762_English

www.impactoevangelistico.net

evangelistic

THE MAGAZINE THAT EDIFIES YOUR LIFE

July 2017 / Edition 762

Serious risks for users

THE DANGERS OF THE

INTERNET OFFICIAL PUBLICATION

WORLDWIDE MISSIONARY MOVEMENT

LIFE STORIES

DEVOTIONAL

MUSIC

Musician of the Lord

Do not forget the source of your power

Sun of my soul

FUN ADVENTURES with

JOEL and RUTH

TUESDAYS 10am-4pm SATURDAYS 10am

Bethel Television, the Worldwide Missionary Movement channel, broadcasts the Word of God’s message through cultural and educational programs from Lima - Peru to the world by 7 satellites and the Internet.

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 2 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

editorial

GIVING

HIM THANKS Rev. Gustavo Martínez International President of the WMM

“And it came to pass, as he went to Jerusalem, that he passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee. And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off and they lifted up their voices, and said: Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.

And when he saw them, he said unto them: Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed.

And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, and fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan. And Jesus answering said: Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine? There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger. And he said unto him: Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole”.

Luke 17:11-19

T

he Bible tells us about the nine lepers

side of us and we felt strong without being it. We

who, when were healed thanks to Jesus,

forgot that if there is something praiseworthy in us

did not return. Only one came back to

is thanks to the grace of God and not due to our

thank the Lord. Jesus asked him: “Were there not ten

strength.

cleansed? but where are the nine? (Luke 17:17). It

The Bible states what happened to the children

is inconceivable that a person suffering from leprosy

of Judah. They were jewels with incredible value,

a disease without cure at that time who is healed in

were made of most fine and pure gold, and shone

a blink of an eye and freed from such calamity, does

in a special way. In spite of this, the prophet said:

not even the courtesy to thank the Lord.

“How is the gold become dim! how is the most fine

The nine ungrateful people shock us, but we do

gold changed! the stones of the sanctuary are pou-

not realize that we are like them in many situations,

red out in the top of every street. The precious sons

because what God has done for us is incredible. The

of Zion, comparable to fine gold, how are they es-

burden that He took away from us is so big that we

teemed as earthen pitchers, the work of the hands

should thank him every day and truly serve Him, not

of the potter!” (Lamentations 4:1-2). God has put

only to pretend, without hypocrisy, from the bottom

a treasure in all of us, as if we were earthen pitchers;

of our hearts, because He saved us, because He gave

the only thing that can shine is inside of us. The day

us life, and, if that weren’t enough, He put the Holy

we lose that treasure, we will be considered as pit-

Spirit within us.

chers without worth. Nobody will come to us, no-

The day Saul was going to be appointed as king,

body will care about our opinion. If people seek for

he hid, because he did not want to, he was shaking,

our worth is thanks to the grace of God we have in

he was scared, he realized he did not deserve it. The

our lives.

Lord knew he was doing from his heart. He knew Saul was feeling insignificant.

When God started blessing us, we felt insignificant, with no value, but a false confidence grew in-

Do you want God’s blessing? Serve Him with honesty, without doubting your faith, with an honest and upright heart. Do things with love to the Lord. Amen.

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

3

www.impactoevangelistico.net

evangelistic Founder Director: Rev. Luis M. Ortiz JULY 2017 / EDITION N° 762 (USPS 012-850) OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE WORLDWIDE MISSIONARY MOVEMENT The World-Wide Missionary Movement, Inc. is a non-profit church with a vision to plant new churches in the United States of America and its territories, and also with a missionary vision to plant new churches wherever God opens new doors all over the World.

PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY Movimiento Misionero Mundial, Inc World-Wide Missionary Movement, Inc San Juan, Puerto Rico Washington, D.C. Periodicals Postage Paid at San Juan, Puerto Rico 00936

POSTMASTER: send address changes to Impacto Evangelístico P.O. BOX 363644 San Juan, Puerto Rico 00936-3644 Phone (787) 761-8806; 761-8805; 761-8903

INTERNATIONAL BOARD MEMBERS OF WMM INC. Rev. Gustavo Martínez President Rev. José Soto Vice President Rev. Rubén Concepción Secretary Rev. Rodolfo González Treasurer Rev. Álvaro Garavito Director Rev. Margaro Figueroa Director Rev. Rómulo Vergara Director Rev. Humberto Henao Director Rev. Luis Meza Director CHURCHES ESTABLISHED IN: Germany Argentina Aruba Australia Austria Belgium Belize Bolivia Bonaire Brasil Cameroon Canadá Chile Colombia Congo Ivory Coast Costa Rica Curacao Dinamarca Ecuador El Salvador Spain United States The Philippines Finland

France Gabón Ghana Guatemala Equatorial Guinea French Guiana Guyana Inglesa Haití Holland Honduras India England St. Andres Island (Col.) Saint Martin Island Island of Mauritius Rodrigues Island Canaries Islands (Spain) Hawaiian Islands (U.S.A.) Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Kuwait

Madagascar Malaysa México Myanmar Nicaragua Nigeria Oman Panamá Paraguay Peru Portugal Puerto Rico Dominican Republic Romania Sri Lanka Sweden Switzerland South Africa Surinam Trinidad and Tobago Ukranian Uruguay Venezuela

The Worldwide Missionary Movement is a religious nonprofit organization duly registered in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and in the federal capital, Washington DC, with headquarters in both cities and in every state of the United States and other countries where we have established missionary Works.

Important The offerings and donations in cash, equipment, real estate and bequests by will, in the benefit of the Worldwide Missionary Movement, Inc.’s Work, are deductible from the income tax, and receipts issued by the WMM are recognized by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of the Federal Government of the United States of America and of the Free Associated State of Puerto Rico. n

Visit our website Obtain uplifting information about God’s Work and keep up with the latest news. A customized access from anywhere in the world: www. impactoevangelistico.net n

If you wish Write to us at our postal address: Worldwide Missionary Movement, Inc. PO Box 363644 San Juan, P. R. 00936-3644 n

Copyright © 2009 Impacto Evangelistic Movimiento Misionero Mundial, Inc. (World-Wide Missionary Movement, Inc.) All content of this magazine and each subsequent edition are duly registered at the Library of Congress, Washington, DC USA. All rights reserved.

Total or partial reproduction in any form and translation into other languages without prior permission of the Director are prohibited. Under international copyright agreements, they are crimes punishable by law. n

Doctrinal Statement The Worldwide Missionary Movement adheres to the fundamental doctrines of Scripture, such as: n

Legal deposit made on the National Library of Peru Nº 2011-02530 Christian Pentecostal Church-Worldwide Missionary Movement: Av. 28 de Julio 1781 - Lima 13 - Peru Printout: Quad/Graphics Perú S.A. Av. Los Frutales 344 - Lima 03 - Peru MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 4 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

• The inspiration of the Holy Scriptures: 2 Timothy 3:15-17, 2 Peter 1:19-21.

• The Adorable Godhead in Three Persons, Father, Son and Holy Spirit: Matthew 3:16-17, 17: 1-5; 28:19, John 17: 5, 24, 26, 16:32, 14:16, 23, 18:5, 6, 2 Peter 1:17,18; Revelation 5.

• Salvation by Faith in Christ: Luke 24:47, John 3:16, Romans 10:13, Titus 2:11, 3:5-7.

• The New Birth: John 3:3, 1 Peter 1:23, 1 John 3:9.

• Justification by Faith: Romans 5:1, Titus 3:7.

• Water Baptism by Inmersion, as commanded by Christ: Matthew 28:19, Acts 8:36-39.

• The Baptism in the Holy Spirit subsequent to salvation, speaking in tongues according to: Luke 24:49, Acts 1:4, 8, 2:4.

• Divine Healing: Isaiah 53:4, Matthew 8:16, 17, Mark 16:18, James 5:14, 15.

• The Gifts of the Holy Spirit: 1 Corinthians 12:1-11.

• The Fruits of the Holy Spirit: Galatians 5:22-26.

• Sanctification: 1 Thessalonians 4:3, 5:23, Hebrews 12:14, 1 Peter 1:15, 16, 1 John 2:6.

• Ministry and Evangelization: Mark 16:15-20, Romans 10:15.

• Tithing and Maintenance of the Work: Genesis 14:20, 28:22, Leviticus 27:30, Numbers 18:21-26, Malachi 3:7-10, Matthew 10:10; 23:23.

• The Rapture of the Church: Romans 8:23, 1 Corinthians 15:5152, 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17.

• The Second Coming of Christ: Zechariah 14:1-9, Matthew 24:30, 31; 2 Thessalonians 1:7, Titus 2:13, Jude 14, 15.

• The Millennial Kingdom: Isaiah 2:1-4, 11:5-10, Zechariah 9:10, Revelation 19:20, 20:3-10.

• New Heavens and New Earth: Isaiah 65:17, 66:22, 2 Peter 3:13, Revelation 21:1.

SUMMARY Search us in

www.facebook.com/impactoevangelistico

14 / INFOGRAPHY The most dangerous games in the internet 18 / INTERNATIONAL A crisis at point of no return

30 / HERO OF FAITH Sam of the mountain DEVOTIONALS 40 / OUR RIGHTS AS CHILDREN OF GOD Rev. Luis M. Ortiz

42 / DO NOT FORGET THE SOURCE OF YOUR POWER Rev. José Arturo Soto

Dangerous challenges on the internet

6

Life Story

28 / MUSIC Sun of my soul

Current news Enterview

24 / LITERATURE James and I-III John

Cover note

20 / WELL-BEING Attention to pneumonia

The fierce atack of gender ideology

Musician of the Lord

Hard work in Guyana

22 16

34

44 - 64 / INTERNATIONAL EVENTS The joy of beingg at God’s house 65 / OTHER EVENTS

56 / Event

66 /LETTERS-AGENDA

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

5

N

ot everything on the Internet is good. As its influence in the world increases, the risks become more and more evident. This great virtual highway leads to many addictions in children, youth and adults.

Avery Foley (*)

Russia and several countries around the world were recently shocked with alarming news. More than 130 teenagers have died over the last two years in Russia alone due to an online challenge playing out on a Russian social network1: the ‘Blue Whale Challenge.’

The game has spread to other parts of the world with the resulting mortal danger, causing death or physical damage to dozens of young people.

Players, mostly between 12 and 20 years old, have to complete 50 challenges, the last being suicide. These tasks endanger the integrity of participants and have serious consequences, both physical and psychological. Participants are asked to wake up at 4:20 am and watch horror movies, carve words into their arms and legs, jump from buildings.

This dangerous game came to light after two Russian teenagers, aged 15 and 16, took their lives when they reached the last level. Both uploaded a picture of a blue whale on their social network profile and a note saying “End.” There are other games as dangerous as the ‘Blue Whale.’ For example, the ‘Cinnamon Challenge’ became popular in 2012; players had to swallow a spoonful of ground cinnamon without drinking water. This game caused lung collapse in dozens of young people and damage to other organs.

Other risky challenges are the ‘Duct Tape Challenge’, the ‘Ab Crack,’ the ‘Ice and Salt Challenge,’ the ‘Vodka Eyeballing’ and, more recently, the ‘A4 Waist Challenge.’ All put at risk the health of their young participants.

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 6 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

DANGEROUS CHALLENGES ON THE

INTERNET

PHOTO: AFP

cover note

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

7

RECOMENDATIONS FOR PARENTS

Here are some suggestions: • Create a schedule for computer use.

• Monitor the contents to which your children have access. There must be enough trust for you to enter their personal account.

• If a computer is used to access social networks at home, place it in such a position that you can monitor what is on the screen.

• Promote activities, besides the Internet, that emphasize or strengthen learning, physical activity or social relationships with people of the same age as your children. It is essential that these activities are carried out as a family.

• Learn about the settings and options of the Internet, in general, and social networks, in particular. This will allow you to get closer to your children and make them understand the scope and limits of these networks.

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 8 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

cover note

DAMAGE TO ADOLESCENTS

PHOTO: AFP

Some time ago, the Chinese Academy of Sciences issued a statement saying that addiction to the Internet causes brain damage in adolescents, comparable to those caused by alcohol and cocaine use.

Chinese researchers also suggested that overuse of the web by children, whose brain is still not fully developed, can cause damage to this organ.

In this type of addiction, it is not the activity per se which generates the dependence, but the relationship established with it. Access to pornography, videos, artists, social networks, email and other digital sites creates a destructive correlation that the subject is not able to control.

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

9

PHOTO: AFP

There are other games as dangerous as the ‘Blue Whale.’ For example, the ‘Cinnamon Challenge’ became popular in 2012; players had to swallow a spoonful of ground cinnamon without drinking water.

TOUGH ADOLESCENCE Why would someone take part in this kind of games? The issue is complex, as adolescence is a phase of life in which teenagers shape their identity. One of their priorities is to feel accepted and close to those to whom they relate. In addition, in adolescence, emotions and susceptibility are on edge. It is the stage of daring, of crazy, sometimes of unnecessary risk, of proving their strength and worth.

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 10 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

PHOTO: AFP

That is why these games are so attractive to youngsters. Teenagers see them as a channel to prove their cou-

rage, endurance and lack of fear to their inner circle. Other times they just want to get the attention of another person,

cover note

PHOTO: AFP

to prevent dramatic situations such as these is to directly address the issue with our children, explaining how these online games work and everything that is behind.

no matter how.

The reasons why young people dare to engage in this kind of games are di-

verse, but research has found that most do it while going through a bad emotional time. Therefore, the best way

DEPENDENCE FACTORS Dependence on the Internet shows through an irresistible desire or impulse, attention polarization or focus, mood changes and loss of control, as well as frustration.

Addiction is often associated with other disorders. Contrary to what some currents of personality psychology point out, mental or personality disorders are not a necessary condition to become dependent. Depression, anxiety, loneliness or loss would lead a person to resort to some escape valve to achieve well-being. Other disorders may be simultaneous or parallel.

Internet addiction must be trea-

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

11

PHOTO: AFP MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 12 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

cover note

ted like any other dependence illness, as both physical and mental damage could permanently affect the health of adolescents.

SOME SYMPTOMS Specialists have determined the symptoms presented by those suffering from Internet addiction. Some examples are: • The use controls their thoughts, feelings and conduct (salience).

• They invest large periods of time and effort in the activity.

• Their mood changes (anxiety, anger) when involved in the activity.

• They become angry when the activity is interrupted or their access restricted (abstinence).

• They begin to have problems with the people around them and fail to fulfill their duties at work, school, or home.

• They resume the activity once they were supposed to have stopped or reduced it.

• They deny their dependence and boast of being able to quit it any time (but never do).

• They shun face-to-face social relationships and replace them with the Internet.

• Their school performance lowers.

• They neglect their responsibilities or activities considered important at work, at school, at home, or in their relationships.

• They become euphoric when participating in social network activities.

• They lie about the time they stay online or about what they do on social networks.

• They think and talk all the time about issues happening on social networks, even if they are not online at that moment.

• They lose track of time or space because they are constantly on the Internet.

• They stop sleeping because they are always online.

• They have arguments regarding the use of social networks with co-workers, schoolmates, or family members.

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

13

THE MOST DANGEROUS GAMES IN THE INTERNET

In the recent years, internet games have become very popular because either they are fun or difficult to accomplish.

Everybody wants to play them, but, unfortunately, there are games that may seem harmless and they are not, because if you play them, you could end up in the hospital, in jail or even in morgue. For this reason, we want you to learn about 5 most dangerous games of the internet, which you should never play!

KNOCKOUT GAME

It is a game which became popular across United States in 2013; it lies in choosing randomly somebody walking on the street; then, that person has to be hit on the face so hard he gets knocked out or unconscious. When a person who used to play this game was asked why he did it, he said he just wanted to know if he was strong enough to knock out somebody. Due to this game, a 43 year-old man died, since he broke his neck when he fainted, and a woman remained unconscious for many hours.

7

TRAIN SURFING

START

It is an extreme game which was created in Germany in the 80’s, but regained popularity in 2005. The challenge consists on travelling outside the train, holding on to the sides or to the parts of the wheels, or standing on the roof. The player can fall under the train, against the ground at great speed, or receive an electrical discharge from the train’s cables. The most disturbing thing is that there are forums which encourage people to form teams and agree to play this game, only with the objective of having a video where their “feat” is shown.

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 14 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

1

3

END

THE BLUE WHALE

9

The blue whale game has become popular in the last few months across the world and has caused great pain to families, since many children have committed suicide. Even though it was created in Russia, it extended to many countries of Latin America. It consists of 50 tests or challenges. At the beginning, somebody will contact the player and will tell him how to play “the blue whale game”. One of the challenges is to write words or codes on the hands using a knife; then, the player will send pictures of the cuts to the person who contacted him, who will tell him the next steps: wake up the next day at 4:20 am and watch all the psychedelic and horror videos he receives, visit places with high altitudes such as bridges or buildings to overcome fear according to the rules , and send pictures to prove it. If the player is “chosen”, he will receive a call via Skype from another player or the person in charge of the game, who will tell him the date of his death and encourage him to jump from a very high building to commit suicide. This cruel and sadistic game has affected children who are influenced due to their lack of malice.

EYEBALLING

It is also known as “the game of drinking through the eyes”. It has become popular in the United States and England. It lies in pouring vodka through the eye socket. People who have played it say it is easier to get drunk like that, but there is great pain and burning sensation in the eyes. Doctors say that alcohol enters through the blood vessels of the eyelid and spreads all over the body, generating a faster and more intense effect; however, the consequences might be fatal: irreversible burns, total blindness or liver problems.

5

CHOKING GAME

As its name says, it lies in being choked with belts or ropes, or being strangled by someone else in order to stop air from getting into the lungs and interrupt the blood circulation, which will cause unconsciousness. According to the survivors of this “game”, the fun part is feeling euphoria and having hallucinations while being unconscious. The truth is many people have died because of this.

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

15

PHOTO: AFP

This monstrosity will have a devastating impact on the generation that now rises, but especially on the generations to come, when confusion will have taken root and the jumble of error and evil will be at its peak.

THE FIERCE ATTACK OF

P

GENDER IDEOLOGY

romoters of gender ideology show their willingness to do anything to achieve their goals, even trampling on the right to freedom of speech of those who defend human beings, family, marriage, and life.

Wenceslao Calvo

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 16 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

The books of Daniel and Revelation share certain characteristics, one of them being their symbolic messages, which make it very difficult to establish an accurate relationship between their content and what is happening now.

Throughout history, there have been many attempts to identify the little horn, the beast, the false prophet, and the great whore. Christians of good faith, living in times of major cri-

sis, have come to precise and thorough conclusions that time has proved to be untrue.

The message of both books is true, what is not is the interpretation given of characters and events. For this reason, we have to be cautious and not too dogmatic in pointing out that what is happening now refers to what is written.

However, it does not mean that these books are useless or indecipherable.

Quite the opposite; their message is as

current news

relevant now as they were in the past, if we use the great principles they contain.

It is true that Hitler was not the beast, and those who came to this categorical conclusion were wrong; but it is also true that there were in him and in his ideology certain characteristics that made him an omen of the beast.

Both the books of Revelation and Daniel describe the forces hostile to God in monstrous terms, in the form of imposing wild beasts such as a lion, bear or leopard, but not just any lion, bear or leopard but “great” ones, or even beasts unlike any other. This symbolism intends to convey the clearly horrific nature of the forces that fight against God and His plans. Monstrosity is their essential characteristic.

When I look at what is happening today regarding human beings, marriage and family, the word ‘monstrosity’ is exactly what comes to my mind. The attempt by all means to corrupt the right concepts that support these irreplaceable categories, to impose perversion by force, threat and coercion, to destroy the inalienable right to freedom of speech of those who condemn such vileness, and to inoculate in the minds of children evil teachings that destroy their personality, can only be called a monstrosity.

This monstrosity is saluted, applauded and praised, as if it was something sublime and magnificent. Some celebrate it out of malice, knowing what they are doing; others do it out of

cowardice, out of fear of reprisals; the rest out of ignorance, following the mainstream.

This monstrosity will have a devastating impact on the generation that now rises, but especially on the generations to come, when confusion will have taken root and the jumble of error and evil will be at its peak.

This monstrosity is a dictatorship helped by a blind democracy that will impose its ideology on everything and everyone. This dictatorship will persecute with fury those who do not submit to its opinions, that is to say, the Christians who dare to challenge it. Therefore, times of danger and persecution are coming for the Church, especially for pastors and preachers who raise their voice. Who would have thought!

We already know that dictatorships, whether left-wing or right-wing, are enemies par excellence of the freedom of speech. But here comes a new kind of dictatorship, which is neither left-wing nor right-wing, but it encompasses left and right and is supported by democracy. A democracy that has lost its direction and does not know where to go. A democracy that connives with that dictatorship and is incubating the egg of the snake that will destroy it.

But the books of Daniel and Revelation, in addition to showing the innate monstrosity of the evil forces that fight against God and His plans, also show us that such forces, and all the evil they can do, do not have the last word, and will not prevail. On the contrary, God will fulfill His purpose and defeat them. The people of God will be victorious, although suffering will be the price to pay.

Daniel and Revelation convey a message of victory, regardless of the times and circumstances through which we may have had to live. That is why their message is timeless and forever relevant. Be ready, then, for what lies ahead. Be aware, as Jesus was, that this is the hour of the power of darkness (Luke 22:53).

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

17

E

very day, the streets of Venezuela are crowded by protesters who oppose the government of Nicolás Maduro, who remains in power only thanks to the Armed Forces. How long will he have their support?

Venezuela ended 2016 with the highest inflation rate in the world and a production sector virtually destroyed.

Although it is the country with the largest oil reserves in the world, its economy is strangled and at serious risk.

The violent confrontation between the Government and the opposition has been taken to the streets, turning them into an uncontrolled battlefield.

During the protests, 46 people have been killed and hundreds have been injured and arrested.

Tensions increase as the days pass.

Repression is more violent, opposition is more united than ever, and for the first time protests do not focus on opposing areas, but include other sectors of society. But, how long will the mobilizations last? Is there any room for negotiation?

What is the role of the Armed Forces?

Apparently, Maduro’s government still wants to convene a Constituent Assembly and will continue to delay the holding of regional elections, which should have been held in 2016. “Maduro does not want to call for elections because, for the first time, he knows he will lose,” analysts say.

If the Government does not reconsider its position and opponents stand on the streets, Venezuela could enter a spiral of violence with unpredictable consequences. This time, protests have taken place in popular sectors that have struck back when attacked; therefore, violence is out of control and is decentralized.

The scarcity of food and medicines, the deterioration of public services and MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 18 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

A CRISIS AT POINT

OF NO RETURN the bloody repression have caused popular classes, which used to be the traditional social sustenance of Chavism, to demand a change.

Rafael Rojas, professor at the Center for Research and Teaching of Economics (CIDE), points out that the dispute between the powers and the challenge to the legitimacy of Maduro

posed by people on the streets will have to be solved in the coming months.

MADURO’S SUPPORT Why is Maduro still in power? This is a question that many analysts ask. Several agree that the only thing keeping the president in the Miraflores Palace is the backing of military forces. Since he

International

including a television station, a bank, a vehicle assembling company, a construction company and even a water bottling plant at some quarters. The most important company is the Compañía Anónima Militar de Indus¬trias Mineras, Petrolíferas y de Gas (CAMIMPEG), which has a wide range of activities: from mining to maintenance of oil wells, repair of drills and importation of products and equipment.

ABSOLUTE POWER In Venezuela, Maduro exercises power without considering the most basic economic principles, such as respect for property rights. Under the centralized planning regime, more than 50,000 properties have been expropriated or nationalized, among farms (small, medium and large), industries and businesses, without compensation for market value.

Besides their country’s defense duties, the military have also seen their businesses increase, and so their economic income.

This panorama contrasts with the drama of 4300 companies that were liquidated in the last decade in Venezuela.

FOTOS: AFP

came to power in 2013, he got it clear.

In the Maduro cabinet, 11 out of the 32 ministries are in the hands of the military, including key Defense and Internal Affairs posts. In addition, 13 out of the 20 regional governors supported

by Chavism are retired military officers.

Maduro has consolidated the military as a privileged group that does not knows of shortages, especially senior officers. It is estimated that a general in chief can earn a basic salary of 60,000 Venezuelan bolivars, twice as much as a university professional with more than 25 years of experience in the public sector.

Chavism has pleased them for more than a decade by purchasing billions of dollars in arms, which has made the Venezuelan Armed Forces one of the most powerful in the world (they rank 41 of 131, according to a specialized ranking).

Besides their country’s defense duties, the military have also seen their businesses increase, and so their economic income. This panorama contrasts with the drama of 4300 companies that were liquidated in the last decade in Venezuela.

The Ministry of Defense of Venezuela has established 11 companies,

Over the last 15 years, companies or entire sectors have been expropriated: electricity, telecommunications, banking and finance, oil and technology, among others. Likewise, in November 2013, two oil platforms were nationalized, alleging reasons of public utility and “social” interest.

The Venezuelan State has become an entrepreneur, importer, marketer and fixer of prices of the most diverse goods and services. However, the shortage of basic products has generated the increasingly acute wave of protests that may lead to the collapse of Maduro and Chávez regime.

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

19

P

neumonia accounts for 15% of all deaths of children under 5 years old. It is also an important cause of mortality in the elderly. An illness to pay attention to.

Walter Menchola Vásquez (*)

Pneumonia is a form of acute respiratory infection that affects the lungs, and more specifically the alveoli, which are small air-filled sacs in which gas exchange between our body and the environment occurs. The lungs, heart and kidneys are involved in this exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. When there is infection and inflammation of alveoli, they fill with fluid and pus; this makes breathing difficult and limits oxygen intake.

In less-developed countries, pneumonia is the leading cause of death in children under 5. Children have a respiratory system different from that of adults. It is difficult for them to expel secretions through coughing, because the diameter of their bronchi is smaller and they lack the strength to expectorate; as a result, children get tired, do not breath well, dehydrate and collapse quickly.

Pneumonia is caused mainly by bacteria, viruses and fungi, the latter being a less common cause. It can be spread in a number of ways, the most frequent is the airway. The viruses and bacteria that are commonly found in a child’s nose or throat can infect the lungs if they are inhaled. They may also spread via air-borne droplets from a cough or sneeze.

When children suffer from viral symptoms, sometimes they are just those of a cold or flu; in other cases, there is lung involvement generated by the virus or by the combination of viruses and bacteria. Viruses allow bacteria to enter and wreak havoc in children’s lungs; these cases are very serious as MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 20 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

ATTENTION TO

PNEUMONIA

Well-being

SYMPTOMS Intercostal retractions (when muscles between the ribs pull inward) • Nasal flaring • Cyanosis (the child turns blue o purple) • Loss of appetite and vomiting

PNEUMONIA Very severe

• Intercostal retractions • Nasal flaring • No cyanosis • Loss of appetite, no vomiting

• No cyanosis • No intercostal retractions • Rapid breathing: - 50 or more breaths per minute, in children between 2 months and year - 40 or breaths per minute, in children between and 5 years

they are usually patients with nutritional deficiencies.

Pneumonia is diagnosed based on a simple chest x-ray and on the patient’s symptoms, such as fever, cough, mucus, respiratory distress, chest pain, and fatigue. In some cases, the elderly and young children have less or less severe symptoms. In the elderly, sudden mental confusion could be the only symptom; and in young children, cough may be minimal or even absent.

It is important to rapidly recognize pneumonia in children, as their prognosis will depend on it. If a child stops eating without apparent cause, is no longer active, wants to be in bed and has a fever, an illness must be suspected; if accompanied by green or yellow mucus and cough and rapid breathing, pneumonia must be suspected until proven otherwise. In such cases, children must be taken to an ER immediately.

Non severe (under observation)

Rapid breathing and respiratory distress are cardinal symptoms, so a separate table classifies pneumonia as non-severe (under observation), severe, and very severe. Remember that aged people or children with suspected pneumonia or respiratory failure must be evaluated by a physician.

The experience of less-developed countries in successfully fighting pneumonia is exemplary. For example, in some countries, parents, school teachers and adults in generl learn to measure respiratory rate of children

• The patient requires immediate medical evaluation; it is an emergency • Treatment requires hospitalization • The patient requires care and permanent medical evaluation • The patient may need to be placed in the intensive care unit to receive mechanical ventilation The patient requires immediate medical evaluation; it is an emergency • Treatment requires hospitalization • The patient requires care and permanent medical evaluation

Severe

Pneumonia is caused mainly by bacteria, viruses and fungi, the latter being a less common cause.

RECOMENDATIONS

• The patient requires medical evaluation • The patient requires antibiotics • The patient can be observed at home, under the care of a trained adult, the mother of preference • If symptoms do not go away after 2 days or intensify, the patient must be taken to ER

per minute, which has saved the lives of hundreds of thousands of them. We must never forget that rapid breathing in a child implies their immediate evaluation by a doctor, as it will be determinant to prevent serious complications.

Sources: World Health Organization (WHO); Pulmonology Diagnosis and Therapy Manual by Jose Soto Campos; Fishman’s Pulmonary Diseases and Disorders; Harrison’s Internal Medicine.

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

21

Photo: Roberto Guerrero MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 22 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

interview

HARD WORK IN

GUYANA

T

he Worldwide Missionary Movement (WMM) continues evangelizing the world. Guyana is the evidence of it. Evangelization in the South American country demands effort, but missionaries go forward by trusting in God. Winny Chรกvez Reyes

One of the less known regions in South America is Guyana. It was a British colony until May 26, 1966, when it declared independence. It is a country with a wide cultural diversity and its political parties are formed based on ethnic groups.

The Work of God is growing in this country located on the north coast of South America. There, the work of the brothers and sisters who save souls for Christ is relentless.

They carry out a hard work of evangelization, despite the difficulties that hamper the missionary work. Pastor Andrew Darrel has been working in Guyana for years.

What is the situation of the Work in Guyana?

The Work began with two missionaries from Chicago: Pastor Dara and his wife Fatima, who spent three years in Guyana; in 1997, he became the pastor of the Church.

Has the Work grown since then? How many people does it have now?

There are two Works in Georgetown, the capital, and one in Linden. We also have white fields in a town called Anadel. Now, in Linden, after seven years there, we are building a temple. Two young pastors are in charge of the Church in that city.

What are the main difficulties faced by the Church in Guyana?

One of the problems is buying a plot in the city for the temple. The Government may give pieces of land but only in the outskirts. Besides, the land must be large enough for us to build a church and have a parking lot.

In the city, people can sell their house or rent their land, but there is such demand that it is not easy. We have contacted this man who wants to sell us a part of a building; and next to it there is a quite large plot. We plan to buy that part of the building and then the surrounding area.

Those are the plans related to logistics and infrastructure, but what about the problems regarding evangelization?

As for the Government, there is no obstruction to churches and preaching. We can preach without any obstacle. The only problem is dealing with non-Christian souls. Christians are very few. When we go out to preach, everyone says that they are Christians, but they are very liberal and it is difficult to make them convert to the Gospel. Those souls who claim to be Christians know nothing of God. How do you use the media?

We can preach without any obstacle. The only problem is dealing with non-Christian souls

It is a project that we have recently implemented after the visit of the supervisor. We started it on the phone, communicating with a brother who works in Curacao. We have begun to use YouTube and the radio. Plans are driven with enthusiasm.

How many central temples are there in Guyana?

Three temples.

What will the Work do to attract more brothers in the country?

We now use the media so that those churches that do not know us realize that the WMM does spread sound doctrine around the world.

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

23

T

his book, which is part of the New Testament Commentary Series begun by William Hendriksen, thoroughly analyzes two important parts of the Bible. Simon Kistemaker, its author, offers an indispensable material to strengthen the knowledge about biblical epistles.

James begins his letter with a header and a salutation, uses the pronouns “you” and “we” throughout his epistle, and often appeals to his readers as “my beloved brethren” or “my brethren.” He does not identify any of the recipients by name, does not provide personal information about them or mention any personal details about himself. The epistle concludes without a blessing and a final greeting. This letter is not, then, a personal document, but rather a general epistle. The general epistles of the New Testament and other letters have the same literary form.

“James and I-III John” is a book by Dutch theologian Simon Kistemaker that thoroughly analyzes two important parts of the New Testament. It is part of the New Testament Commentary Series begun by William Hendriksen, renowned evangelical theologian, and offers a particular point of view of the Scriptures that takes as starting point the most recent archeological and Bible science findings.

The Christian does not live in isolation, but in communion with the community in which God has placed him. The community is primarily the Church of Jesus Christ. Faithful to his call, the Church is in the midst of the world to make the light of the Gospel shine. To function properly in their respective places, both the Christian and the Church need wisdom and understanding. In the opening part of his epistle, James tells the believer how to gain wisdom: “Ask of God, that giveth MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 24 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

JAMES AND

I-III JOHN

literatura literature

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

25

As an Old Testament prophet, James attacks the rich who have arrogantly despised God and His Word. He captures their attention vigorously and tells them to listen to what he has to say to them.

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 26 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

literature

to all men liberally, and upbraideth not.” No one can live without wisdom, since no one likes to be called stupid.

THE PRAYER Professor Kistemaker’ book, divided in two parts, begins with the exposition of James’ epistle. The author, who studied at Calvin College, Calvin Theological Seminary and the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, provides accurate and timely information to understand the context in which this biblical book was written, and presents a deep and detailed exegesis of its five chapters.

James gives us a lesson about prayer. He says that even when we pray, we do not get an answer. The cause of this failure is not in God, but in man. When the believer asks Jesus for something in his name, Jesus will attend that request.

The context in which Jesus makes this promise, however, speaks of faith in Jesus, on the one hand, and of glory to God the Father, on the other. That is, when the believer prays to God in the name of Jesus, not only must he believe that God will hear him and answer the prayer, but also ask himself if his petition will give glory to the name of God, if the kingdom of God will advance, and if it will be in harmony with the will of God. With a select bibliography, “James and I-III John” was first published in 1986 under the seal of the Baker Book House.

In its interpretation of the Epistle of St. James, it raises five themes: perseverance, faith, self- submission and patience. It also carefully examines the one hundred and eight verses that make up this part of the Scriptures that, according to Kistemaker, belongs to the category of general epistles.

As an Old Testament prophet, James attacks the rich who have arrogantly despised God and His Word. He captures their attention vigorously and tells them to listen to what he has to say to them. It would seem that these rich were not part of the Christian community, but that they oppressed believers who lived in poverty. If they were Jews, they had turned away from the spiritual

teachings of the Scriptures and had become worldly people. We do not know if the rich came to hear the reproach of James, but the poor and oppressed in the Christian community received consolation and encouragement when they realized that God knew their hardships.

GOD’S LOVE In the second part of the book, the three epistles of John are explored in depth. First of all, an enlightened description is presented about the one who wrote this part of the Bible, which by its tone is shown as a letter. Then, with dedication and care, the one hundred and thirty-three verses that make up the missives are divided into five parts: preface, walk in the light, believe in Jesus, love God, and epilogue.

The second and third epistles of John exhibit the characteristics of a letter, which include the title of the sender, the recipients, the greetings, the personal message and the regards at the end of these. And although they lack information about the place and date of writing, those letters attributed to John are comparable in form to the epistles written by Paul or Peter. John’s first epistle, however, is different. It lacks the names of the sender and recipients, greetings and blessing, and places of origin and destination. This epistle could be considered as a theological treatise.

In his commentaries on John’s epistles, the author provides a renewed and true translation of the original Greek and a series of practical and doctrinal considerations. In addition, through his explanations, which combine erudition with simplicity, he provides a valuable tool for God’s ministers and believers who wish to deepen their biblical knowledge of the writings John left for Gaius, Diotrephes, and Demetrius.

John mentions the promise made

by God concerning the remission of sin not as an excuse to sin, but as comfort and security for the believer who occasionally falls into sin. He admonishes those who know the Lord to obey His

commandments; they must walk as Jesus walked. John does not give a new commandment, but an ancient one: love thy neighbor as thyself. In sum, John exhorts all Christians, whom he tenderly calls “dear children.” He appeals to parents and young people because they have known Christ and have overcome the devil. He tells them not to love the world, but to obey the will of God. Awarded with the Gold Medallion from the Evangelical Christian Pu¬blishers Association (ECPA), Simon Kistemaker, who has written several books on the life and ministry of Jesus Christ, develops several theological themes in his analysis of John’s writings. In that sense, he performs meticulous work that brings readers closer to the characteristics of God, the faith in the Lord, sin, eternal life, and the return of the son of the Almighty.

John teaches in his first epistle the fundamental doctrine that one of the characteristics of God is love. That is why John writes that concise statement that says that God is love. John transmits the notion that God initiates love and lavishes it to His people. Love does not originate with man, but with God. When man is the recipient of God’s love, he must in turn reflect this love towards God and his neighbor, but the person who does not show love for his neighbor does not possess the love of God. Love is neither private nor passive nor abstract. Love is explicit, active and intimate.

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

27

T

he ingenuity of the English poet John Keble made the creation of a hymn of great spiritual message possible. This poem, published in 1827, is part of the book The Christian Year and is about to be two hundred years old.

Considered one of the most important publications of the sacred poetry in the 21th century, “Sun of My Soul” is a 195-year-old composition that continues to be popular and sends a great spiritual message. The work of the English poet John Keble, one of the founders of the Oxford Movement, was written in 1820 and published in a book of poems in 1827; from that moment on it has amazed the Christian world.

The history of Keble’s hymn has incredible events. In June, 1827, a compilation of poems entitled “The Christian Year: Thoughts in Verse for the Sundays and Holidays Throughout the Year” was published in two volumes at the University of Oxford. The author was Keble, but his name did not appear on the copies. The secret authorship was only known by some people, to whom he had presented the original text.

John Keble, who was born on April 25, 1792, had written and reviewed his verses for years and wished to perfect them even more; however, the desire of his father of seeing the work already printed encouraged him to publish it without any more delays. The success of the book was immediate and extraordinary. Later, “Sun of My Soul”, one of the poems of the book, started to attract more attention until it was considered an ode of great musical power by the Reverend Henry Venn Elliott in 1835.

PRODUCTIVE POET Raised in a home filled with faith, MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 28 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

SUN OF MY

SOUL

music

SUN OF MY SOUL 1 Sun of my soul, Thou Savior dear, It is not night if Thou be near; Oh, may no earthborn cloud arise To hide Thee from Thy servant’s eyes.

2 When the soft dews of kindly sleep My wearied eyelids gently steep, Be my last thought, how sweet to rest Forever on my Savior’s breast.

3 Abide with me from morn till eve, For without Thee I cannot live; Abide with me when night is nigh, For without Thee I dare not die.

4 If some poor wand’ring child of Thine Has spurned today the voice divine, Now, Lord, the gracious work begin; Let him no more lie down in sin.

5 Watch by the sick, enrich the poor With blessings from Thy boundless store; Be every mourner’s sleep tonight, Like infants’ slumbers, pure and right.

6 Come near and bless us when we wake, Ere through the world our way we take, Till in the ocean of Thy love We lose ourselves in Heavn above.

Keble was a notable servant of the Lord from his first steps. As a faithful believer, he received an adequate preparation on the Gospel by his father, who was a tenacious man that embrace Christianity just like him. During his youth, after graduating from high school with honors, he was admitted to the Corpus Christi College, where he had an outstanding academic performance. After that, he attended the Oriel College and worked at Oxford as tutor and examiner.

Ordained as minister of God in 1815, Keble shared the Word in the cloisters of the oldest university in the anglophone world: The University of Oxford. Nevertheless, in 1823, the death of his mother made him return to the city of Fairford, his home town, where he continued his evangelic work and became his father’s assistant, who was in charge of a temple there.

Then, he wrote countless verses which would later become a literary work.

Being a kind-hearted and good man, the preacher married in 1835 and became the pastor of the Church in Hursley, a charming town located in the county of Hampshire, where he stayed for the rest of his life. He was famous for his book and carried out a wide evangelic work for more than three decades. With the benefits that The Christian Year brought him, he rebuilt the Hursley’s temple and offered daily services.

The hymn “Sun of My Soul”, inspired in Luke 24:29, was the most valuable legacy of John Keble, who passed away on March 29, 1866. Its music and beautiful message turned it into one of the most important praises for Christ’s servants. First, it became popular in United Kingdom and later throughout the English-speaking world. Nowadays, it is sung when facing difficult situations.

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

29

A

merican preacher Samuel Porter Jones was a lawyer and a selfless servant of God who preached His Word to more than twenty-five million people and won half a million souls for Jesus Christ.

Ed Reese

He had many titles, “Sam Jones, lawyer,” “Sam Jones, the drunkard,” but the one most prized was “Sam Jones, the evangelist.” And, evangelist he was, with some 500,000 decisions made out of estimated audiences of 25,000,000.

He was born on October 16, 1847 in Alabama.

His father, John J. Jones, felt the urge to follow four other brothers into the Methodist ministry but decided that he could make a more secure living as a lawyer and businessman. His mother, Nancy, died in 1856 saying to her nineyear-old son, “Sam, I will never be able to return to you, but you can come to me.” He was greatly touched and never forgot her dying words.

For three years he, and his two brothers and sister lived with their pious grandparents, with his godly grandmother exerting more influence on his life than any other member of his family. When Sam’s father remarried and settled in Cartersville, Georgia, the children relocated there in 1858. As a schoolboy, Sam was clever at reciting pieces in class.

When the Union armies marched through Georgia, the family was separated and in January 1864, young Jones was swept into Kentucky. There he met Laura McElwain of Eminence, whom he later married.

Returning to Cartersville, he concluded his education, graduating from Euharle High School in June, 1867.

His father intended to give him a college education, but Sam’s health broke MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 30 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

SAM OF THE

MOUNTAIN

hero of faith

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

31

down. Having nervous dyspepsia, he decided to study law at home. Thinking that alcohol would help his “nervous stomach,” he soon became a regular alcoholic.

GOING ASTRAY Sam showed great promise of success in legal endeavors. He was admitted to the Georgia Bar in 1868 after only one year of legal study. He married one month later on November 24, 1868.

When he was sober, Sam tried cases as a brilliant lawyer; when drunk, he was worthless as an attorney and as a husband. Gambling also helped bring him to the brink of ruin.

During this time he moved to Texas, to Alabama, and finally back to Cartersville. By 1872, the only job he was able to get was that of a furnace stoker in a factory near Cartersville where he shoveled coal for twelve hours a day.

The pleas of his wife and the births of two children did not change him.

In August 1872, there was a dramatic change. News came while he was on a six-week drinking binge that his father was seriously ill.

On his deathbed, his father’s words pierced the heart of young Sam. “My poor, wicked, wayward, reckless boy.

You have broken the heart of your sweet wife and brought me down in sorrow to my grave. Promise me, my boy, to meet me in Heaven.” Overcome with emotion, Sam fell to his knees and took his dying father’s hand, and shouted “I promise, I’ll quit drinking and set things straight. I’ll meet you and mother in heaven.” The father died and Sam kept his vow.

CONVERSION He tells about his last encounter with drink: “I went to the bar and begged for a glass of liquor. I got the glass and started to drink and looked into the mirror.

I saw my hair matted, the filth and vomit on my clothes, one of my eyes totally closed, and my lips swollen. And I said, “Is that all that is left of the proud MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 32 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

and brilliant lawyer, Sam Jones?” I smashed the glass on the floor and fell to my knees and cried, “Oh God! Oh God, have mercy!” The bartender ran to my side and thought I was dying ... and I was. I said, “Just let me alone.” I picked myself up and staggered to my cheap rooming house and said to the ladies running it, “Would you do me a favor?” They answered in the affirmative. I asked them to bring me a pot of black coffee.

I went through three days and nights of hell, but when the morning came, something had happened to old

By 1884, Sam Jones, as an evangelist, was well established. Faithful to God, Pastor Sam brought the message of Jesus Christ to a large part of the United States.

Sam Jones. I went down to the clothing store and said, “I want you to give me a new suit. I got saved last night. Sam Jones is coming back.” Not only did I get a suit, but shirts, ties, coat, everything I needed and as I left, the merchant stuck a $100 bill into my hand. I went to the barber for I had not had a shave in over a month. I put on my new clothes, looking pale and weak I left to go to my wife whom I had beaten till she was black and blue. She didn’t even recognize her own husband. I said, “Honey, God has given you a new husband and the children a new daddy, and I wonder if you will forgive me and start all over again.” She grabbed me in her arms and cried, “Hallelujah! Hallelujah! I have been praying for this!””

MISSIONARY WORK Sam was twenty-four years old. A week later in the agony of keeping his vow, he walked down the aisle of the little

hero of faith

country church where his grandfather, Samuel G. Jones was preaching and said, “Grandfather, I take this step today. I give myself, my heart, and life, what is left of it, all to God and His cause.” In November 1872, he was licensed as an itinerant preacher for the North Georgia Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South. He was called “the Mountain Evangelist” in his early days, perhaps because he “put the fodder down low where the poor folks can reach it.”

In December 1880, the Conference decided to free him from the restraints of pastoral responsibilities and made him the fund-raising agent for the Methodist Orphan Home in Decatur, Georgia. The orphanage had a debt of $20,000. Sam was also given permission to hold revival meetings for Methodist ministers. His fame spread beyond his State. In 1883, he conducted a two week series of meetings for the Methodist churches of Louisville, Kentucky, which received some attention from the secular press.

By 1884, Sam Jones, as an evangelist, was well established. Faithful to God, Pastor Sam brought the message of Jesus Christ to the people of Cincinnati, Chicago, Baltimore, Indianapolis, Minneapolis, Boston, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Sacramento and Memphis, among other cities. He preached with such zeal that his health finally broke.

He spoke about the “moral issues” of the day and sought reform in corrupt cities. In some cities, especially in the South, he was able to persuade the citizens to outlaw saloons and drive out the other enemies of the Christian faith.

His eccentricities of speech, his unconventional ways and manner probably contributed to his popularity.

Death came suddenly. Coming home on a train from a campaign in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, he died on October 15, 1906. A man of transparent courage, integrity and ingenuity, he went down in history as a hero of the faith.

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

33

D

ue to his crazy life, alcohol and fame took him to the brink of ruin and eviction. By experiencing the glory of God, Jorge changed and learned that there is nothing more beautiful than offering one’s talent to the Creator.

Susan Amau Foto: Archivo Familiar

He had so much money that he could have bought anything he wanted, except for one thing: happiness. All his friends, famous artists, led a life characterized by the excessive use of alcohol and drugs. Jorge Castillo Hernández wondered if that was the life that he wanted. He wanted to have a family, a wife, children, but the maelstrom of his chaotic life was his greatest obstacle.

He tried to change his life and remember his mother’s teachings, but discouragement was stronger. He was a sad person and turned to vice in order to forget his bitter pain. He had been able to overcome a difficult, fatherless adolescence thanks to his Christian mother, who selflessly worked to give him a better future.

Castillo Hernández was born in 1975 in Pinar del Río, Cuba, amid an important period in the history of the Caribbean country, at the peak of the government of Fidel Castro, whose revolution had triumphed sixteen years before.

The story of her parents’ marriage was interesting, to say the least. His father, Raúl Castillo Martínez, a communist military man of the Cuban revolutionary party, had infiltrated an evangelical church for two years to win the love of Silvia Hernández Torres, a pious woman of the Lord.

Like a wolf in sheep’s clothing, this man pretended to be a faithful Christian until he achieved his greatest goal: SilMISSIONARY MOVEMENT 34 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

life story

MUSICIAN OF THE

LORD

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

35

via. He revealed his true colors on their wedding night. It was a terrible surprise for his wife to realize that her husband belonged to the communist party.

Aware that she could not go back in time, and hoping things would turn out fine, the woman accepted his fate.

However, the worst was yet to come.

From the first day of marriage, Raúl forbade Silvia to go to church. Lost and with no solution in sight, she found refuge in prayer, but because of the strong pressure at home, she gradually turned away from the Lord’s ways.

They had three sons: José, Joel and Jorge, the last one. She would tell them about of God and tried to take back her past by secretly teaching her children, but ended up being consumed by the world, which made her the slave of smo-

king and drinking.

A PASSION FOR MUSIC IS BORN Since he was very young, Jorge learned to love music. At the age of 10, he was enrolled in a professional music school and began to study percussion.

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 36 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

But tragedy would touch him one afternoon of April 1985: his father had died from alcohol poisoning. No treatment could save him, the level of alcohol in his blood was so high that it had caused death by respiratory arrest.

The family was overwhelmed by sad-

ness. Jorge decided to quit music, but his mother tol him something that changed his mind: “Your father’s dream was to see you as a musician. Be strong and become the best.” Something was awaken in Jorge, a true passion for music, and the desire not to disappoint his father.

life story

More than once, he asked himself if that was the life he wanted for him. He fell into depression and took refuge in vice to try to forget his bitterness. At the age of 30, he still could not find a woman with whom he could build a family.

After the death of his father, his mother went back to the ways of God. From that moment on, Silvia took her children to church, but it would be Jorge who, driven by curiosity, would always accompany his mother. He shared the teachings of the Bible and, at his

young age, he understood that the Lord was so real that he could help in any situation, even in school affairs.

FAME AND FAITH When he finished elementary school, Jorge moved to Havana to pursue his

music studies. His talent was quickly noticed by bands and musicians who did not hesitate to hire him despite his youth. Fame made him forget his faith and, little by little, he was caught by the pleasures of life. He graduated at the age of 23 and joined famous bands with which he went on tours around the country.

He never stopped helping his mother, but without knowing, the world of music, fame and money turned him into a sad man consumed by drugs and alcohol. His talent increased with each tour. A table full of alcohol and drugs was their treat before each concert. On stage, he shone with his talent; backstage, he led a chaotic, uncontrolled and crazy life.

His brothers turned away from their mother and fell into sin. The elder, JosĂŠ, became an alcoholic and mistreated his wife. Joel, the next, went mad and would wonder off dirty on the streets.

For his part, Jorge had so much money that he could have bought anything he wanted.

Jorge had wealth, but felt empty.

More than once, he asked himself if that was the life he wanted for him. He fell into depression and took refuge in vice to try to forget his bitterness. At the age of 30, he still could not find a woman with whom he could build a family.

While it was true that in the world of music he had many fans, all wanted him for one reason: his money.

When he had accepted the fact that he would be alone for the rest of his life, he met Cinzia Parisi in Rome in one of the tours. She was an Italian girl who spoke Spanish very well and whose house was next to the hotel where Jorge was staying.

They became a couple a few days later, but Jorge had to continue with the music tour. They had a long-distance relationship for two years. Their friends thought it would not last long, but to everyone’s surprise, they got married in 2006, in Cuba.

The initial plan was to live together on the island, but the economic situa-

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

37

tion was very difficult for Cinzia, so they moved to Italy. She worked in a beauty salon, while Jorge tried to get a job as a musician, but it was not easy because he did not speak Italian. Gone were the days of abundance. So they thought about migrating to Spain.

ENCOUNTER WITH GOD They lived in Barcelona for about one MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 38 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

year and a half. Their daughter Yunesis was born and Jorge worked in local orchestras. However, stability would not last long, as the crisis in the European country was worse and worse, and the chances of getting a job faded.

His wife missed her country, so they decided to return to Rome in 2010.

Their financial situation was critical.

Only Cinzia had a job, so Jorge had to

leave music aside and started working in the field with his father-in-law collecting chestnuts. In such a desolate place, away from the city and his family, he thought that coming back to Cuba was the best solution.

One day, sitting in front of the TV and tired of watching the same thing in a language he could barely understand, he found a channel in Spanish. “At last

life story

Jorge began to experience a spiritual struggle. He worked in nightclubs, bars, orchestras and bands, but at the same time, he led a Christian life. It was a contradiction that would not leave him alone.

One day, he listened to the preaching of Reverend Gustavo Martinez in which he said that we must give God what is more valuable to us, not what we have to spare. He immediately thought of his instruments.

something I can understand!� he said.

Suddenly he heard the voice of a Cuban pastor preaching the Word of God and telling about everything that had happened to him in life. It was Bethel Television. Those words touched his heart and on his knees he asked the Lord for forgiveness.

He called his wife to tell him what had happened. By then, Jorge’s mother

had come to visit him in Rome. The news of the spiritual experience of the musician was a reason for happiness in the family.

As his mother wanted to go to church, she looked for one in Rome, but her search was not successful. Jorge looked up on the web and found the address and telephone number of the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Rome. He called and the pastor answered in such a loving way that he was pleasantly surprised, as he had never heard anyone speak like that before.

Mother and son went to the temple.

Jorge began to experience a spiritual struggle. He worked in nightclubs, bars, orchestras and bands, but at the same time, he led a Christian life. It was a contradiction that would not leave him alone. One night he had an epiphany. He felt that if he did not give up on the life he was leading he would lose himself.

Frightened, refusing to believe what he had felt, he called his wife every ten minutes to ask if her children were still there.

MUSIC FOR THE LORD By then, Jorge had formed a jazz band and produced an album, but after his religious experience, he abandoned his plans and even changed his clothes. His fellow musicians offered him more money not to leave them, but he did not accept because he was determined to devote himself entirely to the Lord.

Looking for a job again was not easy for him. Seeing others being accepted but him being rejected was hard because he had needs at home. His wife changed with him; seeing the change in Jorge was enough for her to decide to accept Christ. Although at the beginning it was difficult for her too, God helped her prepare her heart.

Soon the blessing would reach the door of their home. People brought them food and clothing. They saw the grace of God and this motivated them to meet Him. In 2012, Jorge obtained his victory: he and his wife became members of the church. He went from street musician to musician of God. He was in charge of the music in the church and God used it in such a way that worship and praise were the glory of the Lord.

Some time later, after working for television, he transferred his signature to Latin Percussion, a worldwide brand of musical instruments. As a result, he got a truckload of instruments just for him.

One day, he listened to the preaching of Reverend Gustavo Martinez in which he said that we must give God what is more valuable to us, not what we have to spare. He immediately thought of his instruments. He did not hesitate to donate all of them to the church.

Currently, Jorge serves the Lord in the city of Naples, Italy, next to his wife and two children, and believes that what he has is more than he deserves.

His brother Joel became infected with AIDS, but he did the prayer of faith before his death, while his elder brother became the pastor of a church and serves God with all his heart. His mother’s prayers paid off in time, and God gave her a great reward.

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

39

“That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fullness of him that filleth all in all.” Ephesians 1: 17-23.

Rev. Luis M. Ortiz

Beloved brothers, the ‘exceeding greatness’ of God’s power mentioned in the verses above, which is the ‘mighty power’ that raised Christ from the dead, is within us, is ours. That power that set Jesus at God’s right hand in the heavenly places is within us, belongs to us, is at our disposal. That exceeding greatness of power that set Christ far above all principality, power, might and dominion, and every name that is named, is ours! Yes, that power is within us and is our heritage!

Paul prayed to God so that the Ephesians understood that, as Christ was set at God’s right hand by His great power, so have we been set in heavenly places thanks to Jesus. As Christ triumphed and reigns far above all principality, power, might and dominion, and every name that is named, so do we, since He is head and we are his body.

Now, for our faith in Christ’s sacrifice and the power of his name, and for our awareness of our position, rights and heritage in Christ, we are also victors far above all principality of demons, all power of Satan, and all might of darkness. As long as we are not aware of our position and legal rights as God’s children, we will not be able to have true faith and put it into practice.

For that reason, Saint Paul prayed MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 40 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

OUR RIGHTS AS CHILDREN

OF GOD

for our understanding of that exceeding greatness of God’s power that is with us.

Those who believe and accept Christ become entitled to become God’s children, and we are His sons ( John 1:12).

We can now say when we talk to God: “Father, the Holy Spirit testifies that we are Your children, and as Your heirs, that is our position” (Romans 8: 1617). He who did not spare His own Son but offered him for our sake, how could He deny abundance to us? As Christ rules and reigns above all power, so do we (Romans 8: 32).

Paul states then with reason, “Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8: 37-29).

We often talk about what we will become or how we should be, but why not better talk about what we are now. God has put at our disposal the power that He exerted in Christ when He raised him from the dead.

We are not just, but we are justified by faith (Romans 3: 24; 5: 1). We are not strong, but our strength is Christ (Philippians 4: 13). We are not powerful in this world, but “… greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world” (1 John 4: 4). We are not wise, but Christ is our wisdom. We do not change, but we are transformed. We do leave some things behind, but “… if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature” (2 Corinthians 5: 17).

We do not claim power for ourselves, but God grants His power. We do not usurp Jesus’ name, but He authorizes us to act on his behalf. We are not healers, but Jesus sends us to: “Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead…” (Matthew 10: 8). We do not claim to have power over the devil, but Christ states: “Behold, I give unto you power… Over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you” (Luke 10: 19). Our hands have no power by themselves, but Christ asserts, “… they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover” (Mark 16: 18). It is not us who say that everything is possible, but Christ said that, “… all things are possible to him that believeth” (Mark 9: 23). We do not make ourselves equal to Christ, but his Word states that “… because as he is, so are we in this world” (1 John 4: 17).

Christ defeated sin so that you can also defeat it. Christ healed and let others injure him so that you can also heal and be healed by his wounds. Christ calmed the storm so that you can also calm the storms of life. Christ casted out demons so that you can also expel them in his name. Christ was killed for sin so that you also kill the sin in you. Christ resurrected so that you can live a new life. Christ defeated his enemies so that you become more than a conqueror.

You must be aware that Christ made everything for you; it is yours. By his blood, you are clean; by his wounds, you are healed; by his Word, you can defeat Satan. Stop being a spiritual beggar; live as a sovereign sitting in heavenly places with Christ. Do not complain anymore about your limitations; use the unlimited power of God. Do not say that it is

devotional

impossible; everything is possible with Christ who strengthens you. Do not say that you do not know; Christ is your wisdom. Do not say that you do not have; you are rich with Christ.

Beloved, go ahead! Work for Christ!

Win souls for the Lord! Take your place in Christ!

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

41

“… Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, this is the word of the Lord unto Zerubbabel, saying, not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.” Zechariah 4: 6.

Rev. José Arturo Soto B.

When the Lord called Zechariah, the people of Israel had gone astray and their spirit was spiritually ambiguous and ambivalent. For that reason, the prophet’s message aim was to renew and deepen the relationship between the people and the Lord, as well as the duty to respond to His requests.

The divine order to restore the temple has a twofold symbolic meaning. First, it represented the need to restore their destroyed and abandoned spiritual life. How could there be spiritual life, sacrifice and worship with no altar? How could there be priesthood without a saint place? How could people satisfy their spiritual, physical, emotional and material needs with no place in particular to get closer to the Lord? Second, it represented the people’s thirst and hunger for God, as well as their efforts to reach those who still did not know the Lord and to bring them to His house.

God’s people had forgotten the source of their power, as well as the reason why God had freed them from captivity. This lesson encourages us to know that source of power and victory, and to identify the nature of our conflicts.

1. THE SOURCE OF POWER AND VICTORY “And the angel that talked with me came again, and waked me, as a man that is wakened out of his sleep” (Zechariah 4: 1). The angel had to awaken the prophet. It is God who must come and awaken us from this dangerous lethargy to make us remember which the source of our power is.

When the Church drop its guard, it forgets its origin and objective in this world. As a result, God’s people divert from God’s vision, become indifferent and idle, and open the door for Satan MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 42 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

DO NOT FORGET THE SOURCE OF YOUR

POWER to replace the first source for a fake one.

Then the Church changes the power of God for tricks and shows appealing to the world and youth, for colorful lights, fireworks, lasers, smoke screens, etc., and the Lord’s altar turns into a pagan scenario.

The Church’s source of power is and will always be the presence of the Holy Spirit. If He stops moving in the Church, the service to the Lord becomes a mechanical and nonsensical act.

We must be aware that God’s Spirit pushes the people to look for His face through prayer. Did you know that a survey revealed that, nowadays, Pastors pray on average seven minutes a day? Some of they have changed the Lord’s altar for other “altars” such as television, videogames and sports magazines.

When Jesus announced to his disciples that He would leave this world, they got very sad because it was easier for them to have him physically with

devotional

them. Spiritual life, however, goes beyond senses and feelings. The Holy Spirit is a source of power for God’s children.

The book of Revelation describes the Lord in the throne, as a sacrificed lamb with seven horns (symbolizing divine power, strength and omnipotence) and seven eyes (symbolizing omniscience). God’s people cannot fight spiritual wars without having that supernatural force. Our fight is for sure “… against the rulers of the darkness

of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places” (Ephesians 6: 12).

2. THE SOURCE OF OUR CONFLICTS The high priest Joshua was experiencing a state of decay, a feeling of defeat and a weakness that did not allow him to fulfill his spiritual duty (Zechariah 3). But the truth was revealed thanks to those who kneeled before God and looked for His face.

The prophet Zechariah had a vision of Joshua in filthy garments and Satan at his right hand accusing him before the Lord’s angel. Joshua’s fight was not physical, but spiritual, and he was not able to understand what was happening. The Lord’s angel rebuked Satan and ordered him to take away those garments from Joshua (Zechariah 3: 1-5). The high priest Joshua did not stay in such state of prostration and inertia because the

devil was discovered and defeated.

Similarly, the Church must be aware that the enemy works with the indifference and apathy to seek God. How many times we promise God that will change our behavior but remain doing nothing while the devil points us that out. We must rebuke the devil in the name of Lord in those situations.

Remember Job. He, despite doing nothing wrong, suffered an all-out attack by the enemy against his family, goods, and health. Even if he did not understand why that happened to him, he sought God, his source of power.

Every assault of the devil, instead of taking him away from God, took him even closer. For that reason, he cried out, “For I know that my redeemer liveth…” ( Job 19: 25-27).

When Daniel prayed the Lord to intervene, Archangel Gabriel appeared before him carrying a message: “At the beginning of thy supplications the commandment came forth…”

(Daniel 9: 23). Daniel realized that his fight was spiritual and won because he kept on praying. Do not let the enemy stop your prayers with doubts, worries or despair.

In the Calvary’s cross, Christ publicly revealed the devil’s truth, exposed him and took him under his feet. Victory is also ours and the devil is under our feet. Amen.

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

43

A quick report of the work that Worldwide Missionary Movement is making in America and throughout the world. The Holy Bible states: “And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple... And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved”. (Acts 2:46,47).

THE JOY OF BEING AT

T

GOD’S HOUSE

he Worldwide Missionary Movement in Puerto Rico opened a new door to heaven in Río Grande, a town bathed by the Atlantic Ocean.

The Worldwide Missionary Movement in Puerto Rico opened a new temple in the town of Río Grande, located by the Atlantic Ocean, during an evangelistic campaign that took place from May 17 to May 19. The Lord was praised for this blessing.

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 44 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

event

Fotos: Grabaciones Impacto

The event was attended by Rev. Gustavo Martínez, International President of the WMM; Rev. José Soto, International Vice President of the Work of God; Rev. Rodolfo Cruz, International Treasurer of the WMM; Rev. Margaro Figueroa, International Director of the Work of God; and Rev. Luis Meza Bocanegra, International Director of the Work of God. Pas-

tors Albert Rivera, National Supervisor of the WMM in Puerto Rico, and Alberto Santana, National Officer of the Work in Puerto Rico, among others, were also present.

On the first night, Rev. Martínez shared the Word of the Lord through a preaching entitled “The joy of Being at God’s House”, based on Psalms 122: 1-9. In his

message, the leader of the Work said that, “as Christians, it is important to yearn for God’s house.”

On the second day, Rev. Soto preached the Holy Scriptures through a message based on Matthew 16: 15-18, stating that, “God’s Church represents the living faith in Jesus-Christ. We stay on our feet thanks to his mercy.”

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

45

ANNIVERSARY OF

FORTÍN LUGONES

T

he Worldwide Missionary Movement of Argentina celebrated the thirteen years of the establishment of one of its more active temples in the province of Formosa.

With the presence of a large group of believers, the Worldwide Missionary Movement of Argentina celebrated, from March 10 to 12, the 13th Anniversary of the founding of Fortín Lugones Church, located in the province of Formosa.

The activities were led by pastor AlejanMISSIONARY MOVEMENT 46 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

event

drino Ferreyra, in charge of the temple in that town, and his wife, sister Paula de Ferreyra, who shared the good news with the God’s followers attending the call of God’s Work.

The most emotional moment of the event, which had plenty special activities to worship Jesus Christ, occurred on the second day, when an evangelistic parade took place around the main streets of Fortín Lugones. The walk allowed WMM members to share the Gospel with the citizens of this town, located in the department of Patiño.

The celebration of the 13th Anniversary of the creation of the Church in this community was also useful to elaborate a work plan 2017 of the local congregation.

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

47

TOUCHED BY HIS

PRESENCE

T

he Worldwide Missionary Movement in Spain held its 4th Youth Convention in Valencia with the presence of about five hundred young people.

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 48 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

With the motto “Touched by His presence,” the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Spain held its 4th Youth Convention from April 13 to April 15 at the Tivoli Theater in the city of Valencia. The event was attended by about five hundred young people who came from the congregations of the

Work of God in Spain.

The activity of the WMM in Spain, led by Pastor Ovidio Romero, Presbyter of Zone South, was also attended

by Rev. Juan Castaño, Presbyter of Zone Center, and Rev. Carlos Medina, National Supervisor of the WMM in Spain and Block A of Europe.

event

On the first day, before more than half a thousand followers of Jesus Christ, Pastor Fernando Paredes preached the Word through the message “Extreme Situations to Be Touched by His Presence,” based on Acts 28: 3-5.

Then, on the second day, Brother José Barrera held a conference titled “Youth connected: in the cloud or in the clouds?” A few hours later, he preached the Word gin through the message “Now It Is Your Turn.”

The 4th Youth Convention of the WMM in Spain ended with the message “Dating Engineering” by Pastors Oswaldo Romero and Keila Vergara.

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

49

MEN OF

RESISTANCE T

he Work of God in Italy held its 10th National Fellowship of Men in the city of Monza.

Among songs, praises and countless testimonies, the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Italy held its 10th National Fellowship of Men from April 7 to April 9 in Monza, in northern Italy.

The event, which was held under the motto “Men of Resistance,” began with a service in which Rev. Ramón Ortega, National Officer of the WMM in Italy, shared a message based on Acts 20:24.

The preaching of Pastor Ortega conveyed a message of comfort to the people of God who fight against evil day by day.

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 50 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

On the morning of the second day, Rev. Hugo Lope, Presbyter of Zone North of the WMM in Italy, presented the message “Resistance Is the Result of Joy.” Based on Philippians 1:21, the servant of the Lord urged the followers of Christ to resist evil in the name of God. At night, Rev. David Echalar, National Supervisor of the WMM in Italy, shared the message of the Almighty. In his intervention “Who shall disannul it?” based on Isaiah 14:27, the servant of Christ encouraged those who want to sacrifice their lives for Christianity and fight for the expansion of the Gospel.

On the last day of the 10th National Fellowship of Men of the WMM in Italy, Rev. Luis Valderrama, Presbyter of Zone South, announced the good news through a message based on Timothy 4:17.

event

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

51

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 52 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

event

NEW, RESPONSIBLE

T

AND USEFUL WOMEN

he Worldwide Missionary Movement in Uruguay held its National Women Retreat in the city of Toledo with the participation of aged and young women, mothers and girls.

The Worldwide Missionary Movement in Uruguay held its National Women Retreat from June 2 to June

4, under the motto “New, Responsible and Useful Women.� About a hundred women, aged and young, gathered in the temple of the city of Toledo, located in the metropolitan area of Montevideo, to worship the Lord and show their love and dedication to God. The activity was attended by missionary Deisy Chaquea, wife of Rev. Luis Rivera, National Supervisor of the WMM in Paraguay. Sister Chaquea sha-

red her testimony and spoke about her experience in missionary work. In addition, the servant of God preached the Word and evangelized the followers of the Almighty.

During the three days of this event of the WMM in Uruguay, the power of the Lord manifested itself through a series of healings, blessings, testimonies and conversions that marveled the believers who came to Toledo.

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

53

FAITHFUL PASTORS AND WORKERS

FOR THE MINISTRY

T

he Work in Bolivia held its Fellowship of Pastors and Workers in Santa Cruz, with the attendance of more than three hundred people.

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 54 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

event

The city of Santa Cruz de la Sierra, in eastern Bolivia, hosted from May 10 to May 12 the Fellowship of Pastors and Workers of the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Bolivia. The event, which was held under the motto “Faithful Pastors and Workers for the Ministry,” gathered more than three hundred servants of the Lord.

At the inauguration, Rev. Gustavo Martínez, International President of the Work of God, shared the Word through the message of the Almighty.

In his message, entitled “God’s Call to Pastors and Workers: Qualities and Principles of a Good Leader,” he said, “While others take their hand off the plough, I want to reach the end, as Moses reached the mountain of God. I want to serve you, Lord. I need Your grace and Your unction to go to the mission.”

On the same day, missionary Carmen Valencia de Martínez announced the Gospel through a preaching titled “Burden or Ideal Aid.” “The role of a wife is very important for the growth and stability of the servant of God, and together they will be a blessing wherever they are,” said the wife of the leader.

On the second day, Rev. José Soto, Vice-President of the WMM, shared the message “Have Conviction of your Calling”. In his speech, which was based on the life of Moses, the minister of God said, “What the Lord wants to do through our call is different for every person, and the worker must have the firm conviction that the Lord will support him or her in the way.”

The Fellowship of Pastors and Workers of the WMM in Bolivia ended with the preaching of Rev. Gustavo Martínez. In his message, titled “Do Not Let Satan Hurt your Heart,” based on Acts 5:12, he said, “Our only security is to remain and establish ourselves in the Word of God.”

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

55

REACHING

NATIONS

T

he Worldwide Missionary Movement in the Dominican Republic held its 1st Retreat of Pastors and Workers with the mass attendance of leaders of God.

From May 18 to May 20, the Worldwide Missionary Movement in the Dominican Republic held its Retreat of Pastors MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 56 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

and Workers at the facilities of the Mahanaim Convention Center, located in the province of Santo Domingo. The event was attended by a large group of members of the Work of God. The spiritual celebration, organized under the motto “Reaching Nations, Our Responsibility,” had as special guest Rev. Clemente Vergara, Supervisor of the Antilles and Africa, who shared the good news. The Lord’s servant arrived in the Dominican Republic with his wife,

Gladys de Vergara, who supported him in spreading the Gospel and shared her testimony of faith.

The Retreat of Pastors and Workers of the WMM in the Dominican Republic allowed the member from the Work in this country to show their commitment to the sound doctrine and Christianity.

In addition, during the three days of activities, there were many demonstrations of fidelity of the Dominican people to the cause of God.

event

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

57

UNITED BY A

REVIVAL

T

he Worldwide Missionary Movement in the Netherlands held its National Convention in the city of Rotterdam.

Under the motto “United for a Revival,” the Worldwide Missionary Movement in the Netherlands held, from May 25 to May 28, its National Convention in Rotterdam, a city located west of the Netherlands.

The event was attended by Rev. Gustavo Martínez, International President of the WMM; Rev. José Soto, Vice President of the Work of God, and Rev. David Echalar, Supervisor of Block B of Europe. The first message “Lead Me to MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 58 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

Your Path,” by Pastor Carlos Medina, Supervisor of Block A of Europe.

At the beginning of the second day, Rev. Soto shared the good news through a message called “Appeal to a New Generation.” Hours later, in the night service, Rev. Martínez evangelized the Lord’s people through the message “The Sovereignty of God and the Responsibility of Man.” At the opening of the third day, missionary Carmen Valencia de Martínez shared the Word through the message “The Great Day of Victory.” In addition, a group of workers was promoted in a beautiful ceremony. Later, at night, the National Convention of the WMM in the Netherlands ended with the speech of Rev. Soto, who spread the Gospel.

Fotos: Anthony Paredes

event

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

59

HE SPOKE OF POWER

T

he Worldwide Missionary Movement in Venezuela held an event that brought together about 4,000 faithful despite the social problems in this nation.

The uncertainty governing the homeland of Simón Bolívar did not prevent the Work of God from holding the 22nd National Convention of Women and Youth of the WMM in Venezuela from April 12 to April 14. The event, held in the state of Barinas, was attended by around 4,000 faithful who crowded the stands of the Domo Boliviariano 5 de Julio.

The organization of the 22nd National MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 60 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

event

Convention of Women and Youth was a challenge to the mettle of the Venezuelan members of the Work led by Rev. Ricardo Manrique, leader of the local congregation, but nothing is impossible with the Lord. Pastor Manrique said, “We almost called off the activity, but God did not allow it. He opened doors and we entered.”

Under the protection of Jesus Christ, the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Venezuela succeeded in making of the event a multitudinous celebration of faith. The Domo Bolivariano 5 de Julio was filled to its capacity of 3,892 people, in which believers showed their hope and trust in the love of the Almighty.

During the three days of activities, more than sixty people came to the Lord’s feet and embraced the Gospel. In addition, Rev. Ciro Ramírez, one of the main preachers of the Convention, shared God’s message and said that, “the revival that He has promised us is coming to the nation. He spoke of fire. He spoke of power.”

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

61

ONLY GOD MAKES

R

MAN HAPPY

ev. Eugenio Masías, National Supervisor of the WMM in Ecuador, visited Sweden, Finland and Denmark and shared the Gospel of God. Faithful to his promise to spread the Gospel in every corner of the world, Rev. Eugenio Masías, National Supervisor of the WMM in Ecuador, undertook a missionary journey, from June 16 to June 25, to different cities in Sweden, Denmark and Finland sharing the good news.

The journey of Rev. Masías, whose motto was “Only God Makes Man Happy,” began in the Danish cities of Slagelse, on the island of Zealand, and Copenhagen, the most populated city MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 62 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

event

in Denmark, where the servant of God scattered the seeds of the Gospel.

From June 20 to June 21, the representative of the Work of the Lord arrived in Sweden, where he visited the city of Malmö, located in the region of Scania, to sow the Christian faith. The following day, he landed in the Finnish city of Helsinki, on the shores of the Gulf of Finland, where he spoke about Jesus Christ.

From June 24 to June 25, Pastor Masías visited the city of Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, where he shared a preaching entitled “The Dangers of Occultism and Satanism.” Likewise, the National Supervisor of the WMM in Ecuador led a water baptism in which two believers gave their lives to God. Back home, Rev. Masías spoke about his evangelical journey and said that, “in the countries I visited I saw a great need of the Lord in the people we evangelized. Not only Latin American people listened to the message of God, but also Danes, Finns and Swedes.”

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

63

NATIONAL FELLOWSHIP IN

NICARAGUA

T

he Work of God in Nicaragua held a spiritual celebration in the city of Granada with the presence of International Officer Álvaro Garavito.

The Worldwide Missionary Movement in Nicaragua held its National Confraternity from May 24 to May 26, with the special participation of Rev. Álvaro Garavito, International Officer of the

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 64 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

WMM and Supervisor of Central America. The city of Granada, known as the Paris of Central America, hosted the spiritual celebration.

The National Fellowship gathered a large group of believers who traveled to Granada from distant Nicaraguan cities.

The people of the Lord did a mass fast in order to receive from God the directions to expand the Work in this Central American nation.

The event had a moment of great emo-

tion when all of the attendees remembered that Jesus Christ blessed the WMM in Nicaragua with the provision of a land, where the Peniel Convention Center will be built to host future events and celebrations of faith.

Rev. Garavito preached the Lord’s message based on 2 Timothy 1: 6. The pastor spoke of kindling the fire of God that has been given to us. Rev. Evangelisto Sánchez, National Supervisor of the WMM in Nicaragua, also shared the good news.

Other Events

UNITED STATES Youth Campaign

The Worldwide Missionary Movement in the United States held, from March 3 to March 5, a Youth Campaign that gathered a large group of believers who showed their love for God. At the event, which took place under the motto “Youth, Christ Will Return!”, Rev. Federico Cabrera, National Secretary of the WMM in Puerto Rico, shared the message of the Lord “Lives with Purpose,” based on Matthew 9: 18-23.

During the three days of the Youth Campaign of WMM in the United States, Jesus Christ made himself present through many blessings.

Likewise, the members of the Work of God showed their faith in the Almighty with songs and worships.

COLOMBIA Events in Puerto Alvira and Mapiripán The Worldwide Missionary Movement in Colombia held, from February 15 to February 20, two simultaneous events in the towns of Puerto Alvira and Mapiripán, in the department of Meta. Both towns, occupied by paramilitaries at the end of the last century, were visited by a large number of believers from the congregations of the Work of God established in the departments of Guavire and Meta.

Rev. Eduard Sánchez Mosquera, Presbyter of Zone 81 of Mitú Vaupés, attended the two activities and preached the Word of the Lord.

Based on Matthew 24: 1-5, Pastor Sánchez talked about the power of the Gospel and the fulfillment of the prophecies of the last times.

event

BRAZIL Fellowship in Tabatinga

The city of Tabatinga, located furthest to the west of the state of Amazonas, on the banks of the Amazon River, hosted the National Fellowship of the WMM in Brazil from May 5 to May 7.

The event, held near to the BrazilColombia-Peru triple border, was attended by Rev. Henry Ramos, National Supervisor of the Work in Brazil; Rev. José Milton Cardoso, National Officer of the WMM in Brazil; Rev. Marco Rau, National Officer of the WMM in Peru, and Rev. Dilmer Mondragón, Presbyter of the WMM in Tabatinga. Delegations of brothers from Colombia and Peru also attended the National Fellowship of the WMM in Brazil.

On the opening day, Pastor Ramos shared the Word through a message based on Ezekiel 47. On the second day, Rev. Abel Chumpitaz shared the Gospel inspired by 1 Kings 22: 1-4, and Pastor José Milton Cardoso presented the message “The Structure of Salvation,” based on John 3:16. By the end of the event, Pastor Marcos Rau spread the good news through a preaching entitled “We Die at the Altar.”

SWITZERLAND Youth Campaign in Geneva

Under the motto “Receiving a Legacy,” the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Switzerland held a Youth Campaign from April 21 to April 23 in the city of Geneva, one of the world’s leading financial centers. The event was attended by around 100 faithful coming from different Swiss cities.

The Youth Campaign, led by Pastor Jimy Ramírez, leader of the Geneva church, began with a day in which Brother Brayan Alvarado preached the Word of God through a message based on Malachi 2:15.

Then, on the second day of the event, Sister Nicole Ríos shared the Gospel of the Lord. On the third day, Pastor Benila Zephir Boutin and Rev. Ramírez evangelized the people of God.

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

65

LETTERS TO US... cartas@impactoevangelistico.net

GLOBAL AGENDA 2017 JANUARY 2-5 National in Puerto Rico 9-16 National Convention in Colombia 26-29 National Convention in Bolivia (Cochabamba) FEBRUARY 3-5 Convention in Paraguay (Asunción) 9-12 Convention in Argentina (Rosario) 25-28 Convention in Panama MARCH 2-5 Convention in Honduras (San Pedro de Sula) 9-12 Convention in Australia (Sidney) APRIL 13-16 Convention in Guatemala (Guatemala City) 13-16 Convention in the Guianas, Trinidad and Martinique (Surinam) MAY 4-7 Convention in Japan (Hamamatsu, Shizuoka) 17-20 Convention in India 26-28 Convention in Holland

CARLOS BASTIDAS God bless you, brothers. Go ahead and may the Lord continue to guide you in the publication of the magazine. Ever since the first time I read it, I loved it and I’ll continue buying it to see the wonders that God works in so many lives. May the Lord bless you. From Caracas, Venezuela.

GUSTAVO MENDOZA Dear brothers, God bless you. I’m very grateful to God and to you for the great work you do, and for sending the magazine to thousands of people. It has been very helpful for my life and for the life of others. Thank you very much. May the family of the Lord Jesus Christ continue to grow! Amen. From Texas, USA.

JUAN DELGADO I thank God for letting me be part of this Work of faith and sacrifice, and for receiving this amazing magazine that truly edifies our lives with each of the topics it contains. God bless the brothers who do this noble work that has brought salvation to thousands of lives.

From Huila, Colombia.

RAÚL PEÑA

edifies our spiritual life. May God continue to bless this commendable work.

From Huancayo, Peru.

JUNE 21-24 Convention in Brazil (Manaos)

JOSÉ ROJAS

JULY 4-8

God bless you richly-. I want to congratulate you for the work you do in this ministry for the grace of God. From Texas, USA.

LUZ DÍAZ God bless the team that works in the Impacto Evangelistic magazine and all the readers.

From Lima, Peru.

JUAN CARLOS RODRÍGUEZ Thanks God for the information offered to those who read the magazine; it’s very helpful.

May the Lord bless you richly.

From Madrid, Spain.

ROLANDO DUARTE God bless you greatly for this wonderful work.

The Lord, through this means, continues to be a blessing to many people. Impacto Evangelistic is a magazine of great significance, as it has edified the life of readers, and God has done many miracles through it. May Jesus Christ continue to help the precious team of this magazine.

Many blessings.

From Miami, USA.

Dear brothers, this is indeed a magazine that

You can download the free QR code reader from these platforms:

11-14 13-16 16-18 27-30

Central American Convention in Costa Rica (San José) Convention in the United States (Woodbridge, Virginia) Convention in Netherlands Antilles (Curaçao) National Fellowship in Canada Convention in Mexico (Puebla)

AUGUST 3-6 Convention in Spain & Block A, Europe (Madrid) 8-11 Convention in Venezuela (Barquisimeto) 10-13 Convention in Italy (Milano) 16-19 Convention in Africa ( Equatorial Guinea) 24-27 Convention in Haiti (Port-au-Prince) 24-27 Convention in Ecuador (Guayaquil) 24-27 Convention in Belize SEPTEMBER 17-19 Convention in Peru (Lima) Saturday 30 Mission World Day OCTOBER 20-22 Fellowship in Madagascar 26-28 Convention in Dominican Republic 26-29 Convention in Chile (Santiago) 27-29 Convention in Mauritius NOVEMBER 9-12 Convention in El Salvador 16-19 Convention in Uruguay (Montevideo) 23-26 Convention in Nicaragua DECEMBER

n Past events n Future events MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 66 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

LIVE

from Facebook from your cellphone or tablet

usta Me g

e. on liv

venti agos e con ziel L watch th on U Nels blessing to y life. a for m g at h in W bless It is a arez blessing. la Alv at Danie ram of gre g A pro ds. ar Reg t‌ men a com ting is wri Paula

Watch live our best programs

Bethel Television, the Worldwide Missionary Movement channel, broadcasts the Word of God’s message through cultural and educational programs from Lima - Peru to the world by 7 satellites and the Internet.

July 2017 / Impacto evangelistic

67

God’s hand always helps us in prayer.

MONDAY TO FRIDAY 12PM/PERU

Bethel Television, the Worldwide Missionary Movement channel, broadcasts the Word of God’s message through cultural and educational programs from Lima - Peru to the world by 7 satellites and the Internet.

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 68 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia