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Spring 2019 Plan of Salvation:
John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever shall believe in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. Romans 10:9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
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What is Good Friday? Good Friday is a holiday celebrated by the Christian Church in commemoration of the day Jesus died on a cross. Christians believe that the death of Jesus as a willing sacrifice paid the penalty for the sinfulness of humanity. As a result, we can receive forgiveness today. Christians around the world consider Jesus to have been God in the flesh—the second member of the Trinity. (The Trinity is the understanding that God is one in essence but exists with three centers of
personhood.) Seeing the hopeless and sinful condition of humanity, he chose to enter into Creation in the form of the man, Jesus Christ.
threatened by Jesus’ rising popularity) conspired against him. The Bible describes how they paid people to give false accusations against Jesus, implying that Jesus was rebelling against the Roman authorities that Arriving as a baby born to a were ruling over Israel at the virgin named Mary, Jesus grew time. up among us. At about the age of 30, Jesus began his public Jesus was subsequently arrestministry of teaching, healing, ed, put on trial, and sentenced and proclaiming the Kingdom to execution by crucifixion. Afof Heaven. ter verifying that he was dead Three years later, the Jewish religious leaders (who felt
by thrusting a sword through his side, the Romans allowed the body to be taken down and cont’d next page see Good Friday
The Significance & Historical Facts of Easter The biggest celebration within Christianity may be Christmas, but the most important celebration is Easter. The entire basis for the Christian faith is based on the events that occurred on the first Easter weekend. While Christmas is about how Jesus came to earth as a baby, Easter is about the reason he came. Christians believe the whole reason he came was to die and to rise again. Most historians agree on these facts, which are the foundational events of Christianity:
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Jesus Christ was executed by crucifix-
ion on the Friday during the Jewish Passo- These disciples (and others) went to their deaths—some through torture— ver. maintaining that their claims of seeing a • He was buried in a tomb owned by resurrected Jesus were true. Joseph of Arimathea.
•
Guards were posted to keep watch over the tomb.
Those are the historical facts. The significance is found in the interpretation of those facts. Christians maintain that the • On the third day, the tomb was found tomb was empty and that there were to be empty. His body could not be found, post-crucifixion sightings of Jesus because nor could the Roman or Jewish authoriJesus had physically risen from the dead. ties explain what had happened to it. This, combined with the apparent fulfillment of centuries-old prophecies con• Over the next forty days, his disciples tained in the Jewish Scriptures, firmly plus hundreds of other people claimed to established the belief that Jesus was God have seen Jesus, spoken with him, eaten in the flesh and that he had power and with him, and listened to his teachings. authority over life and death.
Continued on next page see Easter
The Christian message is often referred to as the "Gospel," which means "good news." Specifically, it is the good news about Jesus—who He is, what He has done, and what He offers. Essentially, the message is that Jesus was God in the flesh, that He came into the world to reconcile humanity to Himself, and that his salvation is freely offered to each person who will respond in faith. The Gospel message explains that salvation is only possible through the Crucifixion and Resurrection of Jesus. Through his sacrifice, Jesus paid the price for our sinfulness (rebellion against God), thus offering us forgiveness. Then through his Resurrection He conquered death, removing it as the penalty for our sin and replacing it with the offer of eternal life that is only available from Him to all those that place their faith in Him.
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The Prayer Triangle in Witnessing By Rev. John B. Sorensen
our neighbors about the Good News of Jesus Christ and reap Good News Press is a Christian outreach eternal rewards. publication in the San Francisco Bay Area. Good News Press This popular high-quality, newspaper, inbelieves that this forms and inspires believers, as well as commission begins plant seeds into the hearts of men and in our own backwomen. yards. There are Good News Press covers world, national, more than 7 Miland local religious news and events, and lion people in the Bay Area. We want to features inspiring Christian articles and inshare the good news, and bring to them the sights. It is available, both digitally online love of Jesus Christ. and in full-color printed format. • Urgency… We believe that these are the Christian newspapers reach a targeted audi- end times and that Jesus Christ is soon to ence-specifically a family oriented, audireturn. ence, with strong loyalties and convictions. Go to our website to find out how to supWhy Support Good News Press port Good News Press at • Fulfill the Great Commission! Help us tell www.goodnewspress.us
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Good Friday Continued from Page 1 down and buried in a tomb belonging to Joseph of Arimathea. Guards were stationed to watch over the tomb to ensure that no one, especially the disciples, tried to do anything to the body.
forgiveness to all of humanity for its sinful rebellion against him. But his justice demanded that wrongs be punished, and the punishment for rebellion against God is death. So the solution was for God to become a man and pay the penalty in our place.
The Bible reveals that this was all part of God’s plan from the beginning. Several Old Testament prophecies written centuries earlier foretold the crucifixion of Jesus in detail—even before crucifixion became a common form of execution.
However, Christians also recognize that Jesus’ death was only temporary. On the third day—the day we know as Easter—his tomb was found empty. Over the next forty days, hundreds of eyewitnesses reported seeing Jesus alive. He had walked with them, taught them, and eaten with them. So why was the death of Jesus neces- Their conclusion: Jesus had risen from sary? According to Christian teaching, the dead. God is a God of love as well as a God of justice. His love desired to offer
Easter Significance Continued from Page 1 This belief in the resurrection of Jesus spread rapidly throughout the Roman Empire and it continues to spread today. For nearly 2000 years, Christians have placed their faith in this resur-
rected Jesus, believing his promise that he will someday return to take his followers to be with him throughout eternity.
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Prayer is one of the greatest privileges of having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. God speaks to us through His Word, and prayer gives us the opportunity to communicate with Him. When we pray, we become aware of our dependence on the Lord at all times. So it makes sense that prayer is a critical element in sharing our faith. Every aspect of our outreach efforts should be thoroughly cov- Invite Others to Pray ered with prayer from the beginning to the end and everything in between. Even in today’s culture, people are more willing to accept prayer than we think. One Ask God to Lead church in Fresno, California, reserved a booth at the local farmers market and God brings people along our path every day who need to hear about Him. Many of hung a banner that simply said, “Need Prayer?” They were amazed at how many us walk past these divine appointments without ever noticing them. When we ask, people stopped by for prayer and the opGod opens our eyes to see opportunities to portunities it created to share the Gospel. Some visitors made professions of faith share the Gospel wherever we go. right there. Prayer Challenge: Make a list of ten people you know need Jesus and pray for them by Prayer Challenge: When you share the Gospel with someone, offer to pray with name. Keep that list your Bible or a place where you will see it every day. Then look them. Invite them to accept the gift of eternal life through prayer right where for opportunities to share your faith with they are. “Everyone who calls on the name them. of the Lord will be saved.” (Romans 10:13). Don’t Go Alone We all can become effective witnesses for God commands us to “go into all the Christ. Ask God today to reveal people in world” but doesn’t leave us to accomplish your life who need the Gospel. Begin to that task alone. “You will receive power pray daily for them. Rely on the Holy Spirit when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and to direct your conversations. you will be my witnesses…” (Acts 1:8). The Gospel is powerful. Share it with boldWhile it is our responsibility to share the Gospel, it is the Holy Spirit who brings un- ness. derstanding to the person hearing it. _____ Prayer Challenge: Every time you share our faith with another person, invite the Holy Spirit to join the conversation. While speaking with someone about God and His love, inwardly pray for the Holy Spirit to intervene in that person’s heart.
Rev. John B. Sorensen, D.D. is the President/CEO of Evangelism Explosion International, headquartered in Arden, N.C. EE has been a leader in equipping Christians to share their faith for more than 50 years. For more free tips and resources, visit evangelismexplosion.org.
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Celebrate Israel Festival - Various Cities Marks Israel's 71st Independence Day (More at goodnewspress.us) Celebrate Israel brings together community in celebration of the Jewish state, and fosters the bond between Americans and Israel. Taking place every year in April and May over multiple cities, Celebrate Israel's mission is to unite communities by celebrating the State of Israel while educating participants through music, arts and culture. IAC Celebrate Israel Festival is taking place in the following locations: Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Denver, Houston, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, New Jersey, Orange County, Orlando, Phoenix, Portland, Salt Lake City, San Diego, San Francisco, and Seattle
celebrate the State of Israel with live entertainment, food, art, culture and activities for families, kids and tweens.
For more info: https:// www.israeliamerican.org/celebrate-israelfestival
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA, -- Israeli American Council (IAC) has their own unique story to tell, sharing the journey CELEBRATE ISRAEL FESTIVAL THE of many who have traveled from Israel LARGEST JEWISH HAPPENING IN to become a proud American. Each LOS ANGELES!! with their own account, IAC is keeping these stories alive and helping people Celebrate Israel Festival, the largest Jew- stay connected to Israel through their ish happening in Los Angeles, will take identity. It is the story of leaders, stuplace on Sunday, May 19, 2019 from dents, mothers, fathers, family mem12pm - 7pm. bers, professionals who all come toOver 15,000 community members will gether through their love of Israel.
SF Local Bay Area Easter Events Easter is Sunday, April 21st 2019 Bay Area Easter Church Services
Acts Full Gospel Church, Oakland 8 am & 11:30 am Grace Bible Fellowship, Antioch CA 8 am & 11:30 am Golden Hills Community Church, Brentwood, CA 7:55 am, 9:20 am, 10:55 am & 6 pm Jubilee Christian Center, San Jose , CA
Abundant Life Christian Fellowship, Mountain View, CA Search Your City for Other Services
Bay Area Activities
April 20, 2019 Easter festival & parade - Oakland Decorate a hat at home, or arrive early to decorate one, and then join the 11:30 a.m. parade, with face painting and treats during the Easter Parade & Spring Festival at Lakeshore Avenue Baptist Church in Oakland.
painting, glitter tattoos, games, and more! Bricks4Kids will have spin art machines made out of LEGO so kids can make paper. Easter egg spin art to take home. ALL FOR FREE. April 21, 2019 Union Street’s Easter Parade and Spring Celebration Dubbed the biggest little parade in San Francisco, the Union Street Easter Parade and Spring Celebration is not your run of the mill float-fest. Rather, its organizers describe it as “wonderful, wacky, elegant and fabulous,” featuring everything from “rollerblading butterflies and creative self-propelled mini-floats to garden areas, sophisticated fashions and beautiful classic and art cars.” It also includes children’s activities and music.10 a.m.–5 p.m. Union St. between Gough and Fillmore in the Marina. Free. All Ages. Unionstreetevents.com
April 20, 2019 41st Annual City of San Mateo Eggstravaganza Pancake breakfast (9-11 a.m.), then get going on your egg hunt. Kids ages 1-3 can visit Peter Rabbit’s Playground, an area set up just for them. Kids 4-9 can go for the Big Egg Hunt. There are multiple hunts throughout the day, plus a parade at 10:30 a.m., photos with the Easter Bunny, and live April 20, 2019 entertainment. Egg hunts: 9:00 a.m.–1:00 Southshore Mall, Alameda, CA p.m., every half hour. 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Central Alameda South Shore Center from noon to 3pm - Easter Festival. The Easter Bunny will Park, 50 East 5th Ave., San Mateo, CA Cost: Peter Rabbit’s Playground, parade, be visiting Alameda South Shore Center to and entertainment are free. Breakfast is $8/ wish the kids a Happy Easter! Free face April 20, 2019 Pixieland’s Easter Speggtacular ~ Concord, April 20Easter egg hunt and Easter bunny visit. Rides, games, face painting and food also available.
adult, $4/child. The Big Egg Hunt is $3/child. group, followed by the 0-4, 5-7 and 8-10. Ages: 0-9. For more info: cityofsanmateo.org Registration is free and recommended. 10:00 a.m.–noon, SJ Giants Stadium, 588 E. Alma Ave., San Jose, CA. Cost: Free/$3 April 20 & 21, 2019 suggested donation per child. Ages: 0-10. Eggstraordinary Easter Egg Hunt at Roaring For more info: southridgesanjose.com Camp in Felton. Trains, an egg hunt and a visit from the Eater Bunny? Kids will ride Roaring Camp’s real 1880’s Steam Train April 20, 2019 beneath an ancient Redwood canopy, over Almaden Lake Park Spring Egg Hunt Indian Creek Trestle and through the cool 6th annual Spring Egg Hunt! Bring the family Santa Cruz Mountains. Purchase tickets for for a day full arts and crafts, face-painting, the Easter Steam Train. Rides start at 11 egg hunts for age groups 1-12 and special a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. 11 a.m., 12:30 prizes for those that find the GOLDEN EGG. p.m. and 2 p.m. Where: Roaring Camp Rail- First hunt at 9:30 a.m., for ages 3-4, followroads, 5401 Graham Hill Rd., Felton, CA. ing various age groups ’till 2:00 p.m. Check Cost: $23/child, $32/adult Ages: All ages. in is at 9:00 a.m. and arts and crafts from Fore more info: roaringcamp.com 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Bring your own basket. 9:30 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Almaden Lake April 21, 2019 Epic Easter Egg Drop. 50,000 Park, 15652 Almaden Expressway, San Easter eggs will drop from the San Jose sky Jose, CA. Cost: $12/pre-registration here, over the San Jose Giants Stadium this East- $15/day of Ages: 1-12. For more info: sanjoer, via hot air balloon! Southridge Church seca.gov/calendars. invites the community to come out and enjoy food, bounce houses, pony rides for the kids Bay Area Easter Brunch and have a hopping good time. Egg hunt Scotts Seafood Restaurant, Walnut Creek & begins at 10:00 a.m. with the special needs Oakland
Good News Press - Back - Spring 2019 Visit Our Site: www.goodnewspress.us Send your news or events to: info@goodnewspress.us
History® to Premiere Eight-Episode Event 'Jesus: His Life' on Monday, March 25 (Full Article at www.goodnewspress.us) Epic Retelling of the Life of Jesus Christ Airs Over Four Weeks Leading Up to Easter
rection, all conveyed through a combination of scripted drama and interviews with prominent religious and historical experts. Utilizing some of the world's most respected Biblical scholars, hisWatch a trailer for the series torians, faith leaders and theologians, the series at youtu.be/zLu0Pwzj4Go weaves together the canonical Gospels, historical sources and cultural context to create a comNEW YORK -- HISTORY's eight-episode event plete portrait of Jesus – the man and the Messi"Jesus: His Life" explores the story of Jesus ah. The series reveals his journey through a Christ through a unique lens: the people in his complex world of kings, politicians, reformers and life who were closest to him. Each of the eight soldiers in a turbulent power struggle during a chapters is told from the perspective of different biblical figures, all of whom played a pivotal role time of revolutionary change. "Jesus: His Life" in Jesus' life including Joseph, John the Baptist, brings viewers into this dramatic world to reveal Mary Mother of Jesus, Caiaphas, Judas Iscariot, the greatest story ever told. The series premieres two episodes back-to-back weekly beginning on Pontius Pilate, Mary Magdalene and Peter. Monday, March 25 at 8pm ET/PT, with the finale Each figure takes a turn guiding viewers through airing just before Easter. A+E Networks holds the emotional and epic story of the most famous exclusive worldwide distribution rights for the seman in history, through his birth, death and resur- ries which is produced by Nutopia.
Recognizing Signs of the Times :: by Dr. David R. Reagan (Full Article at www.goodnewspress.us) I shouted, “Amen!” It is no longer necessary to search for signs. We are inundated with them. A year ago I felt compelled to resign my membership in a prophecy study group because the There are so many and they are so clear, that it’s like the Lord has a neon sign in the sky director suddenly revealed that he did not believe there were any signs pointing to the soon blinking on and off, saying, “Jesus is coming soon!” As Elbert Peak put it, we should be lisreturn of Jesus, with the possible exception of Israel.? I was astonished by that statement, and tening for sounds — the sound of a trumpet blast and the shout of an archangel (1 ThessaI wrestled with what to do about it. I finally decided that I had no choice but to resign from the lonians 4:13-18). organization. The Meaning of Signs What is a prophetic sign? It is basically a prophecy concerning an historical event or technological development that will characterize a future time. Let’s consider the First Advent of the Messiah as an example. The prophet Micah prophesied that the Messiah would be born in the town of Bethlehem (Micah 5:2). Daniel said the Messiah would be “cut off” 483 years after an edict was issued to rebuild Jerusalem (Daniel 9:25). He also stated that this would take place before the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem. And David stated in Psalm 22:16 that the Messiah’s Abundant Signs hands and feet would be pierced. The signs of the times that point to the Lord’s One of these signs is geographical — the birth soon return are so plentiful and obvious that I site of the Messiah. The second is historical. don’t know how anyone with any spiritual discernment could be blind to them. This, in fact, is The edict it refers to was issued in 457 BC. an area that even amillennialists and premillen- Counting 483 years from that date brings us to 27AD. The Temple was destroyed in 70AD. So, nialists can and do agree on. the Messiah had to be “cut off” (that is, killed) In 1995 I was privileged to participate in a sometime between 27 AD and 70 AD. The third prophecy conference in Orlando, Florida that was sponsored by Midnight Call Ministries. One sign is technological in nature. The method of execution at the time David wrote Psalm 22 was of the speakers was a remarkable man of God stoning. Crucifixion was not even invented by from Abilene, Texas by the name of Elbert the Romans until 700 years later. Peak. This is a man who has been preaching Bible prophecy for over 60 years. After all, I have devoted my life to proclaiming that the signs of the times point to the soon return of Jesus. How could I be a member of an organization whose director denies that any such signs exist? I concluded that my continued membership in the organization would put me in the position of being a house divided against myself. So, I resigned.
His first topic at the conference was “The Signs of the Times.” He began his presentation by saying: “I began preaching on the signs sixty years ago when there were very few that you could actually see. Today they are everywhere. I am no longer looking for signs; I am listening for sounds!”
Jesus was born in Bethlehem. He was executed in 31 AD, during the “historical window” between 27 AD and 70 AD. And he was executed by crucifixion. The fulfillment of these signs in the life of Jesus serves to validate that He was the prophesied Messiah. Read full article at www.goodnewspress.us