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THE MAGAZINE THAT EDIFIES YOUR LIFE

May 2016 / Edition 748

evangelistic OFFICIAL PUBLICATION

LIFE STORIES

Abel, the one who is with God

WORLDWIDE MISSIONARY MOVEMENT

LITERATURE

The life of the missionary Melchior Tari DEVOTIONAL

God will descend with power and glory

Its divine meaning as a lifetime bond of real love

MARRIAGE May 2016 / Impacto evangelistic

1

! y d a e r t e G The conventions

will arrive to your country JULY BOLIVIA From 30 to 03 La Paz Bolivia

NETHERLANDS ANTILLES From 6 to 9

Bonaire, Caribbean Netherlands

USA From 5 to 8

From 12 to 15

MEXICO From 19 to 24

From 28 to 31 Herica Puebla de Zaragoza Puebla, Mexico

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

EDITORIAL

COME, SPIRIT OF GOD, AND GIVE US LIFE Rev. Gustavo Martínez International President of the WMM

“And he said unto me, Son of man, can these bones live? And I answered, O Lord God, thou knowest. Again he said unto me, Prophesy upon these bones, and say unto them, O ye dry bones, hear the word of the Lord. Thus saith the Lord God unto these bones; Behold, I will cause breath to enter into you, and ye shall live… And when I beheld, lo, the sinews and the flesh came up upon them, and the skin covered them above: but there was no breath in them. Then said he unto me, Prophesy unto the wind, prophesy, son of man, and say to the wind, Thus saith the Lord God; Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe upon these slain, that they may live. So I prophesied as he commanded me, and the breath came into them, and they lived, and stood up upon their feet, an exceeding great army” Ezekiel 37:3-10.

G

od uses “son of man” to refers

and so we touch the mind, the intellect,

to Ezekiel’s human condition; it

but not the spirit. People say, “What a

is God talking to a creature and

message! What a great speaker! I like him,

asking a question: “Son of man, can these

I like listening to him.” But nothing hap-

bones live?” (v. 3a) Ezekiel did not argue,

pens; there is noise, there is shaking, there

but welcomed God by faith and said, “O

is flesh, there are tendons, but there is no

Lord God, thou knowest” (v. 3b) In other words, he is saying, “Lord, I am made from clay, you are the Creator, and only you know if they will live.”

The first mandate was, “Prophesy upon these bones, and say unto them, O ye dry bones, hear the word of the Lord” (v. 4). The second mandate was, “Prophesy unto the wind, prophesy, son of man, and say to the wind, Thus saith the Lord God; Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe upon these slain, that they may live” (v. 9).

Ezekiel gave the first message and when he did it, there was a noise and a shaking, and the bones came together, bone to his bone. He said, “And when I

life, no one rises, no one changes their position, everything remains the same, there is no progress, there is no growth, years pass and the Work does not grow, there are no workers. The reason is that we are only preaching to the flesh, to the bones, we are making noise, but we are not prophesying to the spirit.

Prophesying to the spirit and the wind means intercession, prayer, plea, wail, so that the Holy Spirit can manifest and give life.

There was no life until Ezekiel prophesied to the spirit and asked the breath to come from the four winds. The breath came into the slain, they lived, stood up on their feet as an army, willing to go into

beheld, lo, the sinews and the flesh came up

battle and conquer the territory that the

upon them, and the skin covered them above:

devil had stolen from them.

but there was no breath in them” (v. 8). Sometimes we only prophesy to the bones,

Come, Spirit of God, breathe upon us and give us life! l May 2016 / Impacto evangelistic

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www.impactoevangelistico.net

evangelistic Founder Director: Rev. Luis M. Ortiz April 2016 / Edition N° 747 (USPS 012-850) OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE WORLDWIDE MISSIONARY MOVEMENT The World-Wide Missionary Movement, Inc. is a non-profit church with a vision to plant new churches in the United States of America and its territories, and also with a missionary vision to plant new churches wherever God opens new doors all over the World.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SUMMARY Search us in:

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Cover Note.

Is Marriage Obsolete?

Infography.

Marriage in danger.

International.

The Most Powerful Earthquakes.

Well-being.

Community Contribution to Health.

Facts.

The Bible Was Right After All. Literature.

Like a Mighty Wind.

Music.

Down at the Cross.

Hero of Faith.

Man of Christ.

Life Stories.

Abel, The One Who Is With God. Interview.

Towards the 2nd European Congress.

Devotionals.

Events.

Jesus Gave Life to my Life.

Letters.

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14 16

20 22

24 28

3034 40

42-47

48-65 66 May 2016 / Impacto evangelistic

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

FOTO: AFP

COVER NOTE

IS MARRIAGE OBSOLETE? Nowadays marriage has become obsolete and living together without having married is the rule for many people. This article exposes the devastating results of this immoral tendency in our families and our culture; in adittion, it clearly emphasizes the divine meaning of marriage as a lifetime bond of real love.

David Jeremiah

May 2016 / Impacto evangelistic

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T

he studies show that living together before marriage does not guarantee that marriage will last. Nevertheless, there is a very clear statistic figure from 21st century: more and more couples consider marriage as an option.

In the United States, in 1977, less than a million opposite-sex couples lived together without having married. In 2007, that figure increased to 6.4 million, which means almost 10% of all opposite-sex couples. It is clear that the culture we live in nowadays has lost the real meaning of marriage.

A research center and a magazine found some shocking answers from the US public. In 2010, they were asked whether marriage was obsolete or not, and about 40% said yes; among those who were in MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 8 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

the traditional age of getting married between 18 and 29 years, the figure reached 44%. That means 44% of people in age to get married thought that marriage had become obsolete.

What are the effects caused by the growing obsolescence of marriage? It is always easy to make changes in our culture for convenience or preference, but it is not always easy to anticipate the impact that those changes will produce.

When the Supreme Court of the United States announced its historical decision in the trial of Roe versus Wade in 1973, which legalized abortion, no one could anticipate the impact that the elimination of 53 million human beings would have in the US conscience and the country’s economy. One of the main reasons why

COVER NOTE

the multitude of business; and a fool’s voice is known by multitude of words. When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it; for he hath no pleasure in fools: pay that which thou hast vowed. Better is it that thou shouldest not vow, than that thou shouldest vow and not pay. Suffer not thy mouth to cause thy flesh to sin; neither say thou before the angel, that it was an error…” (Ecclesiastes 5: 2-6). Jesus said: “But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil”. Nevertheless, many do not stay true to their marriage vows that they once pronounced.

Once again Solomon’s words are right: “And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken” (Ecclesiastes 4:12).

Generally, a single person in our current culture is the most vulnerable on the face of the earth. The simple fact of getting married to someone doubles one’s strength against adversity; in addition, family in-law and extended family become progressively more helpful, as the cord becomes stronger. Nevertheless, that strong cord tears apart quickly when marriage fails and vows are broken, even though ex-spouses and their families try to do whatever is possible to keep the strength after a divorce.

Nothing could be clearer in the Bible in relation to what is marriage to God. It does not matter what somebody says or how many people give their opinion. Marriage is companionship between a man and a woman, who are united

by God.

the Social Security in the United States is in trouble besides the bad management of the government is the lack of 53 million workers who could contribute to that fund.

Although it was easy to make such a decision to approve abortion, it was not easy to face the consequences. Even more important than the impact on the economy, it was the spiritual and psychological impact caused by the elimination of so many human lives.

To keep promises and vows was considered highly important to God. Solomon dedicates an entire section to the topic of vows; he says: “Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to utter any thing before God: for God is in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be few. For a dream cometh through

FOTO: AFP

Continue reading––

May 2016 / Impacto evangelistic

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Continue reading––

God’s design for marriage consisted in a man and a woman in lifetime union providing love, stability and maturing together. Marriage is a cord that joins society together; the weaker the cord is, the weaker the society gets.

SIGNIFICANT MARRIAGE The biblical definition of marriage dates back to the creation of the world. At the beginning, the fundamental and human natural order was established: the celestial bodies would govern the sky day and night; the human being would be the bearer of God’s image on earth and majordomo of all the creation having as mission to populate the earth. The relation between human beings and animals, their diet, the creation and designation of the woman as a man’s partner, and the marriage as God’s recipe for human companionship were also settled (Genesis 2:24)

1) Marriage as product of creation.

Marriage does not impose order, because it has a much deeper purpose. It is fundamental for the life’s design on earth; it is the union of a couple whose potential to create synergy being married is superior to the one they could achieve only living together. When a man and a woman join together in marriage, something stable and immovable takes place; they can use their new identity to act as majordomos of creation and bearers of God’s image on earth.

Marriage is the product of creation.

2) Marriage is an alliance between a man and a woman. Marriage is not an union between several men and women, but the union between a man and a woman. All the discussions in the last decades because of marriage’s concept and as the statistics show are based on the rejection of this model.

Nothing could be clearer in the Bible in relation to what is marriage to God. It does not matter what somebody says or how many people give their opinion. Marriage MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 10 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

FOTO: AFP

“Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” (Genesis 2:24)

David Jeremiah.

is companionship between a man and a woman united by God, even though if they are not Christians. Marriage is obligatory in every part of the world, because it was created at the beginning of the world and it comes from God’s heart. Marriage is the product of creation and is companionship between a man and a woman.

COVER NOTE

3) Marriage is a permanent union.

The concept that states that a man and a woman become one flesh is illustrated as a last resort in their sexual union. Jesus approved the continuity of the marriage: “Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.”

(Matthew 19:6) Here is the condition why people got divorced; it was granted because of the toughness of the heart, as Christ said to experts in law of the Old Testament (Matthew 19:8). As it is commonly said, the exception confirms the rule. The divorce is a limited exception of what God has ordered as a permanent union. In other words, without the permanent plan, the exception would not be necessary. The exception confirms the plan just by being the exception; it is a testimony of the fact that God had a purpose and a plan for marriage: to be permanent.

4) Marriage is first and foremost a spiritual union. Human beings were created as physical and spiritual beings. The

union is not only physical, but also spiritual. The modern culture is wrong when couples choose to be physically united without any spiritual commitment.

The apostle Paul emphasizes the spiritual union in 1 Corinthians 6:15-17, when he warned the believers about being with prostitutes and becoming one flesh with them; then, he said “who joins the Lord is a spirit with Him”. We are not united to Jesus Christ physically but spiritually. Marriage between two people who follow the Lord is a three-dimensional agreement. It is not only the man and his wife, it is the man having a relationship with God and his wife.

The dynamic of a Christian marriage is getting to know each other, love each other, but also knowing God. The more you get closer to God and know Him, the more you will get closer to your husband or wife. Marriage is a spiritual union.

5) Marriage’s priority is procreation.

“Be fruitful, and multiply” was the first commission given to humanity at the very beginning of our history. Genesis 1:28 says:

God wanted marriage to be the solid piece that helps society to continue its progress.

Strong marriages, their children and their children’s families work as the principal strength of society.

Loyal marriages are not only useful to channel and control sexual and emotional energy of adults, but also are a source of wisdom and education for future generations, who will take their places in society.

Continue reading–– May 2016 / Impacto evangelistic

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

COVER NOTE Continuar leyendo––

“Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it”. This was repeated afterwards in the second beginning on humanity, after the great Flood. In Genesis 9:1, it is stated: “And God blessed Noah and his sons, and said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth.”

Take into consideration the words of an erudite person: “Why should we stop two people who love each other from getting married?” The problem is that marriage is defined as the legal union between two opposite-sex people, who are not blood relatives; that is a basic concept. What would happen if we change this concept to allow marriage between homosexuals.

For example, a group of Mormons with the help of a group of Muslims could demand the legalization of polygamy. Their argument would be: “I want to have four wives, because I love them and they love me in return”. Then, other person could say: “Why can’t I marry my sister?” And somebody else could have a much more exotic idea: “I love my dog and my dog loves me too.”

According to the biblical concept, love is like the air we breath, which surrounds us and makes possible for us to have the fruitful life that God has designed. The apostle Paul wrote that love is the greatest virtue of all, as we can read in 1 Corinthians 13:13; love motivates and makes possible all the actions in life, including marriage. But love is not the only reason to get married according to God’s design.

Many see marriage as the need to be loved in return and think that finding love is a reason to get married, but they frequently realize that their imperfect spouse cannot love them perfectly or enough, and then is when marriage falls apart. Only the perfect and eternal love from God in Jesus Christ can fill a marriage with enough love to make it work.

In the garden of Eden, God created and put together two perfect people without any sin: a man and a woman. They knew the perfect love of God, and did not get married to find love, but to be together as one and to comply with God’s main purpose for them, which is primarily to procreate and to raise the next generation.

6) Marriage is the main piece in the construction of society. Besides marriage, God did not establish any other organization or structure for humanity. God wanted marriage to be the solid piece that helps society to continue its progress.

Strong marriages, their children and their children’s families work as the principal strength of society. Loyal marriages are not only useful to channel and control sexual and emotional energy of adults, but also are a source of wisdom and education for future generations, who will take their places in society. The youngest people learn from strong and loyal marriages what is necessary to form an oasis of love, order and strength in a cultural desert, which has quicksand constantly being changed by winds of preference or convenience.

We have to remember that Satan did not approach to Adan when he was single, he waited until he got married (because marriage is God’s main piece for building

If God established marriage and family in the society, and if there is an evil being called Satan who fights against God’s main purposes for the world, it should not surprise us that the divine fundaments of those institutions are under massive attack in the last years. society) in order to attack both of them.

One could think that it would have been easier to attack one person instead of two, but the attack was not only against society, but also against marriage; Satan wanted to divide the couple and break the harmony between human beings and the relationship of human beings with God. Satan continues using that strategy nowadays. He knows that if marriage keeps going forward, society will keep being stable in the world. The more damage he can cause in societies by attacking and disturbing, the easier it is for him to make people turn away from God and focus on their own survival.

If God established marriage and family in the society, and if there is an evil being called Satan who fights against God’s main purposes for the world, it should not surprise us that the divine fundaments of those institutions are under massive attack in the last years l May 2016 / Impacto evangelistic

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Marriage in danger Sociologists and organizations believe marriage is in danger because of the fear to engagement, the lack of values, the little support families receive from the State, or the lack of conciliation between family and professional life.

Marriage is an alliance between a man and a woman

These are the implications of marriage

Marriage has stopped being part of many young people’s lives. The numbers speak for themselves. With the exception of a small upturn in 2014, the number of couples who have chosen to go to the Civil Registry in the last ten years has dropped 25 %. This tendency is even higher in ecclesiastical weddings, which have dropped 52 % between 2007 and 2013

El matrimonio es una unión permanente Marriage as product of creation Marriage’s priority is procreation Marriage is first and foremost a spiritual union

The high number of breakups increases the crisis of the institution. Each year, for every ten couples getting married, there are seven breaking up.

South Africa Divorce rate

31.2%

France Divorce rate

55%

Less marriages, more divorces Young adults postpone or avoid marriage. Couples that decide to get married are twice likely to get divorced than they used to 40 years ago. If we combine both tendencies, we note that there are 277 million of one-member families in the world.

Italy Divorce rateo

30.7%

Qatar Divorce rate

38%

Canada

2010

Divorce rate

48%

4.5%

1960

1980

2000

5.2%

6.8%

8%

Marriage rate WORLDWIDE MISSIONARY MOVEMENT

14 America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

The increase of divorces is constant in almost the entire world.

94%

Singles’ future plans for the year 2030 Projected percentage of one-member families by 2030.

Netherlands Norway

41%

39%

France

Germany

46%

Japan

15%

New Zealand

31%

30%

USA Divorce rate

36%

41%

Divorce rate

38%

Australia

40%

Divorce rate

Mexico

Japan

24%

28%

40%

United Kingdom

Korea

USA

They cause more damage to the environment Single people are less ecological than family members given that they use:

United Kingdom Divorce rate

42%

More products

38%

More packaging

42%

More electricity

55%

Australia Divorce rate

43%

More trash

60%

More fuel

61%

Births outside marriage These are the alarming divorce statistics in some countries

1960

1980

6.2% 10.3%

2000

27.4%

2010

37.4% May 2016 / Impacto evangelistic

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THE MOST POWERFUL EARTHQUAKES An earthquake shook Ecuador on April 16, leaving more than 600 people killed. Like this South American country, many others have been hit by powerful earthquakes throughout history.

E

ach year, thousands of earthquakes of different intensity occur in the world. Most of them go unnoticed by people; however, some leave great destruction and death behind. To date, only five earthquakes have reached a magnitude greater than or equal to 9 degrees on the Richter scale.

An eight-story building threatens to collapse completely after suffering severe damage by the earthquake in Ecuador.

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

VALDIVIA (CHILE) The strongest earthquake ever recorded struck Chile on May 22, 1960, with a magnitude of 9.5 degrees (Richter scale).

It was the largest earthquake in the world and hit the entire Southern Cone of Ame-

INTERNATIONAL

The earthquake in Ecuador resulted in 6,622 homes collapsed, 13 health facilities affected and 281 educational institutions damaged.

rica. The earthquake caused 1,655 dead, 3,000 injured and 2 million homeless.

The tsunami after the earthquake resulted in severe damage in Hawaii, Japan, New Zealand, Philippines and the United States.

ALASKA (UNITED STATES) On Good Friday, March 27, 1964, an earthquake of magnitude 9.2 struck Alaska, causing a subsequent tsunami, with waves of over 16 feet. The 4-minute “Great Alaskan Earthquake,” as it is known, is considered the most powerful earthquake ever recorded in North America. Later estimates state that significant tectonic deformation occurred over an area of more than 200,000 square kilometers. Another major side effect was the temporary change of soil and sand from solid to liquid in areas such as the Turnagain Heights, where clay cliffs collapsed and homes were razed.

SUMATRA-ANDAMAN (INDONESIA) In 2004, an earthquake of magnitude 9.1 hit the Indian Ocean; its epicenter near the west coast of Sumatra (Indonesia).

Fourteen countries in South Asia and

An Ecuadorian woman looks horrified at the damages caused by the earthquake that struck Ecuador on April 16.

Continue reading–– May 2016 / Impacto evangelistic

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The earthquake in Valdivia, Chile, on May 22, 1960, is the most powerful in history.

In 2004, more than 228,000 people died in the longest earthquake ever. It lasted almost 10 minutes.

The strongest earthquake ever recorded in the history of Japan occurred on March 11, 2011. It had a magnitude of 9 degrees.

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

INTERNATIONAL

On March 27, 1964, the so-called “Great Alaskan Earthquake” became the second strongest earthquake recorded so far.

Continue reading––

Africa were affected. Nearly 228,000 people were killed or disappeared in the earthquake. This has been the longest earthquake recorded to date: between 8.3 and 10 minutes, and it was large enough to make the entire planet shake at least one centimeter.

Kamchatka (Russia) On November 4, 1952, an earthquake of magnitude 9 hit Kamchatka, Siberia, and Kuril Islands, and resulted in devastating tsunamis that reached Hawaii, Japan, Alaska, Chile and New Zealand.

HONSHU (JAPAN) On March 11, 2011, Japan was struck by an earthquake of magnitude 9, accor-

ding to the Japan Meteorological Agency (higher than the 8.9 initially estimated by the US Geological Survey). The earthquake’s epicenter was off the coast of Honshu, 130 kilometers east of Sendai, in Miyagi. It is the most powerful earthquake that has hit Japan since the country began keeping records of earthquakes in the late nineteenth century, and the fifth strongest in the world. It lasted two minutes. The National Administration of Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), with the help of satellite images, has proven that the earthquake may have moved Japan more than two meters. Several infrastructures were seriously affected by the earthquake, including four nuclear plants l

With information from www.muyhistoria.es

May 2016 / Impacto evangelistic

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COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTION TO HEALTH A new concept emerged in the twentieth century as a health strategy for countries with less social and economic development. It has essential characteristics, such as community participation in decision-making and healthcare planning.

Walter Menchola Vásquez (*)

rimary health care (PHC) is based on some essential concepts. One of them is the community participation in healthcare planning, organization and decisionmaking. In other words, people, families and communities must take responsibility for their healthcare and, therefore, take part in in the decisions, organization, execution and control regarding their health.

Another concept is equity. In view of the strong disparities in access to health services –the best services for those who least require them, while those in need have no access to them–, the Government’s intervention is essential, and it is important to not rely only on market forces.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has promoted PHC since 1978.

It was concluded that it is impossible to provide enough quality health services to the world population by only considering the hospital or biological model, which requires otherwise vast amounts of human, technological, financial and infrastructure resources.

We must consider that people’s health deteriorates because of diseases that are highly preventable; its diagnosis and treatment requires simple measures. In this regard, the PHC results have been impressive; for example, the control of infectious diseases through immunization programs MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 20 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

FOTO: AFP

P

that have eradicated smallpox and polio or have controlled measles.

Its application demands to scrupulously comply with its principles and requirements. PHC has been adopted in many countries and its achievements in less developed nations have been outstanding. For instance, oral rehydration salts programs, pneumonia detection and treatment in children under 5, immunization campaigns, monitoring of pregnant women, programs for children growth and development, education for women, nutrition, detection and rapid transfer to hospital facilities of the health system.

PHC has saved the lives of millions of people worldwide. Key factors are the community workers (nurses, assistants

WELL-BEING

and others) whose silent work and sacrifice make it possible to achieve the goals.

Community workers are an essential part of the health system, because they not only detect diseases for which treatment they are trained, but they also know their limitations and transfer in a timely manner those patients requiring care in health facilities. They are important assets, hence the need to integrate them in health systems.

A PHC-based health system guarantees universal coverage and access to services –besides being accepted by the population, these services promote equity–; provides comprehensive care throughout the lifetime of individuals; prioritizes prevention and promotion; enables the user’s first contact with the system; considers

families and communities the mainstay of health planning and action; requires a solid legal, institutional and organizational framework, as well as adequate human, financial and technological resources. In addition, it uses the best practices of organization and management at all levels to achieve quality, efficiency and effectiveness; and develops active mechanisms to maximize individual and collective participation in healthcare (WHO).

A system of this nature makes it possible for all people in a country to have access to healthcare, regardless of their social or economic status. PHC is applicable at all levels of health and in all medical specialties. This is why we all should take part l

(*) Internist, Master in Public Policy and Management.

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THE BIBLE WAS RIGHT AFTER ALL B

y all accounts, Lee Strobel was an ardent Bible critic. This award-winning journalist of the Chicago Tribune did not believe in God or the Bible. Having graduated from Yale Law School, he had honed his skills in reporting important legal cases and had little respect for the Holy Scriptures.

“For much of my life,” he writes, “I was a skeptic. In fact, I considered myself an atheist. To me, there was far too much evidence that God was merely a product of wishful thinking, of ancient mythology, of primitive superstition” (The Case for Christ, 1998, p. 13).

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Yet he came to admit there was a hidden reason for his skepticism about God and Christianity: “I had read just enough philosophy and history to find support for my skepticism—a fact here, a scientific theory there, a pithy quote, a clever argument. Sure, I could see some gaps and inconsistencies, but I had a strong motivation to ignore them: a self-serving and immoral lifestyle that I would be compelled to abandon if I were ever to change my views and become a follower of Jesus” (ibid.).

Accepting a challenge from his wife, however, he launched into a thorough

REALIDAD FACTS

ting a court trial, including interviewing 13 leading scholars with impeccable credentials. The results stunned him, and he grudgingly accepted that the Bible was true and that Jesus Christ was the Son of God. As a consequence, he mentions in his book, he became a Christian.

How many times have similar situations occurred? Many intelligent skeptics, when challenged to carefully examine the case for God and the Bible, have eventually come to accept the evidence that God exists and the Bible was right after all. What kind of evidence did they find to convince them?

Bible critics and skeptics abound, but there are inspiring cases of some who have changed their minds. What kind of evidence brought about their surprising turnarounds? investigation concerning God, the Bible and Jesus Christ. “I plunged into the case,” he continues, “with more vigor than with any story I had ever pursued.

I applied the training I had received at Yale Law School as well as my experience as legal affairs editor of the Chicago Tribune. And over time the evidence of the world of history, of science, of philosophy, of psychology began to point to the unthinkable” (p. 14).

The “unthinkable” for Mr. Strobel meant reluctantly accepting he had been wrong. He spent two years carefully gathering evidence as if he were conduc-

THE BIBLE IS RIGHT There will always be Bible skeptics for they know much is at stake. History has shown that civilizations rise and fall according to their prevailing beliefs.

In fact, the ancient Greek civilization fell in part because philosophers began to ridicule the notion that gods lived atop nearby Mount Olympus. Although the Bible makes it clear that these religious beliefs were wrong, many Greeks associated them with the moral underpinnings of society, and the result was a relaxing of the nation’s morals. As the Greeks experienced, when doubt and absolute liberty to do as one pleases sets in, moral degeneration is not far behind, and then a general weakening of the nation’s resolve can lead to a successful invasion from its enemies.

Today, we are harvesting the seeds of more than a century of skepticism. We live in an increasingly lawless and degenerate society. Some skeptics should know better, but as Lee Strobel put it, they are not willing to give up “a selfserving and immoral lifestyle.”

Yet, in spite of all the secular critics who rail against God and the Bible, there are some who, by carefully examining the evidence of the world that surrounds them be it history, astronomy, archaeology or health finally come to the conclusion that the Bible was right after all. Then begins a great adventure, for beyond believing it comes the hard part of trying to live itwhich is to the lasting benefit of all l

Today, we are harvesting the seeds of more than a century of skepticism. We live in an increasingly lawless and degenerate society.

Some skeptics should know better, but as Lee Strobel put it, they are not willing to give up “a self-serving and immoral lifestyle.”

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LIKE A MIGHTY WIND Source of inspiration for believers from all five continents. It tells the life of the missionary Melchior Tari and describes the revival of Indonesia.

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want to share with you how the Lord has worked. Perhaps this will help you to realize what our Lord can do in these last days. It also will prove to you that the entire Bible is true, even for those of us who live today. Often people talk of the Bible as the “Old Black Book.”

They believe that the things recorded there just happened centuries ago and are not relevant for us in this generation. But I can prove that this Bible is more relevant today than the morning newspaper. The newspaper only tells us about the crime and wars, earthquakes and rebellion. The Bible, however, explains the will of God… The book “Like a Mighty Wind” describes the story of the Indonesian missionary Melchior Tari, known in the Christian world as Mel. He witnessed the revival that took place on the island of Timor in 1965, amid the political and social chaos that Indonesia went through in those days. The book was published in 1972 in the United States and translated into more than forty languages; it reminds all believers of the evangelizing power of the Lord.

Most people have never known the reality of the power of the Bible in their lives; therefore, they can’t believe the entire Bible. But I praise God that the Holy Spirit can help you to understand the Bible as you read it. When I read my Bible, I just trust the Lord Jesus. If it says ‘jump,’ I jump without question. People might say I’m crazy or foolish, but the Bible says obeMISSIONARY MOVEMENT 24 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

dience is more important than sacrifice.

Many people go to church and worship God without obedience. We must obey our God. He’s a living God and is working today.

The story of preacher

LITERATURE

Tari –divided into seventeen chapters– was written by evangelical author Cliff Dudley; he says in the preface that Mel, now transformed into a renowned man of faith, states that the Holy Spirit brings not only power, but also discipline and love. Furthermore, in the introduction, it is told that Tari was 18 when the revival began in Indonesia, causing a great spiritual conversion process in Southeast Asia.

As a child, he went to church and Sunday school, memorized the Bible,

and tried to be as good a Christian as I was supposed to be. We would go to church every Sunday morning. We attended mid-week worship services and prayer meetings and we all thought we were believers, but our relationship with God was just funny. Why? We had our Bible. We read in the Bible about the power of the Lord Jesus, about His wonderful promises (these are about 30,000 of His promises) –but to be honest with you, I was in church 19 years, but I ne-

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ver experienced one single promise that the Lord Jesus Christ made.

“Like a Mighty Wind” –source of inspiration for believers from all five continents– conveys a stirring message about evangelical faith through an emotional account of the events in Mel Tari’s life and Indonesia. Similarly, the book refers to a clear message that every Christian should keep in mind: Let us return to the simplicity of the Word of God. It also describes the hope of Tari, a humble and obedient servant of God. I want to thank the American people for sending the missionaries to my country. In my country, we were heathen and never knew about the living God, Jesus Christ. My ancestors bowed down to the big tree, the big mountains, and the big snakes. But when missionaries came to my country years back, they brought with them the story of Jesus. I really praise the Lord that the missionaries brought us the Black Book. It’s an old book, but this Book has changed the history of many people. This Book has made the beggar become the son of the Living God, to become a king who will rule together with Jesus when He settles His kingdom.

Melchior Tari, who witnessed countless miracles during the revival in Indonesia –water turning into wine, men risen and able to cross a 9-meter-deep–, shows in the book his deep appreciation for the missionary work done in the world by the American evangelical community. The missionary says that Christians in America have allowed the Bible to reach every corner of the world.

Television is one of the worst sources of demon powers to come into our homes. Oh, how careless the Christian is with the TV. He lets the children watch all that demonic stuff. I tell you, it is terrible. Now you are reaping some of the harvest. You who read these pages take heed yourselves. Warn your fellow Christians to take all religious statues, curios that resemble heathen gods, bad magazines, dirty books, anything about astrology, and any other unclean things in their homes and burn them. Renounce the devil in all dealings with any of these

demonic things.

In “Like a Mighty Wind”, demon power is also analyzed and studied by Mel Tari. Tari, who travels the world preaching the gospel, says that Satan has blinded the eyes of humanity so that we cannot see the evil surrounding us. He also notes that bitterness and hatred often nest in the hearts of humans, and that today demons manifest through palmistry, magic, spiritualism and witchcraft.

When I became a Christian, Indonesia was still a heathen country. Even we who went to church got mixed up with heathen witchcraft and fetishes. I remember about six years ago (before the revival), if we got sick, we who called ourselves Christians would go to the witch doctors and they would do whatever they do, and we would receive healing. That was a terrible condition. We confessed to be Christian, but instead of experiencing the power of God in our lives, we were spiritually dead and our church was like a funeral home. In 1965, I found the Lord Jesus as my personal Savior. That was a wonderful and happy day for me.

In the final part of Melchior Tari’s book, in the chapter entitled ‘The Calling of the Lord Jesus,’ he exhorts us to seek God. The author states directly and clearly that everyone should be certain in his heart about the Christian faith.

Tari notes that this certainty can be received through a vision, through the Word of God or through a sermon; and that everyone should know that the Lord has called us for a special purpose.

Young people in our generation, Lord, have turned to sex, drugs, liquor, and so on, because they don’t find love in their houses, and they try to find the worldly love. Help us, Lord, to show them the real love of God, because that’s the only love that satisfies. Not the human love, Lord, that’s so selfish, but Your divine love, Lord. We want that love in our own hearts and in our families and in our communities and in our churches.

Let the Holy Spirit have His way in our lives. Let us come into the fullness of power, and as the Bible said, let us be grounded deeper and deeper in love l

LITERATURE

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DOWN AT THE CROSS “Down at the Cross” is an important gospel hymn, focused on the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and the salvation of mankind from sin. It was written by composer Elisha Albright Hoffman.

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merican composer Elisha Albright Hoffman, believer committed and author of more than two thousand gospel songs, wrote in 1878 an important Christian hymn that still today touches the people of God. “Down to the Cross” talks directly and clearly about the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and how the Lord allowed His son to die on the cross to save mankind from sin.

His biographers state that Hoffman, who was born on May 7, 1839 within an evangelical family, composed “Down to the Cross” after reading the passages of the Bible in which the death of Jes-

DOWN AT THE CROSS 1 Down at the cross where my Savior died, Down where for cleansing from sin I cried, There to my heart was the blood applied; Glory to His Name!

CHORUS Glory to His Name, glory to His Name: There to my heart was the blood applied; Glory to His Name!

2 I am so wondrously saved from sin, Jesus so sweetly abides within; There at the cross where He took me in; Glory to His Name!

3 Oh, precious fountain that saves from sin, I am so glad I have entered in; There Jesus saves me and keeps me clean; Glory to His Name!

4 Come to this fountain so rich and sweet, Cast thy poor soul at the Savior’s feet; Plunge in today, and be made complete; Glory to His Name!

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us of Nazareth in the Golgotha is described. The emotion of the author was such, that he immediately took a pencil and paper, and created a beautiful poem to proclaim the forgiveness that the Messiah offered with His blood. Then, the musician John Hart Stockton set Hoffman’s verses to music.

The song consists of four verses and the refrain, and was originally written in English. Its layout is built on the repetition of words key to Christian faith, such as ‘forgiveness’ and ‘glory.’ In the opinion of experts in gospel music, the lyrics shows the attitude of worshiping God’s purposes and is designed to be sung in excitement. In addition, its metric is perfectly concatenated and responds to the pattern that Hoffman used in his compositions.

Hoffman, whose father was the prominent German missionary Francis A. Hoffman, shared, since he was a child, his faith in the Lord through music.

Born in the city of Orwigsburg, Pennsylvania, he developed a very active spiritual life and excelled as an early virtuous singer. Later on, in 1873, after studying at Union Seminary, he was ordained a minister of God and devoted himself entirely to preaching the Word.

Having a natural musical talent, he made a large contribution to gospel music with songs such as “Are You Washed in the Blood?”, “Leaning on The Everlasting Arms” and “I must I tell Jesus”. Similarly, the American preacher devoted much of his efforts to editing and publishing fifty compilation books with the most representative gospel songs.

With passion and enthusiasm, Hoffman shared his faith from the pulpit of

MUSIC

several churches in the states of Ohio, Michigan and Illinois. He was a man of firm beliefs who, throughout his long earthly existence, announced the good

news of the Lord for more than 49 years, until 1922. After his retirement from the ministry life, he settled in Chicago; he died on November 5, 1929 l May 2016 / Impacto evangelistic

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MAN OF CHRIST He is the most famous missionary of the evangelization in China. James Hudson Taylor served God in Asia for 51 years, converting 35,000 souls and inspiring the Christian international community.

Ed Reese

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As a rigorous believer, he travelled a lot through the British islands to speak about the spiritual need of China. Carrying his Bible, he also shared the Gospel with the prisoners of the Newgate Prison in London.

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udson Taylor was the most widely used missionary in China’s history.

During his 51 years of service there, his China Inland Mission established 20 mission stations, brought 849 missionaries to the field (968 by 1911), trained some 700 Chinese workers... It has been said at least 35,000 were his own converts and that he baptized some 50,000. His gift for inspiring people to give themselves and their possessions to Christ was amazing.

Taylor was born on May 21, 1832, into a Christian home in the United Kingdom.

His father, James Taylor, was a chemist and a local Methodist preacher who himself was fascinated by China in his youth.

Once at age 4, Hudson piped up, “When I am a man I mean to be a missionary and go to China.” However, soon young Taylor became a skeptical and worldly young man. He decided to live for this life only.

FIRST STEPS His conversion is an amazing story. When he was 17 years of age, he went into his father’s library one afternoon in June 1849 in search of a book to read. Finally, he picked up a gospel tract entitled, “It is Finished,” and decided to read the story on the front. He came upon the expression, “The Finished work of Christ,” Remembering the words, “It is Finished,” he raised the question — “What was finished?” The an-

swers seemed to fall in place and he received Christ as his Savior.

Months later, he began to feel a great dissatisfaction with his spiritual state.

His “first love” and his zeal for souls had grown cold. On December 2, 1849, he retired to be alone with the Lord and it seemed this was the time to promise the Lord he would go to China. Hudson started to prepare immediately by exercising in the open air and exchanging his feather bed for a hard mattress. He distributed tracts and held cottage meetings. With the aid of a copy of Luke’s Gospel in the Mandarin dialect, he studied the Chinese language. He borrowed a book on China from a Congregational minister and began the study of Greek, Hebrew, and Latin.

In November 1851, Hudson moved his lodging to a noisy suburb of Darinside, a neighborhood on the edge of town. Here he began a rigorous regime of saving and self-denial, spending spare time as a selfappointed medical missionary in cheerless streets where low wages, ever-large families and gin produced brutalized husbands and wives and sickly children.

MISSIONARY IN CHINA In the fall of 1852, he came to London under the auspices of the Chinese Evangelization Society, who arranged to pay for his training as a doctor at the London Hospital in the East End. Glowing reports came from China and the CES urged Taylor to leave at once, medical course unfinished, to reach the Taipings (new rebel group called Heavenly Kingdom of Great Peace) at Nanking. These were supposedly Christian rebels that toppled Nanking in March, 1853. This Chinese rebellion lasted from 1850 to 1864. After further medical studies in London, he accepted appointment under the CES and sailed from Liverpool on September 19, 1853. He was the only passenger in the sailing vessel, Dumfries.

He had a tempestuous voyage as the ship on two occasions was within a few feet of being wrecked. He finally reached Shanghai, China, March 1, 1854.

During his first year in China, he had to deal with the complications provoked by Continue reading––

HERO OF FAITH

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the armed conflict. He made eighteen missionary trips from 1855 and, even though he always carried medicines and food, he was often mistreated by locals. Thanks to his tenacity, however, he managed to catch the attention of the Chinese population.

As part of his evangelizing work, he distributed thousands of leaflets with biblical content.

During his mission, he met Maria Jane, daughter of Reverend Samuel Dyer, pioneer in the spreading of the Gospel in China. He married her on January 20, 1858. After six years away from England, James had to return to Europe by the end of November 1860 due to health issues.

He was treated for tuberculosis in the Royal London Hospital, and this kept him

away from his missionary work.

PROLIFIC BELIEVER Taylor used his stay in England to continue his work in favor of Christianity. Helped by the Chinese Wang Laiquan and the missionary Frederich Gough, he translated the New Testament into the dialect spoken in the Chinese city of Ningbo. He also finished his studies in Medicine. Supported by his wife, he wrote in 1865 China’s

HERO OF FAITH

Spurgeon, renowned servant of the Lord, who helped him strengthen his faith. Sure of his beliefs, Taylor funded on June 25, 1865 a new Christian society that would be in charge of the evangelization in China: the China Inland Mission.

Thirteen months after its creation, James travelled back to China on May 25, 1866 in order to spread the Gospel in the biggest nation of the world. When he arrived to his destination, the preacher led a group of eighteen British missionaries (the Lammermuir Party) that had travelled with him from England. Taylor adapted to the local culture and used the typical clothes of the Chinese people to fulfill his religious objective.

Spiritual Need and Claims. The book attracted the evangelizing interest of many believers, who joined the missionary work in Asia after reading it.

As a rigorous believer, he travelled a lot through the British islands to speak about the spiritual need of China. Carrying his Bible, he also shared the Gospel with the prisoners of the Newgate Prison in London. He became friend of Pastor Charles

POWERFUL LEGACY On July 23, 1870, Taylor lost his wife to cholera and God tested his faith. Some months later, in the summer of 1871, he returned to England to undergo urgent medical treatment. There he married Jane Elizabeth Faulding. By the end of 1872, he came back to China to continue his missionary work. He immediately started to travel through the Chinese territory to consolidate the China Inland Mission.

In the last decade of the 19th century, he travelled across Australia, New Zealand and the United States, reporting on the advances of the Gospel in China. His preaching was always attentively followed by the followers of the Lord, which reinforced his ministry. Nevertheless, in 1900, only a while after the “Boxer Rebellion,� the first armed nationalist attempt in China against foreign citizens, he was forced to move to Switzerland due to some physical issues.

Near the end of his days, in 1905, James Hudson Taylor went one more time to China and lived the happiest moments of his life. Guided by the Lord, the missionary visited the hospitals, orphanages and missionary centers that the China Inland Mission had established. It was a memorable journey during which he even celebrated his 73rd birthday, surrounded by the Chinese evangelical community. It was a historical but short trip that ended on June 3, 1905, when he died and became a role model for Christianity l

In the last decade of the 19th century, he travelled across Australia, New Zealand and the United States, reporting on the advances of the Gospel in China. His preaching was always attentively followed by the followers of the Lord, which reinforced his ministry.

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LIFE STORIES

ABEL, THE ONE WHO IS WITH GOD He lived a great part of his youth between assaults, drugs and crime. But the mercy of God is limitless. One day, He protected him from certain death and led him to the true path of eternal salvation.

Marlo PĂŠrez Foto: Archivo familiar

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T

he bang of a bullet broke the silence of the night and Abel felt a strong impact and an intense burning on his back as he ran down the dark alley. A new shot thundered and he saw that the guy who was running to his side fell with a shattered head. Despite the terrible shock and pain that he was starting to feel on his back, he continued fleeing from a couple of police officers who did not lose his way. He turned at a corner, went full speed into a dark alley and heard a powerful voice: –Do not look back, keep running... –He told him.

In the midst of his despair, he tried to see the person who was speaking to him, but there was nobody. He kept escaping. Soon, the police stayed behind and the severe pain that he initially felt on his back was disappearing.

He stopped and remained crouched in the darkness of a dirty alley for several minutes. Only when he saw that no one was around, he abandoned his hiding place.

In the midst of his despair, he tried to see the person who was speaking to him, but there was nobody. He kept escaping.

Soon, the police stayed behind and the severe pain that he initially felt on his back was disappearing. He stopped and remained crouched in the darkness of a dirty alley for several minutes. Only when he saw that no one was around, he abandoned his hiding place.

He started walking toward his house; he had a serious wound caused by the bullet, but he did not feel pain. He had escaped, once again, from the police, who chased him after another of his misdeeds, but this time a projectile had hit him.

He entered his home and told the violent incident to her grandmother; she examined him immediately and was surprised to find that there was no wound.

– Son, nothing has happened to you! – She exclaimed.

It was incredible, but it seemed that he had not been hit by the bullet. He was unhurt. Some divine power had healed him and he was there as if nothing had happened. During the rest of the night, he could not take his mind off of the incident and began to think that God had saved him for some reason.

BORN FOR CRIME That young man, Abel Morinigo Ramon Cabral, was born on June 10, 1970, in the city of Formosa, Argentina. He was the only son of Matilde Cabral and Ramon

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Morinigo, who disappeared shortly after he was born. His mother began a new relationship, but she died when he was 8 years old taking away his hope of having a family.

Then, his maternal grandmother took care of him and brought him up.

His father’s sister took over the house of his mother and had a secret affair with his stepfather. Although she was her aunt, she never cared about him and left him alo-

LIFE STORIES

ne with his grandmother who could barely feed him. This dramatic situation made him rebellious. He grew up full of hatred and violence.

He was a good student and athlete, but at age of 15 he became involved with petty gangsters who led him away from good manners and taught him to live by robbery.

Soon, he was confined in La Plata Minor’s Institute, where he spent several months. It

was the beginning of a long criminal career.

IMPRISONED At the age of 17, Abel was indicted for two attempted murders and was intensely sought by police authorities. A year later, theft and robbery brigade of the Federal Police captured him for having committed five armed robberies.

He spent several weeks in Rosario

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When he knew that his enemies had put a price to his head and might take revenge against his wife and two children, he began to pray. He cried out to the Lord and gave himself to the Gospel. Since that time he left the crime once and for all.

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Minor’s Institute, from which he left with more experienced. The punishment, far from rehabilitating him, produced the opposite effect. The young man had already become a seasoned criminal.

–The Devil had put in me a feeling of deep hatred and anger towards the police and everything that represented authority– he says.

In 1989 he was imprisoned, once again, charged with attempted robbery and murder because he had cruelly beaten a man who resisted the assault. Despite his critical condition, the victim recognized him from his sickbed.

He spent eight months confined in the prison of La Redonda, in the city of Rosario, and was released as owner of a vast criminal record and a criminal fame which made him more well-known and feared in the slums of the city. Several thugs joined

him to form a gang, until the incident of the gunshot on his back occurred.

The miracle led him to believe in God and he was isolated in his house for several weeks, but the diabolical temptation to commit crime came back. He returned to the streets with much more ambition and less scruples than ever.

One night he was walking along a dangerous area of the city and found a man with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) who injected drug with a dirty syringe. Abel also injected without fear of contagion.

– In truth, I did not care about anythinghe emphasizes.

HERO OF CLAY One day, in 1993, Abel was called by a neighbor whose daughter, Carolina, had been kidnapped by a gang. He knew one of the abductors, who was was a seasoned thug, but he showed mercy on his friend.

LIFE STORIES

He took a 9 mm machine gun, mustered all his strength and started searching the kidnapper, who was in an abandoned house.

He entered and found the guy and another man outraging the girl.

He managed to rescue the young victim and both began a friendship that later became a loving relationship; but there was something else, this kidnapped girl had been infected with the AIDS virus as a result of the rape.

After two years, the guy with whom he had shared the syringe died, but Abel had not miraculously been infected, as neither had acquired the disease through his partner.

–God has delivered me from death several times -he says.

EMPTY PROMISE Two years later, due to his difficult economic situation, this man engaged in drug dealing of marijuana. He delivered it in

Rosario and other cities of Argentina. It did not take long for the anti-narcotic police to capture him and others involved. The whole gang was disjointed and Abel was sentenced to four and a half years of imprisonment in Devoto prison, Buenos Aires, which was considered as the worst jail in the country. This man had bottomed out.

Already in prison, with the help of a Christian brother known as ‘Gospel,’ he went to a small temple inside the penitentiary. In that place, Abel confessed his sins and surrendered himself to God. However, the devil tempted him again soon. When he was transferred to Unit No. 3 of Rosario prison, known as ‘La Ronda’, and then to the Federal Unit No. 8, in Formosa, he was again the same unscrupulous criminal.

He then lost his entire family and fell into a pit of depression. He constantly fought with other inmates who tried to rape him, he did not bathe for several days and looked like a zombie. He felt that his life was over.

In 1999, he was released in order to change his life and recover all what he had lost. However, his criminal impulses were stronger and he returned to street life. In these comings and goings he met his current wife, Elsa Argüeyo, with whom he had two children.

At that time, Abel Morinigo Ramon Cabral, known as ‘Elbeli’, killed a known trafficker in Rosario, Argentina, from whom he stole more than 200 kilograms of marijuana. Therefore, a gang of criminals and the police, who were fighting the drug dealing of Cannabis sativa, were chasing him.

When he knew that his enemies had put a price to his head and might take revenge against his wife and two children, he began to pray. He cried out to the Lord and gave himself to the Gospel. Since that time he left the crime once and for all.

Two years later, due to his difficult economic situation, this man engaged in drug dealing of marijuana. He delivered it in Rosario and other cities of Argentina. It did not take long for the antinarcotic police to capture him and others involved. The whole gang was disjointed and Abel was sentenced to four and a half years of imprisonment in Devoto prison, Buenos Aires, which was considered as the worst jail in the country. This man had bottomed out.

– One night I dreamed about the Lord and He told me about my children, my sin and my disobedience... Since that day I knew I had to make a decision and I decided for Christ- He remembers.

Abel, who now lives in peace with God and his family congregate in an evangelical church in the city of Formosa, Argentina l May 2016 / Impacto evangelistic

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We hope that there will be a revival, a fervor and a motivating force driving people to evangelize in all cities and prophetic events worldwide.

We hope that this congress will awaken all Europe.

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INTERVIEW

TOWARDS THE 2ND EUROPEAN CONGRESS Despite the recent attacks on the Old Continent, the Work of the Worldwide Missionary Movement is now planning its 2nd European Congress. The meeting will bring together thousands of brothers from more than twenty countries.

E

xpectations are growing by the day, week and month. August is near and the preparations hasten. The Second European Congress of the Worldwide Missionary Movement (WMM) will take place from August 10 to 14 in Madrid (Spain).

Thousands of people are ready to participate in the great meeting to be held at the Marriott Hotel.

Rev. Carlos Medina, Supervisor of Spain and Europe’s Block A, is confident that the congress will boost a revival of faith in all countries of the continent.

What have been the first preparations?

We recently had a very successful meeting of pastors; it was attended by Rev. Jose Soto, Supervisor of Europe, and Rev. David Echalar, Supervisor of Italy and Europe’s Block B. At the meeting, pastors and presbyters were appointed coordinators for each country; all of them will assist the members in the corresponding country in booking the flight, the hotel and the transport, among other things.

What are the facilities like and how many people do you expect for the 2nd European Congress?

The Marriot Auditorium Hotel in Madrid will be the venue for the Congress to be held from August 10 to 14. It will host 4000 people: the worship room has a capacity of 2480 people, and there are also two large meeting rooms that can put up 1000 people each.

We expect a mass turnout of brothers from across Europe, that is seven nations

from Block A and seven other from Block B, including the Scandinavian countries.

Only Italy and Spain account for a large population, because there are many churches and annexes. We are confident that the attendance will exceed the expected amount of attendees, so we already have a contingency plan.

What has been agreed on regarding the broadcast of the event?

In November last year, we sent to Peru our Radio and Television Coordinator, Carlos Daniel Medina, in order to meet with the directors of Bethel Television. They reached important agreements, such as the presence of three cameramen to film from May2 the advertising spot of the Congress in Barcelona, Madrid, Italy and elsewhere.

We have a beautiful relationship with Bethel Television, because we are united in one job; the congress does not belong to one country but to the whole continent.

What does the Church expect from this 2nd European Congress?

We hope that there will be a revival, a fervor and a motivating force driving people to evangelize in all cities and prophetic events worldwide. We hope that this congress will awaken all Europe.

We would like to ensure that all ministers in Europe work, conquer, move forward, come up with ideas and projects with the media. In conclusion, we want an all-round person-to-person revival; we want the churches to have more annexes and the workers to master several languages to reach places in need of the Gospel l

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GOD WILL DESCEND WITH POWER AND GLORY “Oh that thou wouldest rend the heavens, that thou wouldest come down, that the mountains might flow down at thy presence, as when the melting fire burneth, the fire causeth the waters to boil, to make thy name known to thine adversaries, that the nations may tremble at thy presence!” Isaiah 64:1-2.

Rev. Luis M. Ortiz

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srael was in a state of straying, on the edge of captivity in pagan lands. The prophet Isaiah realized that, if God descended and manifested His presence, He would solve every problem of the nation.

The mountains of difficulties would flow down, the fire of His presence would boil the waters of tepidity and indifference, and nothing would stop at the presence of God. We live today under similar conditions; sin, evil, vice, corruption, immorality, porMISSIONARY MOVEMENT 42 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

nography, sexual exhibitionism, skepticism, materialism and atheism increase every day among the unconverted world. And among the people who claim to be of God, there is worldliness, tepidity, false doctrine, ecumenism, lack of faith and terrible apostasy.

Major programs in churches, eloquent philosophical preaching, theological scholarship, ecclesiastical over-organization, large and well-trained choirs, good orchestras, social and philanthropic programs, so-

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cieties within the churches, social and political position of laymen and ministers, civic and cultural activities, sumptuous temples: everything that men can do has always failed to find a right and permanent solution to their spiritual problem, which is the root of all the difficulties. The only solution is the glorious manifestation of the power and presence of God. When the fire of the presence of God and His Holy Spirit manifests, obstacle mountains flow down, and victory and triumph emerge; pride towers collapse, and contrition and humility arise; the dens of vice and sin are cleansed, and purity and forgiveness appear; obscenity and pornography are cast away, and sanctity and decorum shine; skepticism and materialism are ruled out, and faith and love of neighbor are let in; silly philosophical preaching gives way to the anointed and fervent biblical preaching; the rigid ecclesiastical organization submits to the wise and orderly guidance of the Holy Spirit.

All that is professional, human, ceremonious, dogmatic, sectarian, elaborate and worldly yield to all that is spiritual, biblical, real and belongs to the Holy Spirit: songs, psalms, praise and gifts. All social, cultural, civic, philanthropic and economic activities bow down to the ultimate activity of the Church, that is the great commission: “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature” to the ends of the earth, by demonstration and power of the Holy Spirit, by wonders and miracles (Mark 16:15-18).

When will God manifest His presence so that all of this happens? Why do we not see it today in all its fullness? The Bible gives us the answer: “And there is none that calleth upon thy name, that stirreth up himself to take hold of thee” (Isaiah 64:7).

Beloved, there is lack of prayer, intercession, fasting, vigil, prayer, repentance, confession and restitution. It is a historical fact that the great outpourings of the Holy Spirit and the great manifestations of the presence of God have always come in response to the people of God’s incessant prayer. “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14).

The Church of Jesus has always gone forward, victorious on its knees. The toughest war of the Church is not fought by theologians, scholars, intellectuals, sociologists, preachers or leaders, but by intercessors.

Intercessors fight in prayer against all infernal, visible and invisible powers, and prevail with God. The true war of the Church is spiritual, “for we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places” (Ephesians 6:12). And in this spiritual battlefield we cannot fight according to the world, “for the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds” (2 Corinthians 10:4).

Beloved, we can say that today the Church has it all but the power of God. It is time we kindled our life of prayer and intercession. We must seek God with all our heart. May God descend with power and glory upon His Church! l

All that is professional, human, ceremonious, dogmatic, sectarian, elaborate and worldly yield to all that is spiritual, biblical, real and belongs to the Holy Spirit: songs, psalms, praise and gifts.

The Church of Jesus has always gone forward, victorious on its knees.

The toughest war of the Church is not fought by theologians, scholars, intellectuals, sociologists, preachers or leaders, but by intercessors.

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A STRONG FAMILY “Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it…” Psalm 127:1.

Rev. Gustavo Martínez

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The family has always been attacked; from the beginning, the enemy, the devil, wanted to destroy it. The malice of this world is nothing but the result of the destruction of the family. Values and principles have been lost.

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he Word of God says, “Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it…” (Psalm 127:1). The Bible also says, “It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows…” (Psalm 127:2). In other words, without God’s blessing, no matter how much we struggle, how much we work, how much we want to do things, nothing will turn out well. The only guarantee when we build up is the foundation of the Truth in Christ.

The family has always been attacked; from the beginning, the enemy, the devil, wanted to destroy it. The malice of this world is nothing but the result of the destruction of the family. Values and principles have been lost; there is no role model of responsibility, respect or honor. Sometimes children, since they are very young, have to deal with irresponsible, dissolute, drunk parents captivated by demons who are always arguing.

How can we expect to have societies, children or young people different from those that we have today, if families and homes are destroyed, and there is no stability? Why is this happening? Because people are building according to the plan of their hearts; they have turned their backs on God, following vain philosophy and empty religions that have taken them away from God. “What kind of world are we living in?” is what people ask themselves when thefts, murders, rapes or other ills afflicting society take place. In the so-called civilized and apparently very developed countries, any other person on the street might take out a gun and kill several people from one moment to another. What is going on?

People have strayed from the Lord, they have refused to give their heart to God, but He keeps telling humanity, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden,

and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).

When some politician becomes a candidate, they promise the world and people believe and follows them. These, however, are only human promises; they have no basis, they have no soundness, because man is like the grass of the field, which today is and tomorrow is not, because man builds on quicksand. But there is a Rock upon which we can build, not only for this life but for eternal life, and that is Jesus Christ.

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How can a family in this century remain stable? Only when its members open up their hearts to God, surrender to Him and accepted Him as Lord and Savior of their life, as the only one who can give stability to their home. A stable family honors God, embraces the Word of the Lord and the commandments, and follows the instructions of the Almighty; a healthy and stable family has no dealings with alcohol,

drugs, witchcraft, vices, etc.

A stable family stays together and remains firm despite the circumstances.

It is like Noah’s family, which, amid a perverse generation that had turned its back on God, prayed every day, relied on God and loved Him. Noah called on God not only with his lips, but also with his heart. Even though everyone else was corrupted, he and his wife and his family remained faithful, so they were saved.

Everything else perished, but this family survived, as it was grounded on the powerful foundation of God, on the unshakable foundation of Christ l

A stable family honors God, embraces the Word of the Lord and the commandments, and follows the instructions of the Almighty; a healthy and stable family has no dealings with alcohol, drugs, witchcraft, vices, etc.

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QUALITIES OF A VIRTUOUS MOTHER “Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.” Proverbs 31: 29 Rev. Ramón Aponte

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n this showy, glitzy and flashy world, people with virtues and qualities stand out effortlessly.

• Virtuous. “Who can find a virtuous woman?

For her price is far above rubies” (Proverbs 31:10). She is like a very valuable jewel that is really difficult to find. There are, however, many virtuous women out there.

• Trustworthy. “The heart of her husband doth

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safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil” (Proverbs 31: 11). There is nothing better for a man than knowing that he can trust his wife in all circumstances, whether they relate to profitable activities or to her loyalty and fidelity as a selfless wife.

• Consistent. “She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life” (Proverbs 31: 12). She always tries to satisfy her husband.

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It is important to be both consistent and good-natured.

• Willing worker. “She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands” (Proverbs 31: 13). She works willingly to contribute to the home economy.

• Careful supplier. “She is like the merchants’ ships; she bringeth her food from afar” (Proverbs 31: 14). She tries to find best-quality products at the best price, even if she has to walk long distances to do so. How good it is to save money!

• Helpful. “She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens” (Proverbs 31: 15). She takes care of herself, but she also gets up early to do her daily tasks.

• Wise manager. “She considereth a field, and buyeth it. With the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard” (Proverbs 31: 16). She does not only household chores. It is astonishing to see that in a society as old and traditional as the one in the verse, women could represent their husbands in jobs outside home.

• Strong and healthy. “She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms” (Proverbs 31: 17). With her schedule, she has no time left for soap operas, chitchat, television or gossips.

• Attentive supervisor. “She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: Her candle goeth not out by night” (Proverbs 31: 18). It seems that the family in the verse ran a business and the wife was in charge of keeping the accounts of the other workers. Her burning “candle” was a sign of constant surveillance.

• Skillful craftswoman. “She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff” (Proverbs 31: 19). The hands of the woman in the verse were well trained to handle the pieces of her loom. Nowadays, these skills could be related to computers, sewing machines or any other device/tool for modern tasks.

• Generous. “She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy” (Proverbs 31: 20).

• Cautious mother. “She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet” (Proverbs 31: 21). She weaves, washes, irons and keeps everything in its place; her husband admires her for that. She makes sure that her husband

always goes well dressed to work and her children have everything ready.

• Elegant. “She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple” (Proverbs 31: 22). It is amazing how this wife manages to look elegant despite her workload. One of the reasons why many men lose interest in their wives’ negligence.

• Perfectly married. “Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land” (Proverbs 31: 23). Sometimes women inspire their husbands to be virtuous, but it also works the other way round: special women are blessed with good husbands.

• Creative. “She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant” (Proverbs 31: 24).

• Optimistic. “Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come” (Proverbs 31: 25). She is self-confident and trusts God completely – an efficient remedy against pessimism and anxiety.

• Wise. “She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness” (Proverbs 31: 26). A teacher is not the one that knows the most, but the one that shares knowledge. Many may talk, but only few speak “with wisdom” and “the law of kindness.”

• Careful observer. “She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness” (Proverbs 31: 27). Her home is a reflection of her family, work, business, marriage and personal life.

• Praised by her beloved ones. “Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her” (Proverbs 31: 28).

It is nice to be praised by others, but it is nicer to be admired by those who live with you.

• The best of all. “Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all” (Proverbs 31: 29). She wants to be the best, not just one more of the bunch.

• God-fearing. “Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised” (Proverbs 31: 30).

• Successful. “Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates” (Proverbs 31: 31). God gives her spiritual gifts so that she can be not only a virtuous wife, mother and housewife, but also a true servant of God. (Galatians 5: 22-24; 1 Corinthians 12: 4-11) l

Cautious mother. “She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet” (Proverbs 31: 21). She weaves, washes, irons and keeps everything in its place; her husband admires her for that. She makes sure that her husband always goes well dressed to work and her children have everything ready.

Wise. “She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness” (Proverbs 31: 26). A teacher is not the one that knows the most, but the one that shares knowledge.

Many may talk, but only few speak “with wisdom” and “the law of kindness.”

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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).

JESUS GAVE LIFE TO MY LIFE Under the theme “Jesus Gave Life to my Life,” the National Youth Convention was held at Coliseo Universitario, in the city of Tarija, Bolivia, with a mass attendance.

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he 12th National Youth Convention of the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Bolivia took place in Tarija from January 14 to January 17, 2016. The event was led by Rev. Ciro Alfonso Soto, National Supervisor, and organized by pastors Marcelo Valenzuela and Erika de Valenzuela.

“Jesus Gave Life to my Life” was the theme of the convention, which MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 48 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

started on Thursday night with the presence of several delegations from all over Bolivia: Oruro, La Paz, Cochabamba, Santa Cruz, Potosi, Tarija, Pando, Beni and Sucre.

On the first day of the convention, Rev. Eugenio Masias shared his testimony about how God transformed him, based on Ecclesiastes 11:9.

On the second day, Rev. Masias

continued his testimony based on 1 Kings 20. In the evening, an evangelist march took place through the streets of Tarija. All the Bolivian pastors, accompanied by Rev. Eugenio Masias, carried the flags of the nine departments. When they reached the main square of the city, they conducted an outdoor evangelization, during which people were invited to

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give their life to the Lord.

On Friday night, Rev. Masias spoke about “The Influence of Music,” based on Ephesians 5:18 -19.

He explained how music affects and influences the brain of people and distorts their behavior.

On Saturday night, the Great Worship of Communications was held and led by National Officer Enrique Valenzuela.

On Sunday, the last day of the convention, a powerful Missionary Worship focused on the service, the missions and the call to the Lord’s Work. A parade of pastors and young workers, specially aimed at youth, took place in order to encourage others to serve the Almighty l May 2016 / Impacto evangelistic

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THERE IS HOPE IN GOD

Hundreds of people attended the 16th National Convention of the Worldwide Missionary Movement (WMM) in Argentina. The event was held from February 11 to February 14 under the theme “There Is Hope in Jesus.”

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n the first day, Rev. Gerardo Martinez Garavito, Missionary Supervisor of the WMM in the Southern Cone, shared the topic “You Did Not Take Care of What You Received from God,” based on 2 Timothy 4:7- 8. He said that, with God’s help, we can take the pressure. “Our blessing is to enter eternal glory, that’s why we cannot cling to material things,” he added.

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In the second service, Rev. Alfonso Martinez, National Supervisor of the WMM in Uruguay, preached the Word of God with the message “It Is Worth Living in Uprightness,” based on Isaiah 26: 7. In his biblical speech, he emphasized that God is upright, so he created man upright; and that, when there is uprightness, there is fear of God, and fear of God keeps the believer, as God rewards

uprightness.

In the third service, the biblical message was delivered by Rev. Gustavo Martinez Garavito, International President of the WMM, with the topic “Do Not Run, Submit and Wait in God,” based on Genesis 16: 1-9. In his biblical speech, he told how Sarah, who was sterile, asked her husband Abraham to be with her maid Hagar, because she had no hope of

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conceiving due to her age.

Then, Rev. Ulises Heredia, pastor in Peru, shared the message of God, based on Isaiah 6: 8-9 and Psalms 80:14. The Meeting of Workers and Pastors took place at the central church of the WMM in Argentina. In the afternoon, an impressive crowd of men and women marched through the main streets of the city of Buenos Aires to proclaim the

Gospel of Jesus Christ.

In the fifth service, the Word of God was shared by Rev. Jose Arturo Soto Benavides, International Vice President of the WMM, with the topic “What Does He Want Me to Do?” based on Acts 9: 3-6. In his biblical message, he emphasized that, when a believer converts to Christ for real, something happens inside; it is the new birth, thanks to which we

are not the same that we were before.

The next day, in the morning, the Missionary Service and Promotion of Workers and Pastors took place.

Two lay preachers, four licensed preachers and two ordained ministers were promoted. Rev. Jose Arturo Soto Benavides shared the message “What Pentecost marked,” based on Acts 3: 41-42. In the biblical speech, he emphasized that believers have to preach the power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, persevere, and fight the good fight of faith as good soldiers of the Lord.

In the last service, Rev. Gerardo Martinez Garavito delivered the biblical message “How to Deal with Difficulties,” based on 2 Chronicles 20: 12-20. In his biblical speech, he said that, when a man is experiencing serious problems, the way out is to humble himself before God’s presence.

Delegations from Chile, Paraguay and all provinces of Argentina gathered at the Teatro Colonial, located in Buenos Aires, to praise the name of Jesus Christ during the days of the convention l May 2016 / Impacto evangelistic

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THERE IS HOPE IN CHRIST Under the theme “There Is Hope in Christ,” the Church of the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Australia held the 21st National Convention 2016 from March 10 to 13.

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he 21st National Convention 2016 was held from March 10 to March 13 at the Australian Blouza Association. Services were conducted in two shifts. In the first service of the event, Rev. Humberto Henao, International Officer of the WMM, shared the biblical message with the topic “Growing in Faith.”

In the morning of the second day, the Meeting of Workers and Pastors took place at the Church of the WMM in Perth; issues related to the progress of the work of God were MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 52 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

discussed. During the event, the songs of praise and worship were sung by the choir of the Church of the WMM in Australia.

Rev. Enoc Ramos, Supervisor of the WMM in Australia, introduced Rev. Humberto Henao, who shared the divine message entitled “The Danger of Spiritual Sleep,” based on Ephesians 5:14. In his biblical preaching, he affirmed that, when believers feel safe in their life, they often rest on their laurels, because they do not feel in danger; sleep is symbol of

indifference.

In the third service, the Missionary Worship took place under the theme “Looking for a Revival.” The Word of God was shared by the Peruvian missionary Isai David Rios, based on Matthew 28:16-20. In his biblical message, he testified to the miracles and wonders done by the Lord in his life.

In the fourth service, believers praised the Lord in spirit and truth.

Pastor Isai David Rios was in charge of the devotional; special songs were sung by the National choir of the Church in Australia, and the choir of the Church in Melbourne participated with the song “Sing to the Lord.”

Rev. Enoc Ramos Chumpitaz, National Supervisor of Australia, shared the biblical message, based on 2 Samuel 23:8-12. He said that God is looking for brave people because, in a world that does not seek the Lord, God’s children have received the courage from Him. He also

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stated that cowardly people without convictions or firmness will not go to Heaven, but those committed to holiness, to doing God’s will.

In the penultimate service, the devotional was done by Rev. Ricar-

do Villamizar, head of the Church in Melbourne. Special songs were sung by Sister Mary Cerdan de Ramos, including “I Know that He Lives;” the choirs of workers from the churches in Australia and Brisbane

Church participated with other special songs.

Rev. Humberto Henao, International Officer of the WMM, shared the Bible message entitled “When Summer is over,” based on 1 Kings 18:41-46. During the exposition of the Word of God, he said that, when believers are hungry and thirsty of God, they must turn to spiritual resources: prayer, fasting and the House of God. When we have need of the Lord, we must satisfy it in the fountain of living waters.

In the last service, Sister Elizabeth de Villamizar sang special songs, and the Villamizar family participated with the song “Holy.”

Rev. Humberto Henao shared the Word of Jesus Christ with the topic “Missed Opportunity,” based on Genesis 27:30-38 and Hebrews 12:1517. In his biblical speech, he talked about the story of the conspiracy of Rebecca and her son Jacob to lie to her husband Isaac and get the blessing of the firstborn l May 2016 / Impacto evangelistic

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UPRIGHTNESS IS THE KEY Netherlands held its 5th National Fellowship in Rotterdam. God used His Word in a powerful way to instruct, comfort, liberate, restore and heal men, women and children.

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he 5th National Fellowship of the WMM in the Netherlands was held on March 4, 5 and 6 at the facilities of the Heerlijkheid Villa in Hoogvliet, Rotterdam. The activity was held under the theme “Uprightness: the Key to a Strong Family.”

About 300 brothers and friends from the churches in Belgium, Germany, Italy, Peru and the Netherlands attended the beautiful event.

The Fellowship was also attended by Sister Suhe Reenis, missionary from the island of Madagascar.

On Friday, in the first service, MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 54 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

God’s message was delivered by pastor Wilson Cruz, from the Church of Trento in Italy.

In the second service, pastor Edwar Flores, from the Church of Berlin in Germany, shared the message entitled “You Are Important,” based on 2 Kings 20: 1-3; he reminded the people that God listens to the prayer of His children.

In the third service, the Word of God was given by pastor Clever Machacuay, from the Church in Peru. In his message entitled “Let the Lord Use Your Life,” based on Acts 2: 1-4,

he highlighted the importance of the baptism of the Holy Spirit to do the work of God. On the last day of celebration, Rev. Ramon Ortega, Missionary Supervisor in the Netherlands, shared the message of the Word of God, based on Daniel 10: 10-12. “We have seen how God has spoken to His people in a special way, stressing the importance of the touch of God in Christian life. This touch helps us stay in the Lord’s ways; it comforts and strengthens us in times of ordeal,” he said l

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AT THE FEET OF THE MASTER More than 150 young people were blessed in the great Youth Camp of Zone North in Spain.

The Church of the Worldwide Missionary Movement (WMM) is growing strong.

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he 2nd Youth Camp of Zone North in Spain was held from March 24 to March 26 in La Saira, Lleida, under the theme “At the Feet of the Master.” The activity was attended by dozens of young members and a group of pastors.

On the first day, a beautiful devotional and different group activities took place. The evening service was full of praises to the Lord, special activities and the Word.

The preaching was done by Rev. MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 56 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

Alexander Montes, who shared the topic “God Seeks a Virgin.”

On the second day, after the devotional, there were competitions between the different groups of young people. At night, two services were held. In the first service, Rev. Alexander Montes shared the topic “Attraction.” The second one was a vigil, where young people from Barcelona gave an objective lesson on the sword of authority that God has given to each of

them. The Word was given by Rev. Carlos Medina, National Supervisor, under the topic “SOS from the Heart.”

On the last day, a conference was given, in which topics of interest to young people were discussed; they were touched and went to the altar to seek God. Then, there was a moment for entertainment and sharing between the attendees. When the event ended, they joyfully returned to their congregations l

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AN UPRIGHT HEART BEFORE GOD The 14th National Youth Retreat organized by the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Paraguay was held from March 24 to March 26 under the theme “An Upright Heart before God.”

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art of the National Board, led

by President Rev. Luis Rivera, and many pastors attended the wonderful event. Rev. Jose Vida and his wife Nubia Bravo, who came from Chile, were invited as special guests.

150 young people participated, and Rossana Duarte, National Youth Leader, was satisfied with the blessed activity.

On Friday, March 25, the pastors were part of a fasting and a special worship where God manifested Himself mightily. At the same time, the young people held a glorious worship where Nubia Vidal, wife of Rev. Jose Vidal, shared teachings with the youth. Many young people were filled with God’s presence l MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 58 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

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REMEMBER YOUR CREATOR IN YOUR YOUTH The Worldwide Missionary Movement in Ecuador held its 20th National Youth Convention.

They were amazing days in the presence of God.

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he 20th National Youth Convention was held from March 24 to March 27 in the city of Quito, capital of Ecuador. Rev. Eugenio Masias, National Supervisor, was the main speaker at the facilities of Seminario Nazareno.

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The call to a life of holiness and service to the missionary work was the main theme of the worship; the Holy Spirit gave testimony of how God’s eyes are set on this blessed country.

On March 26, the Church of Quito Centro held its Second Water Baptism,

where 16 brothers fulfilled the sacrament and testified to their conversion and repentance.

The spiritual activity was attended by young members and pastors: it event was evidence of the fruits that God is giving to the Work in Quito l

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PERSEVERE TO THE END The Fellowship of Zone 8 of the Worldwide Missionary Movement (WMM) in Puerto Rico was held on March 12 among songs of victory.

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he activity was held at the Mission Board Church of God, in the city of Vega Baja. Among spiritual hymns, young members of the zone and the people of God praised the work of our Savior in gratitude for the wonders made in their lives.

Rev. Luis Ayala shared his experience in Africa as he was working on the Convention Center that is under construction in the continent.

Rev. Albert Rivera, National Supervisor, recognized the work done by the National Board over the past seven years: Rev. Luis Ayala, Rev. Ruben Concepcion, Rev. Norma Santiago and Sister Jacqueline Rovira. They have done an excellent work in service and dedication to the Work of the Lord.

Rev. Concepcion, International Secretary of the WMM, shared the Bible study “Perseverance,” based on Philippians 1:1-11. The Word urged to honor MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 62 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

Christ with a life of dedication and voluntary service at all times.

During the preaching, he mentioned three situations occurring in the Church: the persecution of outsiders, the threat

of false teachings, and the conflict between brothers. However, he said that, in face of these and other conflicts, we have to set our eyes on God, trust His Word and defend the good faith l

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COME ALL YOU THAT LABOR AND ARE HEAVY LADEN A group of people gathered in an Evangelistic Campaign in Hamamatsu, Japan, to continue spreading the Word.

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n March 20, a powerful Evangelistic Campaign was held in the Church of Hamamatsu, led by pastor David Veramendi, National Supervisor of the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Japan.

The event was also attended by pastor Andres Marchan, who shared the message of the Word of God based on Luke 19.

The preaching of the Word was so strong and powerful that it touched everyone in the place. Many people surrounded at the feet of Jesus Christ.

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NEW DISCIPLES OF THE LORD The Work of the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Venezuela grows strong despite the critical situation in this country.

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he Worldwide Missionary Movement held a large water baptism last March in the state of Zulia, in Venezuela.

After being trained in the Bible, a group of 16 brothers fulfilled the command of our Lord Jesus Christ and descended into the waters of baptism.

The brothers, who were taught about the sound doctrine, congregate at the Church led by Rev. Romulo Vergara, International Officer of the Work of the WMM l MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 64 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

Other Events

GUATEMALA

PANAMA

GLORIOUS RETREAT OF GREAT EVANGELISTIC PASTORS CRUSADE The Retreat of Pastors in Guatemala was held on January 28-29, 2016, by the Worldwide Missionary Movement.

During these two days, the Word was shared by Rev. Alvaro Garavito, International Officer of Work and National Supervisor of the WMM. After the spiritual event, the pastors returned to their own workplaces, renewed and strengthened in their faith l

An Evangelistic Crusade was held on April 8-11 in every presbytery in Panama.

The presbyterians of each zone were in charge of the campaigns.

More than 550 people accepted the Lord as their only and sufficient Savior. In many regions of the country, new white fields were opened and workers were settled.

Rev. Jose A. Soto, International Vice-President, preached during each night in the campaign in San Diego (Eastern Panama) l

COLOMBIA GLORIOUS VISIT TO THE TRIBES

As part of his evangelistic work, Pastor Eduard Sanchez Mosquera visited the town of Vaupes, belonging to Zone 42, in the region of the Meta River. The missionary work within the indigenous tribes of Colombian Amazon has been done for 16 years now.

By the end of last year, he visited the communities of Rio Cuduyari, Puerto Casanare, Pato, Querari Miri and Barranco Colorado, along with a group of brothers (from Cabuyaro, Puerto Lopez and Remolino, in the department of Meta).

In addition, conferences for the family took place; the Word of God was preached to unbelievers; indigenous pastors and brothers were strengthened; and teachings were offered to children and leaders of the Church of the Lord l

PERU THE WORD IN TAMBOBAMBA

The presbytery of Cusco held many evangelistic activities on April 4-5 in Tambobamba, located in the province of Cotabambas, in the department of Apurimac.

On these days, the brothers and pastors of Zone 21, led by Rev. Edgard Ccari Amanqui, preached the Gospel of Salvation and eternal life to the locals and the surrounding communities.

On Monday, April 4, over one hundred attendees were edified through the Word of God. Rev. Edgar Ccari shared the biblical message based on John 14.

On Tuesday, April 5, the message was preached by Pastor Niel Ticeran, with the topic “Restoring Spiritual Life,� based on Joshua 24 l

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THEY WRITE TO US... cartas@impactoevangelistico.net ALBERTO LINARES I thank God for the countless wonders He’s done in my life. I’m a young man that for a long time was involved in drugs; this caused great suffering to me and all my loved ones, especially my family, that was already considering getting rid of me. I had deeply reached the dunghill of sin and I could see no solution to my problem; I would do drugs every day, mornings, afternoons or evenings, and sometimes I would stop eating because of the life I used to have. One day, the most beautiful thing happened to me: I found this magazine and began to leaf through it and found an article telling the testimony of a man involved in drugs who changed by the power of God. That really touched me; I thought that, if the man had been able to change, I could too. I immediately felt a great need to ask God for help, and so I did from the bottom of my heart and He, God, in his great love, helped me.

From Lima, Peru.

MARCH 3-6 Convention in Comayagua, Honduras (arrival in San Pedro de Sula) 10-13 Convention in Australia (Sidney) 23-27 Convention in Guatemala (Guatemala City) 30-3 (APRIL) Convention in the Guianas, Trinidad and Martinique (Georgetown, Guyana) APRIL MAY 3-5 Convention in Japan (Narita, Chiba Ken) 26-29 Convention in India (Tamil Nadu, South India) JUNE 23-26 Convention in Brazil (Manaus) 30-3 (JULY) Convention in Bolivia (La Paz)

God bless you. I wanted to tell you that the magazine content has helped me a lot. I’ve been part of the Worldwide Missionary Movement for a just little time. Go ahead.

From Monagas, Venezuela.

Movement.

From Pueblo Nuevo, Costa Rica.

RAMIRO RODRÍGUEZ

LINA MARÍA TAUTIVA

LAURA BONILLA MORALES The Lord continue blessing and giving you wisdom to continue edifying the lives of many people through the magazine; people who, like me, want to be in touch with our brothers in the Work of the Worldwide Missionary

MARIBEL CARBAJAL God bless you. You’ve been a blessing to my life.

I’ve learned many biblical truths with your messages, and I’ve been edified with your testimonies.

I thank you greatly, because you’ve been a great edification to my spiritual life. Go ahead in the Lord.

From Táchira, Venezuela.

JANUARY 1-4 National Convention in Puerto Rico 11-18 National Convention in Colombia (Medellín) FEBRUARY 5-7 Convention in Paraguay (Itagua) 5-9 Convention in Panamá 11-14 Convention in Argentina

RICARDO MEZA

Thank God for the information provided in the magazine; it is very helpful. God bless you richly.

From Madrid, Spain.

GLOBAL AGENDA 2016

I’ve been reading the magazine for a few months now and the experience has been rewarding and full of blessings. It’s great spiritual nourishment, I’ve read and learned interesting things about the missionary work.

Glory be to God! From Villavicencio, Meta, Colombia.

RICARDO MEZA FLORES Go forward with the beautiful message of salvation and hold up the sound doctrine that has always characterized the Work and this magazine, which is a great blessing.

God bless you greatly. Go forward in Christ.

From Caracas, Venezuela.

RUBÉN Y RINA CAIRO God bless you, dear brothers, you are a blessing to the world. We send you a hug from the city of Buenos Aires.

We are spiritual children of Rev. Rodolfo Gonzalez. We’ve been in this country for 20 years. We miss you.

From Buenos Aires, Argentina.

JULY 6-9 6-9 12-15 19-24 21-24

Convention in Costa Rica (San José) Convention in Netherlands Antilles (Bonaire) Convention in Virginia, United States (Woodbridge) Convention in Peru (Lima) Convention in Mexico (Puebla)

AUGUST 10-14 II European Congress (Madrid) 11-14 Convention in Haiti (Puerto Príncipe) 18-21 Convention in Africa (Guinea Ecuatorial) 23-27 Convention in Venezuela (Barquisimeto) 25-28 Convention in Ecuador (Guayaquil) 25-28 Convention in Belize SEPTEMBER Saturday 24 Mission World Day OCTOBER 7-9 National Fellowship in Canada 13-15 Convention in Dominican Republic 14-16 Convention in Mauritius 17-19 Convention in Madagascar 28-31 Campaign in Chile (Santiago) NOVEMBER 3-6 Convention in El Salvador 3-6 Convention in Uruguay (Montevideo) 24-27 Convention in Nicaragua DECEMBER

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MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 66 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

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