Issuu

Edition for AMERICA

evangelistic

THE MAGAZINE THAT EDIFIES YOUR LIFE

June 2018 / Edition 773

www.impactoevangelistico.net

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION

WORLDWIDE MISSIONARY MOVEMENT

Total condamnation for child sex abuse

PEDOPHILIA OR

PEDERASTY? HERO OF FAITH

TESTIMONY

NEWS

The road to the Lord

Rebel without cause

Life, a Gift from the Lord

En vivo

Now Bethel can be watched in HD in all Europe. The signal of Hotbird 13C Satellite has been updated to HD for all Europe. If you already have a 60-cm parabollic antenna, you only need to obtain a: DVB-S2/MPEG4 satellite decoder with HDMI output. For further information: distribucion@betheltv.tv betheltv.tv/satelital Bethel Television, the Worldwide Missionary Movement channel, broadcasts a varied programming24/7 for all the family by its 9 satellites..

Brings us together MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 2 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

editorial

THE POTTER’S

SOVEREIGNTY Rev. José Arturo Soto B. International President of the MMM

“O house of Israel, cannot I do with you as this potter? saith the Lord…” Jeremiah 18:6

ne of the passages showing the divine at-

property of the potter. Not only is his physical

tributes we would like to highlight is the

property but the property of his aspiration when

illustration of the potter’s house. Jeremiah was

working. That is how he has the authority and

sent there by God, who told him, “Arise, and go

sovereignty to take that material and turn it into

down to the potter’s house, and there I will

what he wants. We have better results, as there

cause thee to hear my words.” ( Jer. 18:2).

is a God that is “longsuffering to usward, not

Jeremiah went to the potter’s house where clay

willing that any should perish [gets lost], but

vessels were produced. He saw the potter working

that all should come to repentance” (2 Pet.

with clay using tools and instruments. As the pot-

3:9). Over and over again He treats us with mer-

ter was making the final touches or the last detail

cy; His hands and ours change and process the

with a lot of effort, the vessel got ruined on his

material as He tries to bring something positive

bare hands. However, the potter did not get dis-

to His glory, therefore He works patiently.

couraged, neither did he throw that vessel to the

When God has a purpose, it does not matter

trash. The potter just repeated the process and co-

how far a person is from Him. He appears on that

rrected the mistake so this new vessel would not

person’s dreams or speaks to him through some-

have that same problem. He succeeded; he crea-

body or His Word. The Lord follows lost people,

ted a new and better vessel.

because He wants to reach them. He does not

The prophet, in God’s name, said, “O house of

get discouraged as long as we do something well,

Israel, cannot I do with you as this potter? Saith

even though that thing is very small; he sees so-

the Lord…” (Jer. 18:6). Can I do the same with

mething good in us. We cannot reject whom he

you, whoever you are, at any time or any place?

has not rejected.

The outstanding attribute here is the potter’s sovereignty over clay. Sovereignty means clay is

Dear brothers, we are clay on the hands of the Potter!

june 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

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evangelistic Founder Director: Rev. Luis M. Ortiz JUNE 2018 / EDITION N° 773 (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.

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News

Search us in

28 / HERO OF FAITH. The road to the Lord. DEVOTIONALS 40 / LOVE AND FIRE. Rev. Luis M. Ortiz 42 / ENEMIES TAKING AWAY OUR BLESSINGS. Rev. Gustavo Martínez

Pedophilia or Pederasty?

A worker’s attitude

Life stories

26 / LITERATURE. A shepherd looks at Psalm 23.

Analysis

18 / PERSPECTIVE. The arsenal insect.

Cover

16 / HEALTH. Silent cancer.

Life, a Gift from the Lord

Rebel without cause

34 20

44 / SOUND WITH THE TRUMPETS OF JOY! Rev. Alberto Ortega 48 / EVENTS.

14 / Infography.

64 / OTHER EVENTS.

june 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

CHILD sexual abuse knows no geographical or cultural barriers. It is a worldwide social phenomenon for which there are no miraculous drugs or prescriptions, but it must be analyzed and fought with the active participation of society.

Over the last months, social networks and media in general have reported a vast amount of child abuse cases in many parts of the world, which has triggered justified public outrage. However, despite being a recurrent subject and one of the most repulsive crimes, there is much lack of information and ignorance regarding child protection and sexual abuse prevention. We must raise awareness and take a proper approach to the issue in order to know how to deal with, prevent and face child sexual violence. It is also critical to work on and look at sex offenders, and most importantly, to learn how to identify them. First, we need to know the difference between pedophilia and pederasty, as most people think of them as synonyms. Pedophilia refers to an adult’s sexual attraction to children; pederasty, on the other hand, is defines as the sexual between an adult and a child. Therefore, while all pederasts are pedophiles, not all pedophiles are pederasts. This makes it clear that some pedophiles may have never abused, raped or molested a child, that is, they have not acted on their sexual deviance or perversion and thus have not committed a crime. CAUSES AND ORIGIN

Many current theories try to explain the causes of pedophilia, but there is no consensus on the subject. Research on pedophilia is still in its infancy and little is known about its actual scale. MOVIMIENTOMISSIONARY MISIONERO MOVEMENT MUNDIAL 6 WORLDWIDE América • Europe America Europa • Oceanía • África • Asia

Pedophilia or

cover

PEDOPHILIA OR

EDERASTY? Abril june2018 2018/ /Impacto ImpactoevangelĂstico evangelistic

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

cover

One popular theory within the scientific community states that pedophiles are born that way, that they have a “crossed wiring” in their brain. Psychologist James Cantor, who used the term, has studied many cases of pedophiles and determined that perceiving a child triggers in these people sexual instincts instead of nurturing instincts. Criminologists support that it is genetically related. Psychoanalysis, for its part, says that pedophilia and pederasty originate in the sexual abuse-related trauma experienced by pedophiles or pederasts themselves as children. Psychiatrist Ricardo Capponi states that 50% to 80% of those who were victims of sexual abuse turn into sexual offenders as adults. According to this view, men that suffered sexual abuse in their childhood identify themselves with the offender as they become adults, and reproduce the same scenario to take revenge, control and humiliate a victim in

Despite being a recurrent subject and one of the most repulsive crimes, there is much lack of information and ignorance regarding child protection and sexual abuse prevention.

order to heal their own pain. Another fact shown by research is that pedophiles and pederasts that experienced abuse do not feel loved by their own wives. For this reason, they look for children the same age they were when assaulted, in some sort of flashback or “repetition compulsion” that reenacts the abuse and relieves their suffering for a moment. PROFILE OF A PEDOPHILE

It is no easy task to accurately describe the personality of a pedophile or pederast, as these people often hide their tendencies and thoughts, and many cases of

june 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

It is no easy task to accurately describe the personality of a pedophile or pederast, as these people often hide their tendencies and thoughts, and many cases of rape remain untold for shame or fear of the consequences.

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

cover

INTERNET AND SEXUAL ABUSE Internet is a dangerous tool in the hands of pedophiles and pederasts, as they have now more options available: social media, communities, webpages, and other media that allow for the exchange of sexual information and content. There they can find information on how to deceive the parents of a child, how to avoid being caught, and how to exchange pornography. Children are common users of the Internet and the networks, which makes them easy targets for stalkers, who often hide their identities to contact minors. We usually read or watch on the news that pederasts pick up their targets on social networks or forums and build a relationship of trust with them. Sometimes they ask their victims to send pictures and then blackmail them. There are also cases when they actually meet, which ends in rape or even kidnapping. Therefore, it is important to pay close attention to children so as to detect some change of attitude and thus avoid or prevent potential abuse. Constant communication is vital to strengthen bonds with the child and make him/her feel safe to speak freely. We do not mean to be alarmists, but to prevent experiences that may have terrible consequences. We must learn to listen and interpret the messages of children.

june 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

rape remain untold for shame or fear of the consequences. Research concludes that most offenders are male. In addition, the Spanish Center of Studies on Social Investments (CENSIS) notes that a great percentage of cases happen within families and that MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 12 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

First, we need to know the difference between pedophilia and pederasty, as most people think of them as synonyms.

offenders are usually a close relative, so rape becomes also incest. In a study conducted by Seympur and Hilda Parker on a group of incestuous parents from different parts of the world, they found common personality traits. They shared a problematic rela-

cover

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY? Pedophilia and pederasty cause chaos in the order created by God. He created men and women to desire each other with love and respect (Genesis 1:26-27), without hurting each other, and acting like responsible adults. But Satan’s aim is to distort God’s creation at all costs. The apostle Paul speaks about these wicked, filthy people: “And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness…” (Romans 1:28-29). Jesus stoop up for children and said words of love for them (Matthew 19:14). The Bible condemns this evil: “But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death” (Revelation 21:8).

abandonment, could also be a sign. Nonincestuous parents, for their part, pay attention to their children and are willing to fulfill their needs. In almost half of the father-daughter or stepfather-stepdaughter incest cases, couple harmony between the parents was already compromised and sex suspended. This raises a question: What is the line between love and sexual abuse? Common sense tells: arousal. A sane adult knows love from sexuality, which is evident in its manifestation. HOW TO IDENTIFY THEM?

tionship with their parents, lack of emotional bonds, alcoholism or drug addiction. Parents who are sex offenders differ from non-offenders in the way they perceive their children. Offenders tend to misinterpret children behavior, even

when such conduct is part of natural human growth. They also have unreal expectations about the proper behavior of their children and they tend to be more demanding. Emotional indifference, which could be related to past violence or premature

Pedophiles and pederasts play nice with children and feel awkward or uneasy among adults. They can develop a charming personality to attract children and earn their trust without using force, and tend to be near children through work or in their free time. Sometimes they even deceive themselves to avoid any guilty feeling. Perverts are a danger to all children!

june 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

CHILD SEXUAL

Pedophilia or pederasty?

ABUSE

Child sexual abuse has no geographical limits or ideological barriers. This a global social phenomenon which cannot be solved with vaccinations or miraculous recipes; it must be analyzed and fought back with the support of the entire society. According to the last international statistics, 150 million girls and 73 million boys around the world are sexually abused each year. The danger is even bigger for abandoned children living in countries with legal vacuums, as politicians remain indifferent.

13 years

Average age of exploited children

Bangladesh

BANGLADESH

FILIPPINE

KENYA

THE MOST AFFECTED COUNTRIES

15,000

Exploited children for foreign tourists

67% of clients are wealthy and from industrialized countries

Kenya

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

More than

100,000

children are sexually exploited each year The Philippines

ABUSED CHILDREN AROUND THE WORLD Boys

million

223 million

Girls

150 million

ON THE WEB

THE ALARMING QUANTITY OF CHILD PORNOGRAPHY ON THE INTERNET

27 000

pedophiles on the internet

Mexico is the world leader in child pornography. According to UNICEF, the number of child pornography cases has increased by 50%.

1 000 000

children are photographed every year.

june 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

THE World Health Organization states that one of seven men is diagnosed with prostate cancer, which is the most common after lung cancer and the fifth cause of death for men. Among men over 50 years, it is the most common type of cancer. An early detection increases the chances of successful treatments.

Walter Menchola Vásquez (*)

Prostate cancer is a malignant tumor growing in the prostate gland. It frequently appears in men over 69 years. An early diagnosis plays an important role for preventing prostate cancer. As it grows slowly, its prognosis is positive. It has no specific symptoms and it is asymptomatic during its first stages. As any other malignant neoplastic diseases, prostate cancer is caused by some factors like age. Global statistics show that such disease mainly affects men over 40 years. The likelihood of developing it increases even more for men over 50. Around six of ten prostate cancer cases occur in men over 65. This disease is more common in black men from African ancestry. They have twice the probability of suffering from it. White men are second according to probabilities. It is less common in people from Asia and South America. The majority of cases are found in North America, Central America and Australia. MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 16 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

SILENT

CANCER Family background is also a risk factor. Certain families are more affected by this illness. If someone’s father or brother has suffered this disease, the probabilities are twice as high for that person; the risk is even bigger when

Global statistics show that such disease mainly affects men over 40 years. The likelihood of developing it increases even more for men over 50. Around six of ten prostate cancer cases occur in men over 65.

many relatives suffered it when being young. Those who suffer from prostatitis have even more probabilities of developing prostate cancer (American Cancer Society). The results of some researches on the incidence of this disease in people who eat a great quantity of red meat and dairy products are not clear; nevertheless, there are more men suffering from prostate cancer who so consume this food than men with the disease who consume more fruits and vegetables. PREVENTION

Many risk factors for this illness like race, age and family background cannot

health

be prevented. Other factors (consumption of red meat and dairy products) without clear relation to the illness can be prevented by consuming more vegetables and fruits, staying active with adequate weight and having a healthy sexual life. The best way of preventing this disease is frequently undergoing prostate exams in case of men over 40, particularly those with high risk factors given that first-degree relatives (brothers, fathers) suffer from prostate cancer. Currently, there are biochemical blood tests that allow early detections or suspicion of prostate cancer; this must always be complemented with a physical exam performed by a urologist. However, none of these exams is 100% accurate. Patients with incipient cancer can be cured if they are treated immediately. It must be noted that the treatment of this illness has certain intestinal, urinary and sexual effects for men, which can be overcome with other appropriate treatments. Currently, there are controversies in the medical treatment, especially for patients with incipient cancer. Therefore, it is recommendable for doctors to talk to patients so that they can have all the available information to make a decision based on patients’ risk factors and measure the consequences and benefits of the treatment. Every year, on June 11, the World Prostate Cancer Day is celebrated in order to make people aware of this disease which silently kills thousands of men around the world.

(*) Médico Internista, Mg. Gestión y Políticas Públicas Source: World Health Organization (WHO)

june 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

THE bombardier beetle is one of the most curious creatures on Earth. It is able to produce powerful chemical reactions to defend itself and hit its target with a marksman’s precision. Creationists consider it an example of divine design.

Karin Viet (*)

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 18 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

THE ARSENAL

INSECT The sinister toad closes in on the beetle. Instead of a futile attempt to scurry away, the beetle waits, as though surrendering. Just before the toad’s tongue flicks out to snag its victim, the beetle

perspective

fires its cannon. Pop! Pop! Pop! Out shoots burning gas. The emissions fire in pulsation, 500 times per second, but the defensive attack is complete before one second passes. Rather than getting a tasty snack, the defeated toad hops away with a mouthful of noxious gasses. The bombardier beetle’s tail end is equipped with twin “spray nozzles” (or gland openings) to shoot its gaseous ammunition. The gas comes from two reactant chemicals: hydrogen peroxide and hydroquinone. When the beetle contracts its sphincter muscle, these two chemicals mix with catalytic enzymes. The ensuing chemical reaction brings the temperature up to water’s boiling point. While the one-way valve closes to protect the beetle’s organs, out fires the mixture of gas and steam at 212 degrees Fahrenheit (100°C).

Some types of bombardier beetles can swivel their gland openings and shoot in nearly all directions using deflection plates. All types hit their target with a marksman’s precision. SNAPSHOT

The bombardier beetle is a member of the family Carabidae, which contains more than 40,000 species worldwide. It belongs to the genus Brachinus, which contains 304 species in the United States alone. Since they need enough moisture to lay their eggs, they usually live in temperate environments like woodlands or grasslands near a source of water. The bombardier beetle progresses through several stages. After the egg hatches, it enters the larval stage, molting as it grows. Next, it metamorphoses into the pupa, looking much like the adult. After the pupa stage, the adult beetle sheds its skin and crawls away. Most beetles live just several weeks. With most species being carnivorous, bombardier beetles generally prey on insects. Since some of these insects are agricultural pests, beetles serve a helpful role. After hunting during the night, bombardier beetles often gather together in moist, protected places like inside hollow logs or under large rocks. Not a large bug, bombardier beetle species range in length from less than half a centimeter to three centimeters. By examining the design of the bombardier beetle’s defense spray mechanism, scientists have built a similar nozzle to improve fuel, medical, and agricultural technology. DIVINE DESIGN

Creationists have frequently pointed to the bombardier beetle as an example of divine design. God equipped the bombardier beetle with an intricate defense structure (“And God saw everything that he had made, and, behold, it was very good.” Genesis 1:31). How could the “ammunition” and “cannon” have evolved, since all the specific ingredients and mechanisms

would need to be present at once to work properly? From the evolutionary worldview, the functionless machinery would have been selected against, since it would add no survival value until all of the necessary components were in place. Evolutionists have counterattacked with imaginative ideas of how such an elaborate defense mechanism could have evolved. Evolution supposedly progresses from primitive life forms to higher life forms. Because evolutionists postulate that the changes from “goo-to-you” happen through slight, successive modifications over millions of years, the “theory” of evolution cannot be tested. Any design can be explained away by picking it apart into supposed steps. The supposed steps cannot be proven or disproven because no one can go back in time and record the alleged evolution of one animal kind to another. Evolutionists and creationists both have the same evidence, but they interpret that evidence through their different worldviews. Evolutionists base their beliefs on human reasoning that the design in this world could have happened through small, upward modifications over billions of years. Biblical creationists base their beliefs on God’s revelation, the Bible, which says he created the heavens and the earth with creatures fully formed and functioning according to their kinds. Both evolution and creation require belief in the unseen. Yet in cases like the bombardier beetle, perhaps more faith is needed to believe this complex creature evolved. Romans 1 says that people inherently know God from creation, yet they suppress that truth. Evolution is a convenient smokescreen for people to live as if the Creator, Law-Giver, and Judge did not exist. If God created us, we are obligated to live according to his standards for his glory.

(*) Taken from www.answersingenesis.org

june 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

IT is not our behavior on Sunday mornings that shows the world the depth of our Christian faith, but how we act at work. Our attitude as workers who know God will prove that we have changed and will make a difference.

Carmen Valencia de Martínez

Little is said about the impact of our work, even though it is at work that we spend most of our time and energy every week. We, true Christians, must pay utmost attention to our work, not only because it allows us to make a living, but especially because it reveals our character. Our boss, co-workers, clients, suppliers, etc. will not judge us based on our Sunday activities, but on how we behave among them. Therefore, our faithfulness at work is as important as the one we show in church. “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ” (Colossians 3:23-24) The Apostle Paul, in Ephesians 4:1, asks us to be worthy of our calling. And when he says “worthy,” he speaks of honor, nobility and distinction. Thus, our actions should be lights in the world (Philippians 2:15; Matthew 5:14-16); our behavior will speak louder than our preaching. GRATEFUL

We must be grateful to God for the people He has used to give us a job, MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 20 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

A WORKER’S

ATTITU

UDE

analysis

and thank Him for the company that has hired us. We must love and pray every day for our workplace, because it is there where we spend more than half of our time. Having a job is a wonderful gift given by God. While others want to work but cannot due to a handicap or illness, God has given us knowledge, wisdom, ability and the opportunity to do the job. What prevents us from thanking God for our job and acknowledging that it is a blessing? AWARE

We must be aware that the effort, energy and care we put in our job, no matter how simple it is, are important to God. And we must do it for Him (Ephesians 6:5). We have to work encouraged by the fear of God. The psalmist said, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Psalm 111:10), and “By humility and the fear of the Lord are riches, and honour, and life” (Psalm 22:4). We have to work for God, not men. His Word states, “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); “And whatsoever ye do in word

God is watching the quality of our job. God will judge our inaction, laziness, carelessness and negligence (Colossians 3:2325). Doing things with sloth and negligence will only attract ruin and poverty (Proverbs 19:15).

or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him” (Colossians 3:17). It does not matter where we work or what we do, our main purpose in any job must be the glory of God, and for

june 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

that reason, we must do it with joy. But if our job is immoral or dishonors God, we can never expect to witness His glory at work or in our life. When we work for God, we do it MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 22 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

well, whether there is someone supervising or not. We cannot be hypocrite workers that make their best when the boss is there, but are slack in doing the job when left alone. We must be aware

that God’s eyes are watching us at every moment. So, we have to be committed workers and put our mind, heart and soul in our job, even if we are in the darkest, most hidden corner.

analysis

ample, instead of painting the twelve Apostles, as he was told, he painted more than three hundred figures. What is more, as he had to work bending over backwards and with his face looking upwards, he suffered from pain in his back, legs and arms and his sight was impaired. A man who worked with him asked, “Master, why do you work so hard on this dark corner that no one will ever see?” He simply answered, “Precisely because only God will see it.” The purpose of anything we do for God is because He will see: “With good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men” (Ephesians 6:7). WISE

It is said that when Italian artist Michelangelo was asked to paint the Sistine Chapel ceiling, his passion and commitment moved him to accept the challenge and make his best. For ex-

In Ephesians 5:15-16, the Apostle Paul states that we must “walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time because the days are evil.” He also says in Colossians 4:5, “Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.” The Word also says that we must give up sloth, as it makes us waste time: “He also that is slothful in his work is brother to him that is a great waster” (Proverbs 18:9). We must work with enthusiasm, attention and diligence, exceeding expectations and trying to make things better and better, even when nobody is watching. Because even if no one is there, God is watching the quality of our job. God will judge our inaction, laziness, carelessness and negligence (Colossians 3:23-25). Doing things with sloth and negligence will only attract

ruin and poverty (Proverbs 19:15). God’s Word in Proverbs 12:24 states, “The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.” The path towards progress and wealth is to work willingly and diligently (Proverbs 10:4; 13:4). UPRIGHT

Uprightness involves the person as a whole, their inner and outer self, the deeds and thoughts. An upright person has but one standard and one face and, most importantly, one purpose in the heart: to please God and not men. Uprightness is to the character what health is to the body. Workers must be like Joseph, a model of uprightness. Joseph, son of Jacob, was sold by his brothers, but his integrity did not depend on whether he was doing all right or badly, or whether he was being watched or not. He valued his work and delivered based on the trust put in him. Workers must be Joseph, a model of trustworthiness. We must never disappoint those who have trusted in us or take advantage of such trust. Joseph’s integrity made him stay strong when faced with temptation, and he never abused the trust put in him. He chose to flee rather than fall (Genesis 39:12). As the saying states: “Better safe than sorry.” DILIGENT

Diligent workers pay attention, learn every day, outdo themselves, grow, and are humble about it. Constant learning is a basic requirement for success. That is why all of us, children of God, must be passionate about learning. God wants us to show the world the difference it makes to have a spirit of achievement. If we do not live in uprightness, we will never be truly diligent in our lives, activities and work. Let us lack everything but uprightness ( Job 4:6; 27:5; Proverbs 28:6).

june 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

HEAVEN

CAME DOWN

IN 1961, John Peterson, an American composer, created a hymn based on the Bible that praises the Lord and makes the Gospel closer to people around the world. Based on the testimony of a believer from Pennsylvania, “Heaven came down” is about the biblical concept of Jesus Christ’ coming and shows the superiority of the Lord over humanity. Written in 1961 by John Willard Peterson, this song is the ideal means to know how blessed are those who believe in the Gospel. The melody was born after Rev. Peterson had preached the Word in the temple of Montrose Bible Conference Grounds, located in Pennsylvania; he asked for the testimony of one of the attendees. A Christ follower called Jim said that he felt as if heaven had come down over him when he met God, which caught the author’s attention. MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 24 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

music

After listening to the believer’s public confession, Pastor Peterson thought those words would make a perfect title for a praise dedicated to the Creator. That is how the evangelical sing-songwriter started to work on the new piece. A week later, he finished a poem based on the Holy Scriptures and the glory of the Savior. FERTILE COMPOSER

Author of almost one thousand songs and thirty-five cantatas, John W. Peterson was a productive musician that used his innate talent to worship God. Born on November 1, 1921, he began his career as a musician when he was still a teenager, accepting Jesus as his Redeemer at the age of twelve. During his youth, he attended the Moody Biblical Institute and started composing songs for Christ. In 1953, Peterson graduated from the American Conservatory of Music, located in the city of Chicago, and then moved to Pennsylvania to continue his career as music composer. Later on, he traveled to Michigan where he became President and Editor-in-chief of Singspiration record label, where he worked for a decade. In addition, he was a member of the Gospel Films company. Increasingly respected for his contribution to Christian music, he earned global popularity together with Billy Graham, who used John’s compositions on his evangelical crusades across the world. In 1986, he was included in the Gospel Music Hall of Fame. He was faithful to the Lord until his last breath, passing away on September 20, 2006 from prostate cancer. As a proof of Jesus Christ’ authority, “Heaven Came Down” helps understand the abundance God brings to people’s lives. Currently popular in the five continents, Peterson’s ode also brings joy to Christian people as it glorifies the Almighty and introduces the Gospel to all men around the world.

HEAVEN CAME DOWN 1 O what a wonderful, wonderful day, Day I will never forget; After I’d wandered in darkness away, Jesus my Savior I met. O what a tender, compassionate friend, He met the need of my heart; Shadows dispelling, with joy I am telling, He made all the darkness depart! CHORUS Heaven came down and glory filled my soul, When at the cross the Savior made me whole; My sins were washed away And my night was turned to day, Heaven came down and glory filled my soul! 2 Born of the Spirit with life from above Into God’s family divine, Justified fully through Calvary’s love, O what a standing is mine! And the transaction so quickly was made When as a sinner I came, Took of the offer of grace He did proffer, He saved me, O praise His dear name! 3 Now I’ve a hope that will surely endure After the passing of time; I have a future in heaven for sure. There in those mansions sublime. And it’s because of that wonderful day What at the cross I believed; Riches eternal and blessings supernal From His precious hand I received.

june 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

THIS book contains the viewpoints on the well-known Psalm 23. Canadian Reverend Phillip Keller analyzed the poem written by King David and revealed the hidden treasures of one of the most popular Psalms of the Holy Scriptures.

The Lord! But who is the Lord? What is His character? Does He have adequate credentials to be my Shepherd, my manager, my owner? And if He does, how do I come under His control? In what way do I become the object of His concern and diligent care? These are penetrating, searching questions, and they deserve honest and basic examination. One of the calamities of Christianity is our tendency to talk in ambiguous generalities. David, the author of the poem, himself a shepherd and the son of a shepherd, later to be known as the “Shepherd King” of Israel, stated explicitly, “The Lord is my shepherd.” To whom did he refer? He referred to Jehovah, the Lord God of Israel. Written by evangelical author Phillip Keller, “A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23” contains his pastoral opinions about the well-known Psalm 23. The writer and follower of Jesus Christ, who devoted most of his life to preach God’s Word, reveals in the introduction that he developed a very particular viewpoint on the poem written by King David. Generally it is the “unknown,” the unexpected,” that produces the greatest panic. It is in the grip of fear that most of us are unable to cope with the cruel circumstances and harsh complexities of life. We feel they are foes which endanger our tranquility. Often our first impulse is simply to get up and run from them. Then in the midst of our misfortunes there suddenly comes the awareness that He, the Christ, the Good MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 26 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

A SHEPHERD LOOKS AT

PSALM 23

literature

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Shepherd, is there. It makes all the difference. His presence in the picture throws a different light on the whole scene. Suddenly things are not half so black nor nearly so terrifying. The outlook changes and there is hope. Keller was born in Kenya in 1920. As a young man, he was owner and shepherd of sheep, and then became shepherd of men. He used his personal experience as foundation to write a book that explores a section of the Holy Scriptures that is full of terms and descriptions whose true and deep meaning may remain concealed from those who have never been shepherds. SPIRITUAL LIFE

In the Christian life, it is of more than passing significance to observe that those who are often the most serene, most confident, and able to cope with life’s complexities are those who rise early each day to feed on God’s Word. It is in the quiet, early hours of the morning that they are led beside the quiet, still waters where they imbibe the very life of Christ for the day. This is much more than mere figure of speech. It is practical reality. The biographies of the great men and women of God repeatedly point out how the secret of the success in their spiritual life was attributed to the “quiet time” of each morning. From his many direct experiences with sheep, the Christian writer created a work that reveals the hidden treasures of one of the most well-known Psalms of the Bible. In its introduction, the servant of the Lord asks the reader to approach the book with an open mind and an unbiased spirit to be able to find the fresh truth offered by God. The stubborn, self-willed, proud, self-sufficient sheep that persists in pursuing its old paths and grazing on its old polluted ground will end up a bag of bones on ruined land. The world we live in is full of such folk. Broken homes, broken hearts, derelict lives, and twisted personalities remind us everywhere of men and women who have gone their own way. We have a sick society struggling to survive on beleaguered land. The greed and selfishness of mankind MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 28 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

literature

leave behind a legacy of ruin and remorse. Amid all this chaos and confusion Christ the Good Shepherd comes and says, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” Under the guidance of the Almighty, and thanks to his spiritual knowledge, Minister Keller, who was son to a couple of missionaries who served the Lord in Africa, divided his book into twelve chapters. “The Lord Is My Shepherd,” “I Shall Not Be in Want,” “He Restores My Soul,” “He Guides Me in Paths of Righteousness,” “You Prepare a Table Before Me” and “You Anoint My Head with Oil” are some of the subjects addressed in it. GOD’S WORD

There is no substitute for the Scriptures in coping with the complexities of our social order. We live in an evermore involved and difficult milieu. We are part of a world of men and women whose code of conduct is contrary to all that Christ has advocated. To live with such people is to be ever exposed to enormous temptations of all sorts. Some people are very subtle, very smooth, very sophisticated. Others are capable of outright, violent, vituperative attacks against the children of God. In every situation and under every circumstance there is comfort in the knowledge that God’s Word can meet and master the

difficulty if we will rely on it. Internationally recognized for his work to spread the Good News, the biblical expert fulfilled a fruitful evangelizing mission in North America for more than four decades. Canadian preacher Keller wrote fifty books on Christian subjects in which he addressed divine revelations and truths contained in the Scriptures. Our thoughts, our ideas, our emotions, our choices, our impulses, drives, and desires are all shaped and molded through the exposure of our minds to other people’s minds. In our modern era of mass communication, the danger of the “mass mind” grows increasingly grave. Young people in particular, whose minds are so malleable, find themselves being molded under the subtle pressures and impacts made on them by television, radio, magazines, newspapers, and fellow classmates, to say nothing of their parents and teachers. Often the mass media that are largely responsible for shaping our minds are in the control of men whose character is not Christlike. Reverend Phillip Keller died on July 20, 1997. He was God’s precious instrument to establish the Word in the Canadian province of British Columbia. At the end of “A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23,” the loyal servant highlighted that we live surrounded by God’s presence and that He knows the circumstances we face and cares about us because we belong to Him. Almost every day I am literally rubbing shoulders with men and women “on the other side of the fence.” What is my impact upon them? Is my life so serene, so satisfying, so radiant because I walk and talk and live with God, that they become envious? Do they see in me the benefits of being under Christ’s control? Do they see something of Him reflected in my conduct and character? Does my life and conversation lead them to Him, and thus into life everlasting? If so, then I may be sure some of them will also long to dwell in the house of the Lord forever. And there is no reason why this cannot happen if they come under His proper ownership.

june 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

SCOTTISH missionary Alexander Mackay led a life of deprivation and hardship for fourteen years with the only purpose of evangelizing the kingdom of Buganda. He built a road to the Creator among wild tribes in the heart of Africa. Eugene Myers Harrison

After many perilous and harrowing experiences, Alexander Mackay, a young Scotsman, at last reached his destination on November 6, 1878 on the shores of Lake Victoria, in Uganda, Central Africa. The young Scotch missionary was eager to win as a Christian the powerful King Mutesa, who ruled the kingdom of Buganda with an iron fist and his back turned on Jesus Christ. In an important appearance at the king’s court, the white man was not the only person who appeared before the king and his chiefs and the great men of state. Into the audience chamber walked a tall, swarthy Arab who deposited on the floor bales of cloth and guns, “I have come,” said the Arab, pointing to the bales on the floor, “to exchange these things for men Mackay remembered that, though it cost him his head, John the Baptist did not hesitate to reprove a king. Nerved by this courageous example, the white man declared, “Will you sell your children, knowing that most of them will die of mistreatment on the way and the rest be taken as slaves to some strange country?” The Arab slave-dealer scowled, and the chiefs stirred uneasily. The king dismissed the angry Arab and announced, “The white man is right. I shall no more sell my people as slaves.” SOLID FOUNDATIONS

Alexander Mackay was born in Rhynie, Aberdeenshire, on October 13, 1849. He was a bright, earnest lad and early surrendered MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 30 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

heroes of faith

THE ROAD TO THE

LORD

his heart to Christ. His father and mother agreed in hoping that he would become a minister or a missionary. He loved the long winter evenings when, the father being away preaching, the mother told exciting stories of Carey and Martyn, Moffat and Livingstone. Very early, the lad began to show unusual interest in mechanics. When a small boy, he often went among the masons as they were building the Free Church of Rhynie, and it was considered prophetic of his future career that, when they jocularly asked him, “Well, laddie, gaen to gie us a sermon the day?” He would reply, “Give me a trowel, so can preach and build same time.” He entered the Free Church Training College for Teachers in Edinburgh in the autumn of 1867, and distinguished himself during the two years’ course. He had developed a taste for mechanics at an early age, and purposed becoming an engineer. For three years, he studied the necessary subjects in Edinburgh University, gained a practical knowledge of engineering by spending his afternoons at works and went to Germany for further study. But how could he ever go to Africa? What could an engineer do there? As he

was pondering these questions in Berlin on the night of December 12, 1875, he picked up a copy of the Edinburgh Daily Review which home-folks had sent him and read a letter that sent a mighty thrill through his being. It was written by a daring explorer, Henry M. Stanley, at the request of King Mutesa, and said that the king had been asking about God. WAY TO THE LORD

Having long cherished a desire to follow in the footsteps of Livingstone and Stanley, this was for him a call from on high. Immediately he wrote to the Church Missionary Society: “My heart burns for the deliverance of Africa, and if you can send me to any of those regions which Livingstone and Stanley have found to be groaning under the curse of the slave-hunter, I shall be very glad.” Within four months, Mackay, along with seven other young missionary volunteers, was on a ship bound for Zanzibar and Uganda. He had given his best, his all, to the high task of being a road-maker for Christ in the Dark Continent. The missionaries set out from Zanzibar on an overland journey of eight hundred miles to the south end of Lake Victoria. Mackay was smitten

june 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

down with a severe attack of fever and returned to the coast. Having recovered, Mackay undertook to build a wagon road from the coast to Mpwapwa, two hundred and thirty miles inland. The jungle through which the missionary had cut his road was symbolic of the dark and perilous jungle of Buganda, the biggest of the traditional kingdoms of present Uganda. Since his arrival, under the protection of the Lord, the missionary tried to open a way for the arrival of Christ in Eastern Africa. He knew how to share the message

El 27 de abril de 1876, junto con otros siete misioneros voluntarios, Mackay partió, desde el puerto inglés de Southampton, hacia las entrañas del continente africano con el propósito de predicar el Evangelio a todas las criaturas del mundo. Después de navegar por el océano Índico, su primera parada fue el archipiélago de Zanzíbar, enclavado frente a Tanzania.

of hope to locals, and earned their trust as well as Mutesa I’s protection. Having built a workshop, Mackay set up his forge and anvil, vice and lathe, and grindstone. Soon the chiefs and their slaves crowded around to hear the bellows roar and watch the foreigner at his work. GOD’S ROAD-MAKER

Mackay noticed that they called him Mazunga-wa-Kazi, which means White-Manof-Work. They gave him this name because to them it was strange that any man should work with his own hands. In addition, he taught a group of eager people to read and write Suahili. He also spent considerable time translating and printing portions of the New Testament. These he used in his school and distributed to earnest inquirers. His passion for MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 32 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

heroes of faith

engineering and construction made him do things for the benefit of the community, such as digging well or making a hoe. One day, a slave brought to the missionary a letter which he had written with a pointed piece of spear-grass for a pen and ink made of soot mixed with banana juice. This was the message: “Bwana Mackay, Sembera has come with compliments and to give you great news. Will you baptize him, because he believes the words of Jesus Christ?” This was “great news” indeed for the missionary, for Sembera was his first convert. Others soon followed in open confession of Christ. In his everyday activities, Mackay lost no opportunity to condemn the traffic in slaves and told Mutesa plainly of his crimes and refused to baptize him unless he would give up polygamy, witchcraft, slave trading, plundering adjacent tribes, and other abominable cruelties. Thus, the king was turned against Mackay, for he loved his heathen customs and gloried in his 300 wives. PREACHER

On October 18, 1884, Mwanga II rose to power upon the death of his father, Mutesa I. This event meant the beginning of a terrible period in Mackay’s life, as he witnessed the most ruthless savagery against God’s followers. The new monarch and his supporters burned his closest collaborators alive, as well as dozens of children that had embraced Christianity, all before the preacher’s eyes. Hated for his evangelical faith, he was persecuted and condemned to lead a life of deprivation and hardship: he would sleep in henhouses, go hungry for many days, live under the open sky whether on rainy or sunny days. Despite everything, he strove and never gave up on his attempt to open a way to God in the heart of Africa. Alexander Mackay died of malarial fever on February 8, 1890 on the shore of Lake Victoria, while still a young man. His sacrifice of fourteen years laid the foundation for the triumph of evangelization in Uganda. Thanks to him, God’s doctrine was accepted and slavery was abolished in the beginning of the 20th century.

june 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

life stories

REBEL WITHOUT

CAUSE MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 34 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

LACK of love caused him many troubles, and pornography, drugs and alcohol drove him to such despair that he wanted to die. Fortunately, Christ’s love changed his life in the blink of an eye. He now leads a happy life preaching God’s Word.

Susan Amau Photo: WMM Colombia and family files

On the cold evening of May 1, 2012, Kevin Féaud, hands in his pockets and a thin coat barely covering his body, was walking down the streets of Lyon, France, lost and confused. He was holding back his tears; it was too late for him. He was weakened by hunger and overwhelmed with thoughts of killing himself. He did not know how to achieve his goal, but each footstep was decisive for his end. He walked non-stop until he sat on park bench. “What have I done to deserve this life?” he wondered. His life had not been easy, all right. When he was only a child, Ernesto, his father, left him and never looked back. He had another family, so he grew just with his mother, Brigitte, who was a cold, aloof, sad woman. There were no warm caresses or words of love when he needed them the most. Not only the separation of his parents hurt him, but he felt that no one cared about him. Abandonment was a wound that did not heal, and soon loneliness became rebelliousness. He grew bitter and bad mannered, and his behavior got him away from his mother. REBELLIOUSNESS

When Brigitte had enough of her son’s

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defiance, she made a radical decision. Kevin was 9 when a social worker took him to a reform school. “Don’t they see that I only need love?” he asked himself. His soul was screaming but nobody listened. Reform school was supposed to improve his conduct, but he got worse. How could he become a better self with so many illegal activities happening inside? In the three years he spent there, he experienced more evil than good, and peer pressure made him addicted to porn and videogames. The only good consequence was that his mother became closer to him, but it was not enough; Brigitte was incapable of showing love to her own son. When Kevin turned 18, he had to face the worst. His mother died of cancer. Her death touched him deeply, but his resentment and coldness were stronger. Before the coffin, he bowed his head, clenched his fists in anger, and remembered but the painful times he spent with her. It was back at this time that his grandmother told him his mother’s secrets. Like her son, Brigitte had felt lonely her entire life. She had been manipulated by her mother since very young and made more than one mistake because of it, with terrible consequences. One of them happened a year after Kevin was born. She underwent an abortion and this left her a painful scar in her heart. Kevin now understood his mother, but it was too late. Each new secret revealed after the death of his mother was like a sword piercing his heart. He chose not to listen anymore and stopped speaking to his grandmother. The only person that supported the young man and gave him good advice was Catherine, a friend of his mother. She tried in vain to help them leave their frustration behind and show each other kindness. Kevin lived for a year and a half outside the city, in Catherine’s home. His mother’s friend was a good person, but her lifestyle was frustrating to him1. He put up with it because he had no other MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 36 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

place to go. However, when his vices increased and his motivation to live decreased, he was eventually asked to leave. Penniless, he went back to his hometown, Lyon, and turned to social assistance. He was given a shared room and

two euros a day to eat. The building was full of young people, and drugs and alcohol were the order of the day. He had no choice but to sell his videogames, and a few days later, his laptop was stolen. He had nothing.

life stories

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He was moved to a personal room, and there, with no food or money to fuel his addictions, he experienced hallucinations and felt a strong urge to kill himself. Deeply disturbed, he went out for a walk. MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 38 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

SALVATION

He was lost in his thoughts in that park on May 1, 2012 when some voices brought him out of his reverie. A group of Christians was giving away food and drinks to the needy. Starving, Kevin ap-

proached them. While eating, he and the others listened to a preaching and an invitation to go to the local church. Back in his room, the urge to kill himself had vanished. The words he had listened to in the park still echoed in his

life stories

From then on, something changed in his heart. He was given John’s Gospel, which speaks about love, as if they knew what was he looking for. The act of kindness encouraged him to attend the church on a regular basis. He learned how to pray, and the first thing he did was to replace his old cellphone music for praises to the Lord. Kevin was deeply and quickly moved by the love in that place. His devotion allowed him to quit his addictions and he spent all his time in the Lord’s house. The building was a two-floor building and each one was a different church. The young man attended both of them. After two weeks, he accepted Christ in his heart. “I still can’t explain what I felt in that moment,” says Kevin. FORGIVENESS

mind and he felt something inexplicable in his heart. He did not care about religion, but he seemed to have found a place where he could eat and drink for free. Just thinking about felt great. He thought that he was lucky, and

even more when he found out that the church was nearby. He went to the temple and wanted to leave immediately, but he was recognized by the Christians, who welcomed him warmly and invited him to listen to God’s Word.

Some months later, a sister from the church felt sorry for his situation and invited him to live with her family in Grenoble so that he could stop paying rent. The young man left everything and went. He was told that the city had a church that he could attend while improving his quality of life. Once in Grenoble, he met the church of the Worldwide Missionary Movement, where he learned to follow the path of good, which he still does until now. God started to bless him and use his life for great things, but he had to do something else first: to forgive his family. In 2012, he was ready for baptism, but he had to wait two years for the arrival of a pastor. Kevin says that it was worth the wait, as God perfected his character and love for others. A few days later, he became community manager of radio and social media. Despite his lack of knowledge, he learned with practice. He currently keeps in touch with his grandmother and father. He forgave them from the bottom of his heart, prays for them and thanks the Lord for the great acts of love that He has done in his life.

june 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

“He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love… For our God is a consuming fire.” 1 John 4: 8; Hebrews 12:29.

Rev. Luis M. Ortiz

In the Holy Scriptures, there are two statements about God that seem to contradict each other; it seems impossible that they refer to the same person. The first is “God is love,” and the second one, “God is a consuming fire.” It is easy to digest the first statement, that “God is love,” but it is difficult to understand the second one, that “God is a consuming fire,” and then it is much more difficult to understand that God is at the same time love and consuming fire. The quintessential manifestation of God’s love is the fact that He sent His own Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, into this miserable world of sin and evil to offer his precious life as a ransom for the corrupt and lost humanity. The Bible says, “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). It also says, “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God...” (1 John 3:1). According to the Holy Scriptures, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 40 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

LOVE AND

FIRE

have everlasting life” ( John 3:16). Therefore, the truth that God is love is clear. However, it is difficult for others to understand the other truth, that God is a consuming fire; mostly because we have taken in wrong views on God,

which have been created by ourselves or inherited from our beliefs and religions. As a result, many of us have a shallow concept of God. For example, a quite common concept is, “If there is a God, he exists in the

devotional

unknown space; God is over there and we are over here.” Some give God the shape and image they fancy, they turn God into their toy, and they get the idea that this “God” has to respond to their every whim, whether good or bad. As if it

was not enough, they even try to punish “God” when he has not done what they asked him to do by not going to church, not giving alms or not praying. They do more or less like those who bring fruit, money, rum and tobacco to

their saints, but when the saints do not grant their wishes, they take it all away and even break the statues to pieces. The saint has to endure all that because that is what a saint is for! And they want to apply all these crazy ideas to God as well... For them God is love, all right, but not when it comes to accept what that love represents or offers: salvation of the soul, repentance. For them, it means that God must take, tolerate, overlook and ignore their sins, their evil, their misdeeds, their vices, etc. What is more, when they are told that God is a consuming fire, they get alarmed, offended, violent. Their “God” is a puppet, a mannequin. God is love, but those who despise or reject that love put themselves out of its reach. Because of that great love they have rejected, God has to consume them, and in the end, their sin will be judged, punished and excluded from the creation of the universe. It will only exist in the lake of fire and brimstone, where the devil, the demons and all mortals who did not believe or obey the Gospel will be forever, along with those who rejected the great love of God as manifested on the cross of the Calvary, in the person of our Lord Jesus Christ. If God let sinners go to Heaven, Heaven would not be Heaven. God, in His love, gave a new beginning to the human race that was too corrupted, and destroyed the world with a flood. God, in His love, as if He was removing the rotten apple from the barrel, destroyed the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. God, in His love, opened the Red Sea for the people of Israel to cross, but those who rejected such love died right there. God, in His love, sent his Son into the world, and those who accept him are saved, those who reject him are already condemned. My friend, God is both love and fire, forgiving love and consuming fire. There is nothing contradictory in this. God is saint and fair, and He will not consider the sinner innocent. You will determine whether you wrap yourself in His love, or you put yourself in His fire. What will you do? Make a decision today, tomorrow may be too late. God bless you.

june 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

“And Jacob sod pottage: and Esau came from the field, and he was faint: And Esau said to Jacob, Feed me, I pray thee, with that same red pottage; for I am faint… And Jacob said, Sell me this day thy birthright. And Esau said, Behold, I am at the point to die: and what profit shall this birthright do to me? And Jacob said, Swear to me this day; and he sware unto him: and he sold his birthright unto Jacob…” Genesis 25:27-34.

Rev. Gustavo Martínez Garavito

This man named Esau had been granted the privilege of being the firstborn son. He would have had many benefits because of that, but weakness made him underestimate it. The following are the enemies in our life that take away our blessings. I. Weariness

Paul says “... lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds” (Hebrews 12:3). Esau was tired, hungry, desperate. Esau despised what God had given him, giving little value to God’s blessing, and all of a sudden, he lost it. The Church does so much that sometimes it has no time to rest or seek God as it should, and such hard work may cause it to grow weary as many others have. Weariness can affect your spiritual life, because you will stop praying and preparing for the good fight of faith. Weariness may even bring inspired, determined, active men to fall asleep while praying. Isaiah 40:28-31 states that God “... fainteth not, neither is weary… He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength… But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” II. Anxiety

“And Jacob sod pottage: and Esau came from the field, and he was faint” (Genesis 25:29). Esau came from the field and was faint, and faintness became MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 42 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

devotional

ENEMIES TAKING AWAY OUR

BLESSINGS

anxiety, which is another word for worry, despair. Anxiety is harmful, it set limits to our mind and vision, it prevents us from achieving what we really want and from moving forward, it takes our courage away, it paralyzes us. The Lord says in Matthew 6:25-34, “Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on… What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? For after all these things do the Gentiles seek: But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself...” Worry is a sign of distrust in the Lord, and anxiety is a state of inner restlessness. Therefore, getting anxious or worry may be dangerous. What can help us to not fall into despair? Faith, patience, knowing that everything has a time and that everything is under the God’s control. We have to wait like the husbandman who sows today and waits for the seed to bear fruit (2 Timothy 2:6). When Esau got anxious, he told Jacob, “Feed me, I pray thee ...” The words “I pray you” are showing his despair. Some leaders want to achieve in one day what others have managed to build in years. Do not worry, everything has its time, let God prepare you, so that you can gain stability in all aspects. III. Seduction

“And Esau said to Jacob, Feed me, I pray thee, with that same red pottage; for I am faint” (Genesis 25:30). Esau asked for food, he felt seduced by the look of it. “Let no man say when he is tempted,

I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed” ( James 1:13-14). Seduction means fascination, attraction. Seduction is like a strong, powerful magnet that, in our case, instead of metals, attracts what is inside our heart. Christ said, “For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also” (Matthew 6:21). We must be very careful, because we can be seduced by the opposite sex, love for money, fame, power and so on. IV. Lack of vision

“And Jacob said, “Sell me this day thy birthright. And Esau said, Behold, I am at the point to die: and what profit shall this birthright do to me?” (Genesis 25:3132). Weariness, anxiety and seduction have taken away many people’s vision. Some people live without vision, without future projection and are, therefore, indifferent. They do not care about attendance, they care about money. They do not work on spirituality or ministry, but on material things. Lack of vision is preventing ministerial, congregational and spiritual growth. That is why many are falling into adultery and stealing the money of the Church. V. Disdain for the blessings

“Then Jacob gave Esau bread and pottage of lentiles; and he did eat and drink, and rose up, and went his way: thus Esau despised his birthright” (Genesis 25:34). He just wanted to eat and drink. If you are having financial worries or going through difficult times, it does not mean that you are going to die, that you will be always hungry, that you will be cold or hot. Better times will come, what is important is the life you have in God.

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“And, behold, God himself is with us for our captain, and his priests with sounding trumpets to cry alarm against you. O children of Israel, fight ye not against the Lord God of your fathers; for ye shall not prosper. But Jeroboam caused an ambushment to come about behind them: so they were before Judah, and the ambushment was behind them. And when Judah looked back, behold, the battle was before and behind: and they cried unto the Lord, and the priests sounded with the trumpets. “2 Chronicles 13:12-14.

Rev. Alberto Ortega

When King Abijah of Judah ordered battle against Jeroboam, king of the northern tribes, his army was outnumbered two to one by that of the latter (2 Chronicles 13:3). However, amid this unfavorable situation, Abijah reminded his opponent of whom and what he was relying on in that battle. The first support on which Abijah was firmly relying is found in the first part of his statement: “And, behold, God himself is with us for our captain” (2 Chronicles 13:12). This was a powerful word, a beat of faith activating Abijah’s heart. Jeroboam could not say likewise, as he had changed the incorruptible and eternal God for golden calves. Abijah reminded him: “And there are with your golden calves, which Jeroboam made you for gods” (2 Chronicles 13:8). Nowadays, many Christians have changed God for the golden calves of prosperity, abundance, wealth. They are mistaken about the authority-based principles established by God. They have changed the statement: “And, behold, God himself is with us for our captain,” for a monstrous blasphemy: “God is with us for a subordinate.” Remember: “Where God does not exercise authority he does not manifest His power either.” The second thing we learn from this passage is that for God to intervene in our battle it is an unalterable requirement to MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 44 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

devotional

SOUND WITH THE TRUMPETS

OF JOY!

be under the ministry established by Him: “And his priests with sounding trumpets” (2 Chronicles 13:12). Although Abijah was king, he recognized that he needed to be under the authority of the ministry established by God. Jeroboam did not have this either. He dared to remove the priests of the Lord and established those of his liking. “Have ye not cast out the priests of the Lord, the sons of Aaron, and the Levites, and have made you priests after the manner of the nations of other lands? so that whosoever cometh to consecrate himself with a young bullock and seven rams, the same may be a priest of them that are no gods” (2 Chronicles 13:9). Jeroboam dismissed and assigned ministries as he wished. He established his own rules of admission to constitute ministries according to his whim. Many Jeroboam are now rising! No need of the experience of being born again, of a clean testimony, of a divine call. It was not even necessary to know or be based on the Scriptures. The only requirement was to have enough money to get a bullock and seven rams; the ministry was bought with the corresponding credential. Finally, Abijah had on his side the trumpets of joy. These trumpets were of silver, and silver was a symbol of the Word of God. “The words of the wicked are to lie in wait for blood: but the mouth of the upright shall deliver them” (Proverbs 12:6). Before the stubborn and rebellious Jeroboam, it is necessary to sound with the trumpet of the Word. Abijah could see the trumpets ready to be played at God’s order and through holy ministers. He was savoring beforehand a victory that came swiftly. “God smote Jeroboam and all Israel before Abijah and Judah” (2 Chronicles 13:15). Glory to God! Beloved, do you have before you a challenging and defiant Jeroboam? Why do you not use the trumpet of joy? Do you need restoration? Sound with the trumpets of joy and stand up in Christ! Is Jericho closed before you? Sound with the trumpet of joy and you will see how it falls down and opens before you! Sound with the trumpet of joy for your life to be filled with the cloud and glory of God. God bless you!

june 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

THE WMM in Peru participated in the “March for Life 2018,” a pro-life rally for the protection of unborn children. The rally, which is the most important in Latin America, this year brought together around 800,000 people in Lima.

With a message of hope and faith, the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Peru participated in the “March for Life 2018” on May 5. The rally for the protection of life from its conception to its natural end, was held in Lima, Peru. The march was promoted for the sixth consecutive year by several pro-life organizations and groups, and the Work of the Lord became part of it thanks to the presence of a significant number of faithful who marched and raised their voices of protest to make the Peruvian Government fight abortion. According to its promoters, the prolife meeting, recognized as the largest rally in the history of Peru and the most important in Latin America, brought together around 800,000 people. The march moved from the intersection

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LIFE, A GIFT FROM THE LORD of two main avenues: Brazil and Javier Prado, in the direction of the so-called Costa Verde, a coastal area of the Peruvian capital. The members of the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Peru, provided with posters and banners with Christian messages, raised their voice together with celebrities, politicians, sportspeople and common citizens who joined this protest that promotes the defense of life and the respect of dignity. A HORRIBLE CRIME

Accompanied by priests, ministers, workers and local worshipers, Rev. Luis Meza Bocanegra, National Supervisor of the Work in Peru, represented the position of the congregation.

While in the march, Pastor Meza Bocanegra, one of the leaders of the Work, stressed, “I say yes to life. Abortion is a horrible crime against unborn children. Life is a gift from the Lord. Nobody has the right to take it away.” In addition, before, during and after the “March for Life 2018,” the servant of the Lord shared on his social networks his views against abortion and posted biblical passages about the protection of life. The media and the digital platforms of the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Peru, on the other hand, reported the mass gathering that paralyzed for several hours a part of the Peruvian capital and showed the rejection of abortion among Peruvians.

news

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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).

EVENT: 18TH NATIONAL CONVENTION. DATE: MAY 4 TO MAY 6. PLACE: HAMAMATSU, JAPAN.

THE BARS AND SCALES OF GOD Under the theme “Credibility 2018,” the WMM in Japan held its 18th National Convention, an event full of glory and praise to the Lord. The Worldwide Missionary Movement in Japan held its 18th National Convention in its new temple in the city of Hamamatsu. Rev. José Arturo Soto, International President of the WMM, and missionary Jake Cabrera attended the event. The spiritual event, led by Rev. David Veramendi, National Supervisor of the WMM in Japan, began with a service in which the Word was shared by Pastor Soto, who spoke about “The Bars and Scales of God,” based on Daniel 5:17-31. In his message, Minister Soto, who chairs the Board of International Officers of the WMM, said, “The Lord cannot be bribed or cheated. You cannot get away with sin before God because He is righteous. God goes to the point.” POWERFUL MESSAGES

At the beginning of the second day, Pastor Cabrera, a Panamanian missionary, preached the Gospel of the Lord through the sermon “Where is your God?” based on Isaiah 41:9-10. He arrived in Japan after recovering from a serious illness thanks to the power of Jesus Christ. Rev. Cabrera, who preaches the Gospel in Panama, declared, “God is good and He is with us. The Lord tells us not to fear because he is with us. We must treasure those words in our hearts.” Later, he also said, “The enemy has set his eyes on us, the Church of the Lord. He wants us to think that we are alone, that we are nobody, that we are a minority, but he knows that we are strong and powerful in God.” At the night service, which was broadcast on Bethel Television, Minister Soto preached the Word once again. Based on 1 Samuel 14:6-10, he shared the message “Precious Faith.” In his conference, the representative of Christ received an ovation from the Japanese faithful for his accurate words. He said, “Those who trust in the Lord will be like Mount Zion, which remains forever.” In his speech based on the Holy Scriptures, Rev. Soto

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also stated, “The precious faith is the one that remains despite the obstacles. God never fails. True believers go through similar experiences. God has power, God loves us and guides us.” At the closing ceremony of the 18th National Convention of the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Japan, Minister Soto addressed the faithful and presented a message entitled “The Call to Preach the Gospel,” based on Isaiah 52:7. The last message of the International President of the Worldwide Missionary Movement revolved around missionary work. He said that, “God can give us the best of jobs. I can testify that God has given me what I needed.” Finally, Pastor Soto said, “There is no better work than serving the Lord. The Work of God has to go on with courageous people that say, ‘Here I am Lord, count on me.’ How else would the Work go on? How else would the Lord spread his Work? He has to count on us.”

june 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

EVENT: 17TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE CENTRAL CHURCH OF GENOA DATA: MARCH 15-MARCH 18. PLACE: GENOA, ITALY.

WE WANT TO SEE YOUR GLORY The WMM in Italy celebrated the 17th anniversary of the church of Genoa. The victory of the Work is spreading across Europe. With the attendance of Rev. Luis Meza Bocanegra, International Officer of the WMM, the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Italy celebrated the 17th anniversary of the central church of the city of Genoa, located in the north of Italy. In the first service, Rev. Andrés Espejo, special guest and National Officer of the WMM in Peru, preached the Gospel of God with the message “Prayer and Worship Make Possible the Victory of the Church of Jesus Christ.” In the second service, Pastor Meza shared the sermon “The Night When Belshazzar Died,” based on Daniel 5:25. The minister of the Almighty reminded the congregation that the Word of the Lord is kept and never fails. In the third service, Rev. Meza, member of the Board of International Officers of the Work, shared the message “Responsibility to Endure Trials and Temptations,” based on James 1:12. MESSAGES FROM GOD

In the fourth service, Rev. Meza evangelized the faithful once again. In his speech, called “When the Sun Stood Still,” the missionary affirmed that Jesus Christ will continue to

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give victories to the WMM in Italy. Then, in the fifth service, Rev. Meza, who arrived from Peru with Pastor Espejo, took the floor one last time and shared a message based on Luke 14:34 that allowed him to recommend the Church to remain faithful to Christ.

The last speech was held by preacher Elvis Chávez, who delivered the message “We Want to See your Glory.” The missionary, based on Mark 2, pointed out that everything that prevents believers from approaching Jesus will break.

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EVENT: EVANGELISTIC CAMPAIGN FOR CHILDREN / DATE: APRIL 14, APRIL 15 AND MARCH 30 PLACE: AMBOHIBAO, ANDAVAMAMBA AND AMBOHITRIMANJAKA, MADAGASCAR

As part of its evangelizing work, the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Madagascar held three activities for the children of the Work to know the Gospel and the Bible better. The event took place on April 15 in the town of Ambohibao, in the province of Antananarivo, and the local children spent a day full of sound doctrine. In the meeting, the children of the WMM led the worship, read the Bible and sang Christian hymns and songs. In addition, Sister Valisoa Fandresena preached the Word of the Lord with the message “The Importance of Serving God.” ANDAVAMAMBA

On April 14, the Work in Madagascar

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GOD’S LOVE IS WONDERFUL The WMM in Madagascar held three activities to spread the Gospel among children. The little ones of the Lord knew the beauty of His glory. held an evangelistic campaign in the town of Andavamamba, in the municipality of Antananarivo-Renivohitra, aimed at more than one hundred children. Games and activities were developed for the little followers of Jesus Christ, and our brothers shared the message “I Trust in God,” based on Matthew 27:43, that helped to illustrate about what it really

means to trust in the Lord. Likewise, the little followers of the Savior had the opportunity to praise and worship the Almighty, nourish from His Word and spend great moments sharing the Gospel. AMBOHITRIMANJAKA

On March 30, the WMM in Madagascar carried out an activity in the town of Ambohitrimanjaka, in the region of Analamanga, for the benefit of more than one hundred and fifty children. The theme of the meeting was “God’s Love Is Wonderful,” based on Psalm 145:5. The group of children got to know the beauty of God’s glory and reflected on the wonderful actions of the Lord.

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EVENT: 7TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE CHURCH OF TICINO DATE: APRIL 14 PLACE: CANTON OF TICINO, SWITZERLAND

STAY STRONG The WMM in Switzerland celebrated the 7th anniversary of the church of Ticino with the opening of a new temple. The evangelizing work of our magazine was highlighted. With the attendance of faithful from the cities of Geneva, Bern and Langenthal, the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Switzerland celebrated the 7th anniversary of the church of Ticino, Switzerland’s southernmost canton. The occasion was also used for the opening of a new temple. In the first service of the event, whose theme was “Stay Strong,” Pastor César Gonzáles preached the Gospel. In his message, based on 2 Peter 3:17, the servant pointed out, “Many jump from church to church, but when God calls, we belong to the place to which He has called us.” Minister Gonzáles, who is in charge of the church of Langenthal, also said, “We have to search the Scriptures because many have twisted the Word and this twisting is an obstacle to those who want to serve God. When you stand your ground, nothing and no one can break you down.” EDIFYING MAGAZINE

In the second worship, Rev. Jimmy Ramírez, National Supervisor of the WMM in Switzerland, shared the good news. He highlighted the importance of the Christianizing work done by Impacto Evangelistic and said that the magazine founded by Pastor Luis M. Ortiz is an essential tool of the Work. Now a new edition is published for Europe. Pastor Ramírez shared the message “Stay Strong,” based on Hebrews 10:23. In his speech, he said, “Now more than ever, we need the church to stay strong on its divine principles. Fill yourself with the Word of God. One of the most beautiful things to ever happen to us is to be raised by the Lord.”

june 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

EVENT: 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE YOUTH SOCIETY OF THE CHURCH OF BARCELONA DATE: APRIL 27 AND APRIL 28 PLACE: BARCELONA, SPAIN

DEFENDING YOUR TERRITORY The Christian youth of Barcelona celebrated the 10th anniversary of the Youth Society. Love for the Lord was kindled. With the special participation of Pastor Sergio Veizaga, who leads the church of Amsterdam, the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Spain celebrated the 10th anniversary of the Youth Society of the central church of Barcelona. On the first day, missionary Veizaga shared the Word through a preaching based on Matthew 13:34. He talked about the Parable of the Sower, through which he urged the attendees to make the difference with a good example. On the second day, the Lord’s minister, who preaches the Gospel in the Netherlands, developed the message “Defending Your Territory,” based on 2 Samuel 23:11-12. He deeply touched the hearts of the young people who were in the main church of the WMM in Barcelona. In the last service, the visiting pastor evangelized once again the youth from the capital of the Autonomous Community of Catalonia. His preaching kindled their love for God.

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EVENT: 5TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE CHURCH OF OVIEDO DATE: MAY 5 AND MAY 6 PLACE: OVIEDO, SPAIN

THIS IS THE TIME The WMM in Spain celebrated the 5th anniversary of the church of Oviedo, where a great evangelizing work is being done.

Along with believers from the cities of La Coruña, Pamplona, Irun and Santander, the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Spain celebrated the 5th anniversary of the church of Oviedo, capital city of the Principality of Asturias. On the first day, a video about the history of the Work in Santander was displayed, and Rev. Fisher Torrejón, Presbyter of Zone 4 of the WMM in Spain, shared the sermon “This Is the Time to Serve as in the Beginning,” based on Lamentations 5:21. Later, on the second day, Brother Javier Franco, from the church of Santander, preached the Word through the message “This Is the Time to Give Our Scent,” based on Revelation 2:8-11. Pastor Oswaldo Romero, Presbyter of Zone 5 of the WMM in Spain, was the host of this spiritual event whose theme was “This Is the Time.”

june 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

EVENT: 4TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE CHURCH OF IRUN DATE: APRIL 21 / PLACE: IRUN, SPAIN

SHOW US YOUR GLORY The WMM in Spain celebrated the 4th anniversary of the church of Irun, in the province of Gipuzkoa, thus showing the progress of the Gospel in the Basque Country.

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In recognition of God’s power and infinite grace, the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Spain held a spiritual event of faith to celebrate the 4th anniversary of the church of Irun, a town in the province of Gipuzkoa located near the border with France. Brother Carlos Daniel Medina, member of the WMM in Spain, preached the Word of the Almighty through the sermon “Doors Opened for the King of Glory to Come In,” based on Psalm 24. The event was also attended by the congregations of the WMM in Oviedo, Pamplona and Santander, who thanked and worshipped Jesus Christ. The meeting showed that every day the Work is conquering more and more souls for the Savior in the Basque Country, an autonomous community located in northern Spain, where God has already established the banner of the Gospel.

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EVENT: INAUGURATION OF TEMPLE IN SÃO JOÃO DA MADEIRA DATE: APRIL 21 PLACE: SÃO JOÃO DA MADEIRA, PORTUGAL

NEW TEMPLE The WMM in Portugal opened a new house of God and gate of heaven in the Portuguese city of São João da Madeira and announced its future presence in the city of Algarve. In the midst of great expectation, the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Portugal inaugurated a new temple in the city of São João da Madeira, in the district of Aveiro, with a special worship of thanksgiving to the Almighty for His blessings. The service allowed for the salvation of a group of souls, and the leaders of the Work in Portugal said that the WMM is present not only in São João da Madeira, but also in Lisbon and on the island of Madeira, with active congregations who preach the Word. It was also revealed that the WMM will be soon in the city of Algarve, located in the south of Portugal, where a large number of believers need the sound doctrine of the Lord. With three growing temples in strategic points of Portugal, the Work of God advances in its mission of sharing the good news of the Lord with the Portuguese.

june 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

EVENT: 4TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE WMM IN FINLAND DATE: APRIL 27 AND APRIL 28 PLACE: KERAVA, FINLAND

A RACE OF BRAVE MEN A Race of Brave Men The WMM in Finland held a spiritual event to celebrate its 4th anniversary. The Worldwide Missionary Movement in Finland held an event of faith, led by Pastor Edwin Mamani, head of the Work in that country along with his wife Katherin, to celebrate its 4th anniversary. The event took place in the temple of Kerava and was attended by Rev. Carlos Contreras, member of the WMM in Sweden, Rev. Morten Christensen, member of the WMM in Denmark, and Brother Raúl Alvarado, from the church of Malmo. The spiritual event gathered the Finnish faithful of the Work of the Lord, and Minister Contreras preached the Word with the messages “A Race of Brave Men,” based on Joshua 15:13-19, and “The Works of God,” based on John 14:7-14.

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events EVENT: 8TH CONVENTION OF GUYANA, GUIANA, SURINAME AND MARTINIQUE DATE: MARCH 29-APRIL 1 / PLACE: GEORGETOWN, GUYANA

The Worldwide Missionary Movement held the 8th Convention of Guyana, Guiana, Suriname and Martinique at the Park Vue Hotel, located in the city of Georgetown, capital of Guyana. The event was attended by Rev. Clemente Vergara and Rev. Rómulo Vergara, International Directors of the Work of God, and José Arturo Soto, International President of the WMM. Under the motto “Credibility 2018,” the event was began with a service in which Pastor Soto shared the Lord’s message “The Return to Bethel,” based on Genesis 35:1-3. The servant of Jesus Christ said, “God deals with people according to their need. No devil, no man, no empire can prevent God’s will.” At the beginning of the second day, Rev. José Arturo Medina, pastor of the WMM in French Guiana, preached the Word of the Almighty with the message “Spreading Out with Credibility,” based on Isaiah 54:1-3. He said, “There

RETURN TO BETHEL God’s presence is increasingly strong in Guyana, Guiana, Suriname and Martinique. The 8th Convention brought together spiritual leaders of the Work and promoted new priests. is already a platform ready for the coming of Jesus Christ. Let’s be prepared.” In the night service, Pastor Rómulo Vergara, member of the Board of International Officers of the WMM, shared the good news of the Lord. In his preaching “The Authority and Power of the Word of God,” based on Hebrews 4:12-13, he said, “God wants spiritual people, people who really know Him.” SOUND DOCTRINE

In the morning service of the third day, there was a debate in which pastors José Arturo Soto, Rómulo Vergara and Clem-

ente Vergara cleared the doubts and answered the questions of the attendees. In the evening service, Rev. Clemente Vergara, member of the Board of International Officers, shared the biblical teaching entitled “The Minister Who Is Committed Is Trustworthy,” based on 2 Timothy 2:15. He said, “God’s workers must be passionate about souls.” At the closing ceremony, Pastor Soto announced the Gospel of Christ once again with a speech based on John 21:4-12. The Panamanian missionary congratulated the evangelizing work done by Rev. Clemente Vergara in Guyana, Guiana, Surinam and Martinique. Finally, Rev. Dhankumar Busjit was promoted to Supervisor of Guyana and Presbyter of Suriname, Rev. Andrew Darrell was promoted to Presbyter of Guyana, and Pastor José Arturo Medina was appointed Presbyter of French Guiana.

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Other events

BOLIVIA

COLOMBIA

Anniversary of the Central Church of Potosí

Evangelistic Campaign in Santander

From April 20 to April 22, the WMM in Bolivia celebrated the 11th anniversary of the main church of Potosí, a city located at 4090 meters above sea level. The event was attended by Rev. Mario Lima, National Supervisor of the Work in Bolivia. Pastor Lima, who arrived accompanied by his wife, Sister Liliana Acebey, shared the Word of God through the message “Communicating as Christ Communicated the Gospel.” In his sermon, based on Luke 5:15, the servant said, “Many gathered to listen to Jesus, but He would go to deserted places and pray.” The Work of the Almighty in Potosí has a television station that airs its Christian programming on Channel 57 and a radio station that spreads the Gospel 24/7. Both are part of the media of faith of the WMM and play a leading role in the evangelization of the people of Potosí. For the celebration, the WMM in Bolivia carried out several activities, such as evangelistic campaigns, visits to the churches of the cities of Betanzos and Tarija, a baptism ceremony and a thanksgiving service, in which a group of God-fearing souls surrendered to Jesus Christ.

Under the leadership of the Lord, a group of members of the WMM in Colombia held an evangelistic campaign on March 30 and preached the Word of God on the street connecting the city of Bucaramanga, capital of the department of Santander, with the municipality of Girón, famous for its colonial architecture. From very early in the morning, the faithful of the WMM walked down the streets sharing the Gospel with the people of Santander. Their efforts were recognized by men and women who gladly listened to the good news of the Most High.

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HONDURAS Fellowship of Zone 16 On May 8, the WMM of Honduras held the fellowship of churches and temples of Zone 16 in the city of San Pedro Sula, recognized as the nation’s primary industrial center. The meeting of faith took place in Colonia Modelo, located in the heart of San Pedro Sula, and gathered the Lord’s people, who worshipped and praised God for His everlasting love.

UNITED STATES Anniversary of the Main Church of Grand Rapids With the motto “God Let Us Bear Fruit,” the WMM in the United States celebrated the 25th anniversary of the central church of Grand Rapids, Michigan, from March 16 to March 18. The event was attended by Rev. Gustavo Martínez, International Treasurer of the Work of God; Rev. Arturo Hernández, National Supervisor of the WMM in the United States; and missionary Carmen Valencia, wife of Pastor Martínez. They all were exceptional witnesses of the Christian faith of the American people. During the event, the efforts made since 1993 by Pastor Hernández were recognized. With the help of his wife, Lourdes, he has turned the main church of Grand Rapids into a key instrument in the evangelization of the inhabitants of Michigan.

ITALY Visit to the Prison of Busto Arsizio In its efforts to preach the Gospel to every creature, the WMM in Italy made a visit the prison of Busto Arsizio, a commune in the province of Varese, on April 20. A Christian music concert was held for those serving there. The event was promoted by Rev. Hugo Lope, Presbyter of Lombardy, Veneto and Trento, and Pastor Jorge Solano, leader of the church of Novara, and was authorized by the Ministry of Justice of Italy, which for the first time allowed the Work of the Almighty to enter the prison. In a prison hall, the members of the WMM in Italy, provided with musical instruments, played a series of folk songs with evangelical messages, moving the inmates to tears.

EQUATORIAL GUINEA

Couple Fellowship From May 11 to May 13, the Work of God in Equatorial Guinea held in Bata a Couple Fellowship under the motto “Happy Families with God.” The event brought together the married members of the congregation, who renewed their vows before the Lord and committed themselves to continue preaching the Gospel. On this occasion, the preachers of the Word of the Almighty were Pastor Pascual Mansogo, from Presbytery 2, and Sister Francisca Asangona, member of the Board of Women of the WMM in Equatorial Guinea, and Sister Teresa Bindang, member of the church of Bata.

ENGLAND Inauguration of New Church in Leeds On May 8, the WMM in England opened a new place of worship for the followers of Jesus Christ in the city of Leeds, located in the north of England. With the attendance of the members of the WMM in London, the Work of God inaugurated the temple in a significant ceremony in which they praised the Lord, shared the good news of Jesus Christ and prayed the Creator to bless this new church.

AUSTRALIA Activity for Children in Perth On May 5, the WMM in Australia held an event for the children of the city of Perth, located in the west of the country. The motto was “The Tower of Babel,” inspired by Genesis 11:4. The event was attended the faithful of Perth, led by sisters Silvia Lara, Emily Flores, Stephanie Grande and Ruth Cortez. They carried out games and activities for the children, who were eager to meet Christ. Sister Lara told the story of the Tower of Babel. The Lord allowed this event to touch the hearts of the children who answered to to the call of the WMM in Australia.

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LETTERS TO US... cartas@impactoevangelistico.net magazine. Let’s pray for its team and for this beautiful Work, and let’s do our bit, always remembering Rev. Luis M. Ortiz and his vision. God bless you. From New York, USA.

NHAZLY MARTÍNEZ May God continue to pour out blessings on you. You’re a great blessing to my life, thank you. From Barcelona, Spain.

CARMEN ARRIETA May the Lord bless all the brothers of the wonderful team of this magazine, which is a blessing for both the members of the Church and the unconverted. From El Carmen de Bolívar, Colombia.

JUAN SOTO God bless the brothers and sisters who work in this important magazine. From Massachusetts, USA.

EVELIN CORONADO

CARLOS CRUZADO God bless you, brothers in Christ. I’d like to thank you for Impacto Evangelistic, which is very edifying magazine. Whenever I read it, I feel like home because we were born in this Work. A warm greeting from your brother in Christ. From New York, USA.

LIDIA MURGUÍA I congratulate you for the beautiful work you do in the Impacto Evangelistic Magazine. Never stop sending it to my home. I always look forward to reading it. Keep on establishing churches in country and city for the Lord! From Mayagüez, Puerto Rico.

EFRAÍN DELGADO God bless you, brothers of Impacto Evangelistic. Let’s thank the Lord because every day we can see what He does in other parts of the world. I feel grateful for being part of the Church of the WMM. May the Almighty bless the edifying website that you have designed for the people of God and the whole world. From Lima, Peru.

NOEMÍ RUIZ Dear brothers, I thank God for the saint men and women who work for this precious, unique

I’ve been receiving this magazine and learning about the miracles and wonders that God does through this ministry for 35 years now. It’s been my Bible School. I serve in the women’s ministry through seminars, retreats, counseling. The Lord’s done many miracles. From California, USA.

JOSÉ BUSTAMANTE I wish you the best because through this magazine God has enriched my life through the great testimonies of what the Lord has done in people who are now at His service of the Lord. Congratulations. May God continue to bless you. From Barrancabermeja, Colombia.

ALBERTO LINARES I thank God for the many wonders He’s done. I used drugs for a long time, causing pain not only to myself but also to my family. I had hit rock bottom, I’d do drugs all day long and even stopped eating. One day, the most beautiful of my life, this magazine reached my hands and I began to read it. I found an article about a drug addict who had changed by the power of God. That struck me and I remember I thought, “If he can change, why not me?” I felt a great need to ask the Almighty for help and did it from the bottom of my heart. God, in His great love, helped me. From Lima, Peru.

GLOB AL AGENDA 2018 JANUARY 3-10 CONVENTION COLOMBIA 25-28 CONVENTION BOLIVIA FEBRUARY 9-11 10-13 22-25 22-25

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 MAY 4-6 CONVENTION JAPAN, Shizuoka (Hamamatsu) 24-27 CONVENTION THE NETHERLANDS JUNE 1-3 CONVENTION OF YOUNG PEOPLE AND PASTORS (HONDURAS) 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

You can download the free QR code reader from these platforms: n Past events n Future events MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 66 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

june 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

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Rev. Carlos Medina Herrera and Marbelis Moya de Medina

Pentecostal Christian Church Worldwide Missionary Movement

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

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