Issuu

2021 G O O D

N E W S

N O W

No. 8

L ! T U S K O E C 1 YN 9 :1

OL EHT EVA S T S TA

MERRY CHRISTMAS

& Happy 0New Year

A VERY GNN CHRISTMAS PLAYLIST

GNACLAM JT TSILEGNAVE

SCAN THIS

CONTENTS

Because everyone needs a dose of Good News!

A MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR

A TESTIMONY FROM PASTOR STEVE

THE BENEFITS OF PRAISE & WORSHIP

THE GNC VANCOUVER STORY

NO TURNING BACK

THE BUCK STOPS HERE

GOOD NEWS U

THE PROPHETIC WINDOW

WINGS EATS

TESTIMONY

PRAISE REPORT: GNCY

KIDS CORNER

ACTS AFTER THE ACTS

BLESS THE LORD: 7 DAYS OF PRAISE

EXCEEDINGLY, ABUNDANTLY MORE!

YOU GOTTA READ THIS!

A Message From The Editor “DO NOT FORGET ANY OF HIS BENEFITS”

When I was brainstorming as to what this edition’s theme would be, I couldn’t help but think of the time of year we are in. My initial thought was to make this a Christmas themed magazine, celebrating the birth of our Saviour. But as I began to really think about it, I felt the Lord deposit this in my spirit: “forget not My benefits.” I immediately turned to Psalm 103, and as I read through it, I knew this was it, this was our theme. The Psalm begins with those famous words from King David, “bless the LO R D, my so ul , and al l that i s w i t h i n m e , b l e ss Hi s ho l y nam e . Bless the LORD, my soul, and do not forget any of His benefits” (Psalm 103:1-2). The rest of the psalm continues by listing all the wonderful benefits we have as children of God, such as redemption, healing, favour and many more. But those opening verses really stuck out to me, as I felt the Lord show me two important things: we must bless Him daily, and we must recognize and testify of His goodness in our lives daily. The word ‘bless’ is used over seven times in this psalm; you can’t ignore the fact that King David was trying to tell us something. The word ‘bless’ comes from the Hebrew word ‘barak,’ which means “to kneel or to bow” (Strong’s H1288). So, what does this mean for us? Well, if to bless means to kneel or bow, we can interpret the act of blessing the Lord as exalting Him, putting Him high above, elevating His worth and place in our lives far above our own. It is physically (whether kneeling or vocally) bestowing to Him our adoration and surrender. From its definition, we can see that to bless requires an outward gesture. It implies that it requires effort; it requires action. Blessing the Lord must be intentional; you don’t just stumble into it. It is a choice, and the Lord will honour your choice to bless Him. Every day, we should take time to bless Him because when we do, His presence comes and inhabits our praises (Psalm 22:3). He is worthy of our praise simply because of who He is but also for everything He has done for you and me.

Verse 2 ends with “do not forget any of His benefits.” In the New Living Transltion, it’s written as, “may I never forget the good things He does for me.” This is also something we must do daily. There is something powerful in recognizing and testifying of God’s goodness and faithfulness in our lives. When you reflect on all the good things God has done for you, whether big or small, your faith can’t help but be stirred up. As you acknowledge and thank Him for His hand on your life, joy and peace will fill you and overshadow anything that is trying to steal those benefits from you. These actions will redirect your focus to Him and will build up your expectation for greater things to come. “And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb and because of the word of their testimony” Revelation 12:11a I’ll never forget Pastor Jessica sharing these words with us at Good News U, “if you praise God in everything, He’ll make sure there is always something to praise Him for.” Blessing and testifying go hand in hand. If you are constantly blessing God for who He is and for the things He has done for you, He’ll always make sure there are blessings in your life that validate your praise. As 2021 draws to a close, let us take time to recognize the goodness and faithfulness of God towards us individually and collectively as the Church and bless Him for it. We could easily let our circumstances and the state of this world steal our praise. That is why we must remind ourselves daily of God’s Word and His promises to us. We must bless God and as you do that, you will be filled with His presence. As you will see by the devotions, testimonies and articles in this magazine, there are blessings attached to your praise.

Do not forget any of His benefits!

Liz Geronimo

FEEL FREE TO SEND US AN EMAIL AT GNN@GOODNEWSCHAPEL.ORG FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT CONTRIBUTING TO UPCOMING ISSUES OR ADVERTISING YOUR BUSINESS.

“all I can do now is bless “God the Lord with allshowed my soul W Himself to be and remember all His benefits!” powerful and faithful.” hen previously asked to write an article for GNN, I often took it as an opportunity to write some type of devotion. However, I wanted to take the time to share with you, the readers, a word of encouragement by ways of a personal testimony. The theme for this edition of GNN is Psalm 103. You know, that famous psalm that starts off with the words: “Bless the Lord, my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless the Lord, my soul, and do not forget any of His benefits (Ps 103:1-2).” By this point, we’ve gone through the second year of this saga known as the Covid-19 Pandemic. I think it would be fair to say that many people throughout this time have had to deal with the challenges and in some way, have struggled. You’d be surprised to know that I too struggled (emphasis on the past tense). Even before Covid began, I was in a crash course that I wasn’t even aware of. It was a hectic 2019 as Jessica and I moved out from our apartment where we had lived for the past twelve years. We were finally moving ahead with the construction of our dream home. As soon as we found out that we were pregnant (Jessica hates when I say it like that), we moved into a friend’s basement and that was an adjustment, but we were thankful for the accommodation. Add to this the daily stress of building our home, the main responsibility of taking care of my family and running a very active Church. You could say the pressure was on every day. I would come home from the office and immediately go to the jobsite and be confronted with the problems of the day. I would work until suppertime, getting as much done as possible because we had to move in before the baby was born, and the due date was November 14 (which by the way, did not happen). We didn’t miss a beat, and no one really knew how thinly spread we were, but everything was fine so there was no need to complain. Then came October and I got sick with what I believe was Covid; I had a high fever and distressed breathing. I still pushed

A Testimony From Pastor Steve Gesualdi myself physically and it was only by the grace of God that I didn’t get injured while working through delirium. No one knew what Covid was at that time. Suffice to say, I recovered but there were lingering effects. I had chronic fatigue, but who could think about that since by this point Simeon was born, so I just pushed through and kept busy during the winter. Then, Covid became a thing. We were confined to our homes, “two weeks to flatten the curve” became months of lockdown and frustration. We closed the church for a month, I began to preach online (which I hated) and doing daily R&R’s on Instagram because I felt that it was my responsibility to keep the church together as much as possible. I didn’t realize that all the demands that I had placed on myself were depleting me. April came, and I continued to do work around our home, heavy work, but I felt fine, so I thought. Then there were the constant demands from the government limiting gatherings, which you know, caused us to move to two services a Sunday with limited capacity. It wasn’t too long after that I fell into an anxious state. I couldn’t sleep, the nights were long, and I would weep through the night. I would wake up in the morning and literally throw myself on the floor and weep bitterly, groaning from which I can only describe as from the depth of my being. If I ever felt my soul, it was in those moments. I fought hard in prayer, I searched the Word, and I was comforted by Psalm 30:5, “weeping may last for the night, but a shout of joy comes in the morning.” Let me put it to you this way, it felt like a very long night in anticipation of that morning. Not to mention, my poor wife with a newborn in tow and little to no sleep herself, did everything she could to help me (and she did). I read Psalm 38 and everything that it said, I experienced. Even though the Psalm is gloomy and difficult to read, I received comfort from it because if David went through that, knowing the result of his life, I knew that it would be the same

“all I can do now is bless the Lord with all my soul and remember all His benefits!”

“all I can do now is bless the Lord with all my soul and remember all His benefits!” for me. I tried not to focus on what was the anguish of the moment but instead I clung to the final words of Psalm 38 that God was and still is the God of my salvation. As I focused on those words and began to feel better, to the point that I would have more good days than bad and slowly resumed certain activities; it happened! It was late Autumn. I was playing tag with my daughter, and I began to run after her. Just like that, like a blowout on a car, something in my body just gave out. I had excruciating pain running down my back and my leg. I used to be an athlete and injuries were common and I thought this would pass as it always did in the past. However, the pain kept getting worse and it triggered a wave of anxiety and depression as I was unable to move like normal. Then other symptoms started to surface which got my mind racing; I was inundated with constant thoughts of death, hopelessness, and despair. Then, on top of that, we were in a “pandemic” and all everyone ever spoke of was sickness and death. I hid it from everyone except for my wife who bore the brunt of my outbursts of anger and frustration, and the leadership of the church. They knew something was off but nonetheless they were very gracious to me and helped me with their prayers and encouragement. I won’t go into further detail, but it was wave after wave of attack, and I know it was the enemy trying to pick me off at a very vulnerable time in my life and my ministry. But let it be said that the God of my salvation rescued me and delivered me from all my troubles. In my weakness, God showed Himself to be powerful and faithful. This testimony wasn’t written to glorify the power of suffering, pain, and distress but to bring encouragement to all those who feel like they’re trapped, and it seems like it’s over for you. No, the purpose of this testimony is to show you that God is more powerful than any single situation and even every situation combined. I thought I was down and out, but God lifted me out of that pit and all I can do now is bless the Lord with all my soul and remember all His benefits! He is the forgiver of sins and the healer of the body. He is able to deliver from every sickness, syndrome, and disorder. He can deliver you from anxiety, depression, and utter sorrow. His benefits are many and they are great! You must believe this if you are child of God; that He longs for your years to be satisfied with good things. Psalm 103:5 says, “Who [God] satisfies your years with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle.”

If you are in a situation that you feel you can’t get out of, it’s time to focus on Jesus. Spiritually minded people will get this; start to focus on Jesus and remember what the Word has to say about His thoughts towards you and receive them by faith. Watch God do something spectacular in your life. I encourage you to bless the Lord today, you won’t be disappointed.

“all I can do now is bless Pastor Steve Gesualdi the Lord with all my soul and remember all His benefits!” 6

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ip h s or W & e is a r P The Benefits Of By Pastor Jessica Gesualdi ce The Pathway Into His Presen

1. God’'s Presence Brings Blessing

“The people whom I formed for Myself will declare My praise.” Isaiah 43:21

God has designed us to bring Him praise. It is an amazing thought that the infinite Creator of the universe desires something from us and that our praise and worship bring Him great pleasure. Jesus tells us in John 4, that the Father is seeking true worshippers! The Book of Revelation paints the picture of God’s throne surrounded by heavenly beings, angels and elders singing songs of worship. While we are here on earth, our praise and worship are what brings us into the very presence of God. The place of His presence is where we were designed to dwell from the very beginning. God has always wanted to have relationship with His creation. Although our praise and worship are given to God as an offering, He blesses us in return because that is who He is.

“Blessed is the one whom You choose and bring near to dwell in Your courts. We will be filled with the goodness of Your house, Your holy temple.” Psalm 65:4 In I Samuel 16, we read about an evil spirit that torments King Saul. His servants search for someone who is a skillful musician to come and play music to soothe the king. Ultimately, they call for David and every time he plays his harp, the evil spirit would leave Saul and he would feel relief. An evil spirit cannot dwell where the Holy Spirit abides.

2. God’'s Presence Destroys Discouragement Isaiah 61 tells us that we can put on the garment of praise in exchange for a disheartened and downcast spirit. The enemy operates in an environment of sorrow and depression, but God dwells in an atmosphere of thanksgiving. “By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his Name.” Hebrews 13:15

3. God’'s Presence Brings Joy Joy is a fruit of the Spirit that dwells inside of us. It is not based on circumstances or situations but flows from the presence of God. It is so important to stay in joy because that is how God infuses His strength into our lives. Nehemiah 8:10 tells us that “the joy of the Lord is our strength!” “You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; in Your right hand there are pleasures forevermore.” Psalm 16:11

4. God’'s Presence Brings Peace In a world full of turmoil and confusion, true peace only comes from God. Psalm 23 tells us that “He lets me lie down in green pastures; He leads us by quiet waters. He refreshes and restores my soul.” Only in Jesus can we find true rest. We can settle down in comfort and stillness, knowing He never leaves us alone. “Come to me, all you who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28

5. God’'s Presence Brings Protection “Because you have made the Lord, who is my refuge, even the Most High, your dwelling place, no evil shall befall you, nor shall any plague come near your dwelling.” Psalm 91:9-10 As we hide ourselves under the shadow of His wing, His faithful promises are our armor and protection. If we believe His Word and refuse to allow fear to take root in our hearts, we cannot be shaken by any external forces. We recognize His power is greater than anything we could face. A boldness will rise up on the inside of us to declare just like the Psalmist: “The LORD is my light and my salvation— so why should I be afraid? The LORD is my fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble? When evil people come to devour me, when my enemies and foes attack me, they will stumble and fall. Though a mighty army surrounds me, my heart will not be afraid. Even if I am attacked, I will remain confident.” Psalm 27:1-3

6. God'’s Presence Brings 9. God’'s Presence Brings Confidence. Transformation When you possess the fear of the Lord, you cannot fear anything or anyone else.

7. God’'s Presence Brings Favor “And Moses said to Him, “If Your presence does not go [with me], do not lead us up from here. For how then can it be known that Your people and I have found favor in Your sight? Is it not by Your going with us, so that we are distinguished, Your people and I, from all the [other] people on the face of the earth?” Exodus 33:15-16 God desires to distinguish His children on the earth. He wants to cause you to be a sign and a wonder to your generation. It is only by abiding in His presence that we can be marked by His favor.

As we come into contact with the presence of the Lord, He will give us an awareness of things that need to change in our lives in order to be conformed into His image. Many begin to push God away when they feel this correction, but really it is His way of beautifying us and making us into what He desires for us to be. We must yield ourselves to His discipline and allow His Holy Spirit to burn away everything inside of us that doesn’t please Him. “And we all, with unveiled face, continually seeing as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are progressively being transformed into His image from [one degree of] glory to [even more] glory, which comes from the Lord, [who is] the Spirit.” 2 Corinthians 3:18

10.God’'s Presence Brings Victory 8. God’'s Presence Brings God desires that we carry His power Satisfaction to be an overcomer in this life. He has

You cannot truly experience fulfillment in this life apart from the presence of God. No human being can love you the way God loves you; a perfect and unconditional love that our Spirit craves. We were designed for this love. Many search their whole life for what can only be found in Jesus.

made His infinite supernatural resources available to us. The more we spend time in His presence, the more we become like Him. When you walk with God, every obstacle must clear out of your way! “The mountains melt like wax at the presence of the Lord.” Psalm 97:5

“As for me, I will behold Your face in righteousness; when I awake, I will be satisfied in Your presence.” Psalm 17:15

God promises that as you draw near to Him, He will draw near to you! Be deliberate about abiding in His presence and watch your life take you from glory to glory and strength to strength! 9

THE GNC VANCOUVER STORY

By Sandra Roberge My name is Sandra Roberge, and I would love the opportunity to share with you the story of how Good News Chapel Vancouver came to be. My husband Jerrold and I decided to celebrate our fifth wedding anniversary by coming to visit Montréal in October 2020. For many, 2020 was a year of darkness and loss, however for us as a family, especially myself, I feel like we were given another chance at life. This time however, life was more meaningful, filled with so much peace, joy, and confidence. We booked our trip and made plans to explore the city and make memories together. At the beginning of that year, a friend of ours had sent us videos of Evangelist Jonathan Shuttlesworth, which is what led me to fully give my life to the Lord. Not too long after that, I felt led to enroll into Bible School which I did. During one of his broadcasts, he mentioned that his sister pastored a church in Canada. Once I discovered that the church was in Montréal, I figured we would not only enjoy a mini getaway together but also have a chance to visit a Holy Ghost filled church. Once we arrived and checked into our hotel, we quickly learned that the whole city was in lockdown.

We were not able to do any exploring, go to restaurants etc. For anyone who knows me, they know that I am normally very organized and well planned. Every trip we’ve been on, I normally have restaurants and activities booked ahead of time, this time for some reason I did not. Since nothing else was open, the only thing we looked forward to was visiting Good News Chapel on the Sunday. When we arrived, we were greeted at the door right away and were led to our seats. Although we were not in the main sanctuary, we were blown away with the service and were filled and encouraged! When we were in the car, I made a comment to my husband of how amazing it would be to have a church like this back home. He responded that maybe God would lead them to open one in Vancouver. We both giggled at that thought as it sounded absurd. Why would they suddenly want to plant a church five provinces away? Even if they did, how on earth were they going to find us? We flew back home the next day and life continued as usual. We have three little boys that keep us entertained to say the least. At this point, we did not have a church as most of them, if not all, were closed. We were part of a fellowship/ life group with two other families, who along with our kids, met weekly to study the Word, break bread, and enjoy fellowship together. They too were in the process of looking for a church. We all started watching different churches just to be able to find a home that we can call our own. Good News Chapel was always on my mind. I was praying and wishing that we would find a church like it. During this time, I was also in a women’s group that would meet weekly, most of them also looking for a church; a church that was open, Holy Ghost filled, led, and planted

firmly in the Word of God. I shared with the ladies in that group of our experience at Good News Chapel and encouraged them to pray that we would find a church like that here. I then began to feel led to contact GNC for a possible church plant, but I did not do it right away. I could not figure out why God would want me to do that, surely it was just my own thoughts playing tricks on me. I could not believe that God would ask me to contact, not just any church, but that specific church, considering I had just given my life to Jesus less than a year ago. I didn’t share any of this at the time with anyone, not even my husband, since I was fully convinced that there was no way this was from God. I was convinced that He would use someone more capable than me to do it. The leading got stronger during the beginning of 2021, but it was not until the end of January that I finally decided to do it. After discussing it with my husband (who thought I was out of my mind), he encouraged me to do what I was being led to do. In my mind, I was convinced this was not going to lead to anything but I wanted to do it so I could stop having this feeling in my spirit. I was very apprehensive, so I decided that instead of sending a formal email which church staff would see and probably laugh at, I sent Pastor Jessica an Instagram message thinking that it would go into her spam, and she would not see it. After I sent it, I remember immediately thinking “oh no what did I just do, she’s going to think I am insane and block me.” I remember that night praying and asking the Lord that if this was from Him and if He really did lead me to do this, He needed to guide me and lead me from here. If it wasn’t, I prayed He would make sure it disappears from her inbox. I figured if He could raise someone from the dead, then He can surely do this also.

Pastor Jessica replied two days later, the longest two days of my whole entire life. She said that if it was from God, then they are open to the idea and to contact Pastor Steve to discuss further. I could not believe what I was reading, “OPEN TO THE IDEA”?!?! I thought to myself she must be just as crazy as I was. Either way, I figured that I needed to contact Pastor Steve as it was too late to back out now. During our family Bible study the next day, I let the other two families (Domingo family and Miro Family) know of what I had done, expecting them to also think I was crazy, but they were so excited. We had been watching weekly and followed how GNC took a stand against the mandates against the Church. Together we agreed that if this was going to happen, we would plant it together. I probably wrote the email to Pastor Steve and deleted it so many times. I had no idea what to say. “Hi, my name is Sandra, I was saved a year ago, just started reading the Bible but would really like you to plant a church during a pandemic, 4,555.8 km away from you in Vancouver.” That doesn’t exactly sound like a great idea. I eventually sent the email, he replied the next day, and arranged a time to meet the following week on Zoom to discuss. At this point, being newly saved and oblivious to the process, I looked at this as if it was an interview. I went into panic mode, trying to watch videos and reading my Bible thinking he was going to ask me Biblical questions. Who in their right mind would want to plant a church with someone that just found out who Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were? I figured he was going to ask me theological questions and had notes and my Bible open when he called. Thankfully, he never asked me any of that, because as I understand now, having head knowledge is a good thing, but it is not what God looks for. He looks at the heart and our willingness to do what He is calling us to do. We had a great discussion! He made sure I was aware that planting a church that far away was never something he thought about, but if it was from the Lord then he would be open to the idea. He asked me to spend the next two weeks praying and he was going to do the same and allow God to speak to us and guide us as to what to do next. When I got off the call, I knew in my spirit this was from God, and all I had to pray for was for God to speak to everyone that would be involved in Montréal to make this happen. I knew that as bright as I thought I was, there was no way that I would orchestrate this all on my own. I let the other two families know and we agreed that the next meeting with Pastor Steve would be with all six of us, so he can meet everyone. Finally, in March we were able to get on a call all together, along with Pastor Steve, Pastor Oscar and Pastor Carlo as well as a few others. The meeting went great, everyone was so kind. It was still not finalized that we would officially be part of the Good News Chapel family, but we stayed in prayer anyways. Week after week, we would meet in our homes and although it would be through a screen, we would be filled and encouraged. There have been people who have accepted Jesus into their life through our meetings and their lives have not been the same ever since. From three families, we grew right away and have been growing since then. We have new families

join us weekly. On average with children, we have almost sixty to seventy people in attendance each week and the numbers keep growing. I really believe that the city of Surrey needs a life-giving church and that the people need the hope and healing that can only be found in Jesus. We are so blessed to be grafted into the Good News Chapel family and to help bring revival in our city. The importance of the Church in God’s mission cannot be overstated. It is the core to what Christ wants to accomplish both among believers and by believers in the world today. The Church is central to God’s Kingdom purposes. He established it to carry out His divine purposes. “And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” (Matthew 16:18) I really believe that God commissioned and orchestrated this whole thing, even from the very start of our trip. If we knew that Montreal was in lockdown, we may not have gone. If we never came, we would not have been able to visit Good News Chapel. Without visiting, the seed to plant one in British Columbia might not have happened. When we walk according to His will, everything flows together naturally. Since Good News Chapel Vancouver has been planted, everything has been flowing together with unity. I want to end this by encouraging you. If God has put something in your heart, don’t delay it. If He is calling you to serve at church, in a ministry, attend Bible School, start a business or anything else, just know that while we obey God’s revealed will, we can trust in God’s good providence. As His will unfolds, He is working all things together for the good of those who love Him (Rom. 8:28). Whatever our days may hold, we can trust that the specifics are designed by a loving God for the good of our souls.

So, seek to know God’s will. Be diligent in obeying it and remember that what is currently hidden will one day be revealed in glory. As you wait with steadfast hope for that day, thank the Lord that His will is always good.

TURNING BACK Melissa’s Testimony: God has had His hand on me for my entire life, even when I didn’t know it. Every road I took, every turn I made, He guided me. I learned lessons along the way, experienced hardships but He never let me go. But I didn’t know it. I struggled with abandonment issues, stress, and anxiety but He never let me go. He carried me and continued to guide me all the way until my 43rd year when He spoke to me and told me He loved me. And then I knew it. God’s plan went into action the day I met Mary Cutrona-Petrotta. I was introduced to her and everyone at the salon she was working at since I would be their new Avon Lady. After some time, I became her client and then her friend. I guess God knows I’m an Eastender at heart and wanted to put me in familiar territory so I would be open. He knew that Mary would be the right one to get the wheels in motion. I call her a ‘professional seed planter.’ I have sat in many hairdressers’ chairs but none like this one. Every haircut, I cried. Every color appointment, I cried. Not because of my color and cut (those were fabulous) but because of the discussions that Mary and I would have every single time. Now you’re probably thinking, ‘wow this Mary chick is rough, what’s her problem and why is she making you cry?’ But let me tell you this, she has been anointed and God has given her a Holy Ghost chair and chose her to get the ball rolling with me, as too much time had passed without me knowing Him.

When the pandemic started in early 2020, my husband Gaby needed a new hairdresser as his stopped working and Mary gladly took him on as her client. He too sat in that Holy Ghost chair and experienced the work of God through Mary. After several haircuts, Gaby was questioning his faith and everything that was going on in the world and knew there was more to it. Mary and her husband Tony invited us over to their home for dinner, along with their daughter Alessia and son-in-law Nineb. We had an incredible evening filled with prayer, laughs and good food. That night, Gaby declared his love for Christ and decided to make Him his Lord and Savior. I, on the other hand, did not. I was not in a good place mentally and was fighting the conviction of the Spirit. However, they invited us to Good News Chapel, and we accepted. That first Sunday service, I cried the entire time and tried to block out whatever the pastor was saying. (Sorry, Pastor Steve, lol). We decided to come back a week later and this was it! God gave me 43 years to come to Him and I didn’t listen, so now, He decided to come straight for me - full force! You see, the week prior, Evangelist TJ Malcangi preached, and he was so energetic I couldn’t help thinking, ‘wow this guy must drink some good coffee!’ But here we were, the second week visiting GNC, sitting in the second row, and here comes this TJ guy preaching again. I listened and fought back tears the entire time... and

that’s when the Lord used TJ to finally get me to drop everything and turn to Him. Out of the entire crowd, TJ singled me out and asked to pray for me. I said no, he smiled and didn’t take no for an answer as God commanded him to pray for me. As TJ laid his hands on me and prayed, God’s love for me became real and I wanted to love Him back. The things that TJ prayed for me were only things that God would know, no one else. I knew this was real. August 16th , 2021 is my one year anniversary of being saved and living a life for the Lord. On July 25, 2021, Gaby and I got baptized. I am forever grateful for God’s neverending love and persistence. I am grateful for the work He has done in my marriage and family. I am grateful to be on this journey with my incredible husband, Gaby. I am grateful for the friend and sister I have with the “seedplanting” Mary and her Holy Ghost chair. I am grateful for TJ who didn’t back down on that day and for his continued encouragement through his preaching. I am grateful for GNC, Pastor Steve, and all the wonderful brothers and sisters I now have. God is so good, and He continues to bless me daily. Happy 1 year Anniversary to me,

THERE’S NO TURNING BACK!

-Melissa Miglialo 13

K CK UC BU EB HE TH ““T E”” RE ER HE PSS H OP TO SST HAVE YOU EVER HEARD SOMEONE SAY “THE BUCK STOPS HERE”? — This phrase

was actually popularized by U.S. President Harry S. Truman, who kept a sign with that phrase on his desk in the Oval Office. It’s an expression which means that the responsibility for something cannot or should not be passed to someone else. I believe the Lord is raising up a group of people who have the attitude of “the buck stops here.” People who will be leaders in society and in their sphere of influence. People who have had enough of the devil’s nonsense and want to make sure they leave a mark on their generation and the next. If you’re still reading this article, I’m pretty sure this resonates with you and you are one of these people I’m referring to. Leaders are common people placed in extraordinary circumstances that force them to develop their potential, thus turning them into leaders. Every person has the God-given potential to become a leader, yet not all grow to their potential. What is the meaning of the word potential? Potential is what we are able to do but have yet to accomplish — it’s the place we can reach, but to which we have yet to arrive. It’s who we can become but have yet to be! Until we try to rise to higher levels, to see beyond, or to try something greater, we will never discover our potential. But potential has a principle — Matthew 13: 31-32: “The Kingdom of Heaven is like a mustard seed planted in a field. It is the smallest of all seeds, but it becomes the largest of garden plants; it grows into a tree, and birds come and make nests in its branches.”

RMNTMTL

THERE IS A POTENTIAL TREE IN EVERY SEED! The Bible also shows in Genesis 1:12 — “ The land produced vegetation—all sorts of seed-bearing plants, and trees with seed-bearing fruit. Their seeds produced plants and trees of the same kind. And God saw that it was good.” Every living thing created by God, including man, was blessed with potential! God deposited in us the ability to be much more than what we are at this moment; we posses hidden resources and abilities yet to be exploited. To become leaders, all of us must go through the same process to develop our potential. There is no growth without death.

1. THE BIRTH OF THE SEED: We must be born again. If a person does not have a true encounter with Jesus, it becomes impossible for their potential to rise to the surface. Jesus said: “Apart from me, you can do nothing.”

2. DEATH OF THE SEED

We must die to our personal ambitions to do the will of God(John 12: 24-16).

3. THE SEED GROWS

During this third stage of the process, God brings mentors, fathers and leaders to help us grow and develop the potential within us. There are always people that believe in us and who can see beyond what other people can see. They can visualize our potential and help us grow into it.

Thank God for being the source of our potential — John 15:5 says, “Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.” I’m convinced that as you continue to remain in the Lord and follow in His ways, He will raise you up and use you in ways you have never thought possible! Truly, The best is yet to come!

- Pastor Oscar Sosa

In August 2020, Good News Chapel launched its very own Bible School, Good News U! After a successful first year, GNU has now come back with its’ Year 2 program. Good News U was created to empower men and women to, ‘Build the Kingdom and Change the Nation.’ Student life consists of in-class teaching, chapel services, as well as the Ministerial Service Practicum, designed so that students receive hands-on experience in ministry within Good News Chapel. It’s been a great two semesters so far and we are excited and expectant to see these students building the Kingdom in this nation! If the Lord is calling you to be a part of His End Time harvesters, enroll today, it’s not too late!

tioning s ques a w I , r to ristian s eage ew Ch nd wa a Christ. fs in e li “As a n us be w walk io e v n e ot y r p m my out NU is n ore ab that G a e m o learn m eful to learn c t h to be ve in ra is g w s a o Iw wh ser r those who wish to yone only fo e n to an s e o p h o t r is o U r of o N t g s G pa try. ndin e minis tter understa ndational fulltim u e b ir fo g for a ify the walk lookin to solid eir spiritual d r o W h in t jo h is u r God’s o u y and no ecommend fs e li e b .Ir e Lord lo with th M ig li a !" y a d e li s s a o t M U N G

COURSE SCHEDULE TERM 3 Tuesdays 11:00am – 1:00pm - Minor Prophets Wednesdays: 11:00am – 2:00pm – Pentateuch Thursdays 11:00am – 1:00pm – Apologetics

TERM 4 Tuesdays 11:00am – 1:00pm – Epistles Part Two Wednesdays 11:00am – 2:00pm – Introduction to Church History Thursdays 11:00am – 1:00pm – Bible Finances Thursdays 2:00pm- 4:00pm – Soul Winning **Cou r se schedule is subject to ch ange* *

A PP LI CAT ION

Applicatio n a nd St udent Handbook a re a va i l a bl e f or dow nl oa d a t g o o d n e w s ch a p e l .o r g To apply for adm ission t o G o od New s U, the f ol l ow i ng pa perw ork m u s t b e completed and subm it t ed:

● ● ● ● ● ●

Application form Photograph $50.00 registration fee (not applied to the tuition amount) Proof of completion of secondary education (D.E.S) 1 Reference letter Honor code pledge form (found in student handbook)

All paperwork and the registration fee must be received by Good News U Administration before acceptance can be determined. Please submit all paper work to: Good News U 5845 Blvd. Couture S a i n t Le o n a r d , Q C H 1 P 1 A8

ALL APPLICATIONS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY

TOTAL TUITION: $ 1 1 5 0 To ta l tu ition m ust be paid prior to o r b y J anuary 18 th

ACADEMIC CALENDAR TERM 3 SPRING BREAK TERM 4

“As a Year 2 student, I can truly say that GNU is a wonderful place to train and equip try. anyone who desires to serve in the minis ased incre have taken I’ve es All the cours my knowledge of the Word and have to taught me principles that I will be able life, immediately apply in my own personal feel I try. minis in serve I ever as well as wher in my that GNU has taken me to a new level feel relationship with the Lord and I do not of my like the same person I was at the start ing training. Also, being a part of our soul winn to initiative where we saw 50 souls added g the kingdom in 4 weeks was a lifechangin e you experience! GNU is a Bible School wher If you feel loved, challenged, and empowered. , fill feel called into the ministry, don’t delay out an application today!” - Liz Gero nimo

FEBRUARY 1 –MARCH 24 MARCH 25 – APRIL 4 APRIL 5 – MAY 26

JANUARY 9TH, 2022

WEEKLY CHAPEL SERVICES TUESDAYS 10:00 AM TO 11:00 AM MINISTERIAL SERVICE PRACTICUM 4 HOURS A WEEK

VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE DETAILS www.goodnewschapel.org/good-news-u OR EMAIL US AT admin@goodnewsu.org

G NU MT L 15

T H E P RO P H E T I C W I ND OW WIT H PASTO R DAV I D C O LA N TO N I O

S I GN S W E W IL L SEE J U ST BE F O R E JE SU S R ET UR N S One of the questions that many Christians ask today is: “when is Jesus coming back?” This is probably due to the daily unexpected events that occur around the world. It is important to see these events through a Bible lens, because all that is happening in our days is the fulfillment of what is recorded in the Biblical over two thousand years ago.

This question was first asked by the disciples and is recorded in Matthew 24:1-14. They asked Jesus: 1. WHEN? — asking for precise and concrete answers 2. WHAT? — give us the exact details 3. WHAT WILL THE SIGN BE? — an alert call, a specific visible sign 4. WHEN WILL BE THE END? — the closure, summation of the age In a candid conversation with His disciples, Jesus listed the signs that will precede His coming. He took them on the Mount of Olives and answered their questions. There are at least 23 signs that will occur prior to Jesus’ Return. These 23 signs are recorded in the three Gospels:

• Matthew 24:1-14 • Mark 13:5-13 • Luke 21:8-19

If we look at our society’s behaviour and current world events, we will see Jesus’ prophecies being fulfilled before our eyes.

1. Worldwide religious deception (Matt. 24:4)

2. Deception in the Church, some will drift away (Matt. 24:5) 3. Wars, constant threat of war in the world (Matt. 24:6)

4. Rumors of wars (Matt 24:6) 5. Commotions/chaos (Luke 21:9) 6. Widespread terrorism (Luke 21:9) 7. Warring political system (Matt 24:7) 8. Clash of culture (Matt 24:7) 9. Ethnic/religious groups conflict/racism (Matt 24:7)

10. Famines, scarcity, economic woes, pestilence/disease (Matt 24:7) 11. Economic instability, massive national debts (Matt 24:7) 12. Pestilences (Matt 24:7) 13. Emergence of unknown disease worldwide (Matt 24:7) --- e.g., Covid-19 14. Great cosmic activities, catastrophic events (Matt 24:7)

15. Widespread persecution in Asia, Africa, and Middle East (Matt 14:9) 16. Legal persecution of Christians (Matt 24:9)

17. Imprisonment of believers (Matt 24:9) – 215 million Christians are persecuted

18. Emergence of false prophets, teachers (Matt 24:11)

19. Love of many waxing cold/lukewarm (Matt 24:12)

20. Fearful sights (Luke 21:11) 21. Signs in the heavens, mega storms (Luke 21:11)

22. Worldwide preaching of the Gospel

(Matt 24:14)These signs that Jesus spoke about

are God’s last call to humanity. It is His last reminder that His Word is True and all that is recorded in His Word will be fulfilled as it is written, just as the past hundreds of prophecies were fulfilled.

23. The apostasy, Christians turning away from the Truth

(1 Tim 4:1-2; 2 Tim 3:1-7; 2 Thess 2:3) The apostle Paul cautions the Church, the Body of Christ, concerning the signs that are evident prior to Jesus’ Return. 1 Timothy 4:1-2 “Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons, speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron.” These people have some knowledge of the Word, had some faith, are attending churches but are drifting away into a state of lukewarmness and indifference. 2 Timothy 3:1-7 “But know this, that in the last days ]perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, [b]unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away! For of this sort are those who creep into households and make captives of gullible women loaded down with sins, led away by various lusts, always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.”

TWO WORDS IN THESE VERSES CAUGHT MY ATTENTION, THEY ARE: 1. “Perilous times will come”: this

word ‘perilous’ appears only two times in the New Testament. The word is used to denote hurtful, harsh, cruel, ruthless, cutting, wounding, hard to bare. This indicates how difficult the days before Jesus’ return will be. 2 Thessalonians 2:3 – a falling away from the faith is happening “Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day (Jesus’ return) will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition.”

2. Lovers of themselves: “for men and women will be lovers of themselves…” Have you ever considered the millions of ‘selfies’ that are taken every day in the world? Every day, men and women seem to forget themselves, so they need to take ‘selfies’ to remind themselves of how good they look. In conclusion, we have observed that the Return of Jesus is preceded by the listed twenty-three signs. We are living in a generation that faces threats that no other generation has ever known, and we are also blessed to see the fulfillment of Bible prophecy. The Holy Spirit has graciously warned us two thousand years ago that the world would become a dangerous place at the end of the age. All these signs were never intended to scare us, but it is the Lord’s warning to His Church to be ready at ALL TIMES because the heavenly Shofar/Trumpet could sound at any moment.

Wings EATS

Angel Wing Cookies

Submitted by Teresa Del Rosso Ingredients: ◆ 3 large eggs ◆ ½ cup marsala wine, rum or Madeira ◆ 1 tbsp melted butter ◆ ½ tsp salt ◆ ½ cup powdered sugar, divided in half ◆ 2 ¾ cups flour ◆ 2 cups canola oil

Directions: In a bowl, whisk first 4 ingredients and ¼ cup sugar. Stir in flour until firm dough forms. On floured surface, knead dough for 2 minutes, adding more flour if too sticky. Divide dough in half. Roll out each dough to 1/8-inch-thick rectangle; cut each into 2-inch diamonds. Cut slit in center of each diamond; pull one point of dough through slits. In a deep saucepot or fryer, heat oil to 375°F. Fry dough in batches for one minute or until golden, turning twice. Dust warm cookies with remaining sugar. Optional: Boil honey, corn syrup and juice of one lemon together. Dip cookies in mixture then sprinkle with chopped nuts.

Wings EATS

Chicken Stew with Tomatoes and Escarole Submitted by Jo Fiorenza Ingredients: ◆ 8 boneless skinless chicken thighs ◆ 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil ◆ 1 onion, chopped ◆ 4 cloves of garlic, minced ◆ 1 tbsp tomato paste ◆ ½ cup red wine ◆ 1 (15oz) can cannellini or navy beans, rinsed and drained ◆ 1 (14oz) can diced tomatoes ◆ 2 cups chicken broth ◆ 1 tsp mixed Italian herbs (dried) ◆ 1 head escarole (about 1 pound), coarsely chopped ◆ 1/3 cup grated pecorino cheese ◆ Salt and pepper to taste ◆ Pinch red pepper flakes

Directions: Preheat oven to 425° F. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat the oil in a large deep ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Lay the chicken in the skillet and brown in batches if necessary, over medium-high heat about 3 minutes per side. Transfer the chicken to a platter. Reduce the heat to medium, add the onion, and cook until slightly soft, about 6 minutes. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes and continue cooking for about one minute. Stir in the tomato paste and cook until brick red, about one minute. Add the wine and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits that cling to the pan. Add the beans, tomatoes, chicken broth and Italian herbs and bring to a boil. Return the chicken along with any collected juices to the pan. Transfer to the oven and bake uncovered until the chicken is cooked through, tender, and lightly browned, about twenty minutes. Transfer the chicken to a platter. Return the pan to the stovetop over medium heat, stir in the escarole and cook until the greens wilt, about four minutes. Stir in the cheese and season with salt and pepper, to taste. Divide the chicken among 4 plates. Spoon the sauce and escarole mixture over the chicken and serve. Serves 4.

Wings EATS

Boston Cream Torte Submitted Carla Cardinale Ingredients: ◆ 2 packages (4 serving size) Jell-O Banana Cream or Vanilla flavor instant pudding mix ◆ 3 ½ cups milk ◆ 2 baked 8-inch French vanilla or yellow cake layers, cooled ◆ 1 square Baker’s unsweetened chocolate ◆ 1 tbsp unsalted butter ◆ ¾ cup icing sugar ◆ 1 ½ tbsp hot milk ◆ A pinch of salt

Directions: Combine pudding mix and milk in saucepan and blend well. Cook and stir over medium heat until mixture comes to a full boil. Cover with plastic wrap and chill. Split cake layers in half horizontally to make 4 thin layers. Beat pudding till creamy and spreadable. Spread pudding in between each layer and stack. Melt chocolate and butter in small saucepan over very low heat, stirring constantly. Combine sugar, hot milk and salt in bowl. Add chocolate. Beat until smooth. Spread over the top of cake and chill. Store cake in refrigerator.

Wings EATS

Whitefish Filet with Coconut Milk Submitted by Cristina Vargas

Ingredients: ◆ 2 white fish filets of any kind (preferably thin) ◆ 1 clove of garlic, minced ◆ 2 tbsp butter ◆ 1 can of good quality coconut milk ◆ 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil ◆ Salt and pepper to taste ◆ Chopped parsley for garnish

Directions:

Ciambotta

Season the filets with salt and pepper and let them rest. Heat up a non-stick pan to medium-high heat. Melt butter with olive oil to prevent butter from burning. Add the fish filets to the pan and let them cook for 2 minutes on each side (use a fish spatula to turn filets). Pour coconut milk over the fish and let boil softly until the coconut milk reduces to half or gets thicker and creamy. Spread chopped parsley to garnish. Serve with vegetables of your preference. Serves 2.

Submitted by Pina Rinaldi Ingredients: ◆ 3 bell peppers (red, orange, or yellow), cut into 1 inch pieces ◆ 3 zucchinis, cut into ¾ - 1-inch chunks ◆ 3 medium size eggplants, cut into 1-inch chunks ◆ 1 onion, diced ◆ 2-3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil ◆ 1 can (500 ml) tomatoes ◆ 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped ◆ ½ tsp dried oregano ◆ Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions: Heat olive oil and sauté the vegetables until tender. Add fresh basil, salt and pepper, and dried oregano. Add the can of tomatoes; crush if they are whole. Cover and simmer about twenty to twenty-five minutes in a deep frying pan or Dutch oven. Serve. Enjoy with fresh, crusty bread.

Optional: Make three to four wells in mixture and add an egg in each well. Cover and cook for an additional ten minutes.

SEBASTIAN LONDOÑO'S TESTIMONY Growing up I always believed that there was a God, but I never truly made the effort to seek Him out. My childhood was difficult as my father left Colombia when I was four years old to come live in Canada. My parents were not married and with him leaving at such a young age, I didn’t grow up with a close family; I never truly experienced what a real home and family felt like When I was a teenager, I turned to alcohol and got myself into debt. But when I met God, everything changed for me. He provided and opened the way for me to have a good and blessed life. I must admit that when I first got saved and started attending Good News Chapel, I couldn’t wrap my head around a God who loved me and that would forgive all the sins of my past. Because I never had a good relationship with my earthly father growing up, it took time for me to truly understand that as a son of God, He wants the best for me. Fast forward and Evelina and I were seeing each other for a while when we began our 21-day praying and fasting time at church. Evelina and I decided that we would both pray and fast for our relationship. We wanted to make sure that God wanted us to be together. The Lord confirmed for us with sign after sign that we should get married. God even gave me the date for our wedding! From the proposal to the honeymoon, God opened every door and sent blessing after blessing. I was a bit nervous about how we would be able to pay for everything, but God covered every detail. The Lord performed miracle after miracle for us to have the perfect wedding. During the wedding preparation, I was also meeting with an Emploi Québec worker because I wanted to enlist in a trade course. I expressed to the worker in charge of my file that I was interested in taking a course in mechanics, more specifically truck mechanics. She told me that it was not on the list and to contact her after my honeymoon. I knew that God would make a way for me, so I prayed specifically for God to open doors for me. When I got back from my honeymoon, the worker called in shock. She said that Emploi Québec had updated the course list (which never happened that time of year) and had added one course to the list: truck mechanic. I told her that I prayed for God to open the doors for me, and He did. Because of this miracle, she was open to have me pray for her. She had expressed to me that it had been two years that she was looking for a new job closer to home but was unsuccessful. I told her I would pray for her. Sometime later, she told me that a new job for her opened closer to home. She was now open to hearing about God!

When I finished my paid trade courses, I prayed that I would get a job right away. I now had a family to provide for. I was up for a job interview, but the job was Tuesday to Saturday in the evenings. I told them that the job wouldn’t work for me as it would interfere with church. The man said I should really get my priorities in order if I wanted to get a job. Believe it or not, a few days later, I recieved a call for another interview, they offered me a Monday to Friday daytime job. He then asked if I had all the tools required for the job. I admitted that I was just starting out and did not. He then offered to provide all the tools necessary. Because I did not want to compromise and believed God for the right job, I now was being offered a job with a better salary, better schedule and all my tools provided for me! Praise God! Also, my paid courses were ending on Friday and this new job would start right away on Monday, so I never missed out on one pay! Now that I had a beautiful family and job, I felt in my heart it was time to bring my son from Colombia to come live with me here in Canada. My wife and I prayed about it, and we knew it would be the best thing for him. While it only takes a few months to get the documents he needed to come here, it seemed like we kept hitting roadblocks that kept prolonging the process. The enemy really tried to discourage us and to make us doubt that this was not the step God wanted us to take for our family. We prayed and we fasted, believing God for a miracle. Soon after, the doors began to open, and we were able to bring my son over from Colombia to live with us. God also provided us with the perfect new home for our family. During the past two years, the house market was a bit tricky because of Covid. However, we were able to buy the perfect house, that had all the details that we only dreamed of and didn’t think we could ever get. My hope with sharing these testimonies is that it would encourage you all to realize that God is our Father who truly loves us. He is our Provider, who wants to bless you. You just need to have faith and ask!

ALLNEW GNC APP. COMING JANUARY 2022

G N CY

G REAT TH I NGS ARE HAPP E N I NG AT G NCY There is no doubt that this past year has been a challenging one for everyone. It’s gone from ‘two weeks to flatten the curve’ to almost two years of masks, shut downs, social distancing and more. During this time, many churches permanently closed their doors, youth groups scattered, and many young people lost hope. Here at Good News Chapel, we made it a point to never stop preaching the powerful, life changing Word of God. Whether it be by using technology or in-person meetings, we made it a point to never stop moving forward. A world that is full of fear needs a Church that is fearless. We did everything within our power to keep our youth connected and engaged through this time. Whether it be lockdowns or other restrictions, we overcame them and pulled through because our foundation is built on solid ground. Our foundation is built on non other than Jesus Christ. Everything we do and teach at GNCY is Christ focused. Because we kept our youth connected over the past year, we’ve seen growth in the past few months and we are happy to see more and more young people hungry to know more about Jesus.

we will keep growing. Our youth cannot stay isolated from each other, they need to see other young people. They also need to have a strong relationship with jesus and this is why our mission at GNCY is to equip them with Spirit-filled bible teaching so that they can live a faith filled life. The Bible says in Galatians 6:9, “SO LET’S NOT GET TIRED OF DOING WHAT IS GOOD. AT JUST THE RIGHT TIME WE WILL REAP A HARVEST OF BLESSING IF WE DON’T GIVE UP." The key is to never give up. No matter how challenging a situation can be, you can always pull through because the Bible says that greater is He that is in you then he that is in the world (1 John 4:4). You are more than a conqueror and God has a great plan for your life. He wants to use you in ways you never thought possible. Stay close to Him and never give up! -Pastor Carlo Gurciullo

We’ve been almost 40 youth on friday nights for the past little while, with new faces coming in every week. I know that with hard work and dedication,

Joi n us Fri days at 7:30pm

IN WE’VE READ S FOR US! AS G IN H , T T ES V EA R G US, LO NE SO MANY SINS, HEALS R U O EN IV GOD HAS DO D G N FOR ULD PR AISE A HE LORD HAS THAT WE SHO D PSALM 103, T EA R O LS A RD WITH ALL S US! WE BLESS THE LO LD U O RE AND REWARD SH E W ING! THERE A LL THE TIME. IM IS BY SING H SS LE THANK HIM A L B FU N Y A C JO ONE WAY WE S TO MAKE A OUR HEART. THAT TELLS U LE HOW IB T B U E O H B T SES IN E SING A W EN H W ). SO MANY VER :1 100 US, WE AS DONE FOR E LORD (PSALM H H T E H O T LL E A IS R O N HIM FO MAKE THIS A AND THANK VE HIM. LET’S LO E GREAT GOD IS W H C U VOURITE G HIM HOW M SING YOUR FA D N A ES ARE SHOWIN T U IN LE HEART! DAY, TAKE 2 M H YOUR WHO HABIT! EVERY IT W IM H SS AND BLE PR AISE SONG

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AC T S AF TER TH E AC T S

†

THIRD INSTALLMENT

AC T S AF TER THE AC T S: THE AP O STOLIC AGE PART T WO (4 8 -100 A .D.)

In my previous article, we embarked upon our journey to explore the Church’s history. In the first installment, we began to explore the Church’s first period which is known as the Apostolic Age, which lasts roughly seventy years. This era begins with the birth of the Church on the Day of Pentecost, roughly in the year 30 A.D. We then explored the first few decades of Church history which saw the commencement of the ministry of the apostles, evangelism, the first waves of persecution and internal disputes regarding the conversion of Gentiles. We ended the last article with the major event which splits this era into two: The Council of Jerusalem in 50 A.D. To recap, major disputes were occurring within the Church because many felt that any Gentile who received salvation, must also abide by Jewish customs and laws such as following the Kosher diet as well as being circumcised. After arguments from Paul, Barnabas, Peter, and James, the final decision was that the Gospel should be preached freely to the Gentiles, and that no Jewish laws or customs would be imposed on them except that they “abstain from things sacrificed to idols and from blood and from things strangled and from fornication” (Acts 15:28-29). This event is extremely important because it allowed for an explosive expansion of the Church. From henceforth, no one had to be uprooted from their own culture to receive Jesus and the transition from a Jewish Christian church to a church for people of every race and land was complete LET’S REMEMBER, THE APOSTOLIC AGE CAN BE . SUBCATEGORIZED INTO FOUR ERAS: THE PENTECOSTAL CHURCH:

30-35 AD THE EXPANDING CHURCH:

35-48 AD THE CHURCH AMONG THE GENTILES:

48-68 AD THE AGE OF SHADOWS:

68-100 AD

We now begin the second half of the Apostolic Age, spanning roughly from the years 50 A.D. to approximately the close of the first century. Paul’s Mi s sionary Jo urne y s

Because of the verdict at the Council of Jerusalem, the Gospel would now reach the entire Roman Empire. The next decade of the Church’s story largely centers on the ministry of Paul, although Peter, James and John are still key figures within the Church. Shortly after the Council of Jerusalem, Paul and Silas embark on a second missionary journey, which takes them across Asia Minor and to certain areas of Greece. Paul’s second missionary journey lasts for approximately three years and is recorded in Acts chapters 16 to 18. It is on this journey, that Paul and Silas encounter Timothy and take him under their wing. It is also believed that it is during this period that Paul wrote the letters of First and Second Thessalonians, to encourage them as they were experiencing persecution. From approximately 53 to 57 A.D., Paul begins this third missionary journey, spending time visiting the churches he had planted during his first two journeys. His experiences during these years are recorded in the book of Acts chapters 18 to 21. During this missionary journey, Paul wrote the letters of First and Second Corinthians, addressing false doctrines that were being taught there and to deal with specific concerns that were brought to his attention. After many years of evangelizing and opposition from Jewish religious leaders, Paul was placed on house arrest in Rome in around 60 A.D. Nevertheless, while being imprisoned for two years, Paul composed what is known as the ‘Prison Epistles’ which are Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians and Philemon. The Fire of R ome

In the year 64 A.D., a large portion of the city of Rome was destroyed by a great fire. There is still uncertainty about how the fire started, however rumors circulated at the time that Emperor Nero began the fire himself. Nero needed a scapegoat to squash these rumors and so, he declared that it was the Christians who set fire to the city. Christianity, to the Romans at the time, was still a rather obscure religious sect. To appease the masses, Nero ordered the torture and execution of thousands of Christians; some being fed to the lions during the games at the great amphitheatres of Rome, others being burned alive as human torches or others by crucifixion. Tradition holds that it is during this wave of persecution in Rome, that Peter and Paul were martyred, Peter by crucifixion and Paul by beheading.

The A ge of Shad ow s

After the martyrdom of Peter and Paul, we begin the last stage of the Apostolic Age called ‘the Age of Shadows.’ It is given this name because it is the period of the Church’s history that we know the least about and because of the gloom of persecution. We no longer have any records, such as those found in the Book of Acts to guide us. Also, there is not much mention of Paul’s companions such as Timothy and Titus after the death of Paul. The next major event during this era is the fall of Jerusalem and the destruction of the Temple. In the year 66, the Jews broke out in rebellion against Rome. In retaliation, in April 70 A.D., Titus, the son of Emperor Vespasian, laid siege to the city of Jerusalem. Five months later, the city was besieged, and the Temple destroyed. Thousands of Jews were killed, and thousands more were enslaved. You may wonder, “what does this have to do with the Church?” Well, it plays a significant role in Judeo-Christian relations. The destruction of the Temple caused a stark division between Jews and Christians, especially Jewish Christians. The Temple played a huge part in Jewish life; it is where sacrifices were made, it was the center of Jewish feasts and celebrations, and it also was a meeting place for teaching and fellowship. It now was destroyed. Jews now had to shift into preservation and modification mode, since the sacrificial system now had come to an end. There are also suggestions that Jews who survived felt betrayed by Jewish Christians who did not come to their aid and therefore, Jewish Christians were no longer welcome in the synagogues. There are also some who suggest that Christians attempted to distance themselves from the Jews during this time because they did not want to be associated with the Jewish rebels in the eyes of the Romans. This event was very significant for the Christian because it was a clear fulfillment of Jesus’ prophecy. In Mark 13:2, Jesus prophesied, “Do you see these great buildings? Not one stone shall be left upon another, that shall not be thrown down (NKJV).” The building He was referring to was the Temple, and it truly came to pass, that the Temple was completely destroyed, just as Jesus had said. This would build up their faith that whatever Jesus had proclaimed during His earthly ministry was true.

and grew. The believers exercised the Great Commission that Jesus had given His disciples to “go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone” (Mark 16:15). I believe that sometimes, we as Christians in the twenty first century, take for granted the efforts and work of the believers of the first century. We owe a great debt to those faithful men and women who obeyed and served the Lord, even at times to the point of death. My desire is that as we study the Church’s story, you recognize the mighty things God can do on this earth with people who are truly surrendered to Him. If only a handful of people could turn the world upside down in seventy years, God can still to do it today!

‘Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.” Hebrews 10:23 Look out for our next issue, as we begin to explore the next stage of Church, ‘The Persecuted Church.” SOURCES: Hurlbut, Jesse L. The Story of the Christian Church. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1970. “The Apostolic Age.” Grace Notes. 2017. https://www2.gracenotes.info/topics/apostolic-age.html. “The Apostolic Age: The Birth of the Church.” LPI. Feb 8 2021. https://uploads.weconnect.com/ ChurchHistory/PART%201%20THE%20APOSTOLIC%20AGE.pdf “A Breakdown of Paul’s Missionary Journeys.” Bethany Global University. Accessed Oct 14 2021. https:// bethanygu.edu/news/missionary-journey/.

In the year 90, the cruel emperor Domitian began a second imperial persecution of Christians, thousands martyred especially in Italy. At this point, John, the last of the apostles, was imprisoned on the island of Patmos. There, he received a vision and composed the Book of Revelation, one of the last New Testament books to be written. It is also during this period that the books of Hebrews, 1-3 John, John and Jude were written. During this time, most of the New Testament books were in circulation and being used throughout the churches. The end of the Apostolic Age is marked with the death of John around the year 100. As we have seen, the Apostolic Age, although only spanning approximately seventy years, was a time of exponential growth for the Church. From one hundred and twenty Jews in the Upper Room on the Day of Pentecost, the Church now spread across the then known world and consisted of not only Jews who recognized their Messiah but to a Church of all races and tongues. Although this period saw waves of great persecution, the Church endured

Bless The Lord 7 DAYS OF PRAISE INITIATIVE As we’ve seen throughout this magazine, we are to bless the Lord at all times! There are so many stories in the Bible that show the power as well as the benefits of praise. Join us on our ‘7 Days of Praise’ initiative! Each day, you will be assigned one psalm to read as well as an action and prayer point connected to it. Let us practically apply what we read in the Word and see the power and benefits associated with our praise!

DAY 1

Reading: Psalm 103 Action: Take 5 minutes and thank God out loud for your salvation. Thank Him for sending Jesus and for the benefits you have by being His child. Be specific. Prayer Point: “Thank you Father for the abundant blessings You have poured out in my life. Open my eyes to recognize all the good things You fill my life with. Father, renew the joy of my salvation today as I praise You!”

DAY 2

Reading: Psalm 98 Action: Journal about one battle you have overcome in your life because of God’s mighty arm. Prayer Point: “Father, (name one hurdle in your life at present). Your Word declares that Your right hand has won a mighty victory and Your holy arm has shown Your saving power! I claim the victory I have through Jesus’ finished work on the Cross over this situation. I bind the work of the enemy that is trying to bring discouragement and destruction in my life. I will see Your deliverance and victory in this situation!”

DAY 3

Reading: Psalm 100 Action: Start or end your day by singing (out loud!) your favourite praise song. Prayer Point: “Father, as I (begin/end) my day with praise, fill me now with Your joy unspeakable and full of glory! I thank You that You made me, that I now belong to You. Use me to bring this hope and joy to those around me!”

DAY 4

Reading: Psalm 34 Action: Call one person who you know is going through a difficult time and encourage them with the testimony you journaled about on Day 2. Prayer Point: “Father, I thank You that You have delivered me and protected me. As I call someone today, anoint my lips to speak encouragement and life into (person’s name). Give me the right words to say and help me to be sensitive to Your Spirit’s leading.”

DAY 5

Reading: Psalm 24 Action: Take a few minutes for introspection. Search your heart and ask the Lord what you need to remove from your life that does not please Him. Prayer Point: “Father, Your Word says that Your people are to have clean hands and a pure heart. I desire to enter Your presence daily and live a life that is pleasing to You. Father, refine me and purify me by Your Holy Spirit. Reveal to me the things in my life that need to change. I want my life to be an example of Your glory and goodness!”

DAY 6:

Reading: Psalm 9 Action: Share a verse that stuck out to you from this psalm on your social media. Prayer Point: “Father, Your Word says that You maintain the cause of the just and you judge the wicked. Today, I lift the nation of Canada to You. Father, uproot the schemes of the wicked. In the authority given to me by Jesus, I bind every stronghold of darkness in this nation; they will be brought down in the Name of Jesus. May the righteous and just in this nation rise up and be given prominence, influence and favor!”

DAY 7

Reading: Psalm 136 Action: Re-write the psalm to make it personal to you: Write down five things God has done in your life that you are thankful for, followed by “His love endures forever,’ and put it somewhere you will see it every day. Prayer Point: “Father, there is so much in my life to be thankful for. I know that Your love, goodness and faithfulness towards me endures forever. I thank You in advance for everything You will continue to do for me. (List one need). I know that I will see Your goodness in this area very soon, in the Name of Jesus.”

If you join us on this initiative, please share it with us on social media! Tag Good News Chapel and include #GNN7DaysofPraise. 28

Exceedingly, Abundantly, More!!

Over the past 18 months, we have been faced with so many mandates, the latest one being the vaccine mandate. We’ve seen health care workers, public services workers, government workers and other employers begin to mandate the vaccine as a condition of employment. I saw all this transpiring before my eyes, but never did I imagine that my position in an accounting firm would be threatened by these vaccine mandates. When the vaccine mandate hit my firm, I had only been with the company for 4 months. The probation period in this firm is 6 months long. Immediately I thought that since I was still under the probation period, that I was going to be fired. I mean why would the company fight to keep me or go through the headache of reworking anything for an employee who is still under probation? On top of the fact that I was still on probation, everyone in my office was indeed vaccinated. How do I know? Because that’s all anyone could ever talk about: what type of vaccine they got, when their vaccination appointments were, and they were VERY vocal about what they thought about the unvaccinated. I had one co-worker actually say to me, “is it unfair that the unvaccinated are facing unemployment? Maybe, but you know what, it is what it is.” That’s what I was to them, just collateral damage in an unfortunate situation, but no one really cared. I felt utterly and completely alone, and I would be lying if I said that I did not cry when I received the mandate. People were giving me advice, suggesting that I band together with other employees in my firm to stand against the mandates, but it was just little old me against this firm’s mandates and everyone in my office. Now naturally what I could have done was panic, but instead I remembered to whom I belonged to. I remembered who I am. I am the child of the One True King. I remembered that I belonged to a God that can do exceedingly, abundantly more than we could ever ask, think, or imagine. The company had given me until October 1st to be fully vaccinated or I would be breaching my employment contract and would be terminated. But as God’s child, I have learned to walk by faith and not by sight. So, I began to speak life over my situation. I began to declare that even though I was still under probation, God would make a way where there seemed to be no way. I commanded the mountain to be moved in Jesus’ Name. I understood that as a child of God, I had been given the authority to do greater works. Because I believed, I knew that I could come to His throne boldly to ask what I needed in the name of Jesus, and it would be granted for me. So, I prayed the Word in full faith, believing that it was done, knowing that His Word never returns void.

In the following weeks, I applied for a religious accommodation with just the expectation that I would be able to keep my job and undergo rapid antigen testing 3 times a week to be physically in the office 5 days a week. But like I said, we serve a God that can do exceedingly, abundantly, more than we could ever ask, think, or imagine. Not only did my application for a religious exemption get approved, but I was also given a CHOICE about what I wanted to do with my job. My boss came to me and asked me, whether I wanted to remain in the office and undergo the rapid testing or if I wanted to be reallocated at home in a HIGHER POSTION. That’s right, the Lord not only opened a way for me to choose what I wanted to do, but He gave me a promotion as well! But wait it gets even better! The Lord knows how much I enjoy being in the office around the hustle and bustle, so in this new position I am still able to go into the office whenever I want to, and I also get to choose whichever office I want to work out of. My home office is a 30-minute drive from my house, however if I felt inclined to work in an office, I could go into another office that is only a 10-minute drive from my house. Talk about a promotion! The Bible says that when there is a casting down, there is a lifting up and I witnessed that firsthand. God is amazing and He is a Good Father! I encourage you to look past your circumstances, to look past the situation at hand, and direct your eyes to the One who can do all things. For if He was able to do it for me, He is surely willing and able to do it for you too!

Bethaly Miro GNC Vancouver IF YOU HAVE A TESTIMONY YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE IN OUR NEXT ISSUE, EMAIL US AT GNN@GOODNEWSCHAPEL.ORG

YOU GOTTA READ THIS! Our h ope h ere at GNN is that anyone who picks up a copy of this magazine, would be exposed to the light and hope of the Gospel of Jesus Christ . As you’ ve read believers’ testimonies, devotions and other ar ticles, we pray that we have shown God’s love, faithfulness and power. God is real and He is working in the lives of those who call upon Him. The Bible tells us that “God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, so that ever yone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16). Because ever yone has sinned and has fallen shor t of God’s glorious standard (Romans 3:23), God showed His great love for us by sending Christ to die for our forgiveness while we were still sinners (Romans 5:8). Through God’s free gift of salvation, we are made new, filled and empowered with His Holy Spirit , and have inherited eternal life in Heaven with Him. Life will never be the same again! Jesus came to ear th so that we may have and enjoy life more abundantly (John 10:10). The Bible says in Romans 10:9 that “if you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your hear t that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” If you have never made a decision to make Jesus Christ your Lord and Saviour, and want to make your life right with God, pray this prayer out loud:

Heavenly Father, I thank you for Jesus, He is the answer I am looking for. Jesus come into my heart today, I surrender my life to you. I admit that I am a sinner, forgive me of my sins. I believe that Jesus is the Son of God and gave His life on the cross for my forgiveness. Make me whole and new. I confess You to be my Lord and my Saviour. Help me to live for You all the days of my life. Fill and lead me by Your Spirit. Thank you for this new life and for saving me. This I pray in Jesus’ Name, Amen

Hallelujah, you are n ow a child of God! You have ma de th e best decision of your life! You now belong to Christ and have become a new person. Your old life is gone; and a new life has begun! (II Corinthians 5:17)

I F YO U ’ VE PRAYED T H IS PRAYER, WE WO U LD LOVE TO SEND YO U A FREE G I F T TO G ET YOU STA RT ED WI T H YO U R NEW LI FE! Pl ea se fe e l f re e to co n ta c t u s a t i n fo @ g o o dn ewsch a p e l .org OR Vi si t o ur we b si te a t g o o dn ewsch a p e l .o rg cl i ck ' G OT SAVE D'

! LUKE 1 9 COST : 1 NY

L E OST A H T E V T A A S

EVANGELIST TJ MALCANGI

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