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Edition for AMERICA

THE MAGAZINE THAT EDIFIES YOUR LIFE

April 2018 / Edition 771

evangelistic www.impactoevangelistico.net

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION

WORLDWIDE MISSIONARY MOVEMENT

PERSPECTIVE

Should we worship nature?

DEVOTIONAL

God’s eternal purpose EVENTS

National conventions in Argentina and Bolivia

Jesus’ second coming is near

THE SEVENTY WEEKS

OF DANIEL

The best animated production with wonderful stories. THURSDAYS 10H PERU / 15H GMT

Bethel Television, the Worldwide Missionary Movement channel, broadcasts the Word of God through cultural and educational programs from Lima - Peru to the world by its satellites and the Internet. MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 2 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

editorial

WAKE UP,

CHURCH! Rev. José Arturo Soto B. International President of the MMM

“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.

hen the Church is half-asleep, falling

through pipes, and two olive trees on both sides

away from this reality and not taking the

of the bowl. However, this vision was not only

powerful Gospel closer to people, it is because has

for Zechariah but also for other people: “Not by

forgotten its origin and the objective of its presen-

might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith

ce in this world. Therefore, God’s people move

the Lord of hosts” (Zechariah 4:6).

away from the divine vision and drown in con-

There are no more tears in our eyes, no more

fusion, indifference and inertia. The numbness

missionary callings, no more true conversions,

of the Church regarding the source of its power

no more miracles people are not healed anymo-

opens the door to Satan whose diabolic plan is

re, no more wonders or signs of the Almighty’s

camouflaged replacing the first true source with

power. There is no spiritual growth in the people

a deceitful one.

of God, as shows have replaced God’s Word and

The first effects of this indifference in the con-

the indoctrination of believers.

gregation are the absence of the Holy Spirit and

God’s people cannot fight spiritual battles

its power to convict lost people of sin. Therefore,

without the supernatural power of God because

the Church replaces God’s power with tricks and

Satan would destroy them. In fact, our battle is

shows that entertain young people and the world,

not “…against flesh and blood, but against

such as colorful lights, fireworks, lasers, smoke,

principalities, against powers, against the

etc., which turn the Lord’s altar in a pagan stage.

rulers of the darkness of this world, against

What a blasphemy!

spiritual wickedness in high places” (Ephe-

The book of Zechariah 4:2-3 states that the

sians 6:12).

vision of Zechariah had interrelated elements:

Dear reader, the Lord says, “Awake thou that

a golden candlestick, a bowl with oil, seven lit

sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ

lamps of gold that were connected to the bowl

shall give thee light” (Ephesians 5:14). Amen.

april 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

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evangelistic Founder Director: Rev. Luis M. Ortiz APRIL 2018 / EDITION N° 771 (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

BOARD OFFICERS OF WMM INC. Rev. José Soto President Rev. Humberto Henao Vice president Rev. Rubén Concepción Secretary Rev. Gustavo Martínez Treasurer Rev. Álvaro Garavito Director Rev. Rómulo Vergara Director Rev. Luis Meza Director Rev. Clemente Vergara Director Rev. Carlos Guerra 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

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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

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28 / HERO OF FAITH. A blessed man. DEVOTIONALS 40 / THE ETERNAL PURPOSE OF GOD. Rev. Luis M. Ortiz

40 / WHEN THE KING COULD NOT SLEEP Rev. JosÃ© A. Soto

The seventy weeks of Daniel

Should we worship nature?

Life Stories

Analyses

24 / LITERATURE. A life unrivaled.

Perspective

24 / MUSIC. This world is not my home

Cover

18 / HEALTH. Pregnancy care.

God will open doors

20 16

Escaping stormy waters

40 / A BURNING LIGHT Rev. Alberto Ortega 46 / EVENTS. 64 / OTHER EVENTS.

14 / Infography.

66 / LETTERS - AGENDA.

april 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

God deals with Israel based on a period of seventy weeks of years, i.e. 490 years. Angel Gabriel makes an announcement to Daniel as a prophetic and historical draft of the future of Israel’s people.

Rev. Luis M. Ortiz

900 years after Israel took possession of its land, God warned the two southern tribes ( Judah and Benjamin) through Prophet Jeremiah that if they did not give up idolatry and sin, they would be taken to Babylon and be held captive. The other ten northern tribes had already been taken into captivity by Assyria. Through Jeremiah, God said to the two southern tribes: “And this whole land shall be a desolation, and an astonishment; and these nations shall serve the king of Babylon seventy years… after seventy years be accomplished at Babylon I will visit you, and perform my good word toward you, in causing you to return to this place” ( Jeremiah 25:11, 29:10) The seventy years of captivity were almost accomplished, and Daniel, who wanted to know about the future of his people, wrote: “… I Daniel understood by books the number of the years, whereof the word of the Lord came to Jeremiah the prophet, that he would accomplish seventy years in the desolations of Jerusalem. And I set my face unto the Lord God, to seek by prayer and supplications, with fasting, and sackcloth, and ashes. And I prayed unto the Lord my God, and made my confession, and said: O Lord, the great and dreadful God, keeping the covenant and mercy to them that love him, and to them that keep MOVIMIENTOMISSIONARY MISIONERO MOVEMENT MUNDIAL 6 WORLDWIDE América • Europe America Europa • Oceanía • África • Asia

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THE SEVENTY WEEKS OF

DANIEL Abril april2018 2018/ /Impacto ImpactoevangelĂstico evangelistic

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

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his commandments; we have sinned, and have committed iniquity, and have done wickedly, and have rebelled, even by departing from thy precepts and from thy judgments” (Daniel 9:2-5). This is then followed by a wonderful prayer of confession and repentance that Daniel ends like this: “Now therefore, O our God, hear the prayer of thy servant, and his supplications, and cause thy face to shine upon thy sanctuary that is desolate, for the Lord’s sake. O my God, incline thine ear, and hear; open thine eyes, and behold our desolations, and the city which is called by thy name: for we do not present our supplications before thee for our righteousnesses, but for thy great mercies. O Lord, hear; O Lord, forgive; O Lord, hearken and do;

The words “seventy weeks are determined upon thy people” (Daniel 9:24) might seem new, but they are interesting and consistent. God has always dealt with Israel in periods of seventy weeks of years, that is to say 490 years.

defer not, for thine own sake, O my God: for thy city and thy people are called by thy name” (Daniel 9:17-19) And God answered this sincere and deep prayer. Daniel says: “Yea, whiles I was speaking in prayer, even the

man Gabriel, whom I had seen in the vision at the beginning, being caused to fly swiftly, touched me about the time of the evening oblation. And he informed me, and talked with me, and said, O Daniel, I am now come forth to give thee skill and understanding. At the beginning of thy supplications the commandment came forth, and I am come to shew thee; for thou art greatly beloved: therefore understand the matter, and consider the vision. Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy. Know therefore and understand,

april 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

Since the calling of Abraham, the father of nations, until Egypt’s Exodus, seventy weeks of years, i.e. 490 years, passed, without taking into account the fifteen years in which the slave Agar and her son Ishmael ruled Abraham’s home

that from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks: the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublous times. And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself: and the people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary; and the end thereof shall be with a flood, and unto the end of the war desolations are determined. And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate” (Daniel 9:21-27) The words “seventy weeks are determined upon thy people” (Daniel 9:24) might seem new, but they are interesting and consistent. God has always dealt with Israel in periods of seventy weeks of years, that is to say 490 years. But God had never considered in such periods of seventy weeks of years the times Israel has been held captive, outside its land, or subdued in its own land by gentile powers. Note that the seventy weeks of Daniel are not exclusive to the agreements and plans between God and Israel: • Since the calling of Abraham, the father of nations, until Egypt’s Exodus, seventy weeks of years, i.e. 490 years, passed, without taking into account the fifteen years in which the MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 10 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

slave Agar and her son Ishmael ruled Abraham’s home. • Since the Exodus from Egypt until the building of Solomon’s temple, seventy weeks of years, i.e. 490 years, passed, without taking into account the 131 years of gentile domination during the period of the Judges. • Since the building of Solomon’s temple

until the end of the captivity in Babylon, seventy weeks of years, i.e. 490 years, passed, without taking into account the seventy years of Babylonian captivity. SEVENTY WEEKS

When the captivity in Babylon was accomplished, Daniel asked God about the

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future of his people, and God answered: “Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy” (Daniel 9:24). These seventy

weeks are determined solely on the people and city of Israel; they have nothing to do with the Church. Note that all the objectives to be achieved upon the completion of the seventy weeks are related to Israel and Jerusalem: 1. To finish the transgression of Israel concerning its Messiah.

2. To make an end of Israel’s sins due to its lack of faith and rejection of Christ, its Messiah. 3. To make reconciliation for Israel’s iniquity as a nation that will accept Christ as its Messiah and Redeemer. 4. To bring in everlasting righteousness to Israel, which will be justified by its faith in Christ.

april 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 12 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

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Time has stopped concerning God’s direct dealings with Israel and there is still one week to be fulfilled, the 70th week of Daniel’s prophecy, seven years during which God will directly deal with Israel and all of God’s purposes concerning Israel and Jerusalem will be fulfilled. In the end, Israel will acknowledge and accept Christ as its Messiah.

5. To seal up the vision and prophecy, as the Messiah’s presence on earth will bring the knowledge of the Lord. 6. To anoint the most Holy, that is to say, the cleaning and restoration of the Holiest Place desecrated and ravaged by the Antichrist. The seventy weeks are divided in three periods in the same message of the angel to Daniel: 1. The first division comprises the first seven weeks, i.e. 49 years. 2. The second division comprises the next 62 weeks, i.e. 434 years. 3. The third division comprises the last week, the 70th week, i.e. the last 7 years that complete the 490 years. These divisions are marked by important events as well. • The first seven weeks of years began with the decree of King Artaxerxes in the month of Nisan (April) 455 BC to rebuild the walls and the city of Jerusalem. History proves that these works led by Nehemiah lasted exactly seven months of years, i.e. 49 years. • The next 62 weeks went from the end of Jerusalem’s rebuilding until Christ’s death, exactly 62 weeks of years, i.e. 434 years. Christ was rejected by Israel as its Messiah, and He still is until now: “He came unto his own, and his own received him not” ( John 1:11). Due to Israel’s lack of faith, God visited the gentile to make a people in His name among them, and for this reason: “…

As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name” ( John 1:12). The clock of direct dealings between God and Israel stopped at Christ’s death, that is, when the 69 weeks of years, i.e. 483 years, were accomplished. As in previous cases, God did not take into account the time of gentile domination (since the death of Christ until now). Because of Christ’s rejection by Israel, God is visiting the gentile to make a people in His name among them. • Time has stopped concerning God’s direct dealings with Israel and there is still one week to be fulfilled, the 70th week of Daniel’s prophecy, seven years during which God will directly deal with Israel and all of God’s purposes concerning Israel and Jerusalem will be fulfilled. In the end, Israel will acknowledge and accept Christ as its Messiah. The Church will rise to heaven in the Rapture of the Church (1 Thessalonians 4:13-17). That is when the 70th week of Daniel’s prophecy will begin, that is, the seven years under the Antichrist’s rule, when Israel will be severely tested, especially in the last three and a half years. At the end of the week, it will be gloriously freed, because “… Immediately after the tribulation of those days... shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven… And they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory… And his feet shall stand in that day upon the Mount of Olives, which is before Jerusalem on the east…” (Matthew 24:29-30; Zechariah 14:4) God will take the Church out of the world in order to begin the judgements and big trials of the 70th week on Israel and the whole rebel world. Just as he took Enoch out of the world before the Flood (Genesis 5:24), and Lot was saved from the fire and destruction of Sodom (Genesis 19:1-29), and Daniel was spare from the furnace of fire (Daniel 3), the Lord will save His Church from the judgements of the great tribulation. The 70th week approaches. Amen!

april 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

Information Weeks Daniel 9:25 Jerusalem’s construction Dan. 9:25 Neh. 2:1-8 Esd. 1-6

Dan. 9:25 Dan. 9:26

Dan. 9:26 Dan. 9:27

Introduction of Christ as the Messiah the Prince

Formation of Jesus’ bride, who will be taken to heaven.

Dan. 9:25, 26 Isa. 3:14-15 Isa. 9:6, Dan. 9:27 John 14:3

Matthew 24, Luke 17:20-37, Mark 13, Daniel 9:27 John 14:3

Dan. 9:27 And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation…

First period 7 x 7 = 49

The Antichrist will confirm a peace covenant with Israel and the Arabic nations. The temple will be rebuilt and the sacrifices in the altar renewed. After 3 1/2, the Antichrist will break the covenant and the world will experience the great tribulation. 21 judgements will fall over the earth’s inhabitants.

Second period 62 x 7 = 434

Matthew 24, Luke 17:20-37, Mark 13, Daniel 9:27, Hosea 6:1-2, Rev. 6-19,2 Thes. 2:8, Rev. 19-20, Daniel 2:34-35

62 WEEKS (434 YEARS)

7 WEEKS (49 YEARSI)

70 SEMANAS (490 AÑ

Termina con la segunda venida

444 years B.C.

49 Biblical years Exactly 483 years after the order to rebuild Israel

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Prophecies of the first 69 weeks (7+62) were literally fulfilled.

THE SEVENTY WEEKS OF DANIEL

CHRONOLOGY God deals with Israel based on a period of time seventy weeks of years, which means four hundred ninety years. This is announced by the angel Gabriel to the prophet Daniel as a prophetic and historical outline of Israel’s future.

The rapture 29

Christ’ Second Coming 36

THE GREAT TRIBULATION

Christ’s Second Coming

1 WEEK (7 YEARS)

31/2 peace + 31/2 Great tribulation Grace period

Millennium

GRACE PERIOD

ÑOS)

New heaven New earth

Pause

a de Cristo

33 years A.D. Christ’s death

Present

70 weeks end with Christ’s second coming

Church’ rapture

april 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

WE, as Christians, should not worship nature or believe it is more important than human well-being. We are the only ones created in God’s image and we have a special quality that the rest of the creation will never have. Worshipping nature is idolatry, which is something that must never exist in our lives. Avery Foley (*)

The Scripture states that God created the universe and everything in it (Genesis 1:1). The beauty of nature honors Him and declares the glory of Him; its purpose is to lead our attention and devotion to our Creator (Psalms 19:1-6). It is unfortunate that many people think the opposite, honoring and worshipping the creation instead of the Creator. God’s Word describes that with the phrase “(they) changed the truth of God into a lie” (Romans 1:25). Today’s environmental trend considers humans as parasites and plagues on the beautiful earth. From that point of view, humans are some of the last creatures to evolve, taking into consideration that, during millions of years, other forms of life have dominated the planet, and that, in the short time we have existed, we have destroyed what “nature” has created. The environmentalists seek to protect the earth from humans, despite what that actually means for the latter. Afraid of being associated to earth worshipping and the disdain for humanity, many Christians get scared of any environmentalist idea. What should be our response regarding the care of the planet? First, we have to understand God is different from His creation. However, we can learn about His invisible attributes through His creation (Romans 1:20), which would lead us to worship Him. MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 16 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

SHOULD WE

WORSHIP NATURE?

This is one of the creation’s purposes. God feels joy for what he has created. Before creating mankind, God declared six times that His creation was great. Sparrows (Matthew 10:29) and grass of the field (Matthew 6:30) are valuable for Him and He even enjoys the happiness of creatures (Psalms 104:26). In many occasions, the Scriptures celebrate the beauty of God’s creation. It is clear He is delighted with His creation.

THE HUMAN ROLE

We also play a role in the creation. We were created at the end of God’s great creation; we were the most important gem. Of all the things created by God, we are the only ones created in His own image (Genesis 1:27). Being created in God’s image is not about what we do, is about what is the purpose He created us for, what He wants us to be. It gives us a special role that no other creature on this earth will ever have.

perspective

In addition, it does not reflect the original purpose He gave us: dress and keep the creation. These are the exact same words used to describe the roles of priests in the temple (Numbers 3:7-8). This means that we worship the Creator by taking care of the creation, just like priests worshipped God by bringing more people to worship Him. The Scriptures also talk about being a good servant and not someone who wastes the master’s goods. We are called to show the Master’s heart and purpose (Luke 12:43, 16:1-2; 1 Corinthians 4:1) through the way we use the resources He has entrusted us. The way we treat God’s creation must show His concern for His creatures and His joy for his creation. THE CURSE’S EFFECT.

We were also given a special and unique responsibility, “Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth” (Genesis 1:28). Adam was put into the garden of Eden “to dress it and to keep it” (Genesis 2:15). Some Christians believe that “subdue” and “have dominion” means the Earth was

created only for their use and exploitation. However, this does not tally with the Scriptures. Carelessly destroying nature, polluting water and air, destroying wild life and the habitat of animals, or wasting resources does not tally with God’s character or the purpose He gave to mankind. All of that does not show His concern for a beautiful flower or sparrow, or His joy for His creation.

We are currently facing many environmental problems such as pollution, extinction and deforestation due to the curse. When Adam sinned, the earth was cursed (Genesis 3:17) and all the creation now groans (Romans 8:20-22). Because of sin, we do not look after the planet like we were supposed to. Our service is distorted by selfishness, greediness, apathy and even laziness. This sin is not against our planet, as many might think, but against our Creator. When Christ is the center of our lives, we must be willing to look after the creation while complying with the Creator’s order: share the Gospel’s good news, protect human life and look after His creation until He comes back and restores it to its original status. We must look after the creation to glorify the Creator. As you take measures to make sure you are a good servant, lead people to Him as he encourages you to take care of the creation. It is necessary to recognize that God’s Word provides a solid foundation to look after the creation; pray for more people to worship and serve the Creator, who has created everything and has sent his Child to redeem mankind from sin through the latter’s death and resurrection. Taken from www.answersingenesis.org

april 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

There are many anatomical, hormonal and emotional changes that affect the social and family environment during pregnancy. It is necessary to have access to appropriate information about this essential period in order to overcome it successfully.

Walter Menchola Vásquez (*)

Women experience great changes during pregnancy such as weight gain 12 kilos, on average influenced by the baby’s weight, placenta, amniotic fluid, the growth of uterus and mammary gland, extracellular fluid, and the increase of a woman’s own weight. In addition, on the second and third trimester, there are back pain, breast tenderness, leg swelling, constipation and stretch marks on abdominal skin, as well as other changes. Maternal mortality was one of the leading reasons for women’s death around the world in the 20th century; however, since giving birth was institutionalized through medical services and pregnant women have gotten more access to medical checkups and prevention exams to detect complications, maternal mortality decreased significantly. Nevertheless, we are still far away from preventing women’s death due to avoidable causes. The death of one pregnant woman is a condemnation in all regards. There is no reason for it to happen and it is, indeed, an enormous tragedy that still occurs, mostly, in less developed countries. STAGES

Pregnancy is divided into trimesters: the MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 18 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

PREGNANCY CARE

first trimester is from the conception and to week 12; the second trimester is from week 13 to week 28; and finally, the third trimester is from week 29 to week 40. Each one of the stages have implications and require care. According to the baby’s development, the embryonic stage (the first stage) starts on the implantation of the zygote in the uterus’ walls until week 9, in which the main body structures are

completed and the baby is known as fetus. During the embryonic stage, the baby’s organs develop; this development could be affected by many factors such as viruses (rubella, zika virus, toxoplasmosis, cytomegalovirus), medicine, among others. Pregnant women are recommended to avoid taking medicine; they only should take it if their doctor prescribes

health

TEN COMMANDMENTS OF PREGNANCY The ten recommendations all pregnant women should follow are listed below: 1) Have medical checkups done, even before getting pregnant. 2) Leave damaging habits that may harm the woman’s and the baby’s health (alcohol, tobacco, radiation). 3) Eat healthy food in a disciplined way (beef, fruits, eggs, dairy products, cereal), eat small amounts of food frequently (5 or 6 foods per day) and drink a lot of water. 4) Take vitamins prescribed by the doctor: folic acid, iron, calcium, zinc, vitamin A, D, C, E, B6, micronutrients. 5) Undergo every one of the checkups and never miss one. 6) Do prenatal workouts and rest more as pregnancy advances. 7) Do not get exposed to people with infectious illnesses. 8) Do not take medicine or substances without consulting a doctor; limit the intake of caffeine. 9) Know the blood type, RH factor and hemoglobin; pregnant women’s closest family should know them too. 10) In case of nausea or other pain, they should have a checkup done and follow the doctor’s instructions; rest is essential.

it, strictly following all the instructions. This stage is critical for the development of the baby’s organs. Many of the known physical defects, such as cleft, are generated by some circumstances at this stage. The intake of 0.4 ml of folic acid prevents this pathology (National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, NIEHS). In addition, it is important for pregnant women not to be around people with viral symptoms.

In this stage, miscarriages are more likely to happen and women experience bigger changes, such as nausea, more or less appetite, mood swings, increase of breast size, weight gain or loss, among others. The fetal period starts on week 10 and ends with childbirth. It comprises the second and third trimester, in which organs develop completely. The fetus reaches its final weight and size between

the third and fifth month; the growth in this stage is extraordinary. Weight increases significantly on the last months of pregnancy. The head develops slower than the rest of the body. At the end of pregnancy, the baby will have a height of 52 centimeters and a weight of 3,5 kilos. The first trimester is the riskiest for the fetus, while the third trimester has more viability, which means the fetus can survive with medical assistance. Human pregnancy lasts 40 weeks counting from the last day of menstruation, or 38 weeks starting from the fertilization until the ninth month. Every week during pregnancy is important for the fetus, especially, for the development of brain and lungs. For this reason, births before the dates established by doctors must be prevented.

(*) Internist, Master in Public Policy and Management. Source: Worldwide Health Organization (WHO)

april 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

The social, moral and spiritual condition of the world shows a disheartening reality. There is an open attack against ethical, moral and spiritual values and principles everywhere.

Carmen Valencia de Martínez

The book of Esther 4:10-17 states: “Again Esther spake unto Hatach, and gave him commandment unto Mordecai: All the king’s servants, and the people of the king’s provinces, do know, that whosoever, whether man or women, shall come unto the king into the inner court, who is not called, there is one law of his to put him to death, except such to whom the king shall hold out the golden sceptre, that he may live… Then Mordecai commanded… For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father’s house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this? Then Esther bade them return Mordecai this answer, Go, gather together all the Jews that are present in Shushan, and fast ye for me, and neither eat nor drink three days, night or day: I also and my maidens will fast likewise; and so will I go in unto the king, which is not according to the law: and if I perish, I perish…” DARK DAYS

Those were dark days for the Jews; they were threatened with eradication. Maybe you are also going through darks days and difficult times and do not know what to do. God loves to help in difficult moMISSIONARY MOVEMENT 20 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

GOD WILL

OPEN DOORS ments, lighting a spark of hope in the darkness. Do not fear, Jesus said: “I am the light of the world; he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall

have the light of life” ( John 8:12). His promises never fail and He always delivers. Mordecai believed that the help would come from God: “I will

analysis

refer to time: “chromos” and “kairos”. In Greek “kairos” means a proper or opportune time for action. Its precise meaning is “right or critical moment,” that is, right timing. There are two books in the Bible named after a woman: Ruth and Esther. Both of them have deep teachings of faithfulness. But there is something more in the book of Esther: a wonderful lesson on how God controls every situation of men and nations. We also see that God has instruments for each decisive moment in history. Nothing surprises Him. In the book of Esther there is no mention of the name of God or the angels, of visions of God or any manifestation in a prophet. Nevertheless, God’s actions, presence and glory are there. Those who know God intimately do not need miracles or wondrous signals to know that He is there. GODS USES US

lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth…” (Psalm 121). God always opens doors and He has an instrument, whether man or woman, for every moment. Esther and Mordecai were His chosen instruments to save His people. Maybe God has chosen you to save your family, your friends, your city or the nation. Are you willing to put your life on the altar and risk everything, to

serve or die for His cause? God calls you to become that instrument for the dark times! DECISIVE MOMENT

God has determined the time for specific events in history. If God is involved, when nothing happens, something happens. There are times when the Lord seems to be late, but it is just that His timing is different from ours. The ancient Greeks had two words to

God does not hesitate to use the lives of those who are overlooked by men, and Esther was one of them. The way she managed to get that place of honor was miraculous because there was no hope for her: she was Jewish, orphan, adopted, poor and anonymous. Ahasuerus, King of Persia, used to host feasts in which everyone was allowed to drink whatever they wanted. The Bible mentions three feasts: • A feast to show his wealth to the most important princes and servants. “In the third year of his reign, he made a feast unto all his princes and his servants; the power of Persia and Media, the nobles and princes of the provinces, being before him” (Esther 1:3). • A feast for the people of Shushan, where his throne was located. “And when these days were expired, the king made a feast unto all the people that were present in Shushan the palace, both unto great and small, seven days, in the court of the garden of the king’s palace” (Esther 1:5). • A feast to show everyone the Queen of Persia: Esther. “Then the king made a great feast unto all his princes and his ser-

april 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

vants, even Esther’s feast; and he made a release to the provinces, and gave gifts, according to the state of the king” (Esther 2:18). These feasts were an excuse to exalt himself and show his power, with liquor and sin. Our feasts must take place in God’s home, before Him: “In thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore” (Psalm 16:11). INNER BEAUTY

At one of his feasts, the king wanted to flaunt the beauty of his queen Vasti before the princes and the people of Shushan. “On the seventh day, when the heart of the king was merry with wine, he commanded… To bring Vashti the queen before the king with the crown royal, to shew the people and the princes her beauty: for she was fair to look on” (Esther 1:10-11). But when King Aha-

There are two books in the Bible named after a woman: Ruth and Esther. Both of them have deep teachings of faithfulness. But there is something more in the book of Esther: a wonderful lesson on how God controls every situation of men and nations.

suerus demanded her presence, she refused. Vasti forgot that she was there to please the one who had given her that place of honor. Our King calls us to show not our outer beauty but the inner beauty we have received by His love and mercy. God has chosen us and he has given us a place of honor. He has provided us with gifts, talents and capacities to show the rest the beauty he has given to each one of us. There are many like Vasti who refuse to obey the King of kings when He calls MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 22 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

Esther arrived to the kingdom at the right time. The Jews were under death sentence, but God, who is full of mercy, does not want anybody to perish. He will always make a way where there is no way. In the darkest day, He will be a light of hope.

them. But when we do not obey God, He looks for a better person to replace us. THE RIGHT TIME

analysis

whom the king shall hold out the golden sceptre, that he may live: but I have not been called to come in unto the king these thirty days…” (Esther 4:11). She hid in a false shelter, thinking that nothing would happen to her, but Mordecai made her realize: “Think not with thyself that thou shalt escape in the king’s house, more than all the Jews. For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father’s house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:13-14). Who knows why God has placed us here? Is it not because He wants to do something big with our lives? That is why you are where nobody else is, because that is where God wants to use you. You are the right person at the right time and place. OUR TIME

As in the case of Esther, God loves to turn us into bright torches that light the darkest hour. That is how He uses us in a world in chaos and decay, when the end is near, when there is a spiritual death sentence for entire families, known and unknown. As God did with Esther, He will always reveal His plans and purposes, as well as those of the enemy. He will warn us in time. Esther was placed there by

God to prevent those plans of destruction and death. THE TIME OF THE CALL

Esther ignored that it was the right time for her. “All the king’s servants, and the people of the king’s provinces, do know, that whosoever, whether man or women, shall come unto the king into the inner court, who is not called, there is one law of his to put him to death, except such to

Esther ignored her right time had come, but the land had been plowed and was fertile, and there was hunger for God. We must understand that this is our time and that we must do something urgently. We must harvest the wheat before it goes to waste. God used Mordecai to shake her soul. She realized that it was time to do something, to humble herself before the Lord, to intercede. “Go, gather together all the Jews that are present in Shushan, and fast ye for me, and neither eat nor drink three days, night or day: I also and my maidens will fast likewise; and so will I go in unto the king, which is not according to the law: and if I perish, I perish” (Esther 4:16) She ordered all Jews in Shushan to fast for three days, as her maidens and she would do. She was going to see the King: “… And if I perish, I perish,” because it is better to die trying it than to not serve well. Esther understood that her people and her family needed her. She found out the reason why she was there and devoted herself to achieve her goal. We must react now! If we perish living for ourselves, the sword will fall over us!

april 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

THIS hymn talks about the happiness the house of God promises to believers. The lyrics were embellished by the music arrangements of Albert Edward Brumley, known as “The dean of Gospel songwriters”.

“This world is not my home” encourages people not to collect treasure on earth but in heaven. It’s a hymn that recalls the eternal happiness that the house of God offers to believers. This old song, created in 1919 according to American specialists on sacred music, gives God’s believers hope about what comes after death. With features of the spiritual AfroAmerican tradition according to many hymnologists, this song is deeply associated to the Gospel songwriter Albert Edward Brumley, who made the music arrangements that embellished the composition and made it popular in 1936. Born on October 29, 1905, in Oklahoma, this Lord’s servant proved his faith in the Creator through this important contribution. “This world is not my home”, whose lyrics are based on the Holy Scriptures, reminds the faithful about the importance of doing their best for the Creator and leaving earthly pleasures aside. In that sense, the poem, which was published on the main 20th century hymnbooks, states that we will find peace, calm and harmony with Christ. Released in the ‘60s with the voice of James Travis Reeves, an idol of Gospel American music, Brumley’s embellished melody became a classic of modern worships for the Savior. Rose Maddox, Red Foley, Rick Foster, The Monroe Brothers, Guy Penrod, The Statler Brothers and Jerry Lee Lewis are some of the American artists who have adapted this beautiful canticle. MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 24 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

THIS WORLD IS NOT

MY HOME

music

THIS WORLD IS NOT MY HOME 1 This world is not my home, I’m just a passing thru; My treasures are laid up somewhere beyond the blue, The angels beckon me from heaven’s open door, And I can’t feel at home in this world anymore. Chorus O Lord, You know, I have no friend like You. If heaven’s not my home, then Lord, what will I do; The angels beckon me from heaven’s open door, And I can’t feel at home in this world anymore. 2 They’re all expecting me and that’s one thing I know, My Savior pardoned me and now I onward go; I know He’ll take me thru tho I am weak and poor, And I can’t feel at home in this world anymore. 3 Just up in glory land, we’ll live eternally, The saints on every hand are shouting victory, Their songs of sweetest praise drift back from heaven’s shore, And I can’t feel at home in this world anymore.

A GREAT COMPOSER

Member of the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, Albert Edward Brumley is considered to be one of the best hymn authors of all times. “The dean of Gospel songwriters” wrote about eight hundred

songs to praise and glorify God. With God’s support, he became an outstanding messenger of Christ’ good news. Some of the most famous music creations of Brumley are “Turn your radio on”, “If we never meet again”, “I’ll meet

you in the morning” and “I’ll fly away”, which have been recorded thousands of times and are still appreciated by the Christian and secular public. Brumley, the talented and magnificent musician, served the Lord until November 15, 1977, date on which he passed away. Just like Brumley, who beautified it with a peculiar melody, “This world is not my home” always reminds us about the importance of focusing on the Gospel and pushing earthly things aside. Its verses filled with bright and enlightened words encourage us to trust our only faithful friend: Jesus Christ.

april 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

This book explores in its nine chapters how to have a new and dynamic life through faith. This work, written by Bill Bright, reflects on the actual mission of Christians.

LIFE UNRIVALED

The Bible states that God is holy and men are sinners. The psalmist says, “… For the Lord our God is holy” (Psalm 99:9). Apostle Paul says, “… For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). Sin are more than just lying, stealing, or living a dissolute life. Sin is a state of being (an attitude), it is turning your back on God and following your own way. Sin creates a deep gap between God and us that not even the most noble and gracious efforts can close. Sin prevents us from having a normal, personal relationship with God. The Bible teaches us that God’s only provision for sin is Jesus-Christ. Published in 1992 by New Life 2000 Publications, “A Life Unrivaled” explores how to have a new and dynamic life through faith. This book by Bill Bright, MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 26 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

literature

author of more than one hundred Christian books, helps us learn how to unleash the power of Christ’s resurrection and join God’s followers in their efforts to change the world. The time will come when you will meet the Lord Jesus-Christ face to face, just like I will. We will all have to kneel before the Savior to acknowledge Him as the Lord. The difference lies in that those who wait until after their death to kneel before Him will be condemned to an eternal separation from God and will never experience the joy of a relationship with Christ in all His glory and majesty. As for those who acknowledge Christ, they must not fear the punishment, as they are no longer condemned. Christ has freed us from the “vicious circle of sin and death.” The book by Pastor Bright, who was born on October 19, 1921 in the United States, shows Jesus as a man like no other one. According to the author, the purpose of the Almighty is to bring peace to humanity. In addition, the evangelist uses a delicate prose based on the Scriptures to reveal how Christ can solve all personal and social problems in the world. Have you discovered the joy and peace of knowing Christ personally? Maybe you believe in the existence of God and His Son and you have tried to do things right. Maybe you are already baptized and you are a member of a Church. But, have you ever consciously invited Jesus-Christ to live within you, to forgive your sins and change your life? It does not matter who you are, right now you can have the experience of your life. At this precise moment, Jesus is knocking on the door to your heart. He offers you His wonderful love and plan for your life. He had already paid the price for your sins, and He is asking you, in the quiet of your heart, to surrender your will to His. THE POWER OF GOD

God is the focus in Bill Bright’s book. The American preacher, who is renowned for being one of the most important evangelists of the 20th century, invites us, throughout

april 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

The time will come when you will meet the Lord Jesus-Christ face to face, just like I will. We will all have to kneel before the Savior to acknowledge Him as the Lord. The difference lies in that those who wait until after their death to kneel before Him will be condemned to an eternal separation from God and will never experience the joy of a relationship with Christ in all His glory and majesty.

the nine chapters of his book, to know and experience the power and love of the Savior. Embracing the Gospel, the Lord’s servant brings many people to the presence of Jesus with reflections on the essence of Christianity. Jesus of Nazareth is the only one who can give us an unbreakable peace in the midst of a chaotic world, as He is the Prince of Peace. There will be no agreement in the negotiating tables of international organisms nor rest in the hearts of people until the Prince of Peace reigns supremely over the hearts of mankind. What kind of peace does He give to those who believe in Him? It is a deep sensation of calm and safety before tests, temptations, anguish and sadness. It is a peaceful trust that comes from the conviction that our sovereign, loving and almighty God has everything under control. Reverend Bright, acknowledged as a prominent promoter of fasting and prayer in the American evangelical world, explains in his book how He who lived two thousand years ago can contribute to the transformation of any life. He states that the Son of God has an unrivaled majesty as He vanquished death and sin. Let me encourage you to search daily the communion with Christ through prayers and the study of the Bible. MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 28 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

literature

As it has happened to many sincere Christians, you may have lacked guidance for your ministry or you may have been stumbling among monotonous details and frustrating complications. Sadly, many believers think that they can achieve big things for our Lord and Savior by their own means, but when they find this impossible, they end up defeated and downhearted, living fruitless lives.

When you pray, you enter an intimate communion with God. When you read His Word, you let God talk with your most deep needs. Without that guidance and daily communication, you will lose the perspective of God’s will and focus instead on your pride and mundane desires. But, if you invest your time in Him every day, this will help you understand and carry out His perfect plan in your life. The Holy Spirit not only helps us live victoriously, but makes us able to minister powerfully and effectively for the glory of our Lord Jesus-Christ. WORD AND WORK

details and frustrating complications. Sadly, many believers think that they can achieve big things for our Lord and Savior by their own means, but when they find this impossible, they end up defeated and downhearted, living fruitless lives. Just like the presence of God through His Spirit gives us the power to live, being full of the Spirit’s power makes us able to minister. Bill Bright, founder and president of the Campus Crusade for Christ, an international ministry in 136 countries, brought millions of people to the Lord’s feet throughout his long life. His fruitful labor in favor of the good news with his many printed material, such as “A Life Unrivaled,” made the Gospel available to a huge number of people. You may have found yourself in difficult situations. You have prayed sincerely in the name of Jesus and you have received an answer that was so complete that it could only be described as a miracle. Or maybe you have received answers that cannot be explained. Is it not wonderful to be one with the power of God through the glorious, supernatural provision of his Son’s name? Certainly, the name of Jesus is the foundation of our lives and the Christian ministry. Paul encourages us: “And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him” (Colossians 3:17).

Bill Bright was a missionary committed to the Word who died on July 19, 2003. In the epilogue of “A Life Unrivaled”, he develops a personal study guide that is very useful for God’s followers. Through a series of twenty direct questions, the ministry challenges those who took the time go through his material to delve into their search for Christ. He also proposes seven group queries. When you accepted Christ, maybe you thought that serving the Lord would be easy. But it was not that simple, was it? As it has happened to many sincere Christians, you may have lacked guidance for your ministry or you may have been stumbling among monotonous

april 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

ROBERT Murray McCheyne led a revival in 19th-century Scotland with God’s Word and engaged a great number of preachers. His messages and writings are still instruments of blessing for many souls.

James Stewart

Two men were working beside a fire in a quarry, one day in winter, when a stranger approached them on horseback. Alighting from his horse he began to enter into conversation on the state of their souls and drew some alarming truths from the blazing fire. The men were surprised, and exclaimed, “Ye’re nae common man.” “Oh yes,” he replied, “just a common man.” McCheyne was born in Edinburgh on May 21, 1813, during the first sparkles of the spiritual resurgence in Scotland. Being the youngest of the five children of the lawyer Adam McCheyne, renowned member of the High Court of Justiciary of Scotland, Robert showed since his first years that he had an exceptional memory, a sharp mind and a kind and sweet character. His parents made sure that he received a true and deep spiritual education since very young. When he was four, while recovering from a disease, the future servant of the Lord studied Hebrew and Greek. His education started at eight and he entered the University of Edinburgh in 1827. He was a diligent student and showed great talent for poetry. Good-looking and full of energy and vigor, he was a university student fit enough to become an instrument of the Almighty and a heavenly gift for his countrymen. TOGETHER WITH THE LORD

On July 8, 1831, Robert lost his brother MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 30 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

heroes of faith

A BLESSED

MAN

David, who had deep Christian convictions and was a role model of faith for him. Sad and sorrowful for his death, he set his eyes on the Lord and found comfort in His arms. He took the Holy Scriptures and studied them avidly. According to his own words, he was brought to Christ through deep and eternal truths, and the Savior forgave his sins and made him a new creature. After devoting his life to Jesus and graduating from the University of Edinburgh, McCheyne started his doctrinal training at the Divinity Hall of the University, where scholar Thomas Chalmers taught Theology and David Wesh taught Ecclesiastical History. In this institution, he delved into the Bible together with other friends, such as Eduard Irving and Andrew Bonar, who would write his biography later on. During this period, he showed his love for lost souls by preaching the Gospel in poor and dangerous neighborhoods of Edinburgh. He quickly mastered Latin, Greek and Hebrew, if only to further enhance his comprehension of the Scriptures, as he had no time for intellectual speculation or academic controversies. For him, the wisdom of all times, as revealed by

God in His Word, was beyond the philosophies and theories of men. His days as a student were distinguished by a quick growth in the grace. He claimed: “A calm hour with God is worth a whole lifetime with man.” Robert Murray McCheyne also explored back then the journals and other material by missionaries Jonathan Edwards, David Brainerd and Henry Martyn. He wanted the Holy Spirit to guide him towards truth with His power, as He had done with those missionaries. In the beginning of 1834, he started his evangelization work with his friends from Divinity Hall. On July 1, 1835, he was ordained minister of the Almighty and embarked on his pastoral adventure by spreading the Word of Jesus-Christ with determination and resolve. SOWING THE WORD

Near the end of 1835, McCheyne became assistant pastor in a temple near Stirling, in central Scotland, where he made quite an impact on the congregation. He shared the Gospel with his brothers in faith every Sunday and spread the good news with any soul that needed to hear God’s voice from Monday to Saturday.

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It was a time of preparation for the work reserved by God for him. In November 1836, he became the head of a church in Dundee. Robert’s ministry in Dundee lasted only six years, but he worked non-stop with those that did not know Christ. On the streets, he realized that one word with the power of the Savior could do more than one thousand common words. The Lord’s presence in his work was so evident that his contemporaries acknowledged him as a faithful Christian. Between 1836 and 1839, with sacrifice and courage, he laid the foundations of the future blessings of his congregation. His talent for art, music and poetry were expressed in his messages and writings, such as the compilation of verses entitled “Songs from Zion.” Many of these poems have been set to music and are used today as hymns. Despite his heart disease, the missionary work outside Scotland was always in his mind. He wanted to go to India and prayed God to show him His will, but the Lord did not let him to restore his health. In the beginning of 1839, McCheyne was invited to be part of a delegation to be sent to Palestine to assess the missionary possibilities among Jews from Eastern Europe and the Turkish Empire.

When he was four, while recovering from a disease, the future servant of the Lord studied Hebrew and Greek. His education started at eight and he entered the University of Edinburgh in 1827. He was a diligent student and showed great talent for poetry.

This is how the Lord, in His mercy, answered to his desire of opening new ways for the Gospel. On April 12, 1839, he set sail from Dover with Andrew Bonar, Alexander Black and Alexander Keith for the Holy Land. Three months later, he reMISSIONARY MOVEMENT 32 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

turned to Scotland with a renewed hope. EXAMPLE OF FAITHFULNESS

When he resumed his responsibilities at the church, he talked about what he had

seen in his journey to the Middle East and convinced his congregation to support the missionary work outside Scotland. With this support, Daniel Edward was sent to Poland and Prussia and John

heroes of faith

to the Lord so that sinners would be touched by His Word, and his request was granted from heaven. Once home, he led a spiritual awakening that spread throughout Scotland and involved many preachers that were close to him, such as Alexander Somerville, who became a renowned figure of Christianity for five decades. Robert Murray McCheyne stood out for his faithfulness in the Holy Scriptures, his kind commitment and his deep sense of reverence towards God, which rendered his preaching very effective. On March 25, 1843, when he was about to turn thirty, he died from typhus and departed to meet Jesus-Christ. But His ministry did not end with his death. His preaching and letters are still instruments of blessing for many souls.

In the beginning of 1839, McCheyne was invited to be part of a delegation to be sent to Palestine to assess the missionary possibilities among Jews from Eastern Europe and the Turkish Empire. On April 12, 1839, he set sail from Dover with Andrew Bonar, Alexander Black and Alexander Keith for the Holy Land. Three months later, he returned to Scotland with a renewed hope.

Duncan went to Hungary in 1841. McCheyne and his friendâ€™s prayers were thus answered and a deep interest in evangelism of Jews was built in the hearts of Scottish Christians. In later years, this

work kept increasing. After his return, Robert found that the revival he had yearned for was a reality thanks to the authority of the Lord. In his absence, he had prayed faithfully

april 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

He was a hopeless womanizer and heavy smoker who spent most of his youth as a slave of worldly pleasures. This is the story of a seaman saved and converted by God into one of his most devoted servants.

Johan Pérez Photo: Evelyn Ángeles and family archive

Before knowing Jesus-Christ’s mercy and turning into a creature restored by the Gospel, Ricardo Cueto Aranda used to smoke up to two packs of cigarettes a day, drink alcohol with his friends on weekends and cheat on his wife whenever he felt like it. He was born on June 9, 1945, in Lima, into a large family led by his parents Darío Cueto Rosas and Victoria Aranda León. Together with his eleven siblings, he met the Lord through the rituals of the traditional religion, but it never truly touched his heart. In his young days, after moving to Callao, a port city located on the Pacific Ocean, he decided to join the Armed Forces in hope of a better future. With this in mind, he entered in 1963 the Centro de Entrenamiento de Armas y Electrónica-CENAE (Center for Training in Arms and Electronics) of the Peruvian Navy to become a naval technician. He joined the CENAE and he found himself almost immediately immersed in worldly pleasures. He smoked for the first time at 14 and turned into a heavy smoker to endure the rigors of life at open sea. As he also felt adrift concerning religious matters, he was easily led astray by the bad company he used to drink with every now and then. “I’d smoke more than two packs a day while at sea and drink with MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 34 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

life stories

ESCAPING STORMY

WATERS april 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

friends from the Navy in my days off,” he remembers. The young sailor used drugs for the first time in one of his wild adventures. One day, he was drinking with friends when he agreed to do drugs out of peer pressure. His recklessness made him experience hallucinations that still haunt him as a reminder of his evil ways. Aware of his sins, he would attend mass only at funerals and thought that the Lord could not change him. He joined the Navy’s soccer team as member of the Grumete Medina club in the first division league of Callao, but not even sport prevented him from leading a dissolute life. Ricardo met God-fearing Ana María Díaz in 1968 and they got engaged a year later. She stayed by his side despite his licentious life and a few years later she helped him to persevere in the Word. She abided his husband’s sins with resolve, MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 36 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

life stories

determination and patience. REVEALING WORD

In the 70’s, Ricardo was a slave of pleasure and he wasted his best years away in worldly whims that were nothing but dim lights in the darkness of his days. Even worse, while his military career was going up and he became an efficient machinist, constant problems were wrecking his family life. In the beginning of the 80’s, the seaman hit rock bottom and his marriage was in the brink of breaking due to his mistakes. He had no choice but to accept his wife’s rejection when she found out he was being untrue. He also suffered from a severe alopecia that left him almost bald. He was lost in constant affairs and fornication. “I was so desperate I went to a witch to solve my problems,” he says. The witch, that he turned to as a rec-

The young sailor used drugs for the first time in one of his wild adventures. One day, he was drinking with friends when he agreed to do drugs out of peer pressure. His recklessness made him experience hallucinations that still haunt him as a reminder of his evil ways.

ommendation of a friend, tried to convince him that he had been cursed and that she could reverse it with her magic. She also told him that his wife was to blame for his misfortunes. As he knew that his wife was a Christian, he gave up turning to occultism. Ricardo experienced the Lord’s pow-

er though an overwhelming experience. He was watching a soccer game on TV while his family was out in the temple when he heard a voice ordering him to turn it off. He obeyed immediately and promised that he would become a follower of the Word the following year. In the morning of January 3, 1981, while recovering from the New Year’s celebrations, he remembered his promise and decided to look for Jesus to keep his word. He told Christ to cleanse him from inside and that he would do it from the outside. Then, he left to the church where his wife and children were. The Lord was awaiting him there. When he got to the temple, he talked with Pastor Ángel Colona, who welcomed him with open arms. He then called Félix Ramon, a brother in arms who was also a converted believer, to celebrate with him that he was now a Christian. His friend was a key element for his

april 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

final conversion. The newly-convert gave up drinking, smoking and sleeping with other women. His interest in the Word made him read the Holy Scriptures avidly. Three months later, as a reward for his commitment, he was baptized in the Holy Spirit. FAITHFUL WORKER

The new servant of Jesus-Christ was forgiven by Ana María Díaz and started to rebuild his family. Together with his wife, who had been praying for his salvation for a long time, he fasted and praised the Lord. In addition, both of them were so close thank to their faith that they held many vigils and participated in all the evangelistic campaigns they could. Outside the Christian world, at work, he fought the good fight against skepticism more than once to keep his faith in MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 38 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

the Gospel. He endured the taunting of other unbelieving sailors, and the Bible became his sword to defend himself against hostile attacks. “I’d always pray, fast and preach Christ’s message while at sea. God was my best ally in the Navy, and thanks to His love, I spread the good news to my companions”, he says in joy. In the middle of 1981, the sailor had the pleasure of meeting Reverend Rodolfo González Cruz, who had come to Peru on March 25 of that year. He decided to follow in the steps of the Cuban missionary who spread the sound doctrine and traveled across Lima with a powerful message. Together with his family, he was one of the first servants drawn by Pastor González to join the Work in Peru. On April 27, 1983, he attended the opening of the main temple of the Worldwide

Missionary Movement in Peru. He was also one of the first members of the congregation. Cueto was key to the revolution in the South-American country. During his spare time on weekends, he would go with Pastor González to spread the Word. On December 1, 1989, he decided to serve the Lord full-time, so he left the Navy and devoted completely to the evangelizing labor of the Work founded by Luis M. Ortiz. Ricardo Cueto Aranda has been at the Lord’s service for more than 37 years, and he is a noble Pastor committed to Christ. He leads a temple on the outskirts of Lima since December 1994, as well as his own family: his wife and his children Rildo, Rosina, Vanessa, Cristian, Abraham, Abel and Daniel. He is an example of Christian faith and integrity.

life stories

april 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible… (we) were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from our vain conversation received by tradition from our fathers; but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world…” 1 Peter 1:3-25. God, who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began” 2 Timothy 1:9

Rev. Luis M. Ortiz

The Holy Scriptures highlight that the Salvation, man’s redemption, was an eternal purpose in the divine mystery; but it was already “made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel” (2 Tim. 1:10). GOD’S PURPOSE BEFORE THE CREATION When God created the universe, he was making the last arrangements on the place he was going to develop His wise and eternal purpose. This divine and eternal purpose was conceived, predestined and initiated in Heaven before the world began. THE PURPOSE OF GOD REGARDING MEN • His purpose, in the first place, was to create a man and a woman in His own image, with a physical body but with an immortal soul and a privileged intelligence to domineer the world. • In the second place, after creating them in His own image, his purpose was to give them free will in order for them to be as free as He is, to make their own decisions, just like He had done with MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 40 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

THE ETERNAL PURPOSE OF GOD

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angels, who are beings with spiritual bodies created by God. • In the third place, His purpose was to procreate children of the human race through a divine and supernatural genetic process.

• In the fourth place, given His foreknowledge or previous knowledge, and His infinite and endless wisdom, God knew, since the world began and man was created, that man would not use his free will properly and, as a consequence, he would lose communion with his Creator, would become a sinner and a slave of Satan, and would be deprived of God’s glory. • In the fifth place, God understood that there was no being that could redeem man and restore his communion with his Creator, and that man was not able to redeem himself or his brothers. (Psalms 49:6-8). THE LORD FACED WITH MAN’S FAILURE Facing that future, in which the man disobeys and fails due to the interference of Satan, was God supposed to desist from creating men? Absolutely not! If God had stopped the rebellion of Lucifer and the angels who followed him, and had expelled them all from heaven, He could vanquish him again. Then God, the Creator, could also be the Redeemer of men! The prophet Isaiah had a vision that

may be related to the future redemption of men; he said, “I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple. Above it stood the seraphims… And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory… I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then, Isaiah representing Logos the future Redeemer, replied, “Here am I; send me” (Isaiah 6:1-8). In Psalms 40:5-6, a messianic psalm, David sees, listens and expresses the thoughts and the purpose of God thanks to a prophetic vision; he wrote, “Many, O Lord my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to us-ward: they cannot be reckoned up in order unto thee: if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered. Sacrifice and offering thou didst not desire; mine ears hast thou opened: burnt offering and sin offering hast thou not required.” Given that angels, men or the sacrifice of animals could not redeem men, the Psalmist also heard the divine answer regarding the eternal purpose and wrote, “Then said I, Lo, I come: in the volume of the book it is written of me, I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart” (Psalm 40:7-8). For God’s wonderful willingness of coming to earth to redeem men, even before the latter was created, the Holy Spirit inspired Paul the apostle to write the following: “…ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you” (1 Peter 1:18-20).

april 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

“On that night could not the king sleep, and he commanded to bring the book of records of the chronicles; and they were read before the king”. Esther 6:1

Rev. José A. Soto Benavides

When the queen Vashti decided not to go to the real banquet defying the king Ahasuerus’s order, it provoked his immediate dismissal. God decided to put a Jewish young woman, who did not declare her nationality, in the throne. God introduced Esther in Ahasuerus’ palace using her beauty, her grace, to put her in the center of the Persian empire. God knows what he is doing! During God’s blessing, Haman stood out. This man started to gain more importance across the kingdom. He was appointed vizier, a position of great power. But, thanks to God’s glory, Esther was put in the real throne before this man was promoted to that position. Haman exalted himself and every time he was in some palace’s hall people used to kneel before him. But Mordecai, Esther’s adoptive father, “bowed not, nor did him reverence” (Esther 3:2). This is why Haman got angry and decided to kill Mordecai and all the Jewish. Haman went to speak to the king and told him that there was a village in his kingdom that was not fruitful and did not deserve to live. He offered to pay one thousand talents of silver to destroy the Jewish. The king, who did not know anything about this village and did not care, replied, “The silver is given to thee, the people also, to do with them as it seemeth good to thee” (Esther 3:11). Haman sent tan announcement across the empire in different languages: all Israel was going to be killed and destroyed, and the properties were going to be expropriated on a determined date. It was an irrevocable commandment; the sentence had to be complied (Esther 3:15). In that moment of anguish, desperation and pain, God kept the king awake. The Persian King could not sleep and it was not a coincidence. He started feeling the need to read the chronicles of his people; the MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 42 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

WHEN

THE KING

COULD NOT SLEEP

chronicles were the register on which the important events of the kingdom were written down. God made the king Ahasuerus feel this need in his heart. He had not worried about God’s people and had had no interest on doing that until that night. “And it was found written, that Mordecai had told of Bigthana and Teresh, two of the king’s chamberlains, the keepers of the

door, who sought to lay hand on the king Ahasuerus” (Esther 6:2). When the king Ahasuerus asked if Mordecai had been rewarded for his action, he was told that nothing had been done. In that exact moment, Haman arrived to the palace and the king called him to ask, “What shall be done unto the man whom the king delighteth to honour? Now Haman thought in his heart, To whom

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would the king delight to do honour more than to myself?” (Esther 6:6). Thinking the king was referring to him, Haman askes the maximum honor someone in the Persian kingdom could receive. “And Haman answered the king, For the man whom the king delighteth to honour, let the royal apparel be brought which the king useth to wear, and the horse that the king rideth upon, and

the crown royal which is set upon his head: And let this apparel and horse be delivered to the hand of one of the king’s most noble princes, that they may array the man withal whom the king delighteth to honour, and bring him on horseback through the street of the city, and proclaim before him, Thus shall it be done to the man whom the king delighteth to honour” (Esther 6:7-9).

“Then the king said to Haman, Make haste, and take the apparel and the horse, as thou hast said, and do even so to Mordecai the Jew, that sitteth at the king’s gate: let nothing fail of all that thou hast spoken” (Esther 6:10). Haman was supposed to hang Morcedai on the 25-meter high gallows, but the king told Haman to do all what the latter had said. Haman had to announce across the city that Morcedai was the most honored man by the king! When Haman returned to his house, ashamed for this incident, the sages and his wife told him, “If Mordecai be of the seed of the Jews, before whom thou hast begun to fall, thou shalt not prevail against him, but shalt surely fall before him” (Esther 6:13). Haman’s homicidal conspiracy against Morcedai and the Jewish was countered by God through Esther. As speaking to the king implied a possibility of being punished with death penalty, Esther prayed and fasted to receive God’s grace before the king Ahasuerus, who told her, “What wilt thou, queen Esther? and what is thy request? It shall be even given thee to the half of the kingdom” (Esther 5:3). She begged him to attend a banquet she had prepared for him. Once he arrived to the banquet, he asked her again, “What is thy petition? and it shall be granted thee: and what is thy request? Even to the half of the kingdom it shall be performed” (Esther 5:6). She asked him to come with Haman to another banquet. In the new banquet, the king asked Esther once more what she wanted, she asked him to protect her life and the lives of her people, as they had been sentenced to death. These words made the king very mad. “The king Ahasuerus answered and said unto Esther the queen, Who is he, and where is he, that durst presume in his heart to do so? And Esther said, The adversary and enemy is this wicked Haman…” (Esther 7:5-6). The king in his wrath went to the palace garden, while Haman begged on his knees for his life to Esther; when the king returned and saw Haman at the feet of Esther’s bed, he yelled, “Will he force the queen also before me in the house? (Esther 7:8). The guards covered Haman’s face, took him out and hanged him on the same gallows he had made for Mordecai. When we cannot sleep, victory and triumph arrive for God’s people!

april 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

“He was a burning and a shining light: and ye were willing for a season to rejoice in his light” John 5:35

Rev. Alberto Ortega

In John 5:35, Jesus summed up the ministry of John the Baptist using these words: “He was a burning and a shining light: and ye were willing for a season to rejoice in his light”. The version of the Bear Bible (Biblia del Oso in Spanish) states, “He was a burning and shining lamp, but ye were willing for some time to pamper in his light”. Jesus Christ wanted to prove He was the Messiah and God’s son to those who questioned it by reminding them John the Baptist was the first one to announce such truth; however, in spite of the unquestionable qualities of John, his moral and spiritual integrity, and the proof of a ministry blessed by God which touched them, they did not believe Him. It is interesting to analyze the words Jesus used to define John the Baptist: “He was (referring to his identity) a burning (revealing his inner feelings) and a shining (referring to the external effect)”. Those who questioned Jesus were inconstant in God’s Work; they only “rejoiced for a season”. The Bear Bible states “for some time”; the 1909’s Bible version states “for one hour”. That light or lamp that God had lit up did not last long for them; it only lasted for an hour for them; it was like a flash that lights up and it rapidly disappears. That “light”, although it called their attention, did not make them

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A BURNING LIGHT

remain in truth for long. Jesus uses the word “light” as those questioning him were familiar with it. That word was used to refer to masters, who stood out for their holiness and knowledge on God’s truths; they shone and lit up the village. They were known as lights, lamps, or shining and burning lights. In the Zohar ( Jewish biblical commentary), the rabbi Simeon bar Yochai was known as “the holy light”. People assured this man was a ray of light burning everywhere he went to. He shone for all the children of the world; but his light could even reach the sky. When Jesus highlights and defines John’s ministry, the latter had been already beheaded by Herod. That is why he talks about John in past tense “he was”; that means his cycle had finished, its ministry had concluded, but he closed it successfully, keeping his commitment without faults or flaws. Luke was the evangelist that dedicated more verses to John’s life; he dedicates John the first chapter of his Book. Peter

says, “For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost” (2 Peter 1:21). The Holy Spirit would not dedicate an entire chapter to something irrelevant or unworthy of our attention. Luke, in his first chapter, describes John in detail: who where his parents; the announce of his birth by an angel standing on the side of the altar of incense; the prophecy of Zechariah, his father; the visit of Mary, Jesus’ mother, to Elisabeth, John’s mother; the Holy Spirit’s blessing since he was in his mother’s womb; his circumcision; his upbringing and development. John’s life and ministry encourage us to follow his great example as a man of God and his commitment to God. Jesus said, “Ye sent unto John, and he bare witness unto the truth. But I receive not testimony from man: but these things I say, that ye might be saved. He was a burning and a shining light: and ye were willing for a season to rejoice in his light” ( John 5:33-35).

april 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

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).

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events

EVENT: NATIONAL CONVENTION DATE: FEBRUARY 22-FEBRUARY 25 PLACE: CÓRDOBA, ARGENTINA

MAKE A DIFFERENCE, BE CREDIBLE The WMM in Argentina held its 18th National Convention with a spiritual meeting that allowed to spread the Word in the main streets of Córdoba.

The 18th National Convention of the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Argentina was held at the Sociedad Belgrano club, in the city of Córdoba. This event, full of faith, allowed the Work of the Almighty to kindle the flame of the Gospel of Jesus Christ in the streets of one of the most populated cities in the country. The event had as its motto “Make a Difference, Be Credible” and began with a night service led by Rev. Carlos Guerra, International Officer of the Work. The pastor shared the Word of God through the message “O Lord, How Long Shall I Cry?”, based on Habakkuk 1:1-5. The servant said, “Do not let the enemy muzzle you. Let hell be silent, but let the people of God cry out.” In the morning worship of the second day of Convention, broadcast by the different media of the WMM, Rev. Luis Rivera, National Supervisor of the WMM in Paraguay, presented the message “Do Not Let the Enemy Kill You,” based in Genesis 2:7. The preacher said: “If the people is not sensitive, nothing will happen. Rise from the dead and Christ will shine on you.” In the night service, Rev. Gerardo Martínez, National Supervisor of the WMM in Chile, preached the faithful

april 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

of the Creator with the sermon entitled “The Goals of a Man of God,” based on 1 Timothy 6:11-19. The minister stressed that, “in our life there can be no spiritual prison. The people of God have to move forward. A great blessing is waiting for us.” Gospel for everyone During the opening of the third day of the spiritual event, which brought together believers from different parts of Argentina, Rev. Carlos Magallanes, National Supervisor of the WMM in Uruguay, preached the Gospel through the message “The Importance of Honoring the Word of God.” In his speech, based on John 15:1-7, he emphasized that, “The desire of being close to the

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Lord must come from within. Love the pure Word.” In addition, the Lord’s people went to the streets of Córdoba to proclaim loud and clear the good news. The march departed from the Sociedad Belgrano club and ended in the park of Belgrano; it was led by Sister Mabel Seco and Pastor José Celis. A large number of members of the Work toured the main streets of Córdoba sharing a message of hope.

In the evening service, Rev. Gustavo Martínez, International Treasurer of the Worldwide Missionary Movement, presented the message “Submission, Irreplaceable Quality for a Servant.” In his exposition of the Word, based on Genesis 24:1-9, the preacher said that, “A true servant does not seek glory or human recognition, but is obedient, submissive, loyal, respectful, prudent and wise.”

The occasion of the 18th National Convention of the WMM in Argentina was used for the promotion of twentytwo workers of the Work of God. The event ended with a preaching by Rev. José Soto, International President of the WMM, who shared the message “Obedience against Rebellion,” based on Joshua 1:7 and 11:15. The servant said that, “the Lord never forsakes a servant of His. To reach God’s mercy we must humble ourselves.”

april 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

EVENT: MISSIONARY TRIP DATE: FEBRUATY 27-MARCH 16 PLACE: EQUATORIAL GUINEA AND RE PUBLIC OF THE CONGO

THE GOOD FIGHT OF FAITH Three missionaries of the Work of God visited two important African countries to preach the Word of the Lord. This is the testimony of a work deployed to evangelize and save souls. Rev. Clemente Vergara Missionary Supervisor in Africa

Loyal to God’s purposes, on February 27, I went on a missionary and supervisory trip that took me to two African nations: Equatorial Guinea and the Republic of the Congo. Before arriving to the African continent, I made a stop in Madrid, capital of Spain, where I met with Peruvian pastors James Delgado and Jimmy Roca and my brother, Rev. Rómulo Vergara, who had a mishap with his visa. Finally, by the grace of the Lord, the South American servants and I obtained the corresponding authorization. Brokenhearted by the unexpected absence of my brother, I left Madrid with servants Roca and Delgado to fulfill Christ’s commission of fighting the good fight of faith in the Equatorial Guinean and Congolese territories. First, we arrived in Malabo, the capital of Equatorial Guinea, and from there we went to Bata, the main city of the country, where the First Convention of Women and Pastors of the Worldwide Missionary Move-

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april 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

ment of Equatorial Guinea was going to take place on March 8. I can tell that the spiritual event in Bata was blessed by the presence of God, who covered all the attendees with His glory. Both the women and the pastors had quite a range of beautiful activities. The Word of the Lord was preached in a special way and the people renewed their commitment to the Savior and to His Work. In the Convention, Pastor Delgado and I were the vessels of honor that the Lord used to strengthen His Church. Commendable work At the end of the event, the missionaries of the WMM to be sent to Mozambique and Cote d’Ivoire, James Delgado, Juan Fortunato and his wife, were officially presented. They left immediately to fulfill their mission in favor of the Gospel. Pastor Roca, who works as a cameraman at Bethel Televisión,

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and I moved to Brazzaville, capital of the Republic of the Congo, from where we traveled to Impfondo, a town located north of the country. This interesting town is in the middle of the jungle and on the shores of the impressive Ubangi River, one of the main tributaries of the Congo River. In Impfondo, which is connected by waterway with Brazzaville and Bangui, we participated, from March 10 to March 11, in the 2nd National Fellowship of the WMM in the Republic of the Congo, which was attended by several delegations of believers from different parts of the country. At the Convention, we were happy to share the Word with the faithful from the Totone village, which is two weeks away by canoe from Impfondo. They are part of a pygmy people that lives under very harsh conditions, but God has blessed them with a congregation of more than one hundred believers. Then we returned to Brazzaville and carried out the final part of our missionary work from March 13 to March 16. They were four days that allowed us to fulfill the command of the Lord (â€œGo into all the world and preach the gospel to every creatureâ€?) and helped to consolidate the progress of the Work in Africa. The African continent urgently needs more brothers of faith who feel the call of God to preach His Word in this warm and striking land where the WMM fights daily for the salvation of souls.

april 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

EVENT: NATIONAL CONVENTION DATE: JANUARY 25-JANUARY 28 PLACE: SANTA CRUZ DE LA SIERRA, BOLIVIA

WHY SHOULD WE GIVE THANKS? The WMM in Bolivia held its 19th National Convention to reinforce the value of credibility. In the spiritual activity, 48 servants that will preach the Gospel in the Andes were promoted. The growing Worldwide Missionary Movement in Bolivia held its 19th National Convention with a meeting of faith that gathered hundreds of followers of Christ. At the opening of the spiritual event, whose theme was “Why Should We Give Thanks?” Rev. Rómulo Vergara, International Officer of the WMM, shared the message “Credibility, Quality Required in Those Who Are Servants of God and Followers of Christ.” During the first service of the second day of the event, which was broadcast to the world by Bethel Televisión, Rev. Gerardo Martínez, National Supervisor of the WMM in Chile, preached the Word of God with the message “The Value of Credibility.” At the night service, Rev. Luis Meza Bocanegra, International Officer of the Work of the Lord, shared the message “When Credibility Collapses.” Rev. Juan Carlos Pérez, Global Distribution Coordinator of Bethel Televisión, was the messenger of the Almighty at the be-

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ginning of the third day of activities. The servant developed the message “Gratitude, Quality that Makes Your Credible.” In the evening, Pastor Vergara preached the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The preacher and missionary in Africa developed the preaching “But I Am Full of Power by the Spirit of the Lord.” At the closing service of the 19th National Convention of the WMM in Bolivia, Pastor Meza Bocanegra shared the Word through the message “Hating Evil Gives Us Credibility.” Then, the promotion of workers took place and 48 servants who sill contribute to spreading the Gospel in Bolivia were recognized.

april 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

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EVENT: NATIONAL CONVENTION DATE: FEBRUARY 9-FEBRUARY 11 PLACE: ASUNCIÓN, PARAGUAY

UNBELIEF AGAINST FAITH The 19th National Convention of the WMM in Paraguay was held with the presence of Rev. Humberto Henao, International Vice President of the Work of God. Determined to spread the Gospel, the Worldwide Missionary in Paraguay held its 19th National Convention in the Municipal Theater of San Lorenzo, Asunción, that gathered more than five hundred faithful. At the opening of the spiritual event, whose theme was “Credibility 2018,” Pastor Humberto Henao, International Vice President of the WMM, preached the Word. In his message “Unbelief against Faith,” the minister spoke about the ways of God. Rev. Teófilo Estrada, from the WMM in Peru, shared the message of the Savior at the morning service of the second day of the event. In his sermon based on 1 Timothy 11, the servant exhorted the believers to stand firm in the Word. Hours later, in the evening service, Rev. Gerardo Martínez, National Supervisor of the WMM in Chile, preached the Gospel. Based on Numbers 17, the pastor encouraged the Paraguayan faithful not to lose their trust in Christ. At the opening of the final day, Rev. Henao, along with Pastor Luis Rivera, National Supervisor of the WMM in Paraguay, led the promotion of workers and shared a message based on 2 Corinthians 3:5-6. The brother stressed that the Work needs competent ministers. The activities of the WMM in Paraguay ended with a service in which Pastor Martínez evangelized the people of Jesus Christ once again through the message “Do Not Ruin God’s Plans in Your Life.”

april 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

EVENT: BIBLE TRAINING / DATE: JANUARY 9-JANUARY 13 / PLACE: QUELEPA, EL SALVADOR

The Worldwide Missionary Movement’s Elim International Bible Institute for Central America and Mexico, located in the Salvadoran municipality of Quelepa, organized a series of biblical trainings for teachers from El Salvador. During the event, the attendees were trained in Biblical Geography and Archeology by Sister Patricia Vargas, director of the institution, and Sister Ginnette Guzmán. Likewise, they learned about class planning and the Bible Institute’s regulations for students and teachers. Once the three-day training finis-

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CHURCH, ANSWER YOUR CALL The Elim International Bible Institute for Central America and Mexico held training sessions for Salvadoran teachers. A graduation ceremony was also held. hed, the institution of the Work of God held the graduation ceremony of forty of its students who were trained in Theology. The celebration took place in the temple of the WMM in Quelepa, located in the department of San Miguel.

In the ceremony, Sister Vargas was the instrument chosen by the Almighty to share His Word. She shared the message “Church, Answer Your Call,” based on 2 Timothy 1: 8-9, and stressed that no one should not be ashamed to testify to our Lord. In addition, the National Board of the Biblical Institute for this year was presented. The happiness and joy showed by the graduates, who successfully passed Theology 1 and 2 are evidence that Christianity makes its way in El Salvador.

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april 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

EVENT: BAPTISM CEREMONY DATE: JANUARY 27 PLACE: GUAYAQUIL, ECUADOR

NEW SOLDIERS OF CHRIST The WMM in Ecuador held a special ceremony in which 28 followers of the Lord descended into the baptismal waters and gave up their worldly ways. In a special service led by Rev. Eugenio Masías, National Supervisor of the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Ecuador, the Work of God baptized 28 brothers who surrendered to the Lord. The ceremony, held in a pool adjacent to the main temple of the WMM in Guayaquil, allowed the WMM to go stronger thanks to the new followers of Jesus Christ. The group of faithful to make public their commitment to preach the Gospel until the end of their days. During the service prior to the ceremony, Pastor Masías shared a message with the attendees gathered in the church, located in central Guayaquil, about the importance of the sacrament established in the Holy Scriptures. In addition, the servant encouraged the soldiers of Christ to fight against evil.

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EVENT: EVANGELISTIC CAMPAIGN / DATE: FEBRUARY 1-FEBRUARY 3 / PLACE: LA UNIÓN, MEXICO.

JESUS CHRIST IS THE ANSWER The WMM in Mexico preached the good news of God to the people of La Union, located in the municipality of Cuernavaca. The Work is growing in the state of Morelos.

The Worldwide Missionary Movement in Mexico held a campaign in its effort to evangelize the inhabitants of La Unión, a residential area located in the municipality of Cuernavaca, in the state of Morelos. The evangelistic campaign, touching and full of faith, had as motto “Jesus Christ Is the Answer.” It was attended by Rev. Alejandro Roblero, National Supervisor of the WMM in Mexico, and pastors Elmer Morán, Francisco Mejía, Audiel Alcántara, Roberto Ruiz, Francisco Domínguez and Ricardo Arriaga. Four different messages helped to understand the Word of the Creator. On the opening evening, servant Alcántara shared the message of the Most High. Then, on the second day, it was the turn of Pastor Mejía. On the final day, servant Ruiz shared his testimony and Pastor Alcántara preached the Gospel for a second time.

april 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

THE JOURNEY IS TOO GREAT El MMM de Estados Unidos realizó la VI Confraternidad Regional de su Zona 9. La fiesta espiritual congregó a creyentes de Texas, Colorado, Utah, Nuevo México y Nebraska. To praise and worship God, the Work of the Almighty in the United States held the 6th Regional Fellowship of Zone 9. The event was led by Rev. Arturo Hernández, National Supervisor of the WMM in the United States. At the opening of the spiritual event, which was attended by believers from Texas, Colorado, Utah, New Mexico and Nebraska, Rev. Asención Guandique, Presbyter of Zone 1 of the WMM in the United States, shared the message “We Must Go Back to Credibility.” On the second day, the Word was shared by Rev. Walter Vargas, Presbyter of Zone 11, and Rev. Arturo Hernández, who developed the message “The Journey Is Too Great,” based on Numbers 13:6-9. Sister Lourdes de Hernández also participated in the 6th Regional Fellowship of Zone 9.

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EVENT: NATIONAL FELLOWSHIP DATE: FEBRUARY 1-FEBRUARY 3 PLACE: HOUSTON, UNITED STATES

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EVENT: BAPTISM CEREMONY / DATE: JANUARY 20, FEBRUARY 5, MARCH 5 AND 13, FEBRUARY 17 AND MARCH 12 / PLACE: MOYOBAMBA, ILO, AREQUIPA, CHICLAYO AND LIMA, PERU.

SAVED SOULS The WMM in Peru held a baptism ceremony in which a large number of new brothers accepted God and turned away from sin and evil.

Tireless in its task of saving souls for Jesus Christ, the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Peru held many special events during the first three months of this year in the cities of Lima, Arequipa, Chiclayo, Ilo and Moyobamba. More than two thousand believers were baptized. Lima, capital of Peru, concentrated the largest number of faithful who fulfilled the biblical mandate of descending into the baptismal waters and thus became part of the Church. In seven decentralized events, carried out between February 17 and March 12, approximately two thousand people were baptized. On March 13, in Chiclayo, about a hundred people were baptized. In Arequipa, around three hundred believers accepted to descend into the waters on March 5. In Moyobamba, in the Peruvian Amazon, forty-two new brothers were baptized on January 20. Similarly, in Ilo, a group of brothers surrounded to the Lord on February 5.

april 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

Other events

COLOMBIA

CURACAO

Baptisms in Bogotá

Baptisms at Kokomo Beach

To fulfill the commission established by Jesus Christ in the Holy Scriptures, the WMM in Colombia held a baptism service on February 3, in the city of Bogotá. The event took place in the temple of the 12 de Octubre neighborhood, where eighteen believers descended into the baptismal waters. During the ceremony, led by Rev. Enrique Centeno and his wife Rosalba Medina, the Word of the Lord was preached and the great commission of Christians, fulfilled. In addition, the faithful were reminded that they should make new disciples of the nations of the world and baptize them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

With the presence of Rev. Clemente Vergara, International Director of the Work of God, the WMM in Curacao held a baptism ceremony on January 20 at Kokomo beach. Five faithful of the Lord joined the ranks of Christianity. At the event, the members of the WMM in Curacao praised the Lord, and Sister Gladys de Vergara was in charge of the biblical reading. The service ended with words of encouragement for the newly baptized and they were reminded that in Christ we are more than conquerors. Then, Pastor Mitch Ilario and Brother Jimmy Ogenia proceeded to baptize the believers.

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

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC National Fellowship On February 17, the WMM in the Dominican Republic held its National Fellowship. Rev. Rafael de Jesús Laureano, National Supervisor of the Work in the country, led the spiritual event and shared God’s message. The event, which took place at the Mahanaim convention center, on the outskirts of Santo Domingo, began with the intervention of Rev. Porfirio López. Then, it was the turn of Rev. Pedro López and Sister Nurys Mejía de Noboa, who spoke about the remodeling project for the Mahanaim facilities. Later, Pastor José Brito sang hymns dedicated to God. Afterwards, Pastor Rafael de Jesús Laureano shared the message “Walking in Credibility,” based on Genesis 32:22-31. In his speech, the preacher talked about the life of Patriarch Jacob, who should be a role model for today’s believers. In addition, he recommended that we should spend time alone with the Lord and give Him the opportunity to do great things in our lives.

VENEZUELA Anniversary of RSD Stereo Radio From December 15 to December 17, 2017, the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Venezuela celebrated the 1st anniversary of the Red de Salvación Divina Stereo (RSD Stereo) station, which was officially launched on August 23, 2016 in the city of Caracas. The event aimed to thank the Lord for sharing His Word to the Venezuelan people on radio. At the ceremony, Rev. Nelson Molero, pastor of a temple located in the state of Táchira, preached the Word of the Lord. He also highlighted the importance of the evangelization work done by the WMM through RSD Stereo, which broadcasts sixteen live and five pre-recorded programs 24/7 from the capital of Venezuela. RSD Stereo used to broadcast via the Internet between 2012 and 2016, and it is now a Christian station broadcasting at 105.5 FM thanks to the efforts of Rev. Ricardo Manrique, National Supervisor of the WMM in Venezuela. He had the vision of developing a radio ministry for the benefit of believers. With the motto “From Heaven to Your Heart,” the radio essentially broadcasts the Word of Jesus Christ.

GERMANY

SPAIN

ITALY

Evangelistic Campaign in Berlin

9th Anniversary of the Temple in Reus

Event for Christian Families

National Fellowship

With the special participation of reverends Luis Valderrama and Ramón Ortega, the WMM in Germany held an evangelistic campaign from February 2 to February 4, in the central church of Berlin. The Lord manifested Himseld during the three-day event and His Word was preached by pastors Ortega and Valderrama. The messages shared by the missionaries were very useful for the members of the Work, who had the opportunity to strengthen their faith in the Almighty.

Under the motto “Extend with Credibility,” the WMM in Spain celebrated the 9th anniversary of the church in Reus, in Catalonia, from February 23 to February 25. The celebrations of the WMM in Reus had the support of the temples from cities like Castellón, Alicante, Lleida, Terrassa and Valencia. The event began with a worship of thanksgiving to God for one more year of victories, and Pastor Alexander Montes was the preacher of the Gospel. On the second day, the Word was ministered by Pastor Olman Reyes, who shared the message “Passion for the Presence of God.” Then, on the last day, Rev. Ovidio Romero, Presbyter of Zone 3 of the WMM in Spain, announced the Gospel with the message “Keep Your Credibility, No Matter How Much You Extend.” Afterwards, the Holy Supper was held and led Rev. Francisco de los Santos.

To protect the sound doctrine, the WMM in Italy held an evangelistic campaign addressed to the families of the church in Busto Arsizio, from January 24 to January 28. Under the motto “Defending the Original Design,” the event of the WMM in Italy allowed the faithful of Busto Arsizio to nourish themselves with the Word of God. In the first service, Rev. Hugo Lope, National Officer of the Work in the country, shared the message “Family Principles and Values.” On the second day of activities, Rev. Jimmy Ramírez of the WMM in Switzerland held the sermon “The Husband in the Home.” A day later, Sister Lizet Arias de Lope shared the message of the Almighty “The Enemies of the Family.” During the fourth day, Pastor Cecilio Reyes shared the message entitled “Excuses in the Family.” Then, on the final day of the campaign, Pastor Lope talked to the people of Christ once again through the sermon “A Happy Marriage.”

With the attendance of Rev. David Echalar, National Supervisor of the WMM in Italy and Supervisor of Block B of Europe, and Rev. Emanuel Garzón, Supervisor of Block C of Europe, the WMM in England held its National Fellowship from March 2 to March 4, in the cities of London and Reading. The spiritual event of the WMM in England, whose motto was “Moving Forward with Credibility,” was attended by delegations of believers from the congregations of Germany, Luxembourg, Netherland and Belgium. Likewise, faithful from different parts of the United Kingdom also attended this wonderful event. Pastor Abraham Roggeband of the WMM in Netherland shared the Lord’s message during the inauguration service. On the second day, Pastor Garzón was the instrument used by Christ to announce the Gospel through a preaching based on 1 Peter 2:12. In the next-to-last and last services, Pastor Echalar had the privilege of evangelizing the followers of Jesus Christ with two strong messages based on the Word of the Almighty from beginning to end.

ENGLAND

april 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

LETTERS TO US... cartas@impactoevangelistico.net

JANUARY 3-10 CONVENTION COLOMBIA 25-28 CONVENTION BOLIVIA

ALICIA ROJAS God bless richly the whole team of Impacto Evangelistic. Yours it’s such an important work, because through the magazine we know what the Work is doing around the world. I thank my Lord for letting me be part of this precious Work raised for these last days. You’re in our prayers. Much love. From Formosa, Argentina.

FEBRUARY 9-11 10-13 22-25 22-25

Beloved brothers in Christ, I’d like to take this opportunity to greet you and thank you for the edifying Impacto Evangelistic magazine. Whenever I receive the magazine, it feels like home, because we have been born in this Work. Kind regards from your brother in Christ. From New York, U.S.

MAY 4-6 CONVENTION JAPAN, Shizuoka (Hamamatsu) 24-27 CONVENTION THE NETHERLANDS

YUNEIDYS LÓPEZ

JUNE 1-3 CONVENTION OF YOUNG PEOPLE AND PASTORS (HONDURAS)

I thank God because each edition of this wonderful magazine edifies my life. I was worried because I had received only one issue. I had lost all hope when suddenly I was given two together. Now, I’m completely focused on the reading and meditation. Thank you. God bless you richly. From Holguín, Cuba. One day I got the Impacto Evangelistic magazine and when I started reading, I found testimonies of change among its pages. It’s really interesting and makes me reflect. Thanks for the media that is at the service of God, they’re a great blessing. From Lima, Peru.

NOEMÍ RUIZ Beloved brothers, I thank God for the great men who invest their time in this beautiful work. This is a one-of-a-kind magazine. Let’s pray for its team and for this precious Work. We always remember Rev. Luis M. Ortiz and his vision. God bless you. From New York, U.S.

MAX LÓPEZ God bless you. At home, my whole family is Christian and I’d like you to help me share this magazine. I downloaded it to show them and they just loved it. From Quito, Ecuador.

SUSANA MONTERO I want to thank God for this beautiful work. The messages in the Impacto Evangelitic

CONVENTION PARAGUAY, San Lorenzo CONVENTION PANAMA CONVENTION ARGENTINA, Cordova CONVENTION BELIZE, Orange Walk

MARCH 7-11 CONVENTION OF PASTORS AND WOMEN, (AFRICA) 28-1 (APR) CONVENTION GUATEMALA, Guatemala City 29-1 (APR) CONVENTION GUYANA, FRENCH GUIANA, TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO, AND MARTINIQUE, French Guiana (Georgetown) 29-1 (APR) CONVENTION AUSTRALIA

JAVIER RÍOS

CARLOS BECERRA

GLOB AL AGENDA 2018

CARLOS BASTIDAS God bless you, brothers of Impacto Evangeslistic. Keep going and may God continue guiding you in the publication of the magazine. I loved it from the first time, and I will continue reading it to learn about the wonders that God does in our lives. The Lord continue blessing you. From La Villegas, Ecuador.

magazine are soul food. God bless you, guide you and help you now and always. From Cali, Colombia.

IGNACIO BENÍTEZ Dear brothers in Christ, God bless you! I thank the Impacto Evangelistic magazine. Every month, I look forward to the next issue. The printing quality is excellent and the contents are amazing because they’re sound doctrine. I’m happy to know that one of the first countries where the Work started was Cuba thanks to pastor Luis M. Ortiz. That I found out in this interesting magazine. From La Habana, Cuba.

JULY 4-7 CONVENTION COSTA RICA, Heredia 5-8 CONVENTION BRAZIL, Manaus 5-8 CONVENTION NETHERLANDS ANTILLES, Aruba 10-13 CONGRESS USA, Virginia (Woodbridge) 18-21 CONVENTION UNITY OF PASTORS, MEN, WOMEN AND YOUNG PEOPLE, (Puerto Rico) 26-28 CONVENTION DOMINICAN REPUBLIC 26-29 CONVENTION MEXICO AUGUST 9-12 CONVENTION SPAIN AND BLOCK A OF EUROPE Madrid 9-12 CONVENTION AFRICA, Equatorial Guinea (Bata) 15-18 CONVEGNO VENEZUELA 16-19 CONVENTION ITALY, Milan 23-26 CONVENTION HAITI, Port-au-Prince 23-26 CONVENTION ECUADOR, Guayaquil SEPTEMBER 10-12 CONVENTION PERU, Chiclayo 13-15 CONVENTION PERU, Arequipa 16-18 CONVENTION PERU, Lima 26-29 CONVENTION INDIA 30 WORLD MISSION DAY, simultaneous activity in all the countries OCTOBER 4-7 CONVENTION HONDURAS 5-7 NATIONAL FELLOWSHIP CANADA 19-21 FELLOWSHIP MADAGASCAR 24-28 CONVENTION MAURITIUS NOVEMBER 1-4 CONVENTION CHILE, Santiago 8-11 CONVENTION EL SALVADOR 15-18 CONVENTION URUGUAY, Montevideo 29-2 (DEC) CONVENTION NICARAGUA DECEMBER

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april 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

Convention

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