS, Vanuatu

Baptism in Aurora, Philippines

More workers for the Lord’s harvest field

With the growth of the Church comes the need for more ministers to care for the growing need of the Lord’s flock. In answer to the Church’s prayer, which the Lord Jesus instructed His servants to say, that the Lord God send out more workers into His vast harvest field (Matt. 9:38), a total of 100 new ministers were ordained from January 2020.

Taguig City, Metro Manila, Philippines
January 24, 2020

Templo Central, Quezon City, Philippines
September 20, 2020

Templo Central, Quezon City, Philippines
October 31, 2020

Also, 1195 new graduates from the Iglesia Ni Cristo School For Ministers took their oath as regular ministerial workers.

SFM graduates of Bachelor of Pastoral Studies and Evangelism takes their oath of office on September 20, 2020

Edifying the fold

Part of the quarantine measures implemented by national governments to help mitigate the spread of Covid-19 is the temporary prohibition of large gatherings that included religious services. However, this did not hinder the brethren from worshiping God (Heb. 10:27) as they conducted Household Worship Services. On several occasions, they attended worship services that were officiated by the Executive Minister himself via live streaming, while in the confines of their respective homes.

An INC family during household worship service

The Christian Family Organizations (CFO) launched various activities such as webinars discussing tips to cope with stress and additional livelihood opportunities to help the brethren whose jobs were affected by lockdown measures.

A brother in Davao de Oro tends to his garden under the “Gulayan sa Bakuran” project of the Church

Brethren from Latin America during their cooking webinar series

During a parenting seminar held in by the CFO in Davao West

During a seminar recently held by the Christian Employees Association (CEA)

Children's Worship Service members in Northern Europe as they enjoy their storytelling activity

Following government-imposed work and health protocols, the Church was not deterred by the pandemic from constructing houses of worship and dedicating them to God.

The Executive Minister officiated the dedication of the Davao City Congregation house of worship
on August 8, 2020 via live streaming

Concern for others

Through the stewardship of its Executive Minister, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, the Church Of Christ unceasingly pursues its socio-civic projects in different parts of the world. With a helping hand, it reaches out to various sectors in society, especially to the needy, in compliance with the biblical command to “not grow weary while doing good … to all” (Gal. 6:9–10 New King James Version). It further intensifies this humanitarian work as tragedies and disasters strike one after another.

The following day right after Taal Volcano in the Philippines erupted on January 12, the Church Of Christ, through the Felix Y. Manalo Foundation, promptly responded by conducting the Lingap sa Mamamayan (Aid to Humanity) to supply the immediate needs of calamity victims in the provinces of Batangas and Cavite.

Before the pandemic: Taal eruption evacuees as they receive care packages
that included rice, canned goods, and face masks

Before the pandemic: Calamity victims as they receive free medical services and medicines

Before the pandemic: SCAN members as they assist in the evacuation of trapped families in danger zones

To help create livelihood opportunities for Church members and nonmembers, the Church established its first eco-farm in the USA in Soshoni, Wyoming on January 21, 2020.

Before the pandemic: The ribbon-cutting formally opening the Church’s recent addition to its long line of livelihood projects

INC Giving and Aid to Humanity were conducted in various parts of the globe to help ease the burden brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic. On such events, goods, food, care packages, including personal protective equipment, were distributed to frontliners and individuals. Health care donations were also given to public schools, nursing homes, and elderly facilities.

10,000 face masks were donated to 12 schools in Canada

500 receive free flu shots and care packages in Norfolk, Virginia

Residents of Astoria Houses in Queens, New York receives 1,000 care packages

The cheque donation of the Church as handed to Soowahlie First Nation band administration in British Columbia, Canada

In the Philippines, the Ciudad de Victoria Complex was used as a mega-quarantine facility housing Covid-19 patients, frontliners, and health care workers.

Some Covid-19 survivors as they leave the Ciudad de Victoria Complex

Donation of the INC to the Quezon City Government to help with the needs of its constituents

And on Brother Eduardo Manalo’s birthday on October 31, the Church conducted the Worldwide Aid to Humanity to help alleviate the troubles of people brought about by the pandemic. This humanitarian effort was again carried out after a few days in the Philippines when several super typhoons ravaged the country, submerging many towns under water, leaving thousands of families homeless, and destroying millions of pesos worth of crops and properties.

North Hollywood, California

Norfolk, Virginia

The world today may be gripped by uncertainty and a pervading sense of instability yet God’s people in these last days—the members of the Church Of Christ—have all the reasons to be thankful to Him for His blessings. And while in these trying times, the rest of mankind is apprehensive of what the future may bring, they remain hopeful and optimistic that He will do again all the good that He has done for them, and more.

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Dedicating ourselves to our spiritual leader

Posted on October 30, 2020October 30, 2020 by pasugoeditor

Dedicating ourselves to our spiritual leader

By SAMUEL T. SOLANO

Every October 31st, members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) all over the world convey their warmest greetings and well-wishes to their beloved Executive Minister, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, on his day of birth. Along with such birthday greetings, which they also did to their previous Executive Ministers, the brethren promise to always submit to and remain united with his leadership. Furthermore, they heed his exhortations and encouragement to actively serve God, dedicate themselves to their duties, and participate in all Church activities.

Detractors find the Church members’ sincere show of respect to their spiritual leader baffling. Others see it as fanaticism. But the faithful understand full well that what they are doing is in obedience to what the Bible teaches regarding service and worship worthy before God.

‘To the Lord and to us’
Having received the right to worship and serve God by virtue of the redemption through Christ’s blood (Heb. 9:14; Acts 20:28 Lamsa Translation), members of the Church Of Christ understand that mere membership in the Church is not enough to conduct worship and service that is pleasing to God. In Romans 12:1 (Amplified Bible), Apostle Paul taught the members of the Church that for them to render a “reasonable (rational, intelligent) service and spiritual worship,” they ought to “make a decisive dedication of [their] bodies … as a living sacrifice, holy (devoted, consecrated) and well pleasing to God.” Hence, devotion to God is essential in carrying out true service and worship of Him.

Those who are devoted to God “Always put [themselves] into the Lord’s work with all [their] heart, soul, and energy.” They are able to do so for they have “complete confidence that the diligent work [they] do in obedience to the Lord’s command is pleasing to Him” and they are able to “accomplish His purposes with great results” (I Cor. 15:58 Last Days Bible). This was proven by the first-century Christians in Macedonia. Apostle Paul testified about what they were able to accomplish and why:

“Best of all, they went beyond our highest hopes, for their first action was to dedicate themselves to the Lord and to us for whatever directions God might give them.” (II Cor. 8:5 New Living Translation)

Though they have been “going through much trouble and hard times” and were in “deep poverty,” the members of the Church in Macedonia were able to take part in the Lord’s work by giving offerings that were “not only what they could afford but far more” (II Cor. 8:1-3 NLT), thus going beyond Apostle Paul’s highest hopes. They were able to do so “for their first action was to dedicate themselves to the Lord and to us,” referring to the apostles, their leaders in the Church.

Hence, Church members who dedicate themselves to God dedicate themselves to the Church Administration as well, so they may diligently render worship and service worthy before the Almighty Father. Like the Macedonian Christians, they do this “unreservedly” (II Cor. 8:5 The Message), or without any shadow of doubt, for they have complete trust in their leaders.

To label such dedication as fanaticism is a big mistake because the faithful clearly know and understand their reason for doing so—this is “what God wants” (Expanded Bible). Out of their sincere intent to please God, true Christians gladly dedicate themselves to the Church Administration knowing that doing so is itself the will of God Whom they serve. Therefore, their dedication to their spiritual leader is a proof of their dedication to God. So, the level of loyalty regarded by members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo to their Executive Minister is grounded on biblical teaching.

To dedicate oneself to the Church Administration is only reasonable as it is God Himself Who placed the minister whom He has given the administration in His nation “to make God’s message fully known” (Col. 1:25 Holman Christian Standard Bible). The brethren are witnesses to how Brother Eduardo Manalo fulfills his God-given duty to teach God’s message. For the past 11 years as Executive Minister, he spared no time visiting the brethren no matter where they are or whatever the condition of their area may be—city or village, summer or winter, peaceful or turbulent—to edify their faith by preaching God’s words to them personally. Despite the onslaught of the Covid-19 pandemic, Brother Eduardo Manalo remains undeterred in performing his divine mandate. Tirelessly and compassionately, he regularly officiates worship services—also regularly witnessed by brethren around the world through videostreaming—to remind them not to worry nor be afraid but to always put all their hope in the grace that God lays in store for them.

‘Obey and submit to their authority’
Seeing how the Executive Minister fulfills his divine task, members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo not only find it easy, but are also eager to heed the instruction of the apostles to the Christians concerning their leaders:

“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)

Those who obey and submit to the authority of the Church Administration are “responsive to [their] pastoral leaders” and they “listen to their counsel” (Heb. 13:17 MSG)—not to lies espoused by enemies of their faith. They are “willing to do what [their spiritual leaders] say” (Living Bible) for they firmly believe that the instructions of those who administer the Church have God’s approval (Matt. 18:19) and accepting them is equivalent to accepting the Lord Jesus Christ and the One Who sent Him (John 13:20). So when they teach, they are thus doing what the apostles did:

“What we have seen and heard we announce to you also, so that you will join us in the fellowship that we have with the Father and with his Son Jesus Christ.” (I John 1:3 Good News Bible)

Hence, having solid faith in the biblical truth that the Church Administration is placed by God in His nation, members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo wholeheartedly do what their leaders say for that is equivalent to joining with them in their fellowship with the Father and His Son. Those who are one with the Church Administration are therefore one with God and Christ.

‘Show them great respect’
Because of the indispensable significance of the Church Administration in one’s services to God, members of the Church wholeheartedly obey Apostle Paul’s instruction on how they should treat their spiritual leaders:

“Dear brothers and sisters, honor those who are your leaders in the Lord’s work. They work hard among you and give you spiritual guidance. Show them great respect and wholehearted love because of their work. And live peacefully with each other.” (I Thess. 5:12-13 NLT2015)

To those who wonder why members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo treat their Executive Minister with honor, great respect, and wholehearted love, this is the reason—it is obedience to what is written in the Bible. And not only that. The brethren in the Church gladly and willingly do so because they themselves see and feel how Brother Eduardo Manalo “work hard among [them] and give [them] spiritual guidance.” Likewise, just as what the first-century Christians did, the members of the Church today always pray to God for the Executive Minister—that through him, “the Lord’s message may spread rapidly and be honored” and that may he “be delivered from wicked and evil men” (II Thess. 3:1-2 HCSB).

Hence, the Pasugo: God’s Message is one with the Iglesia Ni Cristo faithful as they greet and pray for Brother Eduardo Manalo on his birthday this year. May God continue to grant him the best of health and deliver him from all harm and danger. May our Father continue to have mercy upon His nation by constantly guiding the Executive Minister that he may always preach the gospel with the power of the Holy Spirit to strengthen the conviction of God’s people and inspire them during these uncertain times.

For more articles, visit www.pasugo.com.ph

Thankful and hopeful at all times

Posted on July 26, 2020December 28, 2021 by pasugoeditor

Thankful and hopeful at all times

By ALEJANDRO R. SINO CRUZ JR.

FOR 106 YEARS, the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) has experienced how the Almighty God fulfilled His promises to His Messenger in these last days, Brother Felix Y. Manalo, and to His last work of salvation. He promised to be with His Messenger, to strengthen, help, and uphold him with His righteous right hand (Isa. 41:9-10). And He certainly did so as manifested in the tremendous growth and expansion of the Church.

This same guidance and help have continued uninterruptedly even up to the present administration of Brother Eduardo V. Manalo. Because of this, members around the world offer thanksgiving to God, especially for another year full of blessings to the Iglesia Ni Cristo. They continue to uphold this holy endeavor despite the pandemic that is currently devastating the world.

Whatever happens

There is no denying that the situation of the world has gotten worse. The pandemic is bringing grief and fear to many people. At the same time, calamities, social unrest, and widespread unemployment are compounding people’s problems. Despite these, why do members of the Church continue to thank the Lord God when they themselves are experiencing the same? They learned from Apostle Paul what true Christians should do:

“Whatever things may happen to you, continue to thank God. God wants you to do this, because you are united to Christ Jesus.” (I Thess. 5:18 EasyEnglish Bible)

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Bacolod City, Philippines, November 2019

“Whatever things may happen to you, continue to thank God. God wants you to do this, because you are united to Christ Jesus.” (I Thess. 5:18 EasyEnglish Bible)

Members of the Church Of Christ are the ones “united to Christ Jesus,” for they are members of His body or Church of which He is the head (Col. 1:18; Acts 20:28 Lamsa Translation). Hence, they continue to thank God whatever may happen to them, for this is His commandment to them. Apostle Paul emphasized that God is the One Who wants true Christians to do this. That is why, amid the difficult situations in the world, they continually fulfill their thanksgiving to God.

The Church has experienced not a few adversities. Ever since Brother Felix Manalo first preached about it in the Philippines, it has encountered various persecutions. In addition, it weathered various crises—the Second World War, local armed conflicts, global economic recessions, and severe calamities. Currently, brethren across the globe are striving to cope with the pandemic disease that continues to claim hundreds of thousands of lives, affecting people from all walks of life.

However, through it all, Church members witnessed how the Almighty God cared for His people in these last days. That is why they remember all the kindness and blessings God had bestowed to them. With His help and guidance, they are able to continue their worship and service of Him. When they cried to God for help, He was always there for them. He healed them of their sicknesses and kept them alive; His favor for His people is for a lifetime (Ps. 30:8, 2-3, 4-5 Unlocked Literal Bible).

What God expects

For their thanksgiving to be meaningful, true Christians fulfill what God expects from them. This is what Apostle Paul exhorts them:

“But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ! Therefore, my dear brothers, be steadfast and immovable. Always abound in the work of the Lord, because you know that your work in the Lord is not in vain.” (I Cor. 15:57-58 ULB)

Members of the Church Of Christ strive to “be steadfast and immovable” in their divine election. God expects them to “always abound in the work of the Lord.” That is why, even at the present time when life is so burdensome, they are unwavering in their participation in the multifarious activities of the Church.

In spite of the lockdowns or community quarantine, the brethren do not stop, but instead, all the more dedicated themselves to attending their worship services. And to make sure that all brethren are able to continue worshiping God, the Church Administration decided, for the time being, that the brethren conduct household worship services where either a biblical message is read by the head of the family or the preaching of God’s words can be witnessed through video streaming technology.

In some of these worship services, the Executive Minister himself preaches God’s words—through video streaming—to the brethren gathered in their homes in whatever part of the world they may be. One of such occasion was held on May 10, 2020, in commemoration of the 134th birth anniversary of Brother Felix Manalo, as well as the 40th anniversary of Brother Eduardo Manalo’s ordination as minister of the gospel.

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Quezon CIty, Philippines, May 2020

Palawan, Philippines

United Kingdom

California, USA

Brazil

Mexico

Even with the ongoing pandemic, the brethren remain persistent in sharing the true faith. They use the social media and other online platforms to invite their loved ones and friends who are not yet members of the Church to watch, listen to, or read the materials that convey biblical teachings upheld by the Iglesia Ni Cristo.

Even in the confines of their homes, Church members continue to participate in various activities organized by the Church Administration through the Christian Family Organizations (CFO). The CFO facilitates, through online conferences, talent shows, livelihood and awareness seminars, art and physical fitness activities, to name a few.

The brethren hold such zeal for God knowing that their “work in the Lord is not in vain.” They firmly believe that training in holy living is useful for everything. It has promise for this life now and the life to come (I Tim. 4:8 Common English Bible).

Put all hope in God’s grace

While waiting for the promised eternal life, Iglesia Ni Cristo members understand that they may still experience trials and hardship as they are still in this world. That is why during the thanksgiving worship service on July 19, 2020, the Executive Minister taught the brethren that whenever life is heavy and hard to take, they should “bow in prayer” and instill in their hearts and minds that they should “wait for hope to appear” (Lam. 3:28-29 The Message). Brother Eduardo Manalo emphasized that God’s loyal love is immense and He is good to His servants who patiently waits for and diligently seek Him (Lament. 3:32, 25 MSG).

During the said worship service, the Executive Minister announced the theme of Church activities for its 106^th year of establishment: “Put All Your Hope In The Grace That Will Be Yours” (I Pet. 1:13 Easy-to-Read Bible). The sacred gathering was held at the Central Temple with an attendance of only 10% of the worship building’s seating capacity, in compliance to the community quarantine guidelines set by the government. The holy occasion was streamed live, thus witnessed by thousands of local congregations, which also made sure to follow health safety protocols.

As the Church celebrates its anniversary on July 27, 2020, members all over the world will never forget to thank the Almighty Father for all His blessings and lovingkindness. Wherever they are or whatever situation they may encounter, they will be one in heart and mind in offering their sincerest thanksgiving to the Lord God. They are neither discouraged nor upset by life’s setbacks—instead, they “expect God to act”—for even though they went through hard times, they “shall again have plenty of reason to praise Him for all that He will do” (Ps. 42:11 Living Bible).

For more articles, visit www.pasugo.com.ph

Inspired and guided by God

Posted on May 9, 2020June 4, 2020 by pasugoeditor

God’s watchman who strives for the welfare of His people day and night

As a watchman appointed by God over His nation, the one who administers the Church plays a crucial role in leading the Lord’s work and bringing the true Christians towards perfection and salvation.

By RONNIE H. MUTYA

The true Church established by Christ

Is there any particular church which is of Christ?

By GERSON S. NONATO

“I will build my church”

The Church Of Christ comprises three groups of people

The “other sheep” of Christ

The prophesied place and time

The fulfillment of the prophecy

Believe before it’s too late

Reflecting on the Lord’s guidance to His nation

By SIEGFRED T. GOLLAYAN

Successfully spreading the gospel

One of the religious programs of the Church aired on INCTV

Online evangelical mission in Japan

Online evangelical mission in Western Europe

Baptism in Espiritu Santo GWS, Vanuatu

Baptism in Aurora, Philippines

More workers for the Lord’s harvest field

Taguig City, Metro Manila, Philippines January 24, 2020

Templo Central, Quezon City, Philippines September 20, 2020

Templo Central, Quezon City, Philippines October 31, 2020

SFM graduates of Bachelor of Pastoral Studies and Evangelism takes their oath of office on September 20, 2020

Edifying the fold

An INC family during household worship service

A brother in Davao de Oro tends to his garden under the “Gulayan sa Bakuran” project of the Church

Brethren from Latin America during their cooking webinar series

During a parenting seminar held in by the CFO in Davao West

During a seminar recently held by the Christian Employees Association (CEA)

Children's Worship Service members in Northern Europe as they enjoy their storytelling activity

The Executive Minister officiated the dedication of the Davao City Congregation house of worship on August 8, 2020 via live streaming

Concern for others

Before the pandemic: Taal eruption evacuees as they receive care packages that included rice, canned goods, and face masks

Before the pandemic: Calamity victims as they receive free medical services and medicines

Before the pandemic: SCAN members as they assist in the evacuation of trapped families in danger zones

Before the pandemic: The ribbon-cutting formally opening the Church’s recent addition to its long line of livelihood projects

10,000 face masks were donated to 12 schools in Canada

500 receive free flu shots and care packages in Norfolk, Virginia

Residents of Astoria Houses in Queens, New York receives 1,000 care packages

The cheque donation of the Church as handed to Soowahlie First Nation band administration in British Columbia, Canada

Some Covid-19 survivors as they leave the Ciudad de Victoria Complex

Donation of the INC to the Quezon City Government to help with the needs of its constituents

North Hollywood, California

Norfolk, Virginia

Norfolk, Virginia

Dedicating ourselves to our spiritual leader

Thankful and hopeful at all times

Taguig City, Metro Manila, Philippines
January 24, 2020

Templo Central, Quezon City, Philippines
September 20, 2020

Templo Central, Quezon City, Philippines
October 31, 2020

The Executive Minister officiated the dedication of the Davao City Congregation house of worship
on August 8, 2020 via live streaming

Before the pandemic: Taal eruption evacuees as they receive care packages
that included rice, canned goods, and face masks