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Edition for EUROPE

THE MAGAZINE THAT EDIFIES YOUR LIFE

October 2018 / Edition 777

evangelistic www.impactoevangelistico.net

TESTIMONY

The Man who learnt to keep his promises DEVOTIONAL

While it is day

HERO OF FAITH

The promoter of the sound doctrine

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE

How to build a stable relationship?

LONG-LASTING

MARRIAGE

WORLDWIDE MISSIONARY MOVEMENT

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 2 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceania • Africa • Asia

editorial

THE GOSPEL

OF GOD Rev. José Arturo Soto B. International President of the WMM

“Because I am not ashamed of the Gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation to all he who believes …” Romans 1:16.

O

nce, someone came to Jesus and asked

med. At that time, brothels were closed because

him, “Lord, are there few that be

clients were scarce; canteens were closed as there

saved?” (Luke 13:23). The Lord looked at him

were no longer people thirsty for liquor; centers of

and said, “Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide

corruption and depravity were closed since there

is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth

were no libertines; and people found other ways

to destruction, and many there be which go in

of having fin other than sin. Judges could finally

thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow

rest, and the judicial and legal systems entered a

is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few

time of peace and tranquility. It is said that even

there be that find it” (Matthew 7:13-14).

donkeys understood that a change had taken pla-

The Lord said to his disciples, “No man, ha-

ce in society because they were not punished or

ving put his hand to the plough, and looking

flogged as before. The Gospel transforms, it “is

back, is fit for the kingdom of God” (Luke

power of God”.

9:62). He also said, “Verily I say unto you, The-

The Gospel of Christ is not a political move-

re is no man that hath left house, or parents, or

ment; politics has its place in human schemes.

brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom

God gives us the prerogative to watch, to observe,

of God’s sake, who shall not receive manifold

to analyze and to choose. Politics can be a good

more in this present time, and in the world to

thing but cannot solve the spiritual problem of hu-

come life everlasting” (Luke 18:29-30).

manity; only one can do that, He who said: “I am

History has proven that when people embrace

the way, the truth, and the life: no man co-

the true faith in God Almighty, they are positively

meth unto the Father, but by me” ( John 14:6).

transformed. For instance, in Europe, between the

Dear reader, do you want to bring a blessing to

sixteenth and nineteenth centuries, entire nations

your home? Follow Jesus Christ, He is your one

embraced the Gospel and society was transfor-

and only Savior.

October 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

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www.impactoevangelistico.net

evangelistic Founder Director: Rev. Luis M. Ortiz OCTOBER 2018 / EDITION N° 777 (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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SUMMARY www.facebook.com/impactoevangelistico

interview

Search us on

28 / HÉROE DE LA FE. El impulsor de la sana doctrina DEVOTIONALS 40 / WHILE IT IS DAY. Rev. Luis M. Ortiz 42 / EXPANDING THE VISION. Rev. Rubén Concepción

How to build a marriage

6

The origin of life

life story

22 / PERSPECTIVE. The protestant work ethic and welfare

science

18 / INTERVIEW. “The media help to spread the Work”

cover note

16 / INTERNATIONAL. Quit the Mara and Live to Tell

“Let’s prepare the new generations”

The man who learnt to keep his promises

46

34 20

44 / CAN TWO WALK TOGETHER, EXCEPT THEY BE AGREED? Rev. Ramón L. Aponte 48 / EVENTS.

14 / Infographic.

64-65 / OTHER EVENTS.

October 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

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IT is interesting to see how couples get together.

But sometimes they seem to be much in love and then something happens.

Nowadays, many marriages are not as strong as they should be, and many couples make serious mistakes that steal vital energy from and jeopardize the relationship. What can we do to keep the love alive in a marriage?

Dr. David Jeremiah

Marriages that started off with golden hopes and wonderful objectives see them somehow shatter after some time.

We do not know exactly what happened, but the relationship is now broken. Why is this happening?

Amos 3:3 says, “Can two walk together, except they be agreed?” Can there be harmony when there is disagreement? 1 Peter 3:7 tells that married couples are coheirs of the grace of life, being one in their commitments and pacts.

THE SELECTION

Today’s Church has become careless concerning the selection of a partner for life. However, those who have read the Bible know by heart all the verses stating that we must not be “unequally yoked together.”

I am talking to the young men and women who are in the process of choosing a partner. Most divorces begin before the wedding ceremony on the altar.

They begin with our negligence when choosing a partner for life.

It is difficult for two people with different religious viewpoints to be in good terms for a long time. It may work MOVIMIENTOMISSIONARY MISIONERO MOVEMENT MUNDIAL 6 WORLDWIDE América • Europe America Europa • Oceanía Oceania • África Africa • Asia

MA

cover

HOW TO BUILD A

ARRIAGE

October Abril 2018 2018/ /Impacto ImpactoevangelĂ­stico evangelistic

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for a short period, but when disease, pain or hardship arise, each will immediately turn to their own faith for help and the gap between the two will only widen.

If they are not one in their faith, it will be very challenging for them to MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 8 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceania • Africa • Asia

stay together. Each one will want their children to follow their beliefs, and that is when marriages usually fall apart. 2 Corinthians 6:14 states, “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers.”

If we do not choose a person with

our same spiritual beliefs, there will be struggle from day one. Then some wonder why their marriage has problems.

Nevertheless, it does not have to be the case. Once, I received a letter from a man that used to attend our church but moved to another state. He started

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and prayed for him. I will never forget the day I made the invitation to come to the altar and he came to devote his heart to Christ. He wrote me from the city where he was currently living to tell me how things have changed in his marriage now that Christ was in his heart.

MARRIAGE PROFILE

Marriage is in danger these days. The statistics of divorce have reached critical proportions. Family-oriented journals and magazines are constantly publishing articles with advice on how to boost blessing in a marriage, how to manage conflict, how to achieve open communication, how to honestly convey emotions, how to prevent children from ruining the marriage, how to attain a mutually satisfactory sexual life. These are just a bunch of the various subjects covered in many secular and religious publications.

Despite the great amount of seemingly enlightened “know-how” literature, marriage is currently in danger because society and the Church have a defective notion of marriage, more like an idolized myth of this exquisite yet imperfect human institution. What is the result?

It is difficult for two people with different religious viewpoints to be in good terms for a long time. It may work for a short period, but when disease, pain or hardship arise, each will immediately turn to their own faith for help and the gap between the two will only widen.

to come because of his wife. She was a believer, but he was not. She prayed for him every day and asked me to pray for him as well, which I did. I even invited him a couple of times to have lunch and talked to him about the Lord. His parents-in-law also attended our church

Every marriage faces conflict, misunderstanding, shattered hopes, and wounded egos. Every real marriage, if measured with the defective measuring rod of ultimate happiness, will fall short if such is the expectation, because it will not happen.

In Mark 12, Jesus discussed with the Sadducees about a law of the Ancient Testament stating that if a man dies having no children with his wife, his brother must take the woman and have children with her so that the dead man can have descendants. The Sadducees went to see Jesus and told him a bizarre story about a woman whose husband had died with no children, so his brother had her to wife, but he also died. They were actually seven brothers. The woman married all of them and all of them died as well. Then, the Sadducees asked Jesus, “In the resurrection therefore, when they shall rise, whose wife shall she be of them? For the seven had her to wife” (Mark 12:23).

They thought they had Him cornered, but Jesus replied, “Do ye not therefore err, because ye know not the scriptures, neither the power of God? For when they shall rise from the dead, they neither marry, nor are given in marriage” (Mark 12:24-25).

Marriage is not a perfect institution.

Many couples, especially among believers, marry thinking that all their needs will be fulfilled. When they eventually realize that marriage fulfills no need, or when they find out that there is a fault in their relationship or that it does not live up to their expectations, they get disappointed, get mad at God, and ask themselves, “What is wrong with me?” or “Is my partner the right one?”

You may have married the right person, but marriage is not perfect. I am not downplaying marriage. In my opinion, it is the best thing that we have here on Earth, the closest thing to the joy that God has planned for us in heaven.

It is no coincidence that Paul used marriage to depict the relationship between Christ and his Church. He did it on purpose, because it is the only concept that helps us get the idea. Marriage is amazing, but it is not the ultimate relationship.

We will always be disappointed if we try to find ultimate joy in something other than Jesus-Christ. Many couples in our churches thought that their marriage

October 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

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would meet all their needs and give them absolute satisfaction; but when they realize the truth, they get disappointed because they believed the myth of the perfect marriage.

Marriage can be something wonderful, but we human beings are fallible and imperfect. If you are looking for the perfect relationship that you see in romantic movies or read in novels, then you will get a big disappointment. That is why many Christian marriages give up too soon in their relationship.

GRAVITATIONAL DRAG

Marriage does not get better just because. Many couples think that as soon as they get married and the ceremony ends, they will automatically experience the ultimate happiness. But it is quite the opposite. Reality strikes from the moment you say, “Yes, I do,” because the gravitational drag does its job since the honeymoon. That is when you actually see the person with whom you will spend the rest of your life for the first time. That is when the gravitational drag begins to corrode the relationship, and if you do not understand this as a couple, then you are doomed to fail. If you have the idea that marriage is some sort of mystical, magical thing that makes things go smoothly, you are wrong; this will not happen unless you work for it.

For this reason, when we read about marriage in the Bible, we do not read words of encouragement or blessing, but commandments of God. Ephesians 5:22, 25 says, “Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands… Husbands, love your wives…” These are not options or suggestions; these are commandments.

Colossians 3:18-19 states, “Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands… Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them.” 1 Peter 3: 7, 1 says, “Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge… Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands…”

In short, God is saying, “Husbands, MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 10 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceania • Africa • Asia

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love your wives, be not bitter against them, dwell with them according to knowledge…Wives, be in subjection to your own husbands…” (Colossians 3:19; 1 Peter 3:7, 1). Love each other as you are meant to love each other. This is no option, but a commandment.

A certain year, one survey counted the sexual encounters shown in television, stating that 80 % of them happened outside marriage. Similarly, News & World Report published the results of another survey which presumably revealed what happens in American bedrooms. The article, “Sex in the United States,” was made by professors from the National Opinion Research Center at the University of Chicago, and based on a 210-page questionnaire sent to near 3,500 Americans. The results were encouraging: they showed that romance was still present in stable relationships, and what was most surprising was that 94 % of married couples claimed to be faithful in the same year of the first survey.

Let us compare both statistics. On

A couple is committed for life. The core of the relationship lies in taking an interest in what happens in the life of our spouse and showing them that we care enough to write a note or say something nice to keep building the relationship with positive and personal praise.

the one hand, 80 % of the sexual encounters shown in TV shows happened outside marriage, meaning that people got sexually involved with whomever crossed their way. On the other hand, 94 % of Americans remained loyal to their partners in that same year.

Even for the standards of our decaying society, the media distort real events MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 12 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceania • Africa • Asia

in such a way that we assume that debauchery is usual and normal, when it is not. That is why Paul said, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God… Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:1-2).

The survey above had a margin of error of 4-5 %, and only 6 % of married people betrayed their spouse during that year. We let the so-called “gurus of culture” tell us the “news” and “trends” that we must follow to fit in this world.

Why would a sweet, holy woman who has been raised in a home of believers ever think to go to bed with a man other

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in the team, a huge man who was had recently devoted to Christ and was facing problems in his marriage. He had no idea about this personal praise thing.

One day, professor Hendrick asked Nailah if he had ever said to his wife that he loved her. He answered, “I told her when we got married, and she knows I still do unless I say otherwise.” Nobody will ever build a strong marriage unless they understand the importance of praise and compliments.

A couple is committed for life. The core of the relationship lies in taking an interest in what happens in the life of our spouse and showing them that we care enough to write a note or say something nice to keep building the relationship with positive and personal praise.

If you have been feeling the gravitational drag pulling your marriage down, stay strong. Your marriage will not improve unless you do your best to make it better.

If you have been collapsing under the pressure of modern culture, turn

We live and strive as a couple based on the praise we receive from the other. As believers, we do not want to see it because of our false sense of humility. We have the deceptive idea that it is not important to take care of our marriage, when it is in fact the core of what we are.

than her husband? But she has seen it so many times in soap operas that it seems to be the rule, and not the exception.

These are the messages that weaken and damage marriages!

PERSONAL PRAISE

We live and strive as a couple based on the praise we receive from the other.

As believers, we do not want to see it because of our false sense of humility.

We have the deceptive idea that it is not important to take care of our marriage, when it is in fact the core of what we are.

Howard Hendrick served as chaplain for Dallas Cowboys football team.

There was a defense named John Nailah

off your TV! And replace it with some good books or videotape on marriage.

If you have not been giving your partner any personal praise, use Charles Sherfy’s recommendation: make a “praise agreement,” exchange one compliment every day and a new one every week.

This way you will be able to build a marriage that will last forever.

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“Over the last seven years, divorce rates have increased from 15 % to 30 %. In just five years, divorces surpassed registered marriages by 100 %.”

COUNTRIES AND DIVORCE Divorce happens all over the world with no social distinction among the population. Experts from Business Insider show the statistics of the countries with the highest divorce rates. This is the top ten:

of families think that communication between parents and children is worse.

1. Belgium: 71% 2. Portugal: 68% 3. Hungary: 67% 4. Czech Republic: 66% 5. Spain: 61% 6. Luxembourg: 60% 7. Estonia: 58% 8. Cuba: 56% 9. France: 55% 10. Lithuania: 53% Today’s Church has become careless concerning the selection of a partner for life.

However, those who have read the Bible know by heart all the verses stating that we must not be “unequally yoked together.”

How to reach family happiness?

God wants families to be happy. Therefore, the Bible contains the guidelines and expectations of each family member.

When this advice is followed, we obtain good results. Jesus stated: “… Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it” (Luke 11:28).

Marriage does not get better just because. Many couples think that as soon as they get married and the ceremony ends, they will automatically experience the ultimate happiness. But it is quite the opposite. Reality strikes from the moment you say, “Yes, I do,” because the gravitational drag does its job since the honeymoon. That is when you actually see the person with whom you will spend the rest of your life for the first time. That is when the gravitational drag begins to corrode the relationship.

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 14 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceania • Africa • Asia

62,5%

Gravitational drag

The selection

FAMILY

IN DANGER

Marriages that started off with golden hopes and wonderful objectives see them somehow shatter after some time. We do not know exactly what happened, but the relationship is now broken.

Why is this happening?

Marriage profile

Marriage is in danger these days. The statistics of divorce have reached critical proportions. Family-oriented journals and magazines are constantly publishing articles with advice on how to boost blessing in a marriage, how to manage conflict, how to achieve open communication, how to honestly convey emotions, how to prevent children from ruining the marriage, how to attain a mutually satisfactory sexual life. These are just a bunch of the various subjects covered in many secular and religious publications.

What do we have to recognize in order to have a happy family life?

To have a happy family life, we should recognize that Jehovah created family. It was Jesus who said that God was our "Father" (Matthew 6:9). In effect, all families on earth exist thanks to our heavenly Father and that is why He knows what makes them happy (Ephesians 3:14,15). So, according to the Bible, what does God expect from each family member?

Personal praise

How to build a long-lasting marriage

We live and strive as a couple based on the praise we receive from the other. As believers, we do not want to see it because of our false sense of humility. We have the deceptive idea that it is not important to take care of our marriage, when it is in fact the core of what we are.

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MARA Salvatrucha is a criminal gang organization with a presence in the United States, Guatemala, El Salvador, Mexico, and Honduras. Gang members cover their bodies and faces with tattoos and are infamous for their code based on merciless retribution. Once in the gang, forever in the gang.

The only way someone can leave the gang alive is becoming an active member of a religious community, in particular the evangelical Pentecostal Church, according to the New York Times, as shown by a Florida International University survey.

This survey included more than 1,200 gang members in El Salvador’s jails, and more than half of which (58%) said that the Church is “the most appropriate organization to lead rehabilitation programs.”

Many evangelical churches provide jobs, job contacts and access to health care. They also promote spaces to help young people on a spiritual and emotional level instead of incarcerating or marginalizing them.

This is the case of Ernesto Deras, who told his story at a church in the Panorama City neighborhood of Los Angeles, where he cried uncontrollably and asked for forgiveness for his crimes.

“I had been shot. I had had broken bones. I was in jail […] I felt like a man who didn’t have tears, but that day, something, something powerful happened.”

The gangs respected his exit, and did not stop him from leaving, they rather told him to “keep getting closer to God.” VIOLENCE IN CENTRAL AMERICA

MS-13 is made up of criminal gangs mostly composed of Salvadorans. It began in the 1980s when adolescents with shaved heads gathered to listen to heavy MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 16 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceania • Africa • Asia

QUIT THE

MARA AND LIVE TO TELL metal and hip hop, drink alcohol and use drugs in Central Los Angeles. They marked their territories with graffiti and covered their bodies in tattoos.

With the problem reaching new levels of violence, American authorities started

raids to restrain MS-13 members and made the first arrests. After serving time in prison for their crimes, many gang members were deported. After arriving in El Salvador, they created a criminal network with extreme violence codes. The

international

United Stated “exported” the problem to Central America.

For MS-13 gang members, “the barrio is an ethos” that includes “brutal forms of social control,” it is “part of a mythic notion that if you commit yourself to something that is bigger than yourself, you will be rewarded with respect, status and comrades who will have your back when someone from outside threatens you”, according to the article of The New York Times.

Nowadays, the gang has spread to many Central American countries, and even, to a lesser extent, to South America.

Their activities have contributed to turning the Northern Triangle (Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras) into the world’s most violent place in time of peace.

In October 2012, the U.S. Department of the Treasury labeled Mara Salvatrucha as a “transnational criminal organization”, the first street gang to ever receive such designation in the United States.

MS-13’s initiation rituals are ghastly.

Male aspirants must endure a savage 13-second beating by the other gang members. Another option is to enter the “enemy” neighborhood and kill a rival member. Besides these options, female recruits can choose to be gang-raped.

Once accepted, women are protected by the Mara, and must abide by the decisions of men, which means that they automatically lose their freedom.

Another well-known case is the one of Óscar Raúl Barrientos, a 19-year old Peruvian who accepted to kill his father as the initiation rite to join the gang. This murder “earned” him a tattoo on the inner part of his bottom lip that says MSX3, which represents this Mara, and him joining his “new family.”

This gang targets young people between ages 10 and 16 from unstable homes, orphans and anyone incapable of surviving by their own means. Gang members stand out for their body tattoos; it is not common to see a blank space on their skin. However, designs and symbols are not randomly chosen, each has its own meaning.

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PASTOR Carlos Guerra talks about the growth of the Work in the world through to the media.

Reverend Carlos Guerra, International Officer of the WMM, tells us about the international growth of the Work from his personal experience. He considers that the performance of the media has been key to the task of evangelization.

How did you start to work for the Worldwide Missionary Movement?

The Lord called me to the ministry in this Work 37 years ago. We started in a house with eight people in La Valencia de Heredia, Costa Rica. He has given me everything: my wife, my children, and friends around the world. I founded the Work in Belize, so I know the suffering a missionary has to go through. I learnt a lot, I realized that talking about something and experiencing it are two different things. There are lots of difficulties, but God’s help always comes in time. That is why I love celebrating the day of missions. Once, God showed me a vision in which I was travelling around the world.

Nowadays I can say it has come true. I have been to more than 46 countries and I have preached in churches, stadiums, and in the open air. All of them have been very nice experiences.

How has your ministry changed now that you are an officer of the Worldwide Missionary Movement?

It is such a privilege. But even without the appointment, I was already working and visiting countries, as commanded by the officers. I am honored, but this is no reward only for those who want it or work hard for it, but especially for those on which God has mercy. Those who have been before me are the best, and I feel small in comparison, but I work hard for our Lord.

What do you think of the progress of the Work in the five continents?

Although this congregation is relatively young – it began in 1963 – its reach MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 18 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceania • Africa • Asia

“THE MEDIA HELP TO

SPREAD THE WORK”

interview

has been overwhelming. We did not expect to get where we are now. At first, the motto was about going through the ways of America, but then “through America and the world” had to be added. Now the Work is so many places with different cultures and languages. We never imagined that we would reach countries such as India, Nepal, and Pakistan. And in such places where it is forbidden to preach, the media have become a great support for the Work over the last twenty years.

Such is the case of Bethel Televisión and Impacto Evangelistic. They are reaching places where we have not been able to enter. They are a missionary branch of the Work.

How was Bethel Costa Rica created?

25 years ago, God showed in a vision that He would establish a means of communication. Time passed by and it became a reality. I must say that Pastor Rodolfo González’s vision is a blessing. Peru has inspired us. God gave us two channels.

It has been two years on air, there is a work team, and we have seen the results. Many souls are coming and many people are changing. We currently cover 70 % of the territory.

What do you think of the evangelizing work done by Impacto Evangelistic?

Impacto Evangelistic was founded as a tool to edify God’s people within the Worldwide Missionary Movement. Some time later it took an interesting twist and now it does not just inform of the progress of the Work, but it has become an evangelizing instrument. Its content is attracting non-converted people and its translations are reaching other cultures.

What is your vision for the future of the WMM? This Work will keep growing. New doors open up for us every month somewhere in the world. The Church is indestructible because Jesus-Christ is indestructible, and His Word says that the gates of hell will never prevail against His Church. The Lord’s Work is above any policy, government, and antagonistic law.

It will never cease to grow, until the day the trumpet sounds and we all leave this world.

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ONE of the most fundamental axioms of biology is that all life comes from preexisting life. Still, until the later part of the 19th century, life was believed to arise from nonliving matter by a process called “spontaneous generation.”

Dr. David Menton (*)

[Editor’s Note: First published in St. Louis MetroVoice 3, no. 8 (August 1993).]

Ancient Egyptians, for example, thought mice arose from the mud of the Nile. In 1600, J. B. Helmont even reported “proof ” for the spontaneous generation of mice, claiming that if wheat, cheese, and soiled linen are placed together in a jar, mice will eventually appear! This idea of the spontaneous generation of life from nonlife was so deeply ingrained in biological thought that it took nearly 200 years of experimental evidence to completely disprove it.

In 1650, Francesco Redi, an Italian physician, proved that maggots come from living flies and not from lifeless MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 20 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceania • Africa • Asia

meat as was widely believed. This was a serious blow to spontaneous generation, but when bacteria were later discovered, it was thought that at least microorganisms might arise from nonlife. This notion too was finally laid to rest in 1864 by the great scientist (and creationist) Louis Pasteur, who demonstrated that bacteria can only come from living bacteria.

Most evolutionists are dead certain that life evolved by chance (without divine intervention) from nonliving chemicals through a process called “chemical evolution.” But the evidence for chemical evolution is so embarrassing, some evolutionists insist that the whole idea of the origin of life is not even a part of the theory of evolution

but rather is a creationist plot to discredit evolution!

Evolutionists speculate that life gradually evolved from mere hydrogen in a series of stages. The first stage began about 15 billion years ago with the “Big Bang” which produced an expanding cloud of hydrogen—all else was void. With time and energy, hydrogen transformed into all the other chemical elements. Then, about 4 billion years ago, the earth’s atmosphere consisted of methane, ammonia, hydrogen, and water, from which life would inevitably evolve.

During stage two it is believed that simple chemicals from stage one formed the small organic molecules essential

science

to life such as sugars, amino acids, and nucleotides. In 1953, Miller and Urey claimed to “simulate” the evolution of some of these organic molecules from methane and ammonia.

Stage three in chemical evolution is supposed to have involved the stringing together of small organic molecules into long chain-like molecules called polymers. The most important biologi-

cal polymers are starches, proteins, and DNA. In another “evolution simulation” experiment, Sidney Fox produced protein-like molecules by heating pure, dry amino acids at high temperatures. When this material was allowed to cool in water, it formed small globules, which he called “microspheres.” Although these microspheres are stone dead, evolutionists refer to them as “protocells,” imply-

ing that they represent an early stage of living cells.

The final stage of chemical evolution involves the chance transformation of organic molecules and polymers into the complex machinery of living cells. Here evolutionary speculation is so unrestrained by evidence that it fails to merit serious consideration. The biochemist Dr. David Green pretty well summed it up when he said in his book Molecular Insights into the Living Process.

Now even some evolutionists fear that time and chance may not be the answer. The Nobel laureate Dr. Francis Crick (co-discoverer of DNA), in his book Life Itself, insists that the probability of life’s chance origin simply defies calculation. Crick concludes that the first living organisms on earth may have been “seeded” in our oceans by intelligent beings from another planet.

Sir Fred Hoyle, the man who named the “Big Bang” theory, has recently concluded that the origin of life by chance is an absurd idea. In his book Evolution from Space, Hoyle insists that it is obvious that the complexity of life demands an intelligent designer, possibly even God. In a recent address at Cal Tech, Hoyle said that no amount of time now being considered by evolutionists is even remotely adequate to accomplish the formation of a higher living organism by chance. Such an event, he said, would be comparable to the chance that “a tornado sweeping through a junkyard might assemble a Boeing 747 from materials therein”!

Evolutionists, who must essentially invoke miracles without God, have no other choice than to believe in chance events so improbable they undermine the statistical foundation on which modern science rests. (*) Holds a PhD in biology from Brown University and served as an award-winning professor at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis for 34 years. He retired as an Associate Professor Emeritus and now serves with Answers in Genesis as a speaker, writer, and researcher.

Source: https://answersingenesis.org/

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MARTIN Luther’s concept of “priesthood of all believers” vanished the strict separation between the “mundane” and the “spiritual,” which was a common idea of the Church before the Reformation.

José Hutter

The Reformation prepared the way for “the Protestant work ethic.” Ever since then, secular professions were no longer considered inferior to the contemplative life of monks or priests. God could be worshipped in any kind of honest job. This and other concepts led to the progress of industry and to a prosperity never seen before.

The most dynamic entrepreneurs and businesses were found in the Calvinist Holland and England. In his famous book “The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism” (1905), Max Weber attributed capitalist revolution to Calvinism with its frugality and work ethic.

Calvin defended the right to private property, taught the biblical concept of being God’s stewards, and promoted free competition and the prohibition of excessive interests, encouraging instead the collection of reasonable interests.

As a result, there was a society with free trade that generated the highest life standards and a progress never seen before in industry and medicine.

Our current ideal is to work less and earn more, but the work ethic of the Judeo-Christian tradition is to glorify God. WORK AND THE BIBLE

Work in ancient times used to begin at sunrise until evening (Psalm 104:2223). But the Parable of the Workers in the Vineyards in the New Testament shows that there were people who were still looking for work at 5 p.m. (Matthew 20:1-16). The same parable also teaches that the owner of the vineyard could MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 22 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceania • Africa • Asia

THE PROTESTANT WORK ETHIC AND WELFARE

perspective

treat his workers without equality. It was not against the law. He was allowed to pay each as he wished to.

This means that the working schedule, in both the Ancient and New Testaments, was twelve hours, six days a week. Of course, there were also holidays in Israel during which people did not work.

It should be noted that those who advocate for a working week of 40 or 35 hours cannot base their grounds on the Bible but they have to refer to a humanist/ideological ethic that has nothing to do with biblical lessons.

People work to make their living,

and that is a privilege for believers. Work is directly compared to God’s creating work, and the same applies to the day of rest (Deuteronomy 5:13).

In addition, the Bible clearly states that the lazy never get anywhere (Proverbs 13:4), that hard work has God’s blessing (Proverbs 14:23), and that the goal of believers is to not financially depend on anyone (1 Thessalonians 4:1112). Paul has harsh words for those who live at the expense of others. He states in 2 Thessalonians 3:10 that they do not even have the right to eat. Believers have to be productive, and thus they replicate their God’s example. God does not want

us to live a useless life (Titus 3:14).

As a result, Christian faith does not talk about Christian communism or socialism. Such things do not exist. The cases mentioned in the book of Acts (to sell everything and give it to the poor, to have all things common) were simply strategic or emergency measures for a concrete situation.

The Bible does not oppose a person earning more than they need, as long as it is earned by honest means. Throughout history, many believers understood that living a modest life was the best way of living according to Jesus-Christ. This prompted many Protestant and Calvinist businessmen in the times of the Reformation to reinvest the profits of their companies back in their own businesses and to keep only a modest amount. This was one of the key factors to the great success of Calvinist nations, such as Holland, in commerce.

This work ethic includes some very simple principles that would certainly amaze our current society, where deception and deceit prevail: businessmen must keep their word and deliver the products at the agreed price, time and conditions. Honest and well-done work is excellent advertisement for both the businessperson and the God they serve.

Happy clients are the best advertisement campaigns.

The Christian ideal is not to work less, but to work for the glory of God. Source: http://protestantedigital.com/blogs/45329/La_etica_ protestante_del_trabajo_y_del_bienestar

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THE hymn sheds light on the suffering of Jesus Christ to save men from sin. It was written by German theologian Paul Gerhardt and used by composer Johann Sebastian Bach in his “St. Matthew Passion.”

“O Sacred Head, Now Wounded” reflects on the sacrifice made by Jesus Christ for mankind and successfully depicts the death of the Son of God on the cross. Written by German theologian Paul Gerhardt in the mid-17th century, the hymn illustrates, from the author’s point of view, the suffering of the Lord to wash away the sins of the world.

According to some experts in Gospel music, Gerhardt’s composition was written based on a medieval poem. It was first published in 1656, when musician Johann Crüger, Paul’s friend, included it in the sixth edition of his hymnal “Practice of Piety in Song,” which had a significant impact in Germany.

Ever since then, it is considered one of the most widely known evangelical songs.

The original version has 10 verses, each as touching as the following one, and it was used in 1727 by renowned German composer Johann Sebastian Bach, who included it in its famous piece “St. Matthew Passion.” Furthermore, Bach used it in other cantatas of his own making, such as “Behold, Let Us Go Up to Jerusalem”, “Christmas Oratorio”, and “Come, You Sweet Hour of Death.”

Gerhardt’s song, aimed to strengthen believer’s faith and hope in Christ, has been sung by many artists whose covers have managed to keep it forever young. George Beverly Shea, Fernando Ortega, Amy Grant, Kathy Troccoli and the trio Selah are some of the saMISSIONARY MOVEMENT 24 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceania • Africa • Asia

O SACRED HEAD, NOW

WOUNDED

music

O SACRED HEAD, NOW WOUNDED O sacred Head, now wounded, with grief and shame weighed down, now scornfully surrounded with thorns, Thine only crown.

O sacred Head, what glory, what bliss till now was Thine!

Yet, though despised and gory, I joy to call Thee mine.

What Thou, my Lord, hast suffered was all for sinners’ gain; mine, mine was the transgression, but Thine the deadly pain.

Lo, here I fall, my Savior!

‘Tis I deserve Thy place; look on me with Thy favor, vouchsafe to me Thy grace.

What language shall I borrow to thank Thee, dearest Friend, for this, Thy dying sorrow, Thy pity without end?

O make me Thine forever!

And should I fainting be, Lord, let me never, never, outlive my love for Thee.

Be near when I am dying, O show Thy cross to me!

And, for my succor flying, come, Lord, to set me free.

These eyes, new faith receiving, from Thee shall never move; for he who dies believing dies safely in Thy love.

cred music singers that have recorded this song in modern times for the benefit of the Christian community.

MAN OF GOD

Born on March 12, 1607, in the town of Gräfenhainichen, Gerhardt was a faithful servant of the Almighty throughout his life. Member of a godly family, he studied at Wittenberg University, where he learned from theologians Paul Röber and Jacob Martini, promoters of the sound doctrine, who encouraged him to use hymns as a pastoral tool.

In 1642, after successfully completing his university studies, Paul began to preach the Good News. Then, he moved to Berlin, where his efforts to spread the Gospel through a series of poems caught the attention of composer Crüger. With his support and encouragement, he became one of the best hymnodists in Germany.

Known for being the composer of the song “O Sacred Head, Now Wounded”, exegete Paul Gerhardt, who died on May 27, 1676 in Lübben, introduced in his famous piece an important aspect of the Holy Scriptures: the crucifixion of the Messiah. His hymn sheds a God-inspired light on the suffering of the Redeemer to save men from evil.

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SISTER Carmen Valencia’s book, published in 2017, presents her ideas on the duties of the wives of the men chosen

by God for pastoral ministry and provides valuable Christian advice.

Before we are wives of pastors, we are women, and not just any kind. God has given us value beyond measure, great strength, and capacity for unconditional devotion. One of Satan’s purposes is to undermine such value, to challenge our determination, and to weaken our devotion. If we are aware of our importance as women and we know that God has given us what we need to be useful, we will become a sharp instrument in His hands to destroy the strongholds of hell. We will not be intimidated or daunted, but we will be energetic and useful in God’s hands, and we will be aware that we are special, that we have been endowed

by God with exceptional skills and virtues.

Sister Carmen Valencia de Martínez, renowned preacher of God’s Work and author of the “The Privilege of Being a Pastor’s Wife,” reveals her experience and opinion about the role of the wives of the men chosen by the Lord for pastoral ministry. Based on the Holy Scriptures, the book also gives useful advice and instruction for Christ’s believers.

We all make mistakes, but good leaders learn from them. Many think that leadership turns people into perfect beings who cannot (or should not) make any mistakes whatsoever. Nevertheless, leaders must aim for excellence rather than perfection: we must do our best with the resources available.

As leaders and wives of pastors, God wants us to aspire for a constant state of excellence, but sometimes we fail because we look for perfection. One of the ways to achieve excellence is to MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 26 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceania • Africa • Asia

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THE PRIVILEGE OF BEING A PASTOR’S

WIFE

learn from our mistakes. One mistake is not the end, unless we do not learn from it.

Published in Colombia at the end of 2017, Carmen Valencia’s book addresses four key duties and eight good qualities that rule the life of the wives of pastors.

She also explores five mistakes and six difficult situations that they must face daily. Finally, she talks about three basic principles and gives a final message of encouragement and strength.

AT THE SERVICE OF JESUS

As pastors’ wives, because of the many duties of our husbands, we face loneliness on many occasions. But when we become aware that this separation is because he is serving the Lord, solitude turns into blessing. I know it is not easy to understand, but loving God’s work is healing oil for our hearts. Instead of complaining, let us use this separation to train in the service of God by ministering in the church, by turning loneliness into growth, and by strengthening our knowledge of the Word. This is how we can be a more efficient support for the ministry of our husbands and a

blessing for the church.

Servant Valencia, wife of Gustavo Martínez, International Treasurer of the Worldwide Missionary Movement, talks in the introduction to her book about her over-40-year relationship with JesusChrist and reveals unprecedented details of her life on God’s path. With joy and excitement, the Colombian evangelical author gives a moving testimony of key moments in her life.

One of our biggest challenges in fulfilling the commandment of loving our husbands is jealousy. But let us be clear that jealousy has no place in a couple. Pastor and wife have to develop the capacity of having each other’s back; it is not a matter of hypocrisy or appearances, but love, respect and a high sense of the dignity of the ministry that they share, which should not be affected by human weakness. Jealousy can turn a home into hell and fill the heart with sadness, as it is a spirit from hell that takes over our imagination, making us see what is not here or making everything seem bad and evil.

Valencia de Martínez, who had previously published “Water for the Thirsty

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I” and “Water for the Thirsty II,” has indicated the objectives of her last book: “I want to humbly share in this book some viewpoints and experiences concerning the role of a pastor’s wife. I hope these are a great blessing for the army of God’s servants.”

BEAUTIFUL HONOR

As a pastor’s wife, I know that being able to do something for God is not easy, but it is a privilege, beautiful yet undeserved. It is such blessing that His holy eyes have seen me, that He has opened a wide door for me, that He has made me part of the service in this wonderful work that He himself has built for the last days, especially because some denominations do not allow women to minister or develop the gifts that God has given them. In addition to the privilege of being part of a ministry together with a servant of God, we have the great responsibility of developing the qualities that will allow us to make a difference.

In “The Privilege of Being a Pastor’s Wife,” Sister Carmen Valencia also gives the opinion, consideration and advice of twelve remarkable women who are members of the WMM: Rita Vázquez de González, Magali Báez, Amelia Ramos, Virginia Marrero, Xiomara de Vergara, Idalid Campos, Nubia Velásquez, Jeanneth Ibarra, Lourdes de Hernández, Elvia de Zambrano, Francisca Sierra, and Jaminí Sam. The honorable way of pleasing the Lord with our dressing code is the respect of the limits established by God Himself. We must wear decent, modest clothing (Romans 12:2; Deuteronomy 22:5; Timothy 2:9); in this way, we will not violate God’s holiness, we will not incite sensual, sinful or lustful thoughts, and we will set the difference between what is mundane and what is Christian. Our clothing sends a message, and we must ask ourselves: What message are we sending? Does it say MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 28 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceania • Africa • Asia

literature

Nevertheless, leaders must aim for excellence rather than perfection: we must do our best with the resources available. As leaders and wives of pastors, God wants us to aspire for a constant state of excellence, but sometimes we fail because we look for perfection.

One of the ways to achieve excellence is to learn from our mistakes. One mistake is not the end, unless we do not learn from it.

that we are God-fearing servants of the Lord? Does it say that we are different from earthly women?

Carmen Valencia de Martínez is the mother of four children, a faithful believer in Jesus and a promoter of the Gospel. In the six chapters of her book, she has clearly established the relationship of a pastor’s wife with her husband, her children, and the Church. Guided by the Almighty, the messenger of the Creator had made a unique document from a refreshing perspective based on the sound doctrine.

Beloved fellow servant and sister, you may be experiencing difficult times, you might be feeling alone even if you are surrounded by many people.

Maybe you are going through hardship and have nothing to offer to your children. Perhaps you are financially limited. You really need God’s strength to keep serving Him with joy, without sadness or complaints. Maybe you are enduring a divine process that requires you to cross a spiritual tunnel with no visible light at the end. Your heart may be crying out to God, and you probably think that you will not be able to take it anymore. But your life will not be desert forever. The skies will open in your favor soon enough.

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LYMAN Beecher was part of the Second Great Awakening and contributed to the expansion of the Gospel in the United States. As a Christian representative of the 19th century, he also promoted abolitionism and opposed alcohol consumption.

Larry Thorson

In 1826, during the peak of the Second Great Awakening in the United States, Christianity attracted many new converts throughout the territory thanks to a renovated approach to the faith in God. It was in these circumstances that Pastor Lyman Beecher became a bastion of the Gospel with a pastoral ministry that promoted abolitionism and alcohol abstinence.

Lyman was born on October 12, 1775, in the city of New Haven. He was son of the believers David Beecher and Esther Hawley. Two days after his birth, he lost his mother to tuberculosis.

Therefore, his uncle Lot Benton, loyal and fervent follower of Jesus Christ, raised him and took him to Guilford Town, where he taught him a deep love and respect for the Lord.

FIRST STEPS

Encouraged by his family, Beecher would read the Almighty’s Word every day, and showed a very unusual interest in the Good News since a very young age; he wanted to be ready for the Last Judgment. He also learnt the profession of blacksmith and cultivated the lands of his uncle’s farm. But the Redeemer’s cause was his main focus.

He was fitted for college by Reverend Thomas Bray, and at the age of 18 he entered Yale University, founded in 1701 to educate Congregational Ministers. The experience would change his life forever. He deepened his knowlMISSIONARY MOVEMENT 30 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceania • Africa • Asia

THE PROMOTER OF THE SOUND

DOCTRINE edge of the Bible and strengthened his faith in Jesus. He graduated in 1797 with other thirty young people.

In 1798, Beecher studied Theology under the theologian Timothy Dwight, a famous American educator and President of Yale. The relationship between both characters, based on their worship of God, was as close as that of the Messiah with his twelve Apostles. This mentoring had a great impact on his desire to preach the Gospel and serve the Creator.

PASTORAL WORK

Lyman was ordained priest on September 5, 1799, and he immediately took the lead of a Christian church in East Hampton. This is how he started his evangelizing work as a preacher, becoming a renowned dynamic religious and social reformer, as well as a modeler of the 19th century American spiritual identity.

Beecher believed that men were deeply sinful as well as capable of ac-

hero of faith

cepting God’s grace. After ten years of service in East Hampton, he moved to Litchfield in 1810, where he began a revival to fight sin in his country. His striking messages quickly gained national notoriety.

He lived in Litchfield for sixteen years, where the missionary spread Christ’s message with perseverance and saved a great number of lost souls. He promoted from his pulpit the general transformation of the then weak public morality. He also protested against excessive alcohol consumption through six sermons that were widely spread later in North America and Europe.

Author of countless evangelical writings, the preacher arrived in Boston in the beginning of 1826 to take over a congregation where he proved to be a fierce defender of the sound doctrine.

Loyal to the principles of the Scriptures, he opposed rationalism and the traditional Church. He also led a spiritual awakening to spread the Word.

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hero of faith HARD WORK

Worried as he was for the biblical education of pastors in American congregations, Lyman Beecher accepted in 1832 the presidency of the Lane Theological Seminary in Cincinnati. There, he continued his work for the faith in Christ and the salvation of sinful soulds.

Guided by the Lord, he remained in the institution for eighteen years.

The Reverend’s teaching had quite an impact on the ministers that would spread the Gospel in the West. He also led a temple in Cincinnati for a decade. Thanks to his magnetic personality and incisive communication skills, he enlarged God’s fold with men and women who devoted themselves to the Gospel.

Throughout his life, Beecher invested much of his energy in the creation of charities, such as the American Bible Society, the American Educational Society, the American Sunday School Union, the American Tract Society, and the American Society, dedicated to the promo-

tion of moralization in the U.S. and the spreading of the Lord’s Word. These institutions supported the cohesion and unity of the Almighty’s followers.

As the merciful and kind man he was, Lyman questioned the enslavement of black people. His messages and public presentations contributed to the foundation of the abolitionist movement and he encourage debate of the subject within the Lane Theological Seminary. he also advocated for women’s education and became part of the Second Great Awakening.

In 1852, Pastor Lyman moved to New York in with his son Henry, promoter of abolitionism. In Brooklyn, he worked in the revision and edition of his writings. He also conveyed his thoughts on the role of the United States in the spread of Christianity in the world. He stated that the country had to be a light for the nations.

GREAT LEGACY

Lyman Beecher died in New York at the age of 87, on January 10, 1863. The minister of Jesus-Christ transcended his time and became one of the most prestigious English-speaking preachers. His work for Christianization was widely spread from America to the rest of the world thanks to his publications and books, which earned him a great prestige.

Beecher’s pastoral work also bore fruit through his thirteen children, who continued his efforts in favor of the faith in the Lord. Seven of them, including Henry, became ministers; his daughter Harriet became known with her “Uncle’s Tom Cabin;” and his daughters Catharine and Isabella became advocates of the education reform and women’s suffrage.

The figure of Lyman Beecher, who is buried in the cemetery of Grove Street, goes beyond the evangelical context, and his influence on different social issues, such as the abolition of slavery and the women’s rights movement, is undeniable. Nevertheless, his greatest contributions lie in the spread of Christianity.

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GROWING distant from God was the worst mistake of his life. This alcohol and drug user would always make false promises to God so as to be healed. He never imagined that he would finally keep his word while on a hospital’s bed.

Susan Amau Photos: Víctor Tipe and Family files

Andrés David Huertas Consuegra was 15 years old when he devoted his life to the Lord. He decided to follow God together with other adolescents who had been moved by the Word.

A little church in his neighborhood in Mapasingue, Ecuador, kindly welcomed and trained him.

But the young man did not keep his word. His friends led him astray and he got off the Christian path. Andrés eventually grew distant from the Lord and started abusing alcohol and drugs. Feeling that his life made no sense, he tried to fill the void in his heart with women, but it was never enough. His drinking buddies made him forget his sad and lonely situation if only for a while.

Andrés was the son of José Agustín Huertas Jarechua and Azucena del Carmen Consuegra Murillo, and he had a very peaceful childhood. His parents had five children, but they never lacked food and education.

As time passed by, Andrés decided to migrate to a European country in search of a brighter future. At age 25, he got married out of convenience in order to become a European citizen, but got divorced as soon as the process ended.

The young man seemed to be alright but had no peace of mind. He loved his wild life, but deep down he was anxious because he was away from God. He MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 34 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceania • Africa • Asia

THE MAN WHO LEARNT TO

KEEP HIS PROMISES

life story

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life story

keep his word. He did not even try. He just forgot about it and returned to his old ways as soon as he left the hospital.

He never even thanked the Lord for keeping him alive.

Six months later, his life was in danger once again. He had been to one of his usual parties and was drunk driving a motorcycle when he had a serious accident. As if it were a movie, he was thrown into a post and his motorcycle flipped over until it finally fell on the road. Andrés lied on the floor before the terrorized looks of the people around, who only thought of calling the police.

Some minutes later he was urgently taken to a hospital.

In the intensive care unit, with several of his organs seriously damaged, he awaited death. Forty days later, he final-

He had been to one of his usual parties and was drunk driving a motorcycle when he had a serious accident. As if it were a movie, he was thrown into a post and his motorcycle flipped over until it finally fell on the road.

tried many times to reconcile with the Lord, but he was weak and paid dearly for it.

FALSE PROMISES

One day, when he was 26, Andrés was stabbed at some square in Madrid by a love rival. He had stretched out his hand to a fellow countryman to shake hands, when other man stabbed him in cold blood. The reason was that the man was jealous of him dating his ex-girlfriend.

Andrés was still conscious when he was taken to the ER. He heard the physicians say that he had to undergo an emergency operation. It was all hustle and bustle in the room, and he thought: “This is very serious.” And it was. His life was hanging by a thread.

Andrés got better, but he did not keep his word. He did not even try. He just forgot about it and returned to his old ways as soon as he left the hospital. He never even thanked the Lord for keeping him alive.

That is when he remembered God and prayed to Him with all his heart. He asked Him to heal him and promised that he would behave well and follow Him anywhere. God came to the rescue.

He saved him from the fatal incident.

Andrés got better, but he did not

ly regained consciousness and begged one more time for mercy. After some time he was discharged, relieved that he had escaped certain death.

His promises did not last much.

He was as rebellious, if not more, as before. He was too lost into licentiousness, earthly pleasures and sin. He met a woman with whom he had a child, but their relationship failed due to his foolishness.

After all he had been through, he thought himself invincible: “What else could happen to me?” And he continued to walk on the path of evil.

DEEP REPENTANCE

Andrés was hospitalized many times throughout his life. He underwent several

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life story

tests, analysis, X-rays, and other examinations to identify and rule out health problems, but nothing was found, until September 29, 2016 at 2 a.m.

Andrés was sleeping soundly when he suddenly found himself on the floor.

He tried to get up but could not. He could barely move and his muscles did not respond. He panicked. Whenever he tried to stand up, he ended up on the floor again.

When his girlfriend saw him, she thought that he had had a cerebral infarction. With the help of some people who arrived afterwards, he was taken to a hospital. He underwent lots of tests until he was diagnosed with an aneurysm that he had since his birth but had never been detected before.

Andrés remained conscious during all the exams. He felt as if things were whirling very fast around him. In those

When his girlfriend saw him, she thought that he had had a cerebral infarction. With the help of some people who arrived afterwards, he was taken to a hospital. He underwent lots of tests until he was diagnosed with an aneurysm that he had since his birth but had never been detected before.

hours he remembered the mistakes and false promises of his youth.

He burst into tears, begging God for mercy with all his heart. He asked for his forgiveness, owned his many lies, reconciled with the Lord, and reassert-

ed his promise of devoting to Him. This time it would be different. His true repentance would make him start all over.

Andrés felt peace while in the operating room. The surgery was a delicate one and lasted many hours. Fortunately, it was a success. Andrés recovered quickly and as soon as he left the hospital he went straight to the temple to thank God and fulfill his promise.

From that moment on, he rejected sin, the world, and even himself in order to follow in the footsteps of Christ. “God saved me from death,” says Andrés.

He currently serves God and the church of the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Madrid, Spain. He lives alone with his mother and he spends time with his son whenever he has the chance. He is happy because Christ changed him and he is fulfilling the promise that he made to Him that day.

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“I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.

As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” John 9:4-5.

Rev. Luis M. Ortiz

We are at the end of the time given to the Church by the Lord for the fulfillment of its task, so we must speed it up while it is day.

The mission of the church are the missions. Its ultimate task is evangelization. Only for this purpose has it been left in the world. However, this task does not mean converting the world, because this will not be achieved. We have not been commanded to bring the world to Christ, but rather to bring Christ to the world. Therefore, we must not deviate towards secondary goals or trivial projects.

The Church must use all its men and resources for the task it has been entrusted, which is to preach repentance and forgiveness of sins in His name in all nations: “And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15).

Jesus said, “... ye shall be witnesses...”

(Acts 1:8). Such is the duty of believers. Every believer is a witness! Christian bear the responsibility to evangelize and this responsibility knows no limits. Christians must always be ready to give their testimony anytime, anywhere. Christians have to bring the Gospel to the whole world. Those who are not able to go in person must send someone else instead. And that is where believers have failed: they have not gone and they have not sent another in their place. For that reason, more than half of the world’s population has MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 40 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceania • Africa • Asia

WHILE IT

IS DAY never listened to the Gospel.

Clearly, we are at the end of the time given to the Church by the Lord for the fulfillment of its task, and we must speed up the work that should have been done over the centuries while it is still day.

This spirit of urgency is what encourages us to go throughout the world bearing the message of salvation, and what moves us to call the people of God to become aware of the coming shadows of the night and to use the remaining time to carry out the greatest task in history in the shortest time possible. “…the night cometh, when no man can work” ( John 9:4).

If your heart beats faster when thinking of the hundreds of millions of people that do not know yet the path of peace, that live in darkness but want light, that feel the walls in blindness, that stumble at midday and midnight, that wait for a distant salvation (as distant as you are), and if the Holy Spirit moves you to use all your resources in a missionary effort, then I urge you to join the humble efforts of the World-

wide Missionary Movement and to take part in this final action to win souls for Christ while it is day.

Jesus told his disciples in more than one occasion: “I have meat to eat that ye know not of. Therefore said the disciples one to another, Hath any man brought him ought to eat? Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work.

Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest. And he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal: that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together. And herein is that saying true, One soweth, and another reapeth. I sent you to reap that whereon ye bestowed no labour: other men laboured, and ye are entered into their labours” ( John 4:32-38).

“I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world” ( John 9:4-5).

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“Now the Lord had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will shew thee.”

Genesis 12:1.

Rev. Rubén Concepción

Every organization has a mission, a vision, and goals; disorganization and improvisation have no place in companies. This Work has a vision, too, which is not the same as the visionary’s vision. Therefore, while the Work cannot expand its vision, the visionary that has received the vision can and must expand their vision to obtain a clearer perspective.

The Work’s vision is strong, but it is not only a vision, also a mission. When you have a field before you, it is not enough to just look at it, you also have to work it. The mission involves sacrifice, commitment, total surrender. A mission is a task, so a mission need a commission. And who is the commissioner? The supervisor? The president? None! The one who commissions is the Lord.

When we have a vision, a mission and a commission, all we need is the connecting link that will allow us to move towards God’s purpose, and that is called the method. We need a method to achieve the goal.

God has called us not to be followers, but to be leaders, because leaders look to the future, to the horizon; they can see where the challenge is, they are dreamers. True leaders think ahead to next year, to the next decade and even to the next generation. But this Work’s vision is not buried with leaders; reverend Ortiz died, but the vision did not die with him, the vision goes on.

So you have to stop being a follower MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 42 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceania • Africa • Asia

EXPANDING THE

VISION

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and become a leader, and as a leader, you have to look to the future. Leaders do not need to be appointed, they just have the capacity to carry out God’s

projects. Regardless of the appointment, or the title, or the position, leaders do not crave those things, but they want to serve the Lord.

The Lord had said to Abraham, “Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will shew thee” (Genesis 12:1). When Abraham listened to these words, he seized the moment; he did not care about the challenge, but he thought of the blessing. God told him to leave the comforts at home, his family and everything else behind. It must have not been easy to answer to God’s call, but Abraham left everything and committed to God’s purpose; and as a result, he gained new experiences and broke the chains of the past.

Sometimes, the past stands in the way and becomes such a strong burden that people get stuck in their present. How sad it is when days and years go by and we remain in the same place, doing the same things. That is why some pastors and churches are currently stuck, because they continue to be and do the same.

God gave Abraham the hope of being the father of a nation, better yet, the father of many nations. Therefore, Abraham felt the urge to follow this great vision. The Lord had told him, “Get out of your land and of your relatives, and from your father’s house, to the land that I will show you.” He was not given a specific address, only a vision.

From Abraham’s experience and process to reach the Lord’s goal of making him the father of nations, we learn the following: 1) The vision has to start with God´s priorities; 2) the vision must connect with the identity of the leader; 3) the vision has to include others; 4) the vision has to be greater than the leader; 5) the vision has to connect with the deepest convictions of the leader; 6) the vision has to be tangible and easy to communicate, and 7) the vision has eternal value.

May God help us not to lose this vision!

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““Can two walk together, except they be agreed?”

Amos 3: 3.

Rev. Ramón L. Aponte

We must agree with God if we want to walk with Him and be His people.

Firstly, we must agree with God on sin. In the Holy Scriptures, God unequivocally and categorically declares that we have all sinned: “The fool says in his heart: There is no God. They have corrupted themselves, they do abominable works. There is no one who does good.

Jehovah looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any expert looking for God. All have deviated, they have become corrupt; there is no one who does good, there is not even one” (Psalm 14:1-3).

So the first thing that God tells us is to repent, to change our ways. We have been walking in the wrong direction, going through the path of selfishness. We must turn and abandon that wrong path, confess and renounce our sins, go to the Lord and ask Him to forgive us and to give us freedom through the love of Jesus.

Now, there is a kind of repentance that we could call the religious one, which only seeks to avoid or skip punishment.

But we must take a step further and reach what we might call the true Christian repentance. This repentance involves not only the fear of punishment, but a genuine sorrow for having sinned against our loving Father and offended Him who allow us to achieve forgiveness and cleansing.

We also must agree with God on the Lordship of Christ. We must unquestionably consider him our Savior and Redeemer. The Holy Scriptures say that, “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved” (Romans 10:13). In this sentence, two words stand out. One of them, of course, is ‘saved,’ and the other is ‘Lord.’ If we have been forgivMISSIONARY MOVEMENT 44 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceania • Africa • Asia

CAN TWO WALK

TOGETHER, EXCEPT THEY BE AGREED?

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en, if we have been born again, it is not for us to live this life at our whim. God has redeemed and renewed us so that we can fulfill His purposes. We will feel true rest, peace and joy upon finding our true place in relation to the Lordship of Jesus Christ.

The Bible state that Christ bore our sins on the cross. “Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed” (1 Peter 2:24). Now, this sacrifice was made for everyone, everywhere, but it will not benefit us unless we know about it and make the necessary moral

and spiritual adjustments, that is, unless we confess and renounce our sins and embrace Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.

The Holy Scriptures also say that these moral and spiritual adjustments include a total, unconditional and irrevocable surrender before God. Jesus tells us that we must take the cross and follow Him. After having experienced this surrender, the apostle Paul said, “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me” (Galatians 2:20). This

crucifixion is also part of walking and agreeing with God. Ephesians 5:18 gives another condition: “…be filled with the Spirit…” The Spirit dwells in all believers who have been born again, but we also need the covering of the Holy Spirit to strengthen our Christian character and be like Christ. Through baptism, we receive the Holy Spirit, which is an anointing of power and results in a fruitful life.

A thorough study of the Bible by each one of us will make us find other forms of agreement with God, so that we can walk with Him. Amen.

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PASTOR Manuel Zúñiga has been a member of the Worldwide Missionary Movement for 42 years. He was one of the men of God who pulled off the Work in Central America. He knows about the difficulties and challenges of the new times.

Eliseo Aquino Curi

Costa Rican Pastor Manuel Zúñiga has been on a missionary trip across the Americas to share his testimony. During his visit in Peru, Colombia and Ecuador, he has talked about his experiences with other pastors of the Worldwide Missionary Movement.

How was God’s call in your life and how has it been fulfilled?

I listened to the call when God saved me. Inspired by God, I asked Him for a house for my wife and children. One year later, the owner of the house I rented gave it to me. I went to the church, approached the altar and said, “Lord, here’s my family, they’re in Your hands now. Here I am, what do you want me to do?”

That was the beginning of my call.

Back then, I was a musician in the church and had recently started working at Sunday school. When my pastor got sick some time later, he asked me to go to the white fields. There were five of them, all located in the jungle. There were 17 fields when my pastor got better.

One day, a preacher full of God called me to kneel before the altar. He put his hands on my eyes and said, “With this I cover your human eyes and open your spiritual ones; now you’ll see things that will amaze many people and I will take you to many countries.”

Share with us a memory of your 42 years in the Work of the Lord...

God put me in the jungle for ten years to train me and for me to gain experience; the man of God must be a man of faith that knows who has sent him. There I underMISSIONARY MOVEMENT 46 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceania • Africa • Asia

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NEW

GENERATIONS” stood that going somewhere and being sent by the Lord are two different things.

When I attended my first convention of the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Panama, an evangelist said the same words that the preacher had told me.

I went through many difficult situations, but God strengthened me in every aspect. The Lord sent me to Panama first; then he led me to other Central American countries. Afterwards, I arrived in the United States and became the Supervisor of Central America. I walked from Panama to Mexico. I have been to several countries, just as God told me that day.

What have been your most important experiences in these 42 years?

Once I saw a girl come back to life. I had never seen anything like that before.

We were praying at this place, when suddenly a boy came with a dead girl. We prayed for her and God raised her. It was incredible to see the corpse rise when we said: “In the name of Jesus Christ, arise.”

Another day, I was invited to a campaign. The place was very big and there were many people. I was used to preaching to thirty people at the most, so that day I was incredibly nervous. The first thing I

saw was a woman with very thin legs on a wheelchair. I said to the Lord, “Look at her, she is waiting for you, not me. If you don’t do something for her today...” Suddenly, I felt like a fire ball falling over me, I felt the power of God. The handicapped woman exclaimed, “The preacher is on fire!” So I opened my eyes and our eyes met, and I said, “Stand up in the name of Jesus Christ.” At that moment, she jumped and ran, then came towards me and thanked me. The atmosphere was filled with God’s presence and other attendees also said to have also been healed. On that day, many embraced Christ.

In Christian life, problem shape the character and trial makes us grow.

From what difficult situation have you learned the most?

Once, someone from the congregation defamed me. When I found out, I told it was a lie, and I was furious. I looked for advice from an elder, a man of God. I told him and in some way I played the victim.

He laughed and said, “Relax, this is good for your training. If you want succeed in the Church, pretend it never happened.”

That experience has been very useful for me. I do not care what they say anymore.

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Which course should the Church follow these days?

We know from the Bible that the coming of the Lord is closer every day. That is why God’s enemy intensifies his demonic action over people and governments. The world is full of depravity, violence and things never seen before. Therefore, we must prepare for the final offensive. Today we face the so-called gender ideology, the legalization of abortion and the multiplication of sin, but the Bible says, “But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound� (Romans 5:20).

The older have to prepare the younger,

The older have to prepare the younger, the generation to come, to face this reality. There is neglect with regard to young people.

Pastors must not lose sight of them because they are the generation that will rise up in the midst of war.

the generation to come, to face this reality.

There is neglect with regard to young people. Pastors must not lose sight of them because they are the generation that will rise up in the midst of war.

What challenges can you leave for future generations?

I leave three challenges. First, be prepared for the life of Christ. Without holiness, no one will see the Lord. Second, serve God without looking for a position or profit. Third, die with the sword in your hand, because many have died for preaching the Gospel. This kind of death is worth it.

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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).

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event EVENT: NATIONAL CONVENTION DATE: AUGUST 16 - AUGUST 19 PLACE: GENOA, ITALY

POWERFUL, GLOBAL FACTS OF THE SECOND COMING OF CHRIST The WMM in Italy held its 8th National Convention in Genoa, one of the most populated cities of the country. It was attended by the main leaders of the Work of God and delegations from various countries.

At the beginning of the event, held under the motto “Credibility 2018,” Reverend José Arturo Soto, International President of the WMM, preached the Word with the message “Powerful, Global Facts of the Second Coming of Christ,” based on Zechariah 14:4-8. He said that, “God has a defined purpose for this world. The Lord is the one who rules over this world and the whole universe.” Over fifteen hundred people gathered for four days to proclaim that Jesus Christ is the only way to reach salvation.

RELEVANT ANNOUCEMENTS

In the morning service of the second day, Sister Carmen Valencia shared the Good News through the message “Accept God’s Process,” based on Genesis 50:20. In her speech, the Colombian missionary said, “Life consists of processes. Everything God has created is marked by His process. He knows how much is achieved step by step.

We need to go through the process.”

The spiritual event, which was broadcast live by Bethel Television, continued with a night service in which Rev. Gustavo Martínez, International Treasurer of the WMM shared a sermon titled “Christians Holding on to Hidden Sins,” based on Ezekiel 14:5-7. The pastor said, “We know from the Scriptures that we cannot escape God’s gaze and knowledge.”

In the morning service of the third day, Pastor Soto evangelized the faithful who had come to Genoa to listen to the Word. The President of the Work developed the message “Difficulties Faced by Leaders,” based on 2 Corinthians 11:24-28: “Some pastors – thank God not many – act as if the church belonged to them, and the church does not belong to any pastor.”

IMPORTANT MEETING

At night, Rev. Luis Meza Bocanegra, International Di-

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rector of the WMM, shared the message “A Life that Pleases God,” based on Hebrews 12: 18-26. In his preaching, the also National Supervisor of the WMM in Peru pointed out that, “God will not give you what you want, but what you need. The themes in the Bible point to eternity.”

At the closing service of the 8th National Convention of the WMM in Italy, Rev. Carlos Medina, National Supervisor of the Work in Spain, preached to the believers. In his sermon “Stones Carved for Difficult Times,” based on 1 Chronicles 22, he said that, “We know from the Word that Jesus Christ is the unshakable rock of all ages, and that the enemy is a forger.”

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The workers’ promotion ceremony was also held, in which seven workers, eleven licensed ministers and four ordained ministers were recognized. Likewise, the Worldwide Missionary Movement appointed reverends Jimmy Moreira, Daniel Ortega and Wilson Cruz as new presbyters of the congregation in Italy and entrusted them with the task of expanding the scope of action of the Work.

In the meeting, the ministers of Christ regret the accident that had taken place two days before the start of the 8th National Convention. Forty-three people were killed when the Polcevera Viaduct collapsed in Genoa.

The preachers asked the Lord to comfort and strengthen the families of the victims.

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EVENT: WOMEN RETREATS AND BAPTISMS DATE: JUNE 22, 23, 29 AND 30 AND JULY 6, 7, 14 AND 28 PLACE: OVIEDO, CASTELLÓN DE LA PLANA, TARRASA, ARNEDO, MARTOS, LÉRIDA, SEGOVIA, RIBARROJA DEL TURIA AND SANTANDER, SPAIN

WOMEN LOOKING FOR THE FACE OF THE ALMIGHTY The WMM in Spain gathered a large number of followers of Christ in five women retreats. Four mass baptism ceremonies were also held.

In June and July, the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Spain held five women retreats that gathered a large number of Spanish servants of the Lord. The most recent was organized by Zone 5 on July 6 and July 7, in the city of Oviedo.

On June 29 and June 30, Zone 3 held another retreat in the city of Castellón de la Plana, located in the Valencian Community. The event was attended by over eighty followers of God. On June 22 and June 23, Zone 1 brought together more than two hundred women in the city of Tarrasa, located in the province of Barcelona. In the spiritual event, whose motto was “Women Looking For the Face of the Almighty,” the missionaries Marbelis Moya de Medina and Millen Biteau shared the Good News.

On the same date above, Zone 4 gathered forty-five women in the city of Arnedo, located in La Rioja. The meeting of faith was called “Women at the Service of Christ,” and was attended by Pastor Ángela de la Gala, who preached the Word.

Simultaneously, Zone 6 held a retreat in the town of Martos, located in the province of Jaén, where a large number of followers of God focused on the doctrine of Christ.

MASS CEREMONIES

The WMM in Spain also held four mass baptism ceremonies in June and July. The most recent was organized by Zone 1 and took place on July 28 in the province of Lleida, where thirty-five believers joined the Lord’s flock.

On July 14, Zone 2 held the sacrament in the province of Segovia. Twenty brothers descended into the waters of the Eresma River to seal their surrender to the Almighty.

On the same day, Zone 3 chose the town of Ribarroja del Turia, in the province of Valencia, to baptize eight believers who chose to embrace Christ as their redeemer.

In the meantime, Zone 5 used the city of Santander, capital of Cantabria, to baptize eight faithful who received the Lord in their hearts.

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EVENT: VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL AND YOUTH CAMP DATE: JULY 16 - JULY 20 AND AUGUST 3 - AUGUST 5 PLACE: BRUSSELS AND KASTERLEE, BELGIUM

YOUNG MAN, RUN TOWARDS ME The WMM in Belgium carried out two activities aimed at Christian children and young people.

The Worldwide Missionary Movement in Belgium held the 1st Youth Camp of Europe’s Block C in the town of Kasterlee, in the province of Antwerp. The event was attended by young people from Germany, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Luxembourg and Belgium.

The activity took place in early August under the motto “Young Man, Run towards Me.” On the first day, Sister Jendery de Sánchez, from the WMM in Germany, shared the message “Young Man, Run towards Me.” Then, on the second day, Rev. Sergio Veizaga preached the Good News of Jesus Christ. The servant delivered the sermon “The Trophy,” based on 1 Samuel 3:7-8.

In the closing ceremony, Rev. Enmanuel Garzón, member of the WMM in Germany, preached the Word with the message “Young Man, Run,” based on 1 Samuel 3:1.

In his speech, the pastor pointed out that the youth must go after God. GOD TAKES CARE OF US

With the motto “Keep Calm, God Takes Care Of Us,” the WMM in Belgium, through its church located in the city of Brussels, developed

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its four-day Vacation Bible School (VBS).

The VBS in Brussels, led by Sister Haydi Ninahuamรกn, gathered children and young people faithful to the Lord in four places: the temple of the Work of Jesus Christ, Pordial park, Flage Park and Wolvendael Park.

The many art shows, dramas and narrations caught the attention of the members of the Work as well

as that of families who live near the evangelization areas who listened to the Word.

By the end of the event, Sister Ninahuamรกn revealed that many children of different nationalities accepted Christ as their Redeemer.

She also stressed that the VBS held in Brussels strengthened the evangelizing work done by the congregation in the capital of Belgium.

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EVENT: EVANGELISTIC WORK / DATE: SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS / PLACE: MULAGO AND KAMWOTYA, UGANDA

GO INTO ALL THE WORLD AND PREACH THE GOSPEL Amid poverty, drugs and prostitution, the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Uganda plants the seed of the Gospel every day on the hill of Mulago and in the community of Kamwotya.

The WMM in Uganda, led by missionary Alexander Espinoza, has been carrying out non-stop evangelistic work since the beginning of June on the hill of Mulago, located in the northern part of the city of Kampala. There, the Good News is announced and Spanish lessons are given on weekends.

This initiative was developed thanks to Sister Rocío Díaz.

In one of her visits in Mulago, a hill located 1260 meters above sea level, she saw firsthand the precarious situation in which the inhabitants live.

NON-STOP WORK

After Sister Díaz’ visit, the Work designed a strategy to invite the adolescents of Mulago to take Spanish and Gospel lessons every Saturday afternoon. It was also decided that on Sundays, the Word would be preached to the children, and snacks would be provided.

On July 31, Pastor Espinoza and his wife Elisabeth visited an elementary school in Mulago to bring a message of

faith and hope to local students. He and the school authorities agreed that the WMM in Uganda would teach Spanish every Friday.

The agreement signed between Reverend Espinoza and the school representatives was executed on August 10, when the lessons began among great expectation. The agreement also established the provision of a classroom with a capacity of one hundred students.

Now, the presence of the Lord is evident in Mulago. Amid poverty, drugs and prostitution, the Gospel of Christ begins to gain ground and the number of people who convert to Christianity and embrace the evangelical faith increases every day.

Another goal of the WMM in Uganda was met in July when the community of Kamwotya was evangelized. First, the Word was preached to a woman. Then, in August, the message of the Lord was shared with more people thanks to the work done by missionary Espinoza and his workers.

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EVENT: NATIONAL CONVENTION DATE: AUGUST 15 - AUGUST 17 PLACE: ABIDJAN, IVORY COAST

“LET’S NOT BE IDLE” Churches from two countries came together to hold the 1st Fellowship of the WMM in Ivory Coast, a blooming Work in West Africa.

About one hundred people gathered in Abidjan, the capital of Ivory Coast, to attend the 1st Fellowship of the Worldwide Missionary Movement. The event was held from August 15 to August 17 in the main auditorium of the Du Roi hotel, located in the neighborhood of Rivera Faya, and was attended by a large delegation from Ghana.

Pastor José Clemente Vergara, Supervisor of Africa and the Netherlands Antilles, led the event. In one of his three sermons, Reverend Vergara said that the doors of Africa are opening for the WMM. “The time will come when God will conquer the entire continent,” he said. He also pointed out that it is time to work together and referred to Isaiah 41: “They helped every one his neighbour; and every one said to his brother, Be of good courage.”

“People set themselves goals, but sometimes they are discouraged on the way. So, they need someone to talk to for support,” he said. He also said that no goal is random. “We, as a Church, have an objective, and we will achieve it in Africa and the world,” he added.

The pastor urged the attendees to work to make the Work grow: “Let’s not be idle and lazy. It’s time for sacrifice and work,” he added.

He called all pastors to continue teaching the Word throughout

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the world and seek holiness. “We all know that without holiness nobody will see the Lord,� he emphasized.

In this event, which brought together delegations from two African countries for the first time, Pastor James Delgado, a Peruvian missionary who leads the Work in Mozambique, also shared the Word of the Lord.

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EVENT: EVANGELISTIC CONFERENCE DATE: AUGUST 4 - AUGUST 5 PLACE: WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND

FAMILIES UNITED

BY GOD’S POWER The WMM in New Zealand held its first two evangelistic conferences with the main objective of spreading the Good News of the Almighty.

Under the motto “Families United by God’s Power,” the WMM in New Zealand held two conferences in two important areas of Wellington: Lower Hutt and Porirua. This congregation is less than one year old and is led by Rev. William García, a Peruvian missionary.

The first meeting took place in Lower Hutt, located on the banks of the Hutt River, gathering more than fifty people eager to listen to the Gospel. Reverend Enoc Ramos, National Supervisor of the WMM in Australia, preached the Word.

In the meantime, the second conference was held in Porirua, also located in Wellington, and was attended by a large group of men and women. In addition, Pastor Ramos was again the instrument chosen by the Lord to evangelize the attendees.

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EVENT: EVANGELISTIC CAMPAIGN DATE: JULY 28 PLACE: IJSSELMONDE, NETHERLANDS

GOOD NEWS FOR THE NETHERLANDS The WMM in the Netherlands held an evangelistic campaign to share the Good News in the Netherlands.

The event of the Worldwide Missionary Movement in the Netherlands took place in Herenwaard Square in Ijsselmonde, a borough in southeastern part of Rotterdam. It began with the preaching of Sister Rosanna Roggeband, who prayed to God for the future of the Netherlands and asked Christ to save lost souls from sin.

Then, local pastor Abraham Roggeband preached the Word of the Savior with a message based on John 14:6. In his presentation of the Holy Scriptures, the minister told the attendees that only Jesus Christ is the way, the truth and the life.

In this way, the Worldwide Missionary Movement in the Netherlands brought the Gospel to the inhabitants of Ijsselmonde, which has a population of about 60,000 people.There, the Work begins to gain ground with the power of Christianity and the sound doctrine.

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Other events

ECUADOR

COLOMBIA

Wedding Operation Lodebar Anniversary and July 8, the Worldwide MissionChildren Campaign aryOn Movement in Colombia, through On August 12, in the central temple of the Work in Guayaquil, the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Ecuador celebrated the 35th wedding anniversary of Reverend Eugenio Masías, National Supervisor of the WMM in Ecuador, and his wife, Sister María Rosa de Masías.

Reverend Lorenzo Cuero led the ceremony and preached the Word of God. In his speech, he stressed that Pastor Eugenio and Sister María Rosa are faith role models working for the spread of the Gospel.

Reverend Masías, for his part, thanked the Ecuadorian faithful for their love and said, “María Rosa and I split for two years because our marriage was dead. But God gave it new life and we have lived hand in hand ever since. Last year, doctors said she was terminally ill. I cried, but I never lost faith. I knew that the Lord was going to work a miracle. Today I thank Christ for healing her.”

The day before, at the River Oeste stadium of Guayaquil, the WMM in Ecuador held an evangelistic campaign for children under the theme “Let the children Come to Me.” Minister Masías shared the message “Demonic Possession in Children,” based on Mark 9:14-21.

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its church in the neighborhood of 7 de Abril in Barranquilla, celebrated the first anniversary of the “Operation Lodebar” project. Its main objective is to bring the Gospel every two weeks to those who have been marginalized by society and now roam the streets amid loneliness, drugs and prostitution.

In addition to preaching the Word of the Lord, the faithful provide food to the homeless. Through this initiative, led by Reverend Carlos Rodelo, the members of the WMM in Colombia fulfill what Jesus Christ determined in the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37): “Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.”

To celebrate the first anniversary of “Operation Lodebar,” a special event was held and attended by pastors from Zone 7 of the WMM in Colombia.

Servants Concepción Castro, José Royero, Jonny Camargo and Martha Villa preached the Word in various places in Barranquilla. In addition, Minister Rodelo revealed that this program seeks to reach more cities.

BRAZIL National Fellowship From August 10 to August 12, the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Brazil held its National Fellowship in the main temple of the Work in the city of Sao Paulo. The event was attended by over a hundred faithful of the Almighty and was held under the motto “Your Miracle Will Happen Today.”

The spiritual event was led by Reverend Joel Verástegui, presbyter of the Zone, and attended by Reverend Gerardo Martínez, National Supervisor of the WMM in Chile, and pastors Marcos Rau and Carlos Mendoza, members of the WMM in Peru. Brothers and pastors from Rio de Janeiro and Belo Horizonte, as well as a delegation of Peruvian believers, also participated.

On the first day, Pastor Martínez shared the message “Requirements for a Blessing,” based on Genesis 33:22-30.

Then, in the morning service of the second day, Pastor Mendoza delivered the sermon “The Leader’s Vision,” based on Proverbs 29:18. In the night service, Preacher Rau developed the topic “What Is Your Faith Based On?,” based on Luke 6:47.

In the morning service of the last day, Sister Maritza de Martínez preached the message “Sarah, Princess of Faith,” based on Genesis 17:15. In the afternoon, a children’s show was presented at the Pueblo Andino cultural park. Later, Reverend Mendoza announced the good news with the message “A True Revival.”

GUATEMALA District Fellowship On August 12, the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Guatemala held a District Fellowship in the facilities of the La Certeza campsite, located in the village of Las Canoas Zone 25, under the motto “Celebrating a Great Victory.”

Reverend Álvaro Garavito, International Officer of the Work and Supervisor of Central America, preached the Word of God with the message “Destroy the Enemy First to Win the Battle,” based on Jeremiah 1:10. He said that the Lord’s people must face evil until Christ comes.

URUGUAY Youth Fellowship On August 18, the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Uruguay held its Youth Fellowship in the central church of Montevideo. The event, which takes place on a monthly basis, aimed to achieve the unity of the youth of the Work of the Lord.

The meeting was attended by believers from the temples of Montevideo and Canelos. Likewise, many guests came to listen to the Word of God and know about the healing power of the Gospel.

At the Youth Fellowship, the good news of Jesus Christ was shared by Reverend Carlos Magallanes, National Supervisor of the WMM in Uruguay.

PUERTO RICO

PANAMA

AUSTRALIA

Children’s Fellowship

National Men Fellowship

National Fellowship

On August 11, the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Puerto Rico held its Children’s Fellowship in the town of Barranquitas. The event was attended by a significant number of little followers of Christ.

The spiritual event, also attended by Reverend Rubén Concepción, International Secretary of the WMM, was led by the outgoing children’s leader, Sister María T. Alicea, who gave her testimony about the evangelizing work she recently did in the Dominican Republic.

In addition, Pastor Concepción urged parents, leaders, teachers, family and friends not to stop or hinder God’s purposes for children, since they are one of the most valuable treasures of the Work.

The new children’s leader of the WMM in Puerto Rico, Sister Nadine Lugo, read biblical passage 2 Timothy 2:14-21 and spoke about the author of the Second Epistle to Timothy, the apostle Paul, who exhorted the young pastor show himself e approved to the Lord.

The event ended with a prayer on the altar in which the faithful prayed for all the Christian children of Puerto Rico and for the Holy Spirit to protect every child who has decided to follow Christ.

On August 3 and August 4, with the motto “Faithful Man Who Can Find?,” the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Panama held its first National Men Fellowship, which took place in the provinces of Bocas del Toro, Chiriqui and Panama.

In the province of Panama, more than six hundred believers gathered to be nourished by the Word of the Lord, which was shared by reverends José Arturo Soto, International President of the Work, and Epifanio Asprilla, National Supervisor of the WMM in Panama, and pastors Alcides Ramea, Mariano Smith and Agustín Batista.

In the meantime, in Bocas del Toro, over two hundred believers gathered to worship and praise the Creator. In Chiriqui, a similar number of faithful gathered to worship the Savior. In this way, more than a thousand men of the WMM in Panama came together to recognize Jesus as their redeemer.

The Worldwide Missionary Movement in Australia held, from June 22 to June 24, its National Fellowship in the temple of Dianella, a town located on the outskirts of the city of Perth.

The spiritual event’s motto was “The Trumpet Will Sound, Christ Is Coming Soon.”

The Fellowship was attended by people of diverse cultures, and Reverend Enoc Ramos, National Supervisor of the WMM in Australia, was the spokesman chosen by the Almighty to share His Word. The Work’s event allowed God to touch many hearts.

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LETTERS TO US... cartas@impactoevangelistico.net

GLOB AL AGENDA 2018 JANUARY 3-10 CONVENTION COLOMBIA 25-28 CONVENTION BOLIVIA

JUAN MARTÍNEZ I’ve read the magazine’s messages and they’re a blessing. I was looking for Christian magazines, and only Impacto Evangelistic has cleared up my doubts. Thank you again.

From Jalisco, Mexico.

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

Dear pastors and brothers in Christ, I’m writing to ask you to pray for Sweden and Denmark. My husband is Danish. He converted to Christ a few years ago. We’re praying that the Gospel can be preached in Denmark. I say goodbye with great happiness and joy. Blessings.

From Malmö, Sweden.

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

ALBERTO LINARES

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I thank God for the many wonders He’s done in my life. I’m a young man who used drugs for a long time. One day I found this magazine and read the testimony of someone who had been changed by the power of God. It really touched me. I immediately felt a great need to ask God for help, and in His great love, He helped me.

From Lima, Peru.

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

ANA CALDERÓN God bless all the brothers who work in the Work of the Lord, especially in the Impacto Evangelistic magazine. What a beautiful magazine. It edifies our soul more and more every day. I invite you, friend and brother, to support the Work of God so that it can carry on. God bless you.

From Caracas, Venezuela.

RAMÓN SANTIAGO I’d like to thank the Lord for allowing me to write you for your successful and versatile ministry. I’ve been reading Impacto Evangelistic for many years now. Ever since 1984, I pray and contribute to see this movement reach the whole world, and I’ll do it until the Lord so desires. I’m so happy. I’ve received all the magazines you’ve sent. Thank you for keeping me on the mailing list.

From New York, USA.

CARLOS OLIVARES I’m very grateful to God because He led me to read the magazine. Now I’m full of His Word and spiritual knowledge. God bless you, brothers, for making this great magazine.

From Colon, Panama.

OMAR RODRÍGUEZ Thank God for the magazine’s helpful information.

The topics discussed are a blessing. We’re using some of their articles to train ourselves and form study groups to train others, so that they gain the knowledge to do the evangelistic work in our country.

From Madrid, Spain.

LUIS LÓPEZ Dear brothers, I greet you in the precious name of our beloved Savior. I’m forever grateful for the beautiful blessing and great privilege of being part of this Work. I always receive the magazine. I love its edifying messages and the pictures of the events that take place in different places. Brothers, I always pray the Lord to continue blessing you.

From Mayagüez, Puerto Rico.

ALFONSO GONZALES God bless you richly, brothers in faith.

Congratulations. The glory be to God. This magazine is great, its articles are deep and really interesting.

From Quito, Ecuador.

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

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October 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

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MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 68 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceania • Africa • Asia