THE GIFT OF THE FAMILY
The three-fold cord our families need in 2025 is the husband, wife, and God, united as the backbone of the Church.
875 North White Station Rd • PO Box 22366 • Memphis, TN 38122
Phone: 901.685.1969 • aljc.org
Editor-in-Chief | Nate Whitley
Art Director | Dale McBroom
Apostolic Witness is the quarterly publication and official organ of the Assemblies of the Lord Jesus Christ. Periodicals postage paid at Memphis, TN (USPS #028-040) and additional mailing offices. To order reprints call 901.685.1969
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Apostolic Witness • PO Box 22366 • Memphis, TN 38122-0366
SUBSCRIPTION RATES
Individual subscriptions $20 per year. Send subscription information and check to address listed above.
ADVERTISING RATES
1/4 page $200 • 1/2 page $300 • Full page $500
For information, insertion order, or full rate card & editorial calendar, please email: editor@apostolicwitness.com
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
editor@apostolicwitness.com (may be edited)
DOCTRINAL TRUTHS
The Assemblies of the Lord Jesus Christ asserts that the Bible is the inspired Word of God, and that the fundamental plan of salvation consists of these major doctrinal truths: Belief in the Lord Jesus Christ as the one true God; Repentance from sins; Baptism by immersion in water in the name of Jesus Christ; Baptism of the Holy Ghost with the initial evidence of speaking in other tongues.
EXECUTIVE BOARD
General Superintendent | Kenneth Carpenter
Southern Regional Assistant | Jonathan Vazquez
Northern Regional Assistant | Kenneth Allen
Western Regional Assistant | Robert Wimberley
General Secretary | Josh Wilson
DISTRICT SUPERINTENDENTS
Alabama | Ronnie Allen
Arkansas | Daniel Nooner
Florida | Luis Rodriguez
Georgia | Donald Wineinger
Greater New England | J. Craig Ouellette
Gulf Coast | Phillip McKissick
Heartland | Edward MacDonald
Greater Illinois | Tracy Zimmerman
Indiana | Tim Gill
Kentucky | Phillip Cook
Louisiana | David Poole
Michigan | Shannon Scott
Mississippi | Gary Porterfield
Missouri-Iowa | Anthony Marshall
NY/Mid-Atlantic | Wayne Byrd
Ohio | Mark Hina
Oklahoma | Curt Green
Southeastern | Stacy Garnett
Tennessee | Steve Smith
Texas | Peter Gray
Tri-State | Mark McCool
Western | Robert Jones
West TX/New Mexico | Simon King
West Virginia | Ralph Tisdale
HONORARY SUPERINTENDENTS
Raymond Bishop | Steve Wilson | Robert Martin
DEPARTMENT DIRECTORS
World Missions | Matthew Ball
Missions America | Stephen Trachsel
Evangelists | Shawn Garnett
KidzQuest | Nate Roberts II
Student Ministries | Zach Hammond
Women’s Esprit | Terri Scott
Menistry | James Chessor
Christian Education | Caleb Tisdale
GOD'S GONNA CUT YOU DOWN
Editorial by Nathan S. Whitley
Little is known about Obadiah, whose name means “servant of Yahweh.” Since his prophecy pertains to the downfall of Judah in 586 BC, he may have belonged to that tribe or, at the very least, lived in the Southern Kingdom.
Obadiah and Nahum are the only books in the Old Testament addressed to foreign nations. Obadiah specifically addresses Edom, while Nahum prophesies to Nineveh. Although Edom is considered a foreign nation, its people are related to Israel, as they are descendants of Esau, Jacob’s twin brother (Genesis 25:30). Edom, also known as Seir, was located in the highlands east of the Arabah and south of the Dead Sea.
The sibling rivalry between Jacob and Esau extended to their descendants. While the children of Israel were in Kadesh, a town near Edom, Moses sent a message to the king of Edom, requesting permission for a shortcut through their territory. However, the Edomites refused the request, warning that they would attack Israel if they attempted to pass
through (Num. 20:14-21). It was clear that Edom had no intention of inviting the Israelites over for dinner anytime soon.
Much later, Edom enjoyed the fact that Babylon besieged and plundered Jerusalem. To make matters worse, they sided with the Babylonians. This situation ultimately led to the ministry of Obadiah. While God was punishing Israel and Judah for their backsliding, He would not allow Edom to rejoice in their misfortune, as they were just as culpable as their relatives. With this in mind, Obadiah’s vision began with God sending an envoy to confront and attack Edom.
The message of God’s judgment upon Edom wasn’t solely for Edom, for God will judge all nations in the end (1:15). The Day of the Lord will be a day of judgment and salvation. The Lord said, “But upon mount Zion shall be deliverance, and there shall be holiness; And the house of Jacob shall possess their possessions” (1:17). God’s message through Obadiah has eschatological implications. He will
judge the nations for their sins but also bring blessings and salvation from Mt. Zion, another name for Jerusalem. Edom mocked the destruction of Jerusalem, yet salvation would ultimately come from that city. Similarly, while bystanders mocked and ridiculed Jesus during His crucifixion, and God’s wrath against sin was unleashed upon Him, salvation flowed from that very place.
Regarding Obadiah 1:3, despite being small in population and geography compared to the nations around them, Edom sat upon an elevated area some 5,000 feet above sea level surrounded by rocky cliffs. Their elevated position made them believe they were invincible, causing pride to rise within them. They even said, “Who shall bring me down to the ground?” The answer to that question was God was going to bring them down.
Obadiah’s vision of God casting Edom down reminds me of the old folk song “God’s Gonna Cut You Down.”
You can run on for a long time Run on for a long time Run on for a long time Sooner or later God’ll cut you down Sooner or later God’ll cut you down
God hates pride. God cast Lucifer out of heaven because of his pride. Pride also tempted Adam and Eve to eat the forbidden fruit. In the case of Edom, their pride and destruction are evident in two ways. First, their self-sufficiency led God to humble them. Second, their pride manifested in taking pleasure in the destruction of others.
Let’s seek to apply this message to ourselves. First, the pride of self-sufficiency is the belief that one doesn’t need Jesus for salvation. They believe they are inherently good and have no sin. The pride of
self-sufficiency is the high-handed declaration that we are gods unto ourselves, strutting about as though the breath in our lungs is not borrowed. Yet the gospel dismantles this hubris with the blunt force of truth: “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).
Secondly, taking pleasure in another’s failure is pride in its most serpentine form, gloating over the ruin of others as though their fall elevates our standing. But God hates such malice, for it is the posture of Edom rejoicing over Jerusalem’s desolation, a sin He condemns with fierce clarity: “Do not gloat over the day of your brother in the day of his misfortune” (Obadiah 1:12). This delight in destruction reveals a heart swollen with arrogance, blind to the truth that the same Judge who humbles others will also humble us. The apostle Paul would say, “Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall” (1 Cor. 10:12).
Like the song says, sooner or later God’ll cut you down.
God’s pattern is clear: He resists the proud but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:5). Those who acknowledge their dependence on Him receive His abundant mercy, while those who exalt themselves are brought low. As recipients of such grace, we must extend the same mercy to others when they stumble, following the command to “restore such an one in the spirit of meekness” (Galatians 6:1). Remembering our own frailty; we should pray fervently for their restoration, for “blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy” (Matthew 5:7).
Nathan S. Whitley Editor
The Gift of Family
General Superintendent Kenneth Carpenter
As we enter 2025, we do so with great anticipation for revival and harvest. Let us unite in working and praying for a renewal of foundational truths and a recommitment to sharing this amazing, life-changing Apostolic message with as many as possible.
After prayerful consideration, the theme for GMC 2025 is The Gift of Family. Family is indeed the foundational stone of our society; as the saying goes, “As goes the family, so goes the nation.” In our context, this translates to “as goes the family, so goes the church.” Our churches are as strong as the families that attend them, and building better families will undoubtedly result in better churches.
In the second chapter of Genesis, God established three orders: the Sabbath day, a day of rest and reflection on His goodness; the responsibility of work, where man was tasked to keep, maintain, and name the creatures; and the sacred bond of marriage between Adam and Eve. God’s master plan for humanity includes a day of worship, a strong work ethic, and the relationship of marriage. Among these, it was marriage that Satan sought to attack. The Scriptures reveal that he tempted Eve, attempting to drive a wedge between man and woman. Satan understood that if he could create division and confusion between Adam and Eve, then he could do his perfect work in destroying the God-ordained family unit. As we read the aftermath, once they fell out of fellowship with their Creator, the family spiraled out of control, leading to chaos and
sin, from the murder of Abel to the unchecked lust of Lamech, breaking the sacred marriage covenant of one man and one woman.
Throughout the Old Testament, we witness various examples of marriage, both good and evil—from Lot and his unnamed wife, Ahab and Jezebel, to Noah and his unnamed wife, and Abraham and Sarah. A kingdomadvancing marriage fosters a strong relationship with God as individuals, coming together with that shared relationship and purpose established first and foremost. God has a plan for your family and desires to use your family. He speaks from the pulpit of your local church and in the home through Mom and Dad.
Deuteronomy chapter six is one of the most sacred chapters of the Apostolic Church. It not only provides the foundation of truth in the identity of God but also illustrates God’s purpose and plan for the family unit. This chapter also holds profound significance within the Jewish tradition, as it encapsulates the essence of God’s commandments and emphasizes the importance of passing them on through generations.
Moses teaches us that education begins in the home!
Deuteronomy 6:6: “And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart.” This verse emphasizes that God’s
“ The three-fold cord our families need today consists of the husband, the wife, and God, intricately woven together to form the backbone of the Church."
Word must first dwell in the hearts of parents, highlighting the necessity of internalizing His teachings to impart them to the next generation effectively. We can only transfer this Gospel message if it is first in our hearts!
Deuteronomy 6:7: “And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.” Here, we are directed to teach and discuss the Scriptures in the temple and our homes, demonstrating the importance of integrating God’s Word into our daily lives and interactions.
Deuteronomy 6:8-9 states: “And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates.” These verses emphasize that the Scriptures should be a visible part of our lives and homes, serving as a constant reminder and guide in our everyday existence.
More than simply quoting Scripture to our children, we must embody its teachings! While they may sometimes misinterpret our words, they will inevitably discern whether the Scriptures flow through our actions or are absent from our lives.
Our behavior will speak volumes, illustrating the profound impact of living out God’s Word in our daily interactions.
At GMC 2025 in Knoxville, TN, you will be equipped with the tools to build a better you, a stronger marriage, a more united family, a thriving church, and, by the power of the Gospel, a better world. Let us embrace this new year with a determined spirit to nurture our families and strengthen our churches through the sacred gift of marriage. As the wise Solomon said, “Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can one be warm [alone]? And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken” (Ecclesiastes 4:11-12, KJV).
The three-fold cord our families need today consists of the husband, the wife, and God, intricately woven together to form the backbone of the Church. By uniting this way, we can establish a strong foundation that embodies God’s love and purpose in our homes and churches, becoming a beacon of hope for our fallen world.
Bishop Kenneth Carpenter General Superintendent AW
GO PLANT GROW
by Stephen Trachsel
In the book of Habakkuk, God gives the prophet a clear mandate. He tells the prophet to “Write the vision and make it plain…that he may run that reads it” (Hab. 2:2).
Some commentaries interpret this passage to mean, “Make the message clear so that the messenger can read it easily and proclaim it to those who will listen.”
The Missions America department aims to clearly communicate our vision and mission so everyone can understand them.
Just before Jesus ascended to heaven, he proclaimed what has been called the Great Commission. And He said, “Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them…” (Matt. 28:19).
The mission of Jesus can be summarized in three words: Go, Plant, and Grow. The Missions America Department will focus on this clear objective as we move forward.
GO
Nothing happens until we respond to the call to go! The ALJC is filled with eager individuals seeking opportunities to serve in this final harvest. We aim to
showcase domestic opportunities that will become a foundation for revival in North America.
PLANT
With the help of our Adopt-A-City program, we will partner with those willing to step out on faith with finances and training. Together, we will work to see your God-given dream become a reality.
GROW
As we continue to plant churches across America, the Missions America Department is dedicated to supporting the entire journey. We will provide materials, opportunities, and ongoing training to help your church grow beyond previous limits.
It is straightforward: GO: His call, our response. PLANT: His mission, our calling. GROW: Our work, His power.
Stephen Trachsel Missions America Director
LEGACY: A FUTURE WORTH BUILDING
by James Chessor
As the director of Menistry, it’s my privilege to cast the vision for the coming year—Legacy. In a world constantly changing, it’s more important than ever for men of God to stand firm in the Apostolic Faith, uphold the values that matter, and leave a lasting impact on those around us.
Our legacy isn’t just about what we do in our lifetimes; it’s about what we leave behind—the values, the principles, and the example that will shape the next generation. This year, the call is clear: We must be men who build and leave a Legacy that honors God and strengthens those who follow us.
I’m excited to announce that we’ll gather for our national conference on September 19-20, 2025. We’re bringing together an incredible lineup of speakers: Pastor Matthew Ball, Pastor Victor Vera, and Pastor Tim Hammond. I have the great honor of delivering the keynote address.
These men bring unique perspectives and a wealth of experience, and I can’t wait for what God will speak through them. Pastor Evan Grizzle will lead us in worship and be a guest panelist during our Apostolic Moral Purity session.
One of the highlights of our 2025 conference will be the Apostolic Moral Purity Panel Discussion. This will be a time for a candid conversation about the importance of moral purity in our lives and its vital role in shaping the legacy we leave, with Pastor Anthony McCool leading this critical discussion.
In a world full of distractions and compromise, we must hold fast to the high calling of holiness that God has placed on our lives. The choices we make today reflect the legacy we will leave behind. This panel will encourage us to examine ourselves and ensure that the legacy we are building is one of purity, righteousness, and godliness.
I want to take a moment to remind you of our annual Father’s Day offering, which will take place on June 15, 2025. The Father’s Day offering allows us men to invest in something eternal. Proverbs 13:22 says, “A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children’s children.”
What a powerful reminder that our legacy isn’t just for our own families but for the generations that will follow. This offering will be a chance to reflect on our role as fathers, mentors, and leaders and to invest in the future of Menistry and the generations to come.
WHY LEGACY MATTERS
When I think about legacy, I’m reminded of the words of the Apostle Paul in 2 Timothy 4:7-8: “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day…”
Paul knew that his life wasn’t just about what he could accomplish in his own time. It was about what he could leave behind—a legacy of faith, integrity, and obedience to God. Paul’s example is a reminder that what we build today and invest in today has the potential to shape the future and impact those who come after us.
Legacy is more than just the passing down of things—it’s about the passing down of values. It’s about the things that matter most—the Word of God, holiness, integrity, and the power of the Holy Ghost. When we leave a godly legacy, we pass down a foundation of truth that will stand firm even in the most difficult times. As men, we must embrace the call to leave a legacy for today and the future.
Proverbs 22:6 instructs us to “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” Our legacy begins in the hearts and lives of those who look to us for guidance. Our children, our friends, our neighbors—all of them are watching us and learning from the example we set. What will they see? What will they say? Will they see men who stand firm in their faith, live lives of purity and holiness, and are willing to fight for what’s right even when the world says it’s not worth it?
THE IMPACT OF A GODLY LEGACY
The impact of a godly legacy is immeasurable. It can shape the future, change the course of lives, and alter the direction of entire families and communities. Consider the legacy of Abraham, a man who trusted God’s promise and became the father of a great nation.
Hebrews 11:8-10 records, “By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went…” Abraham’s faith built a legacy that continues to impact us today.
Another example is King David, a man after God’s own heart. Acts 13:22 says, “And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfill all my will.” David’s legacy is one of unwavering faith, passion for God, and commitment to following the Lord even when it wasn’t easy. His life continues to inspire us today.
Just like Abraham and David, we, too, are called to leave a legacy. A legacy that will be built on the foundation of faith, integrity, and obedience to God. We are called to leave behind more than just material possessions. We are called to leave a spiritual inheritance that will endure for generations.
A CHALLENGE FOR MEN OF THE ALJC
I challenge each of you to consider the legacy you are building. What will your life leave behind? Will it be a legacy of faithfulness to God? A legacy of holiness? A legacy of integrity? Every decision we make today is part of the legacy we will leave tomorrow. So let’s make it count.
I’m looking forward to seeing all of you at the national conference in Maryville, TN, as we gather to strengthen our faith, encourage one another, and leave a legacy that will stand the test of time.
James Chessor Menistry Director
IN LOVING MEMORY OF ANDY HOLLAND:
A TESTIMONY OF GOD’S LOVE & REDEMPTION
by Jennifer Holland
"Where there is deep grief, there is great love.”
This was something I never understood until I suffered a loss so great that my life will be forever changed. On the morning of March 17, 2024, on my 49th birthday, I lost my husband, my best friend. Andy had a heart defect that was unknown until that weekend, when his heart suddenly stopped. They were able to revive him that afternoon and assured us he was in the right place if it happened again. The following day in the ICU, his heart stopped again, and they were unable to revive him. Arriving at the hospital that morning and hearing those words, “We did everything we could,” still grips my heart. A lot from that day and that week is a blur, but I will never forget that moment. I immediately fell to the floor and screamed. I knew a piece of me was gone. How could this have happened? He was only 50 years old. The doctors and nurses were all in disbelief that nothing they did worked, but God had other plans. For reasons I may never know on this side of Heaven, God decided it was time for Andy to come home.
Looking over at our boys, as a mother, this was the hardest thing I have ever had to see them go through, knowing this was something I couldn’t fix or make better as I always tried to do for them. Looking back, despite this tragic event, I can see how God, as only He can, orchestrated that weekend and made sure we were all together one last time. Our oldest, Jacob, along with our daughter-in-law Morgan and granddaughter, Noah, came in to surprise me for my birthday. Our youngest, Johnathon, was there, and we were together one last time. That week, our family and friends came together to support and
comfort one another, but what I think gave us the strength we needed, of course, I know God carried us through that week, but hearing the impact he made on so many lives made us proud and gave us the added strength we needed to get through those days. On the hard days, it continues to carry us through. So many stories have been told of his impact in different ways. Andy truly loved peoplehe loved everyone. He had such a giving heart, and you rarely left our house without something, no matter how small. With the holidays and the new year upon us, I have thought about what Andy would want to give. What would he want to leave behind for someone? The greatest gift would be his testimony.
Andy was born into a loving Apostolic family. His parents raised him and his sister to love God and serve in His house. He and his family attended the First Apostolic Church of Rome, GA, where he was baptized in Jesus’ Name and received the Holy Ghost. He loved church and was willing to serve in any capacity for the kingdom of God. He was blessed to serve as a drum player at an early age and worked alongside his dad, Johnny Holland, with the sound and electronics.
We met through mutual friends at a church event at ages 16 and 18. We lived a few hundred miles apart, and God orchestrated the events that led to our meeting and eventually marrying in February 1994. God blessed us with two wonderful boys, Jacob and Johnathon. We tried desperately to raise them in a loving Apostolic home to carry on that legacy, but we learned that being raised in truth does not exempt you from those things that seem to always happen to “other people.” We wanted the seemingly
perfect life that everyone strived for. Andy began a career in law enforcement in Georgia and was a great police officer with a lot of compassion for hurting people. His desire was always to help others in any way that he could. During his career, he had a fall that caused a minor injury that required surgery and treatment with pain medication. Gradually, in the weeks, months, and years ahead, things spiraled out of control. That sort of thing happened to someone else and could never happen to my family, but it did happen. Addiction had taken control of our family. You see, when one person is addicted, it not only affects the person with an addiction, but the entire family is under its control. I did everything I could to deny it was happening until I could no longer. My Andy was not there. He became very distant from family and church. Everyone described him as not the big, loving giant teddy bear. We fought this for years. I did everything I could to hold on, trust God, and take care of our boys.
We moved from Georgia to Maryville, Tennessee, to be closer to family, hoping to change everything, but your problems follow you where you go. You cannot hide from them. The addiction went on for a few more years until a day came that I could not go anymore. For years, we were only married because we were not divorced. We lived separate lives and always went in different directions. I was trying to stay as close to God as possible while he was trying to get as far away from God as possible. Eventually, divorce was on the horizon. I remember that day so well, stopping on the side of the road in tears, knowing this wasn’t right. My Andy was still there
somewhere, but I felt so hopeless. I couldn’t help him and make this go away. I just knew I was tired, and our family could no longer go on like this.
When you think all is lost, God is there. Right there where He always was. Waiting for us to give it to Him instead of trying to fix it ourselves, all while making a bigger mess of the situation. I remember the day so well - October 9, 2016. In the days leading up to that Sunday, God had been working on him to prepare his heart. I couldn’t see it then, but looking back, I knew it was God. That Sunday morning, after years of praying, crying, and screaming, Andy found his way back home at the altar at church. That day will always be when our family came back to life. God instantly healed our family of all the bitterness, hurt, and anger we had for so many years. It didn’t take years of counseling. It was instant. That very moment, I felt the weight of all those years fall away. From that day, my Andy was back. My best friend was there again. He began to serve in our church in sound and loved every minute he had the opportunity to serve. He always had a heart for giving and serving others, which was his way of giving back. He poured his heart into everything that he did. For the next 8 years, he served faithfully. We attended church together as a family. We watched our oldest son meet and marry his bride in an Apostolic church, and now, we have a granddaughter who is being raised to serve Him. Our
boys serve faithfully in their churches with music, sound, and production, just as their dad always did.
To know Andy was to love him. At his funeral, hearing the impact that he made on so many showed not only how much he was loved but how much he loved. Andy had a heart to give; even in death, he passed through organ donations. But the greatest gift he can leave is his legacy of love and his testimony. He would want to know that his story has not ended and that it will give someone hope in their darkest day. God is always right there when you think all is lost and there is no hope. It may not be in our time or how we think it should happen, but He will come through if we step aside and let Him work. I can reflect on our 30 years together and see God’s faithfulness to us. During our darkest days, God never left us. As the song so beautifully says, “All my life, you have been faithful. All my life, you have been so so good. With every breath I can, I will sing of the goodness of God.”
Jennifer Holland attends First Apostolic Church of Maryville. AW
MEET THE ERWINS:
MISSIONARIES TO NEW ZEALAND
by Jeremy Causey
"...and his dominion shall be from sea even to sea, and from the river even to the ends of the earth."
— Zechariah 9:10
Many mission fields fit into the category of places far away. But perhaps those in the Asia-Pacific win the award for being “to the ends of the earth.” Set yourself on a mission trip to this region and settle in because it will take a couple of days of planes, trains, and automobiles to reach your destination. However, the richness of the culture and the beauty of the destination will make it worth the miles.
For Damien Erwin, this part of the world is home. Born in Australia, he lived a relatively normal childhood. As a young man, he traveled across the ocean on scholarship. He became a Hoosier after he married his pen pal (only those GenX and older will understand). It seemed he was set to keep working for the Lord here in the States, except there was a nagging that wouldn’t go away.
Now about the pen pal. Mendy Erwin had a burden for missions that wouldn’t let go of her either. Her mission trips as a young girl had birthed something deep in her soul. The daughter of a church planter, working for God was second nature. However, no matter where they went or what work they did here, the burden for New Zealand remained.
There’s a familiarity with many missionaries’ stories of how they ended up where they are. God gives men and women burdens for souls; often, it is specific to a location somewhere from sea to sea. However, doors aren’t always open when we think they should be, so the soul-winner goes to work where they are, blooming where they’re planted. But the heartstrings keep getting pulled, and it gets harder and harder to reconcile. Finally, the
individual or the couple goes to God, not with an ultimatum, but with a poured-out spirit, asking God to open the door or redirect the burden to another place. It would seem to my simple mind that God, perhaps like when He spoke to Abraham and said, “Now I know,” finally takes the fully birthed burden and gives it a home in the land of its calling.
New Zealand is the sixth-largest island country by area. It lies east of Australia across the Tasman Sea and south of New Caledonia, Fiji, and Tonga. The islands of New Zealand were the last sizeable habitable land to be settled by humans between about 1280 and 1350 (Wikipedia). New Zealand is a melting pot of cultures from Māori, European, Asian, and Pacific islander influences. However, the beautiful scenery belies the trouble within.
The nation of New Zealand locked down hard during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although it saved them from widespread infection of the virus, it has taken a heavy toll on mental health. According to a 2021 Mental Health Foundation study, a quarter of New Zealanders currently have poor levels of mental and emotional wellbeing. Teen suicide rates are alarming, and people are very closed off to God. The nation is a post-modern, highly secularized society in desperate need of Jesus!
WORLD MISSIONS
New Zealand is a well-developed country with a high standard of living for most. So, how many ALJC churches are in this beautiful nation? Zero...until now. The Erwins were appointed in April 2023 and have taken off like pioneers in covered wagons heading west toward manifest destiny. They moved to the land of their calling as quickly as they could and immediately went to work. There’s too much work to accomplish to wait!
As you read this, the Erwins are hard at work winning souls. They’ve started a church in their home, are giving Bible studies and holding services, and simply enjoying the process of digging out a work for God. But they need your help! They need partners in missions to invest in laying the foundation in New Zealand. Join them in supporting this great work!
You can partner with the Erwins by donating through your local church or giving directly at worldmissions.aljc. org. You can find more information about the Erwins, download their newsletters, and purchase great music and missions merch at erwinministries.org.
Jeremy Causey World Missions Department
RESOLUTION ANNOUNCEMENT
APRIL 22, 2025 IS THE LAST DATE RESOLUTIONS ARE PERMITTED TO BE ACCEPTED FOR GMC 2025
References from: Article III, Section 3, Paragraphs 3 and 4:
"3. All resolutions shall be properly written and signed by the author and submitted no later than eight full weeks prior to the first day of the General Conference of that year to the Chairman of the Resolutions Committee. The Resolutions Committee and its Chairman shall be appointed by the General Superintendent at either the General Conference or the General Board Fall Business Conference. This committee is to decide which of the resolutions shall be presented to the General Conference. All of the resolutions that are approved for presentation at the General Conference Business Session would then be published in advance via email to the membership. This advanced publishing would be 45 days prior to the General Conference Business session.
4. A filing fee of $20 per resolution must accompany each resolution submitted for consideration at General Conference."
Resolutions Committee
Timothy Gill–Chairman: 812-528-0046 / pastorgill@gmail.com
Mark Hina: 937-726-7340 / mhina@templeministries.net
Rob Jones: 702-218-1795 / rejones6@yahoo.com
Send all resolutions to the Resolutions Committee Chairman in Microsoft Word (if electronically) or in type written format that can be scanned using OCR software.
Please remit all non-refundable filing fee(s) to ALJC Headquarters:
ALJC / GMC 2025 Resolutions PO Box 22366 • Memphis, TN 38122-0366
EMPOWERING THE NEXT GENERATION
by Nate Roberts II
As we step into 2025, the call to nurture and equip the next generation within the church has never been more urgent. Children’s ministry is not just a supplemental part of the church’s mission but a cornerstone of Kingdom growth. Jesus Himself emphasized the importance of children in His ministry, declaring, “Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 19:14). In today’s fast-paced and distractionfilled world, the local church has the sacred responsibility to cultivate environments where children can encounter God, learn biblical truths, and grow in their faith.
A thriving children’s ministry impacts the children and the entire church body. When children are engaged in worship, learning, and service, their enthusiasm becomes contagious, inspiring parents and other congregation members. Children’s ministry provides foundational experiences that shape lifelong disciples, instilling godly principles that empower them to stand firm in their faith as they grow. Studies show that the majority of Christians make their decision to follow Christ before age 18, underscoring the importance of focusing on children’s spiritual formation during these impressionable years.
To ensure the success of your local church’s children’s ministry in 2025, it is essential to be intentional. Start by prioritizing prayer and vision. Gather your team and seek God’s guidance for the specific needs of your children and families. Invest in curriculum and resources that are both engaging and doctrinally sound. Creative, age-appropriate
teaching methods — like interactive Bible lessons, dramas, and hands-on activities — help bring Scripture to life and make the message memorable. Additionally, ensure your ministry is a safe and welcoming space by training staff and volunteers in child safety protocols and fostering a culture of inclusivity and encouragement.
Equally important is involving the entire church in the success of children’s ministry. Encourage parents to take an active role by providing take-home materials, hosting family nights, or holding parent workshops on raising godly children. Recruit volunteers from all generations to serve as mentors, teachers, and prayer partners. Children’s ministry is a communal effort that requires the support and involvement of the entire body of Christ. As Proverbs 22:6 reminds us, “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”
This new year, let us renew our commitment to investing in children. By doing so, we are sowing seeds of faith that will grow into a future generation of Apostolic believers. Together, we can make 2025 a year of spiritual growth, joy, and transformation for our children and churches. KidzQuest is here to support and inspire your efforts, and we look forward to celebrating what God will do in your children’s ministry.
Nate Roberts II Kidz Quest
BACK TO THE TABLE
by Terri Scott
Growing up, when Momma said, “Supper is done, come to the table,” everyone stopped what they were doing, and we sat together at the table. We held hands as Dad said the blessing over the food. We ate, laughed, fussed with our siblings, and passed dishes of steaming hot food. We were taught to be grateful for what was prepared, and we always showed up on time at that table. We were taught manners; lefties bumped elbows with the righties, sometimes it was noisy and subdued, and we sat and, most importantly, connected.
The focus was not on the noise of electronics or the distraction of a phone – the dog sat in the kitchen on alert, hoping for a scrap or two. If the phone rang – it rang on because nothing was more important at that moment than what happened at the dinner table. The unspoken rule was that this was our time together as a family. This was our time to catch up. We talked about how our day went – whether it went well or bad. We spoke of our sister’s latest crush or that we had a pop quiz in math that day. We worked through our disagreements. There
was an appreciation for what food was on our plate, whether we liked it or not. We knew that it took an effort to put supper on the table. We worked together to set and clear the table and took turns doing the dishes. It was a safe place – surrounded by those who loved us, and we knew that the hustle and bustle stopped at the end of the day as we sat at the dinner table.
Many benefits come from eating dinner together as a family. It is a way to strengthen relational bonds between families and God. It is also a way to teach skills like listening to each other, celebrating each other’s victories, and consoling each other.
We learned as a family a fundamental principle that God and family were a priority. Joshua 24:15 instructs us to choose this day whom we will serve. The supper table provided a teaching place, and our family knew we would serve the Lord.
The family is God-ordained and biblically fundamental to the order in God’s kingdom and the church’s building.
\In Acts 2:26, the early church gathered regularly for fellowship and bread breaks. Jesus himself fed the multitude by blessing it and serving them. He sat at the table with his disciples and taught them the principles of servitude and submission. We have disciples in our homes who need us and our knowledge. They need our love and quality time. They need to know how they matter and that they have a purpose.
There is something to be said about gathering at the table with our loved ones and church family and friends. Strong families build strong churches, and strong churches build strong communities!
The enemy has long since been a thief of our time! We do not need a new niche or idea to reconnect with our children or spouses. Let’s try something so simple that has served the generations before us.
We need to get back to the table! What does that look like? Commit one night a week and have dinner at your table. Turn off electronics and set the phones aside. Hold hands and pray. Let your family hear you pray! Take turns leading the prayer. If you can do it every night – then do that! If it is lunchtime – then do that! If it is a big breakfast on Saturday morning – then do that!
The point is - slow down – make this a time to connect! It may look different from household to household, but implement some fundamentals you carry from table to table. Hold hands, pray together, ask how everyone is doing, and listen. Let the phone go to voicemail. Make this a treasured time you celebrate more than just once a year at the holidays!
Make dinner time and our families a priority to connect and unite when so much is vying for our attention.
“Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me” (Revelation 3:20).
It is time we return to a place we had been lured away from due to the busyness of life - the distraction of electronics and the urgency that we just had to get one more thing done instead of retiring to our prospective corners of the house seeking quiet and solitude. Let’s gather around a noisy table bustling with love, family, and connection. Whether that looks like one or every night of the week, share a meal around the table.
Let us get back to the table! Be intentional! What you are prioritizing now will be what you take into eternity!
Benefits of getting back to the table:
Improved family relationships
Mealtime is a chance for the family to spend time together, catch up, and discuss the day.
Healthier eating
Families who share meals tend to eat more fruit and vegetables and less fried food and snacks.
Better academic performance
Studies have shown a link between family dinners and academic success.
Reduced stress
Eating with your family can help reduce work-related stress and family tension.
Lower rates of substance abuse
Regular family dinners are associated with lower rates of substance abuse, including alcohol, nicotine, and marijuana.
Higher self-esteem
Children who eat dinner with their family are more likely to have higher self-esteem.
Reduced likelihood of anti-social behaviors
Research suggests that frequently eating meals with family members can reduce a child’s likelihood of violence and other anti-social behaviors.
A break from technology
Focusing on dinner without technology at the table can give everyone a break from being plugged in.
Improved mental health in adults.
Research shows that adults who participate in regularly scheduled family dinners also have improved mental health.
It opens the door to having spiritual conversations. Research shows that adults who participate in regularly scheduled family dinners also have improved mental health.
It provides a safe place for wellness conversations. Research shows that adults who participate in regularly scheduled family dinners also have improved mental health.
Sis. Terri Scott WE President AW
EVANGELIST
IGNITING THE FLAME: THE POWER OF REVIVAL IN THE NEW YEAR
by Shawn Garnett
The church is uniquely positioned to experience a fresh outpouring of God’s Spirit as the calendar turns to a new year. Revival is more than a moment of spiritual excitement—it is a divine awakening that realigns hearts with the purpose of God. In this season of reflection and renewal, the Assemblies of the Lord Jesus Christ encourages every congregation to seek a mighty move of the Holy Ghost. A New Year revival is not just an event; it’s an opportunity to transform lives, reignite the fire of passion for the lost, and propel the church into a greater dimension of faith.
The role of the evangelist is pivotal in ushering in this revival. God uniquely called and equipped evangelists to inspire, challenge, and stir the hearts of believers. Through anointed preaching, dynamic teaching, and a sensitivity to the leading of the Spirit, evangelists carry the flame of revival into every congregation they visit. Their ministry is to call the lost to salvation and rekindle the saints’ zeal, reminding the church of its mission and the urgency of the hour.
A New Year revival led by an evangelist has the potential to ignite a chain reaction in the local church. It can break spiritual stagnation, restore unity among believers, and empower the church to embrace its calling as a light to the world. As the Word is preached with boldness and the Spirit moves freely, the atmosphere becomes charged
with faith and expectation. Miracles, signs, and wonders follow, confirming the Word and drawing people’s hearts closer to God. These moments of divine encounter often spark personal and corporate transformations that ripple throughout the entire community.
To pastors and church leaders, I urge you to pray earnestly for revival and to invite an evangelist to partner with your congregation in this endeavor. Revival requires preparation—fasting, prayer, and a hunger for God’s presence—but the rewards are immeasurable. As we step into the New Year, let us position ourselves as vessels of honor, ready to receive and steward the outpouring of the Holy Ghost. Together, we can see revival sweep across our cities and families.
This New Year, let the flame of revival be ignited in your local church. Allow the ministry of the evangelist to serve as a catalyst for this powerful move of God. With hearts united in faith and a renewed commitment to His kingdom, we will see the promises of God fulfilled in ways that exceed our greatest expectations. Let’s declare, “This is the year of revival!” and prepare to witness the mighty hand of God at work.
Shawn Garnett Evangelist Department
