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JOY! MAGAZINE

JOY !

Real Life

Real People

Real Christianity

Volume 30 Issue 03

WHY IS THE EMPTY TOMB SO IMPORTANT?

THE UNCONDITIONAL LOVE OF HAVING A PET

HOW CAN I BE SURE OF ETERNAL LIFE?

REST IN PEACE: TRIBUTE TO NICO BOUGAS

Jesus

died for you 3 tests in the LIFE OF JOSEPH

My Recovery from FIBROMYALGIA

“I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die…” – John 11:25-26

Vision JOY! Magazine seeks to glorify God by educating and informing Christians of a Biblical Worldview and applying the Lordship of Jesus Christ to all areas of life.

Focus on Eternity “So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” – 2 Corinthians 4:18

O

ne of my best friends and mentors passed away recently (see page 18). Since the day that he passed, I have been reflecting on our friendship on and off. I lay awake on the night that I heard the sad news, and just about every experience that we had shared over the past 25 years passed through my mind. I think it was God’s way of helping me to let go and not be sad, but rather to celebrate his life and all that he did for the Kingdom of God. He taught me to evangelise and share Christ in all my comings and goings. He taught me to focus on eternity. Our ultimate goal has to be hearing the Lord’s words of affirmation to us, and receiving our prize from Him. We need to seriously consider what we do every day, always asking ourselves, “Will this have eternal value?” and if won’t, question if we should be spending time, finances, or effort on it.

Always trust the Lord’s prompting This reminded me of an incident that I once had with a buyer of a large supermarket chain. He was not keen to keep JOY! Magazine on his shelves any longer. He gave me various reasons, ranging from wanting to use the space to sell more sweets because they sold faster, to using the space for a popular secular magazine that needed more space, to confessing that he was an atheist and felt that the whole world was too, and that one shouldn’t sell religion in a supermarket. Needless to say, I left that meeting feeling very despondent, as JOY! Magazine really wouldn’t exist if we couldn’t find outlets to sell our publication. That night I prayed and felt the Lord impress on my spirit to tell the buyer that of all the hundreds and thousands of products that they sold in their stores, only one had eternal significance, only one would count on judgement day.

And that was the only one he wanted to remove. How could he account for this before the Lord one day? That was a powerful revelation and I felt nervous to convey this ‘Truth’ to the supermarket buyer in my follow-up email to him. However, I did it because I felt that I had nothing to lose and also felt certain that it was the Lord who had told me to tell him.

Thank the Lord, the supermarket buyer listened and our magazine is still on their shelves today, for our loyal readers to enjoy.

May this encourage you!

Now I have learnt one thing, the Lord does not give such a powerful revelation to one (who has a public platform) for the message not be wider known.

I trust that this revelation will affect what you do every day.

God bless you,

Editor

Values Strive for excellence and integrity in all things • Provide interesting, accurate, and honest reporting at all times • Respect all Christian denominations • Encourage reader participation • Take personal responsibility • Always seek to unite the Body of Christ • Evaluate everything in the light of the Bible • Provoke readers to fulfil the Biblical mandate to be salt and light in society • Motivate readers to action • Be solution-focused

The Bible in a nutshell

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FOUNDATIONAL TEACHING

Salvation Prayer Jesus, I believe that You died on the Cross for me.

There You were wounded for my transgressions, You were bruised for my iniquities; and the punishment for my peace was upon You. I have been like a lost sheep, I have turned to my own way, but I believe that God laid my iniquity upon You. You died for me.

Then You rose from the dead, You ascended into Heaven, and now seated on Your throne as Lord of all.

Jesus, forgive me.

I now turn away from my sin and put my trust in You. Fill me with Your Spirit, cleanse me, and take me as Your own.

Amen

Xhosa Yesu, ndiyakholwa ukuba wandifela emnqamlezweni.

Apho walinyazwa ngenxa yeziphoso zam, Walinyazwa ngenxa yobubi bam, ubetho loxolelo lwam lube phezu kwakho. Ndifana nemvu elahlekileyo, ndiye ndalahleka, kodwa ndiyakholwa ukuba uThixo walibeka phezu kwakho ityala lam. Wandifela, Waye wavuka ekufeni, wanyukela emazulwini, kungoku nje uhleli esihlalweni sakho njengeNkosi yako konke.

Yesu, ndixolele. Ngoku ndiyaguquka esonweni sam, ndibeka ithemba lam kuwe.

Ndigcwalise ngoMoya wakho, ndihlambe, undamkele njengomntwana wakho.

Amen

Accepting the GREAT EXCHANGE for yourself

I

n the last issue of JOY I shared the story of Martin Luther’s conversion — how he suddenly realised that “the righteousness of God” revealed in the Gospel (Rom 1:17) is the great gift of righteousness given freely to those who believe. In theological terminology, Luther came to see that this “righteousness of God” is an “imputed righteousness,” something credited to the sinner’s account as if it was his/hers, even though it isn’t. It is what John Calvin would go on to call “the great exchange.”

Jesus took our sin upon Himself and suffered God’s wrath for it, and in exchange Jesus gave us His perfect righteousness, and we go free.

It is the Gospel that tells us about this gift and how we are to receive it (which is “by faith”). Jesus said, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” – John 3:16 And that, my friends, truly is Good News! This means that although you are an unrighteous sinner, you are declared righteous simply because you have put your faith in Jesus, who was sent by God in His grace to absorb your guilt and take on the punishment that was due to you. Having put your trust in Jesus, you no longer face the judgement of a sinner, because you have passed from death into life. Good news indeed!

Ask yourself these questions: So let me close this part of our journey together simply by asking you these questions: Have you sought the forgiveness of God through faith in Jesus Christ His Son? Have you received the gift of God which is righteousness? Do you know for sure that you have eternal life? Have you accepted Jesus as your Saviour and Lord?

Invite Jesus into your life today!

If the answer is “no” then do it now – I beg of you! It takes no magic words. All God requires is humility and that you call on the Name of Jesus, asking Him to forgive you of your sins.

For “whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” – Romans 10:13 

This is written by Steve Johnstone, the founder of Barleyfield Christian Ministries.

Visit barleyfield.org for online evangelism & early discipleship resources

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THE COLLECTION THE COLLECTION

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THE BEST OF JOY! ARTICLES THE COLLECTION THEOLOGY APOLOGETICS TEACHING

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Bertrand umanist and atheist, “Why Russell, wrote in his book, that: “Man I am Not a Christian” tal connections is the product of...acciden heroism, no intensity of atoms...no fire, no can preserve an feeling and of thoughts the grave...The whole individual life beyond nt must inevitably temple of man’s achieveme debris of a universe in be buried beneath the ruin...” man is an accident Russell believed that by chance and chaos, of the cosmos, formed in the end, nothing directionless in life, and

H

Russell maintained that but food for worms. for weak people, religion is simply a crutch up to reality. who cannot bear to face

The courage of Polycarp

generation disciple When Polycarp, (second was arrested and and the Bishop of Smyrna), consul, he was brought before the Roman just curse Christ, and told...“Do this, old man, I will set you free.” a crutch.

“86 years I have Some religions may be Polycarp responded: Christianity is never done me has However He and crutch. a atheism is served my Christ, t Christians throughou can I blaspheme my no crutch and many any wrong. How then “I have wild beasts” be classified as weaklings. history could hardly King who has saved me?” . “Bring them” Polyof circumstances, In some of the worst threatened the pro-consul the greatest the wild beasts I replied. “If you despise Christianity has produced carp progress, achievements, ” warned the consul. courage, the greatest will have you burned, ever known. prosperity and freedoms

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Midgey’s Moments

W

ell, it doesn’t seem as though it’s been five minutes since it was Christmas and now it is almost Easter! My Arnie (Aunty Trish) says that this is a time of new beginnings, and an egg is a symbol of new life. It makes me think of celebrating (and nice things to eat)!

Arnie says that it is written in the Bible that one of the best things a man can do is eat and enjoy what he has earned, but not too much, and to share it with others – remembering that it really comes from God. That must be like when Arnie cooks her delicious chicken fillets and shares them with me! They’re so good!

I like my food and always want more, but I am told, “No” because I could become too chubby! I have heard my Mummy say that, in the same way, we become what we put in our minds. She says that we must think about things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and honourable – which I think, in a nutshell, means good things.

Thank you Jesus for giving us good things in life!

Woofs & licks,

Midgey 04 JOY! MAGAZINE

etters to the Editor

D

ear readers, we love to hear your thoughts on the stories that we publish, what is going on around the world, and what the Lord has placed on your heart! Email your letter through to editor@joymag.co.za for a chance to be featured – please try to keep letters to 150 words as we have limited space.

Honouring Nico Bougas Thank you JOY! Magazine for publishing Nico Bougas’ encouragements each month.

Nico’s powerful sermons, as well as Erin’s Ed’s Note were always the first to be read.

Thank you for sending me Nico’s journal when I renewed my subscription last year.

I treasure it. Nico’s insight and storytelling abilities impacted my life in each edition.

The recent article in which he shared about his dad was especially heart-warming. He is absent from the body, yet present with the Lord whom he loved and served. God bless.

Avril Beckett

The sacredness of an oath We watch how people are sworn into Parliament to serve their country, “So help me God”. Listening to the Zondo commission, it becomes clear that this oath is meaningless, as God seems to have no place in Parliament. The politicians relentlessly put themselves and their party first, and the country doesn’t even feature in their debate.

Our sad state of affairs can be contributed to this, as they do not serve God but man and mammon. Until they realise the sacredness of this oath, the looting of the state coffers will continue. What should be considered as treason, and punished as such, goes by as just another day at the office. Unfortunately, this trend has found its way into the courts as there is no respect or fear of appearing or not appearing in court. Unfortunately, this seems to be a worldwide trend, as we see

this all over. How empty and meaningless life is in a world without God! Drene Tiessen

Your articles enable growth I truly appreciated your recent interview with Amir Tsarfati. I have read his books, The Last Hour and The Day Approaching.

Both are excellent reading and wonderful study aids, as well as evangelistic tools, leaving one with truth, hope, and joy.

As believers, we have a glorious future awaiting us! It was so good to be reminded in your January issue of JOY! Magazine of Reinhard Bonnke’s divine appointment with South Africa during the 1980s. The roof of my tent was figuratively blown off during a visit to one of his meetings. There was a downpour and drenching of the Holy Spirit and shackles of denominational religion and piousness fell off many. To God be the glory! JOY Magazine is second-tonone. My gardener, Sony, exudes great joy when I give him a copy of the magazine. He is growing in leaps and bounds.

Christine Wood (nee du Plooy)

The Methodist Church is lost It was with great sadness that I read your article on the decision of Rev Rowan Rennie to leave the Methodist Church. I have been a member of the Methodist Church for 45 years and the politicising of Israel led me to believe that the Church has lost its direction and purpose. This is most unfortunate and I have written to the Methodist Church of SA to cancel my membership. Their unashamed support of the Africa for Palestine movement is very sad indeed. I support Rev Rennie 100% and find it hypocritical that the church accuses him of breaking his covenant with the MCSA. They have broken their covenant with God’s precious Word and choose to ignore Israel, a country that

NECKS LEVEL Accessories

Send your letters to editor@joymag.co.za plays such an intrinsic part in the history of God’s Word. Unfortunately the MCSA has been influenced by the SACC, which in turn dances to the tune of the ruling party in South Africa. I am sure that they will be pushing a lot of other agendas that are close to the government’s heart. God’s Word is the truth and the truth will set you free.

Name withheld

Why are churches closed?

Thank you for all the wonderful and inspiring articles in JOY! Magazine. Since Covid began, however, I have had one question.

If we search the world and all the churches, many of the doors are closed. Since the very first church and throughout all the tragedies in the world, never have the church doors ever been closed. I am not saying that the churches must all have services, but open the doors so people can still go into God’s house to pray. I know that, as believers, we are God’s temple, but His house takes us out of the world into quiet and serenity. I live in a small community where we could have had services, but the church obeyed the restrictions put in place by government.

I would like a little help or understanding with this, please.

Rae

The Bible in a Nutshell is such a blessing!

Thank you so much for a wonderful magazine! I have bought every single issue for as long as I can remember. Due to the pandemic, I wasn’t able to buy last year’s issues, but I am currently enjoying the Characters of the Bible series. It’s so informative! I have purchased the Bible in a Nutshell book as well and I am thoroughly enjoying it. It would be so wonderful if you could publish the Characters of the Bible series, like the Bible in a Nutshell series. It would be a treasure! Thank

you so much for such a wonderful magazine! I pray every day that God will continue to bless you and your team as you continue to inspire and bless us. Thank you!

Anisha Amarchand Dear Anisha, thank you for your letter and support! It is definitely our intention to put together a Characters of the Bible book, once we have completed our series.

– Editor

With whom are we aligning ourselves?

A feature article in the January issue of JOY! Magazine was truly disappointing. The article posed the question: “Are we called to be liberal or conservative Christians?”

It focused solely on verses from the Bible about unity, and the writer’s interpretation of what constitutes such unity. Her cry, which I am sure was meant to be a rallying one, fell woefully short of an honest description of what a so-called liberal or conservative Christian is, and how each one views the world. In fact, it seemed more a cry for compromise of biblical views in order to preserve a surface politeness among those who call themselves Christian. It is my contention that the label ‘liberal Christian’ is an oxymoron and that the time to try and fluff the lines between what is biblically correct and what is politically expedient should come to an end.

The truth of the matter is that any Christian should view the world through the lens and direction of what the Word of God says about any and all matters. Christians who believe they can support abortion advocates, same-sex marriage activists, Marxism, the destruction of families through rabid feminism, and in every way subvert a Christian culture and remain in right standing with God, are only fooling themselves. »

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etters to the Editor Whether the candidate of a political party appeals to your earthly sensibilities or not is irrelevant in the matter of deciding your support for a political agenda. There are only two kingdoms and each time you cast a vote or support a candidate that has openly admitted to hateful and anti-life policies, you are choosing to align yourself, your children, and your nation with one of them! Selah!

Jeanette Gouws

Having children is a blessing that carries great responsibility Congratulations on producing the only magazine that is worth reading and may the Lord continue to bless your endeavour.

I would like to comment on the recent articles in JOY! Magazine about a Christian’s approach to having children. It is a Godgiven privilege for a married couple to have and enjoy children and nurture a wholesome loving family unit. God created man and woman with the desire to demonstrate and enjoy their love for one another through sexual intimacy and the conception of children. God has given us that privilege, but also placed on us the responsibility to nurture, teach, educate, and provide for the needs of those children. However, when the number of children in a family makes it difficult or impossible for the parents to provide for the children adequately, they are showing disrespect to the gift that the Lord has given and entrusted to them.

The church needs to make its voice heard more clearly about the awesome responsibility that parents have towards each child that they bring into this world. It needs to admonish parents who bring children into the world that they do not have the means to care for adequately. It needs to emphasise the sinfulness of conceiving children out of wedlock, and the ungodly prevalence

of fatherless families in South Africa. God does not condone irresponsible behaviour of any kind. Irresponsible behaviour is sinful behaviour. The resultant excessive population growth is the greatest contributor to perpetuating poverty and unemployment in South Africa. Ample evidence of this is the inability of our schools, health services, justice system, or housing provision to cope with the needs of the population.

In one of the comments on the article, it was stated that there is plenty of space in Africa for more people. That argument is seriously flawed because it is not space that people need, it is adequate income to provide for their needs. I live on a farm in the Karoo, which is thousands of hectares in size, but it requires three hectares of land to provide enough grazing for one sheep.

So, in spite of the size of the farm, it is only able to generate enough income to provide for the 12 families that currently live on it.

What is true for this farm is also true for a country. Currently South Africa’s capacity to produce income is inadequate to provide for the needs of the population. This can only be rectified if the annual economic growth rate is significantly higher than the population growth rate. The government is pursuing that goal, but unless the population growth rate declines, it will not be possible to achieve and the country will be burdened with perpetual poverty. If you care to Google the statistics, you will find that there is an inverse correlation between the per capita income of countries and their population growth rate. Sub-Saharan Africa is currently at the bottom of the list. We are not regarding the responsibility that God has placed on us, of adequately providing for the children that we bring into the world, seriously enough.

Peter Kingwill

3 Points to Ponder on:

RAISING KIDS

I

remember being 10-years-old and thinking about marriage and having my own children one day. Given that I grew up in an era where we, the kids, were the actual TV remotes, garden services, garbage removers, juice pourers, and general gofers – I think the desire was more about one day having someone doing all of this for me, so that I wouldn’t need to myself. However, as time went on, I realised that wanting kids was something that was deeply rooted within me, and happy were the days when I finally welcomed my two boys into the world, Joshua and Liam.

A moment that melted my heart I must be honest – having children, thus far, has not proven to be difficult and it feels as if it comes naturally (well to me at least, my boys might disagree). I recently joined a course on how to be a better father, and I suddenly realised that there is a lot that I need to do differently. At one point during the 7 week course, I thought that I had completely missed the mark as a father.

Luckily, Joshua silenced my thoughts after calling to ask where I was, and after I told him, he exclaimed, “A course on being a better father? You are already the best!” This melted my heart. If you want to be a better parent, ponder on these 3 points:

1. Set a good example “Guide the young men to live disciplined lives. But mostly, show them all this by doing it yourself, trustworthy in your teaching, your words solid and sane.” – Titus 2:6-7, MSG

Eternal Hope in Christ’s Resurrection

D

uring this month we celebrate the most significant event in human history. It is as if the whole world celebrates Easter. We understand that the world celebrates different traditions, and the entire celebration has become commercialised, but nothing can take away the impact and significance of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Assurance for every situation There is much evidence to prove the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Evidence ranging from the public burial of Jesus, eyewitness accounts, people willing to be martyred for proclaiming this fact, and – above all – the empty tomb. In all that we face, in every situation we find ourselves, there is this assurance – Jesus died, was buried, and rose to life again. This assurance is our eternal hope. Please share this hope with others.

1 Peter 1:21, NLT “Through Christ you have come to trust in God. And you have placed your faith and hope in God because he raised Christ from the dead and gave him great glory.” 

For more in-depth teachings on this subject, as well as how to share this hope with others, please visit our website www.eandfm.org or our YouTube channel: Grant Neyt Evangelism and Fire Ministries

2. Children are a gift from God – enjoy them and laugh often “He gives childless couples a family, gives them joy as the parents of children.” – Psalm 113:9, MSG

3. Raise them to love the Lord and follow the Word “Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it.” – Proverbs 22:6, NLT  GAWIE DE LANGE is the General Manager of JOY! Magazine.

Email gawie@joymag.co.za

GRANT AND THEUNISINA NEYT run Evangelism and Fire Ministries.

Email: info@eandfm.org or visit eandfm.org for more information.

No power of positive thinking can bring lasting joy.

Instead, joy is a supernatural work of the Holy Spirit in us, and characterises the people of God.

JOY! MAGAZINE 09

INSPIRATION

Pooch Parables Talk to Me

—by Jane Jackson

S

andy, my precious little pooch, communicates various things in God communicates with us in many ways various ways. I can, for instance, hear from her bark whether she Because prayer is a dialogue, God will communicate with us in various is feeling threatened or whether she is on the attack. She has a ways too. He says, “Call unto Me and I will answer you” – Jeremiah 33:3. gentle growl reserved for pesky dogs who make her feel uncomfortable, Often He will simply whisper His unconditional love and assurance. and a sharper guard-dog style bark that is hardly likely to chase away We will feel Him smiling on us. As we survey His marvellous creation intruders, but allows her to feel she’s doing her duty as protector of He will sing to our awestruck hearts and minister in parables. her turf. She sports a boasting bark – which is loudly broadcast to the Sometimes we will hear Him calling us to a particular assignment or neighbourhood dogs – whenever she has received a particular treat guiding us in a particular direction. Regularly we will feel a gentle and she offers a pleading whimper in the early mornings for us to tugging on our hearts as His Spirit calls us to pray for someone or pick her up onto our bed for a cuddle. She has a squeak of sorts that convicts us of an area requiring change. Occasionally He will need to is offered in the hope of snippets of our food, and she gives hilarious raise His voice a little louder in a call for us to take urgent action in an howls when she chases a particular cat that area or to awaken us from spiritual sleep or traverses our garden and whom she clearly compromise. Like any good Father, there will isn’t fond of. And then there is her sleepy sigh be times He needs to chastise and discipline Prayer is more important of contentment that tells us that all is well in us. Our very personal Saviour will illuminate and more powerful than her doggy world.

His Living Word to us daily, speaking directly most of us realise. to our hearts.

God wants to hear from us

God wants to hear our voices, whatever they may be communicating. Our prayers will also take various forms. We may be pleading for those in need, standing in the gap as intercessors. We might have personal petitions.

Often we will praise our awesome God for Who He is, and raise shouts of thanksgiving for His faithfulness. Or we could enter into battlecry worship as we await breakthrough in an area, earnest warfare prayer as we stand on God’s promises for assured victory. Our personal prayer language is a powerful gift that allows us to pray God’s perfect will in the Spirit when we don’t have the words. And there will be regular quiet whispers of gratitude for all His blessings.

12 JOY! MAGAZINE

Prayer IS the greater work Prayer may require us to wrestle as Jacob did, or persist patiently as Daniel did, or spend lengthy periods on the mountain as Moses did. Jesus rose before sunrise and stayed up late in fasting and prayer, and we are not above our Master. Prayer is more important and more powerful than most of us realise. It does not just equip us for the greater work, it is the greater work. It is placing ourselves in the hands of Almighty God and asking Him to release His supernatural power to work in our earthly realm. It is not about us saying the right words in the right way, but rather about believing that the Spirit will do what the Word has promised. The omnipotent One hears the hearts cry of His people: “Let Your will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven” – Matthew 6:10. He sends Heaven to our aid, according to His perfect will and timing. Selah! 

JANE JACKSON resides in the Cape winelands where she is wife to Ian and mom to Dan and Jess (and of course pooch Sandy). Email jane.a.jackson5@gmail.com

The unconditional love of having a pet —by Hermien Van Den Bergh

M

y son, Dawid, and I have been travelling together as missionaries for seven years. There are two things that I miss: having my own cupboard and my own pet! Having a pet as a constant companion means a free-flow of boundless unconditional love, loyalty, and great fun. In the meantime, we love other people’s pets and we befriend wild animals in the bush.

Communicating with and loving all sorts of animals, birds, and fish is incredibly rewarding.

ticated. It is a scientific fact that pets provide many benefits to human beings. Having a pet increases physical and mental wellbeing in people. Pets make wonderful companions, which reduces loneliness, depression, and high blood pressure and also helps to prevent heart attacks. Studies showed that merely stroking a pet releases anxiety.

Pets care for us

My recommendation is that pets should be allowed in all old age homes. Horses, We learn so much about God for example, have been used in medical In the Bible, we see an example of the by observing the diversity, treatment plans since the 1980s. Animals, tender care and love that a man has for a beauty, & function of animals. when treated right, boost our immune pet lamb in 2 Samuel 12:3, “But the poor system. Pets are also wonderful with man had nothing, save one little ewe lamb, children as they are playful, loving, and which he had bought and nourished up: and it grew up together with him, and with his children; it did eat of his own funny and they teach children responsibility in having to take care of meat, and drank of his own cup, and lay in his bosom, and was unto them. Animals are heroic and have saved the lives of many owners. him as a daughter.” In this case the little lamb was far more than a pet. God used the lamb to teach King David a valuable lesson.

A gift from the Lord Having a pet is a great gift that God has given mankind. It is part of Health benefits of having pets God’s good plans for our lives, provided we take proper We learn so much about God and His generous character by ob- care of them. Animal needs are similar to that of humans serving the diversity, beauty, and function of all living creatures. and they flourish in homes where they are regarded as It is sad that animals are generally scared of people. Animals that part of the family. We thank every person who properly have gained the trust of people have usually become domes- takes care of their animals. 

God’s love for animals in the Bible

For anyone interested in following our journey as travelling missionaries, visit our website at www.lofunlimited.org Please donate and help us educate people to treat animals better, WhatsApp “LOFU” to 060 070 2753 Hermien and her son Dawid Van Den Bergh

Biblically based answers for tough questions

ASK VAL People say we shouldn’t celebrate Easter because it is linked to a pagan festival and carries its name.

What is the truth?

A. The death, ascension, and resurrection of Christ changed the world forever. That is truth. Jesus is God’s greatest gift to mankind, and we have a God-given right to celebrate the Saviour publicly and visibly. Because one’s birthday may coincide with a pagan festival, is that a good reason to ignore it? Be vocal and visible and use this opportunity to especially make children aware of Christ’s mission. The Church is in danger of rearing “Christianised” pagans in these dangerous times when children receive minimal spiritual input. The devil and his supporters hate Christ and will do anything to stop Christians sharing the Gospel. Celebrating important Christian festivals such as Easter and Christmas are wonderful opportunities to share the Gospel with a world that is wide-open to listen at these times. The Great Commission (Matt 28:19-20) has never been revoked.

“Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season… be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfil your ministry.” – 2 Timothy 4:2-5

14 JOY! MAGAZINE

Email questions to: joyquestions@valwaldeck.com

My husband has found a new lover (a man). He wants a divorce so they can marry. When I made my marriage vows before God I meant them and I believed he did too. How can I cope with this tragedy in our family?

A. That is a tough question, and the Bible has some tough answers. Read 1 Corinthians 7 carefully and prayerfully. Here we learn that a wife should do everything she can to remain with her husband (verse 10-11). If one of the partners is an unbeliever but willing to live with his/her believing spouse, they should not divorce (verse 1314). Your dilemma is answered in verse 15.

“But if the unbelieving partner leaves, let him do so; in such cases the [remaining] brother or sister is not [spiritually or morally] bound. But God has called us to peace” – 1 Corinthians 7:15, Amplified Bible. If he leaves and breaks the marriage covenant, you are morally free to either live as a single woman or remarry “in the Lord” (verse 39). Focus on the Lord Jesus Christ and His Word daily.

Do not allow anger or pain to grow into a “root of bitterness” (Heb 12:15) that will damage you and your children’s lives. Your husband is responsible for his decisions and the consequences. “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” – Philippians 4:6-7.

I am very distressed about what has happened in America with their new presidency. So many thousands of Christians prayed before the elections. Why didn’t God answer? Why didn’t He protect the abortion laws?

Why is He allowing so many good laws to be overturned by Biden’s administration? I really don’t understand.

A. God promised Abraham that the land he was camping on (future land of Israel) would one day be the home of his descendants. But He also said something very serious: “After four generations your descendants will return here to this land, for the sins of the Amorites do not yet warrant their destruction” – Genesis 15:16.

400 years later, they moved there under the leadership of Moses in fulfilment of that prophecy. Abraham pleaded for Sodom and Gomorrah (Gen 18:16-33), but their cup of iniquity was full, and judgement was certain. Nothing could stop it. Jeremiah wept for Judah when the Babylonians came (read Lamentations). It was too late and the time of reckoning had arrived. America, sadly, does not appear to feature in end-time Biblical prophecy and many have wondered whether her time of reckoning has come. Pray the Lord has mercy on this great nation and that her leaders reconsider unbiblical laws that rebel against the revealed Will of God and invite judgement. 

Val Waldeck is an author, kindle publishing consultant, and Bible teacher.

If you need help writing, or with your book, see valwaldeck.com

DEVOTION

The power of

encouragement —by Nico Bougas

E

ric Liddell is famous for his 1924 Olympic race as depicted in “Chariots of Fire”. As Britain’s premier sprinter, he was given the opportunity of running the 100 metres in the Paris Olympics, and was the odds-on favourite for gold. But when he found out that it was scheduled for a Sunday, he refused to run, believing Sunday to be the Lord’s Day and a day of rest.

The Word encourages us to stand firm

His withdrawal did not go over well

Our Christian duty

The Prince of Wales and the British Olympic Committee pressured him to reconsider, and when he refused, the British press and Parliament vilified him, calling him a traitor. It seemed like the whole nation was against him. He was a young man, anxious to bring glory to his nation and fulfil his obvious potential as a world-class sprinter.

Now the leaders of the athletic world and the nation felt betrayed by him and he felt like an outcast.

Sadly, the world is full of discouragers, people that will pour scorn on your ideas and ridicule your efforts and enthusiasm. We have a duty to encourage one another. The writer of the book of Hebrews says that we should encourage one another and so much the more as we see the day approaching. Criticism comes easy. As Benjamin Franklin said, “Any fool can criticise, condemn and complain – and most fools do.”

Encouragement spurs victory

You can make a difference to somebody today with your words and actions. You can find somebody crippled by doubt or feelings of inadequacy. “Strengthen those who have tired hands, and encourage those who have weak knees. Say to those with fearful hearts, ‘Be strong, and do not fear, for your God is coming to destroy your enemies. He is coming to save you’.” – Isaiah 35:4, NLT

Sometimes it seems like the world is turning against us. There are times when we have to take a stand that may upset our parents, our family, our employers, and even our close friends. It is at such a time that God says it is time to stand in the evil day, having done all things to stand. It is at times like those that we need encouragers.

“Encourage one another and build each other up.”

– 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Later in that week, Liddell ran the 400-metre race — an event for which he was less familiar and marginally qualified.

Just before the race, an American competitor slipped a note into Liddell’s hand quoting 1 Samuel 2:30, “Those who honour Me, I will honour.” Clutching that note while he ran, Eric won the race and the gold medal, setting both Olympic and world records. It was that note of encouragement that spurred him on to victory and a place in history.

Everyone needs to be encouraged Who do you know that needs that word of encouragement? We all need encouragement. Every day brings new challenges, new problems, and new risks – especially in these unprecedented times that we are living in. We often feel inadequate like Jehoshaphat when he prayed, “We are powerless against this mighty army that is about to attack us. We do not know what to do, but we are looking to you for help.” – 2 Chronicles 20:12

You can change someone’s day

Take up this opportunity Be an encourager and turn an ordinary person into the extraordinary.

Help somebody reach their full potential. Help somebody break out of their feelings of inadequacy. Help them feel good about themselves. Turn participants into winners. 

NICO BOUGAS passed away in February 2021. May he rest in eternal peace at the feet of our Lord and Saviour. Having dedicated his entire life to serving Christ, Nico will be sorely missed. He was an extremely close ministry partner with JOY, featuring in every single issue to date. His teachings and sermons have touched the lives of millions of readers.

JOY! MAGAZINE 15

STORY OF HOPE

From Poverty to Provision Patela & Mfundo’s testimony

—by WORK 4 A LIVING

P

atela and Mfundo Tyoba are from Umtata in the Eastern Cape where they run the local WORK 4 A LIVING (W4AL) Centre that helps young people find employment or start businesses. Before hearing about W4AL, Patela had been unemployed for about four years.

“My life was hopeless,” recalls Patela. “I felt like I had no opportunities and that I was doomed to live a desperate life, like everyone else around me,” she says. Her despair led to depression that she tried to medicate with partying and drinking. However, after attending a W4AL job readiness programme that a neighbour had told her about, Patela’s worldview was completely transformed. During the course she was introduced to the Gospel and she gave her life to Jesus – a moment that she describes “as if the world was transformed into full colour!”

She used the financial literacy skills she learnt to save up to further her education and subsequently earned a qualification in Human Resources Management. Mfundo eventually also completed the job readiness course. “At the time, I wasn’t working and I was extremely discouraged. But then I attended the W4AL course and from the day I started, my life started to change. I saw a lot of other young people in our community who were not working and something was birthed in my heart to serve and help our communities. It was the best decision I ever made!” explains Mfundo.

Starting their own centre to help others

From seeing their own lives transformed and with a passion to see this same change in other unemployed youth in their community, Patela A life-changing transformation and Mfundo approached W4AL with a proposal to start their own At first, Patela’s then-boyfriend, Mfundo, was not too happy about her centre. They now run a full W4AL Tech Hub in Umtata where many transformation. “When Patela came back from the W4AL programme, people have been helped, many lives have been changed, young I started to see a change in her. In fact, I tried to tell her to stop going people have been saved and have gone back to school, or have started to the classes because I wanted the old ‘party Patela’!” Mfundo recalls. businesses. Mfundo and Patela’s centre is impacting their community as they teach people to think with a healthy Despite resistance at home, Patela persevered mindset. The couple have also recently started with the job readiness course, found work, their own freelancing agency after completing and even led Mfundo to the Lord.

Patela and Mfundo help a W4AL Digital Bootcamp course. This has hundreds of unemployed enabled them to provide for their family and young people find pay for their children’s schooling.

employment.

From a poverty mindset to a biblical worldview

This couple’s radical transformation and subsequent impact on a community cannot be credited to simply a good programme. Both Patela and Mfundo took to heart the core of W4AL, which is changing one’s mindset and adopting a biblical worldview. Mfundo elaborates on this, “We used to have a poverty mindset that says, ‘We are poor and we will always be poor; we cannot change.’ We were waiting for someone to come save us, and this way of thinking kept us poor! W4AL changed our mindsets completely from a poverty mindset to a biblical worldview. Now we know it’s not okay to sit at home and do nothing.

If anyone is discouraged in their circumstances and doesn’t know what to do, I would advise them to join a W4AL centre in their area. Their lives will be changed and they could then also have the opportunity to impact their own communities – just like we did!”  WORK 4 A LIVING is a Christ-loving NGO that exists to empower individuals to excel in the workplace. Visit www.work4aliving.org for more information.

Mergon Foundation is a resource partner to ministries who expand God’s Kingdom and bring hope and restoration to communities across Africa and the Middle East. www.mergon.co.za

Virtues for Cultural Engagement:

Humility I

—by Tendai Chitsike

t is often clear that we, as Christians, live in a world frequently hostile the conversion of our cultural opponents rests on our actions. To be to the Christian faith. However, we seldom pay attention to our foes sure, we must give a defence of the faith, preach the Gospel, and within. As Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn so wisely pointed out, “The line live in an increasingly Christ-like manner. But the miraculous work of separating good and evil passes not through states, nor between conversion is not effected by us, but by the Spirit of God. In answer to classes, nor between political parties either – but right through every the disciples’ question of who can be saved, Jesus was most emphatic human heart, and through all human hearts.” In failing to regard sin in revealing who does the saving, as he said in Matthew 19:26 that at work within us, we make a dangerous assumption. We assume that “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” because we are bringing the Gospel and a biblical worldview into a Salvation through human effort is not difficult; it is impossible. The Christ-less society, that all that we do in the Name of God must be true conversion of Saul – who would then become the most prominent and good, and God must surely be on our side. However, if we look Apostle – is a case in point. closely at Scripture, we find this assumption to be false. We find that God, being completely consistent in character, does not agree with all Humility is an important virtue that we do just because we have given our allegiance to Him. David, What all this means is that our cultural engagement must have room whom God described as a man after his very for humility, including being able to apologise own heart, is an apt example. Knowing that when appropriate. The Gospel writers we will always have to contend with the sinful themselves display this humble attitude, It is imperative that nature within us as individuals and within the as they share embarrassing details about we employ humility body of Christ, it is imperative that we employ themselves within the pages of Scripture. They in our engagement humility in our engagement with the culture. remind us that the bedrock of Christianity is with the culture. not a projected image of self-righteousness, but the truth that Christ alone has satisfied A painful yet necessary opportunity God’s benchmark of righteousness. If we As I write this, the global Church has had to face a painfully difficult, but necessary opportunity to put this into never apologise for acting improperly, we are probably becoming practice. After a thorough external investigation, credible and verified unnecessarily antagonistic to those we should be trying accounts emerged that celebrated apologist Ravi Zacharias engaged to win over, making it an ‘us VS them’ situation, in numerous accounts of sexual misconduct while he was on earth. when the issue should always be one of truth The consequences have been immense for those associated with this VS lies. In the way we engage with unsaved multinational ministry. Yet in the midst of the ensuing fallout, some family, friends, and popular culture, we should courageous apologists have made a public apology to those affected be confident enough in the Gospel and the in various ways in light of these revelations. work of God to apologise when we have acted in an unmannerly way. God’s kingdom cannot advance without such virtue.  There is no salvation through man Perhaps we think that a humble apology would give our opponents far too much ammunition to reject the Christian message. The TENDAI CHITSIKE is the pastor of Every Nation Church problem with such thinking is that it is based on the assumption that in Makhanda. Email: engrahamstown@gmail.com

TRIBU

TE

A tribute to my OBF (Old Best Friend)

Nico Bougas 8 July 1940 – 10 February 2021 —by Erin Georgiou

T

wenty five years ago, God orchestrated a divine encounter that changed my life. I had decided to put together a book called ‘Mentors’, which featured a collection of testimonies from various business leaders in South Africa. I had no experience in the publishing world, yet felt a strong calling from the Lord to publish this book. A few years prior, I had received a gift subscription to the Christian Living Today magazine. I noted that Nico Bougas was the Editor / Owner, and felt led to reach out to him for advice on how to put this project together.

From the moment my call was put through to him we connected on a spiritual level, but unfortunately he could not meet with me as I had requested, as he was about to embark as the tour leader on a trip to Israel.

There and then I knew I had to book myself on this trip so that I could get to spend some valuable time with him, tap his brain, and thus get the book done. The Lord works in wonderful ways, and I was so blessed to get the seat next to Nico on the plane. For 8 hours we didn’t stop talking (much to the frustration of the surrounding passengers). Nevertheless, when I came back from that trip the book was fully compiled in my head and was ready for print only six months later. During that month after our return, it was necessary for Nico and I to chat every day, and soon he was calling me “GG” – which I found out meant “Garrulous Georgiou,” haha. I, too, gave him a nickname and called him my “NBF” (which stood for my “new best friend”).

God had connected us for His divine purposes for the Christian Media in South Africa. As a way to thank Nico for his time and input into ‘Mentors’, I helped him with the marketing of his magazine and we did our best to double the circulation

Nico Bougas

within one year. Nico soon recognised the calling on my life too and felt that it was important for me to study theology and grow in my knowledge of the Word. He said that if I wanted to be taken seriously by many reformed pastors, infectious, active faith was not enough.

So I enrolled at a Theological Seminary and a local Bible School and proceeded to study. Little did I know that the Lord was preparing me for the role of Editor and Publisher of JOY! Magazine.

Whilst studying and helping Nico over a 3 year period, Nico personally introduced me to over 300 pastors (Yes, you read right). He often used to test me on what church each one was from and what the It is tremendously doctrines were of their various denominations etc. What a sad to bid farewell privilege to have gained this to Nico, yet we find input and knowledge and peace knowing that the blessing and advantage he is sitting at the that it afforded me in my line feet of Jesus. of duty. We travelled together and spoke at many events and churches all around South Africa. He instilled in me the importance of giving an account of why I believe and how to effectively share the Gospel through personal testimony.

During the years that I got to know Nico, I witnessed and experienced his humility, grace, and the favour of the Lord that was upon him.

He is the only Christian I have ever met who could accurately quote any scripture, chapter, and verse, anytime and anywhere. He was like a walking Bible – scripture memorisation was his priority. I also admired and loved the fact that Nico was so willing to learn and be a frontrunner with technology. Many moons ago, when the internet was first introduced, he was one of the very first people to get it in our country and very shortly thereafter he encouraged me to get a modem and sign up. I remember one time when him and I were doing a talk on Noble Causes at a businessmen’s breakfast. We proudly referred them to our newly built website for further information. Well, they all just looked at us blankly and we found out afterwards only one person in that room of 35 had an email address and even knew what the internet was. Talk about a “Presentation Malfunction.”

Nico in Greece

Nico and his wife Bee

W

ox

es

hen a spiritual giant such as Nico Bougas dies, Nico’s love for language and writing we experience mixed feelings of rejoicing inspired me greatly. He used to use one and sad loss. Nico has already been crowned with new word every day and encouraged me the words, “Well done my good and faithful servant.” b g to increase my vocabulary too – we made He had reached the age of 80 and, like Caleb, he was n Nic i rr y o wa a habit of using an “adjectival overload” still asking God for the “hill country.” He so wanted to do s always ca every time we exchanged emails. This carried on more for his Lord! Nico was the International Co-ordinator of for years and this was his way of teaching me to write Hellenic Ministries, a mission to Greece and Greeks worldwide. creatively. He was deliberate, patient, kind, and loved God with all his He was actively serving as the ambassador for Hellenic heart. In the 25 years that I have known Nico, I never heard him say one Ministries ‘Christ for Greece and the Nations’, moving between bad word about anyone. He worked tirelessly for the Gospel and was the Greece, South Africa, and the USA. most travelled person I know. He never complained about anything. He Nico was born in Sea Point on 8th July 1940. As a teenager, often told me about the strange places and rooms he was given to sleep he committed his life to Christ at a Youth for Christ rally, in (he made a habit of staying with church folks and connections rather in Springs, Gauteng. During his school years, he attended than hotels), and yet he never complained. Nico was out every single Sea Point Boys High and Brakpan High School. His studies Sunday visiting churches and promoting either his magazine, or in latter included the Institute for Administration and Commerce, the years Hellenic Ministries. He would spend hours every week, calling and Bible Institute of SA, London Bible College, Trinity Theological trying to get appointments and opportunities to present the mission.

Seminary, and Wheaton Graduate School.

Nico loved and had deep compassion for the Greeks. I know Johnathan He married Bee 48 years ago on 23rd June 1972. She is from Macris must be devastated – He loved and admired Nico so much.

Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. They have four children: George (he was the lead singer in a band, he has gone to be with the Lord), Benjie Then let’s talk about Bee (Nico’s wife). She is the most understanding, (39, a banker in London), Jonty (37, a Media Director in Sea Point), tolerant, and wise woman. She loved and supported her husband like and Tami (35, married, living in Bushnell, Florida, and expecting no other wife I know. She never, ever, stood in the way of the work of the her first child). One of his finest achievements and legacies that Lord that had been given to Nico. She accepted the thousands of hours he leaves behind, is his example of a beautiful marriage to Bee. that he was out and about. Nico loved her with all that he had and, in Nico spent many years as the editor of the YFC’s IN the last few years, she served alongside him in the mission field as well.

Magazine. Thereafter it developed into the comprehensive Such an incredible help meet. I take this opportunity to thank her for Christian Living TODAY magazine, a major evangelical allowing Nico to become such an influence for Christ in his lifetime. A Christian magazine in South Africa. He was also the Literature great reward awaits her too.

Director of Sports Outreach in Africa. Furthermore, he was the Club and Literature Director for Youth for Christ. In addition, Nico’s passing is a huge loss for our JOY! readers, as he always wrote the he is the author of four books and hundreds of magazine monthly sermons for our magazine. Nico’s messages have featured in articles and sports ministry booklets. He was an interim every single issue of JOY! Magazine to date. We know that his writings pastor in churches in Aurora Illinois and Pinelands, Cape have touched the hearts of hundreds of thousands of readers. I take Town. Right up to the end of his life he was a prolific writer of this opportunity to thank him for his relentless passion and vigour in articles for the JOY magazine, with his messages published in writing for us, knowing the reward that he is enjoying in heaven. Nico, every single issue of JOY! to date. enjoy your prize, we bode you farewell with heavy hearts. With heartfelt In conclusion, Nico’s life is one that was well lived for His eternal love, I say goodbye to you my friend – thank you for investing in Lord, he sought only to make His name known and be glorified me. Until we meet again…  in all that he did.

—by David Melvill

Tributes to T

An Unexpected Father

wo years after my father, Costas Macris — career missionary and founder of Hellenic Ministries — passed away, Nico Bougas slipped into a “pair” of my father’s shoes, so it seemed. Without me hardly noticing, Nico began walking alongside me as the young President and Director of a small, fledging ministry. Before long, I realised that he was gently pushing me forward, just as my father would, encouraging me to lead and fulfil my God-given calling.

Nico treated me like a son In the days since Nico’s passing, while my sorrow has been intense, my wet eyes have given way to the secrets of the heart; I am missing Nico because he treated me like a son. On our shared ministry journey over the past 15 years, at times Nico seemed to believe in me more than I believed in myself. As well, he championed the cause and vision to which I have dedicated my life.

An unstoppable force

remember a time that Nico was not smiling. Even on his worst day, there would be a smile.

Experiencing great joy in ministry Nico was a man who believed in the power of prayer; his preaching often included long, effortlessly-quoted passages of scripture. Yet his incredible humility took him from his knees and the pulpit to the streets. He never saw himself as too old or too important to forego the hard work of distributing Bibles from home to home.

He revelled in the fact that Hellenic Ministries has distributed 1.3 million Bibles door-to-door in over 6000 villages across Greece, and he experienced great joy in the effort.

The blowing out of the candle

“You need time to grieve” has been gently repeated to me on a number of occasions over the last few weeks, since our beloved Nico went to be with his Lord. In Nico’s words, “The death of the believer is the blowing out of the candle because the dawn has come”. So it was at 5.30 am in Bradenton, Florida, when his wife Bee gently nudged him, encouraging him to go back to bed.

While my sorrow has Nico had laid his head on his desk, only to been intense, my wet be wakened by the angels in glory.

“When will you come to South Africa?” was his constant plea. On my first visit, it felt like eyes have given way I was following the legendary Livingstone. to the secrets of the Though quiet and unassuming, Nico was A legacy of servanthood heart; I am missing literally unstoppable; he was passionate, Our hearts have grieved and tears have wet prayerful, and full of compassion for his our eyes, while our spirits have been conNico because he Greek brethren. His focus and drive made soled by thoughts and memories of Nico. treated me like a son. food almost irrelevant, except for ice cream, Personally, and to our entire organisation, that is. “Johnathan”, he would say, “come to he prodded us to look higher and to reach South Africa for a year and I will have you in a different church for loftier goals. He encouraged us with his words, ran alongside us every Sunday morning and evening”. Nico gathered me into with his life, and in death, urged us to run with endurance the race what was most precious to him: his own family, his South African set before us! His legacy shadows us and marks the path ahead, community, and friends. While our organisation didn’t grow to the an example of humility and servanthood, a resolute determination, scale of Nico’s desire, our spiritual family has grown exponentially. and an absolute faith in the One who has called us.

I’m a rich man due to our shared South African and global friends.

Always smiling, always passionate Nico, I will miss your “always Nico” smile, your irrefutable humility, your passion for God’s Word, and your resolute dependence on prayer. You have branded and impacted us with a legacy to be cherished. Your clarion call remains, that people from everywhere might join God’s work as “Prayers, players, and payers”. Your love forever has won our hearts! Be certain that your legacy has marked us to faithfully run the race set before us, until we too, “…see our candles burn out because the dawn has come”. Nico was a man who turned obstacles into steps, challenges to opportunities, and impossibilities into futuristic visions to conqueror and inhabit. As much as I strain my eye into the memories of the past, I cannot 20 JOY! MAGAZINE

We say goodbye…

As the Hellenic Ministries family, we all know who it was that continuously sounded the clarion call, with humility and perseverance, of engaging as many people as possible—from all around the world—to be “Prayers, players, and payers”. Nico, we will miss you greatly. Thank you for your tireless work, your enduring friendship, and your magnificent example.

Until we meet again…

Johnathan Macris

Dr Nico Bougas A friend, a colleague, and a mentor

H

ow do you begin to describe a man who was one of a kind, intelligent, funny, and mischievous? Nico clearly loved God and was committed to the Gospel of Christ, reaching lost people. His methods were ingenious and only Nico could find such creative ways to get people interested in his Christianity Today Magazine. He was a brilliant Editor, writer, and a clear thinker. Nico loved his children and his wife, and took all the challenges that came with that role, albeit suffering loss and grief. Nico championed the cause of others and quickly saw potential in people. His unselfish nature always put others first, he was a great networker. Not only did Nico write a foreword for my first book, but after reading the manuscript he insisted that I should not self publish. He promptly set up a meeting with the Managing Director of Struik Christian Publishers. The rest is history and several books later, I am eternally grateful to Nico for encouraging me to write articles for his magazine and to believe in our God-given dreams. Well done Maximus, Braveheart Nico, rest in peace. What you did on earth will echo for all eternity. “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day —and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” – 2 Timothy 4:7-8

Anthony Liebenberg

I

A General in the Kingdom of God have been privileged to know Nico well for 35 years. Before I met him, he had influenced my life powerfully through IN Magazine and then over the years of friendship we served together in various ministries in Cape Town, one of them being his service as a Radio CCFm Trustee for many years. Nico was a General in the Kingdom of God. A rare, authentic Christian leader, a giant in the faith, leaving a legacy that has touched the ends of the earth through his passion for the Lord and his compassion for people. He served the Lord enthusiastically; his impact on people’s lives is immeasurable – from teenagers looking for direction to seasoned pastors needing wisdom. Nico was there with godly insight, positive input, a great sense of humour, and fervour to encourage people in their walk with the Lord. Nico mobilised people into Missions, he guided people into truth, he taught and wrote with authority and inspiration. He mastered the art of illustration to make whatever he said both simple and understandable. I was involved with Nico when a pivotal event took place in his life which could have made him bitter, but I never heard one word of complaint nor resentment from him. Instead, he saw the opportunity for the Lord to open new doors of service for him. Everybody liked and loved Nico. He lived his life in such a way that one could easily have confused him with His Jesus, whom he modelled and served with all his heart and mind.

John Thomas

Resting in the presence of the Father

I

met Nico when we were both very young. My first experience of his care for others was when he accompanied me to a debate with a Jehovah’s Witness. Being more experienced, he felt he ought to be alongside me as I went through a baptism of fire, as a young and inexperienced Christian. We landed up at Bible College together for 3 years when the Christian bonds between a number of us were deeply forged and lasted through life. Nico was the best man at our wedding 53 years ago. Then I had the privilege of officiating at the funeral of his son George who died unexpectedly some time back. There is a lot to say about Nico and I know everybody will have their tale to tell. He knew many people around the world who all loved him and could supply endless stories about him. But all I want to emphasise is that Nico knew Jesus. That relationship drove him through his life and was well supported by his wife, Bee, and their family. Death marks the end of all hope for those who are not Christians. But, for those who are Christian, it is the entrance into His presence for all eternity. That’s where Nico is, in His presence. I hope to go there too when I die and I hope all readers of JOY! Magazine have this assurance.

Frank Retief

JOY! MAGAZINE 21

Olga

TESTIMONY

A true story of a mother’s secret heartache transformed into joy

Olga as a young lady in 1953

We recently attended a book launch and were so touched by the story of Olga, who had to give her twin daughters up for adoption in 1952. This is the tale of grace and reconciliation, as told by Diane Knott, another of Olga’s daughters.

M

Strict Christian home

y name is Diane and I am the second eldest daughter in a family of five. We all grew up in a middle-class family, got married, had our own children, and are involved in our local churches. A very ordinary family, or so I thought.

My mother, Olga, had accepted Jesus at the age of 14. Her family belonged to a very strict group that did not listen to the radio or read newspapers; and even going to the cinema was taboo. When she was 17 she found employment doing administrative work.

Behind closed doors

One Sunday in 1995, my parents popped in for tea. After our warm greetings, Mommy made an excuse to speak to me alone. I had never seen her so anxious.

As we sat on the bed, she fumbled in her handbag and pulled out two letters. With a quivering voice, she whispered, “I had twin baby girls before I married your father.

I gave them up for adoption and now, after 43 years, they found me and wrote to me.”

She dropped black and white photographs of two beautiful baby girls into my lap.

How would this impact our family?

Her eyes were sparkling and there was a glimpse of joy before she hurriedly put 22 JOY! MAGAZINE

Betrayal and shame Meta and Anna Theron

the letters and photos away. I hugged her, whispering how happy I was and that I couldn’t wait to meet them. “I haven’t told your father about these letters yet,” she whispered, “so please, don’t say a word!” I was bursting with joy with this news and at the same time wondering how it would impact our family.

When she was 21, Olga joined a badminton club where a girl arranged a date for her with a good looking and charming young man. They started dating. Olga fell deeply in love, imagining a future with him. After a few months, Olga found out that he was seeing other women. She felt deeply betrayed and ended the relationship. She felt foolish that she had been so gullible and seduced into giving in to his intimate advance. Her guilt weighed heavily upon her and even more so, when she discovered that she was pregnant. Not only had she let herself down, but she felt that she had let God down. The guilt and shame would cling to her for years to come.

Home for unmarried women Olga was terrified and told no one. When she could no longer disguise her growing belly, she confided in her mother.

Together, they decided that no one would have to know. Olga would go to a home for unmarried mothers and give that baby up for adoption. They chose Magdalena Home, a ministry of the Dutch Reformed Church. She resigned and told her family that she was going on holiday to a cousin who lived on a farm.

The twins are born During one of the regular appointments at the nearby Mowbray Maternity Hospital, Olga was informed that she was having twins. On 29 January 1952 the two baby girls were born, fifteen minutes apart. Olga named them Avril Gail and Beverley Anne.

Painful sadness

Chris and Alida Theron with Meta and Anna

Childless couple In Stellenbosch, a childless married couple, Chris and Alida Theron, wanted to adopt a baby. Chris was a professor at the University of Stellenbosch. Three years prior, the bachelor (48) noticed the pretty, dark haired Alida (36).

She had had a hysterectomy as a young woman and could not have children. But, when Chris proposed to her, he assured her that this did not bother him and that they could adopt.

As Olga did not want to separate the baby girls, the adoption process took longer than anticipated. Her strong love for her beautiful babies contended with the painful sadness that her time with them was limited.

‘Sing, O Barren Woman!’

Kilometres away, in the shadow of Table Mountain, Olga and her babies went for a check-up at the hospital. Her doctor was surprised that the babies had not yet been placed. He then told her of a Christian couple whom he knew and wanted to adopt.

The doctor called Alida and asked, “Would you and Chris be interested in adopting twin baby girls?” That evening, Alida met Chris at the front door. “What would you say if we could adopt two baby girls?” Chris looked at his wife; her eyes sparkling. “I would say that God is giving us a double blessing,” he replied.

A last goodbye Olga prayed as she dressed her babies for the last time, “Oh God, please let my babies be happy and loved!” With trembling hands, she struggled to put the little arm into the knitted sleeve of the cardigan that she had knitted for this special day. She looked at the beautiful, perfect little faces,

the button noses and perfectly shaped lips, trying to absorb every detail. She suppressed a sob and, kissing each baby on their soft cheek, whispered “Goodbye.”

She fumbled in her pocket for a note she had prepared for the new mommy. With tears running uncontrollably, she pressed the note into the social worker’s hand and fled the room.

A note of love Once home, Alida noticed Olga’s note amongst the other documents. On it was written the times the mother had fed them and when she had given them their vitamin syrup. This once again displayed Olga’s care for her babies. Alida prayed silently for God to comfort the young woman. Chris and Alida named the first-born baby girl Maria Petronella, and nicknamed her, Meta. The other little girl was named Anna Sophia. They were welcomed into the family with love.

The young Henderson family.

Back: Diane, Olga, Jenny and Denis.

Front: Derek and Lesley (Rodney was not yet born)

New beginnings

Olga went on to meet and marry a man named Denis Henderson. He was unaware of the twins. Olga convinced herself that her past was her own business. The couple had five children, but Olga never stopped wondering about the twins’ milestones. She always showed an interest in children who were the same age as the twins. No one noticed that Olga was in a melancholy mood every January 29th.

Guilt: a constant companion Olga felt it was impossible to share her secret, especially when their family became very involved with the local Methodist Church.

Her feelings of guilt made the joyful, fulfilling relationship she had earlier experienced with the Lord impossible. Feelings of guilt were her constant companion. » JOY! MAGAZINE 23

TESTIMONY

Meta and Anna

Meanwhile, Meta and Anna grew up in their family home in De Laan on the banks of the Eerste River. When they were four years old, Alida called her daughters to join her in the lounge.

“There is something I must tell you. Babies grow inside their mommy’s womb. You did not grow in my womb. You grew inside another mommy’s womb, but you grew inside my heart.” Alida told her daughters that the clothes they wore on the day they were given to her, were handmade by their birth mother and that it was clear that she loved them very much.

The girls grew up feeling that they were so very special because they were God’s gift to a couple that changed them into a family. Meta and Anna knew that there was another mother somewhere and they thought of this exceptional person with love and admiration. The twins grew up, completed their studies at Stellenbosch University, got married, and started their own families.

The Theron family

From grief to reconciliation In 1979 Jenny, Olga and Dennis’ eldest daughter, and her husband Cassie, had their first child. They named her “Olga”. Their joy was shattered by the discovery that their newborn had a serious heart defect.

Strangers were praying for baby Olga, but Olga – her grandmother and namesake – couldn’t pray. The “Accuser of the Brethren” said, “See, your sin has now come upon your children’s children.” Olga could no longer hide her secret.

The secret is out “Mother came to visit Cassie and I to confess that she couldn’t pray for our baby’s healing

Anna, Olga and Meta

because of a deep, dark secret,” says Jenny.

“She then told us about the babies she had given up for adoption. Cassie strongly advised her to tell Denis.” Olga was distraught; how do you break the heart of someone you love with the painful truth you were hoping would never have to come out? At home, she haltingly told him her story.

Denis was deeply shocked. He told her never to mention it again, and withdrew completely from her. He was afraid that their ideal family would be broken apart by this revelation.

Forgiveness and grief The rest of the family remained in ignorance,

while Olga spent much time crying into her pillow. But, in the midst of her heartache, she was finally able to draw close to the Lord again. Having broken the shroud of secrecy, she felt His forgiveness and was filled with peace. She prayed for little Olga, but sadly her namesake died at six weeks old.

That was an extremely difficult time for Denis. Not only had they lost their granddaughter, but they were losing each other. It looked like the revelation of his wife’s hidden secret could ruin their marriage. It took months to heal the rift before they were able to truly reconcile.

My daughters want to contact me Early one morning in 1995, Olga received a phone call. “Mrs Henderson, I’m a social worker in Bloemfontein. You had a daughter in 1952. She asked me to find you as she is anxious to let you know that she is well.”

It was Meta who traced Olga with the help of the social worker. Olga gripped the telephone receiver tightly. This was the moment that she had both longed for, and feared. As soon as she had a moment alone, Olga telephoned, Jenny, “My girls have found me!”

When Jenny told Cassie the good news, he offered to be the mediator. Olga gave him the social worker’s telephone number and they arranged for all communication between the girls and their biological mother to go through him. The social worker suggested that the girls write to Olga, and Cassie would ensure that their biological mother received them.

The letters Meta and Anna each wrote a letter to their mother. Amongst other things Meta wrote, “My sister, Anna, and I have always wished that we could let our unknown mother know how happy we are and how well it was going with us.

We had parents who prayed with us every night.

We could not have asked for more love, security, and acceptance.”

Meta suggested to her husband, Bernard, that they find Rev. Cassie Carstens. Bernard traced him and phoned him. It wasn’t long before Cassie called Jenny. Bernard introduced himself and then asked if she would like to speak to her. “It was as if I was speaking to an old friend. We just spoke and spoke,” Jenny said.

A month later Olga wrote her own letter to the twins: “I was overjoyed to receive your letters.

In my prayers, I always prayed that you would be loved and happy. More than anything, I prayed that you would both receive the Lord Jesus in your hearts, as I and all my other children have.

Now I can thank Him for answering my prayers.”

Meta and Anna read their mother’s letter over and over again. Receiving her warm, friendly letter, made them want to meet their mother so badly.

Time to process the news Olga knew that the time had now come to tell the rest of the family about her daughters.

Everyone was excited and wanted to meet their sisters. It was difficult for Olga to bring the subject up again with Denis. After she told him about the letters, she reassured him that nothing had changed and that the children were accepting of the situation. Denis became very quiet and Olga gave him time to process the news.

Divine appointment By extraordinary ‘God-incidence’, Cassie chatted to a man at a conference in Bloemfontein. He told Cassie about his friend’s wife (Meta) who had just found her biological mother. Cassie’s ears pricked up on hearing the names – this was in fact, one and the same mother. Cassie telephoned the friend, Bernard, and arranged to visit him and Meta. Anna happened to also be there, visiting her sister!

Jenny booked a ticket to fly to Bloemfontein to join them. She hurriedly packed all the family photographs into her suitcase. When she arrived in Bloemfontein, Meta and Anna were waiting for her. “I got the fright of my life. Before me, stood my two sisters and I looked into the face of my mother!”

Meta and Anna’s two mammas, Olga and Alida

Place them in your heart Olga’s hope that Denis would be happy because all the children were happy, was not the case. He was still struggling. “Well, you can understand that I’m not so excited,” he said awkwardly. He was worried that the family dynamics would change. He was utterly miserable.

One day, Jenny phoned her mom to find out how things were going.

When Olga said that Denis was still very moody, Jenny asked to speak to him. “Daddy, Mommy has suffered enough! This is not about you anymore! It is about her! It is time for her to meet her daughters. The only thing you have to do now is to place them in your heart.” Jenny knew just what he needed. He needed to know where to put these girls, and he did just that! He put them in his heart and the mood changed that day in the little cottage.

The beautiful tapestry

The devil lost his hold

indescribable joy

Olga was free from the guilt and she was very happy. With her husband accepting that her daughters would be a part of their family, Olga felt at liberty to read their letters to him and to show him their photographs.

The couple were finding their way back to each other. God had woven an incredibly beautiful tapestry.

“To this day,” says Meta, “I will never forget the moment I met Mommy.

It was indescribable joy. I had an intense desire to touch her. I always had the desire to look at the woman who gave birth to me one day and say, ‘I was in your tummy.’ Such a little thing. I felt such joy to be finally able to touch her.” »

The time had come for Olga to finally be reunited with her daughters. Jenny arranged for Meta and Anna to travel to the Cape with their husbands to meet their mother and the rest of the family.

“We had mixed feelings,” says Meta. “My only concern was for Mr Henderson.

We knew that he had accepted us, but for him, this was the moment to face what had hurt him the most in his life.

We were tremendously worried that he would be hurt or be sad.”

Meeting of hearts They met at a local restaurant. “I will never forget when we walked through the door,” says Anna. “He came toward us – Mr Henderson – all that we saw was his love and open arms. He was so full of love. This love could only be possible if you are a Christian and know the love of God.”

JOY! MAGAZINE 25

TESTIMONY

BACK: Rodney and Derek FRONT: Jenny, Olga, Diane and Lesley

Olga’s story

A family made whole Now, all her children had to meet one another. We all spilled into Cassie and Jenny’s lounge.

The room was bursting with joy and anticipation. On the coffee table stood a wine glass with red grape juice and some bread on a plate. Cassie welcomed us all and gave thanks, praising God for bringing about this amazing day. He asked Denis, Olga, Meta, and Anna to drink from the wine glass, explaining that the wine symbolised their forgiveness of one another, reconciliation, and restoration. Then the goblet was passed around the room and everyone drank and gave thanks. Cassie broke the bread and gave thanks for Jesus’ body, which was broken for us. Our family had been broken too, but not anymore. The bread was passed around the room and we all shared it for the first time as one united family.

Whenever Olga’s story is told, we are amazed at the impact it has.

The story of how God can take a very real journey of heartbreak, tears, and secrecy and turn it to joy. Her predicament, as a young girl in the 1950s, is no different to that of so many women today.

I pray that these young women and their babies will be “happy and loved,” just as Olga prayed.

May this story inspire you to pursue healing, forgiveness, and reconciliation in your family too.

Mamma Alida But there was one significant person who had not yet been told. Meta and Anna were hesitant to tell Alida, because they did not want to hurt her. “Mamma, we have found our biological mother.” Alida’s mouth trembled slightly. Then she took both of Meta’s hands in hers, and said calmly, “Let us give thanks to the Lord that I can share this moment with you.” After giving thanks, Alida asked Meta to fetch her Bible! “And get her on the phone! I have notes I kept in the back of my Bible that I wanted to share with her one day when I met her!” The two of them chatted for ages.

Alida, at last, was able to share her gratitude to the lady who brought so much joy and fulfilment into her life.

Olga, at last, was speaking to the lady who brought up her two daughters. 

Olga and Denis with their children and grandchildren

26 JOY! MAGAZINE

DIANE KNOTT is the author of the book, Olga. Email applesofgoldministries@gmail.com to order your copy for R250

From Plagues to Passover

F

or more than a year now, most nations have been under lockdown or under some sort of “state of emergency” or “national disaster” protocol due to the coronavirus. A plague is typically known to be a disease that affects humans and other mammals, so it is safe to say that Covid-19 can be referred to as a plague. In this month of Passover, I was reminded of the Passover in the Bible and of the fact that there were ten plagues that preceded the crossing over to the Promised Land.

A plague of biblical proportions The globe has been beset by this coronavirus plague, and whether one believes that plague was real or fictitious, deliberately planned or not, is not the main issue. The real issue is the devastation that it has caused to individuals, families, and nations at large, not unlike the scenario in Egypt many thousands of years ago.

the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth; shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” As we pass over from a season of plagues into a season of rebuilding, using the Kingdom blueprints of heaven, the new blueprints will include: • New governmental protocols establishing foundations for transformational servant leaders to be positioned, and for citizens to play an active role in governance • New economic structures that are devoid of corruption, and Ubuntu-based so as to benefit all in the community, not just a privileged few • New family-supporting policies and protocols to ensure the strengthening of the family unit, which is the pillar of society

From survival mode to revival mode

As we pass over and transition from a scenario of health, life, and economic devastation, let the Saints be encouraged There were ten plagues recorded in the Let us be encouraged to and trust that we are moving from survival book of Exodus, each of them bringing a now stand in faith, believing mode to revival mode! The nations have certain level of devastation to Egypt. Egypt that we are moving from prayed. Global networks such as Jericho and Babylon are always used prophetically Plague to Passover.

Walls led by Bennie Mostert and Global to symbolise the world and its systems.

Prayer Movements with Graham Power and God, in allowing the devastation of the Ruach Ministries led by Bill and Janet BrannCovid-19 plague, has also allowed certain worldly systems to crash and die during this time. As some Egyptian Hollis and many others have been relentless in mobilising consistent and Babylonian systems crash and die, new Kingdom blueprints will and persistent prayer over the years and especially during this covid time. Let us be encouraged to now stand in faith, believing that we be released. are moving from Plague to Passover. We are moving from survival mode to revival mode. We are moving from Rebuilding the nations as we transition For so long the Israelites had been building, but their building was coronavirus waves to the waves of God’s greatest “transformation revival,” as Dr. characterised by two main hindrances: Robin Stephenson likes to refer to it.

1) They built in captivity 2) They built according to the pattern of Egypt (the world) The time of Passover represented a crossover time of transitioning #KeNako #FromPlagueToPassover  from Egypt to the Promised Land. It represented a transition from captivity into freedom and liberation. As we transition in this era from plague to passover, the sons of God must no longer be chained DR PEARL KUPE is an attorney and and tied to the secular humanistic systems of the world. We have consultant to world leaders and international organisations. She is the international been liberated to release the Kingdom blueprints of heaven.

Plagues precede the Passover

Passing over into a new season of Kingdom blueprints Isaiah 43:18-19 says, “Do not remember the former things, nor consider 28 JOY! MAGAZINE

president of the Global Forum for Women Entrepreneurs. Email pearl.kupe@gmail.com or visit pearlkupe.co.za or follow her Facebook page, Kingdom Transformer Pearl Kupe

GIVING THE HOPE OF THE WORD

The Bible Society had set out to give South Africa hope as part of our bicentenary celebrations in a way that we believed was the most effective – giving the true hope only found in the Word. Our vision is a Bible for everyone. We thus made prodigious plans to celebrate 200 years of Bible Society work and launched the 2 Million Bibles project on our 199th birthday in August 2019. More than a year later, our commitment to giving South Africa hope has not changed.

NOT GIVING UP HOPE

We are still determined to continue with this project. This vital message of hope is as important and sought after as ever. Help us and give hope by making a contribution of R100 towards this Bible cause. Your donation will help us to make one Bible and one set of Bible-based literacy booklets available to those who are unable to afford it. You could help to reshape the trajectory of many lives!

Be a sower of HOPE. Visit www.2millionbibles.co.za.

When I survey the

Wondrous E

Cross

aster is a very special time for Christians. Last year during the hard lockdown we could not attend church services, for the first time in our lifetime. A year later, COVID-19 is still around and we are still under lockdown. What tomorrow and the day after that holds, nobody knows. Our love for God and our commitment to Him will remain true. This too shall pass. We only need to look to how He led Israel out of Egypt and through the wilderness – not forgetting how He led our forefathers. He leads us through our own valley experiences. He remains God and faithful is He. In my reflection over the last few weeks, and looking at the Cross of Jesus Christ, I am encouraged yet again by the Father’s love for us.

A survey of the crucifixion Isaac Watts (1674-1748) wrote over 750 hymns in his lifetime. When I Survey The Wondrous Cross is known as the greatest, finest hymn of all time and was written while he prepared for a communion service.

The crucifixion was gruesome and messy. The movie The Passion of the Christ, produced and written by Mel Gibson, depicts the last 12 hours of the life of Jesus. Before filming, all the actors and role players visited Israel and researched the scriptures to get an understanding of their role in the movie.

Not Isaac Watts though, yet it would appear that he had, in his descriptions of this “love so amazing, so divine, demands my soul, my life, my all.” It seems that Isaac Watts had a 360-degree view of the Cross at Golgotha and took a survey of the crucifixion.

The importance of family In John 19:26 Jesus said, “... son, behold your mother” making sure that his mother would be taken care of, but for me it is deeper. Jesus brings about the importance of family. His words were tender towards John, the disciple He loved. Mary’s heart was broken in countless pieces.

Family obligations are important.

30 JOY! MAGAZINE

—by Sophia Roman The COVID-19 season has taught us, and continues to teach us, that family is imperative. Lockdown brought us all back to family, back to the home. The saying stays true, “As the family goes, so goes the church, so goes society”. I had to relocate my values with regards to family and life. Life is short, with COVID-19 proving that over and over. We must try understand the importance of family from a 360-degree survey of the Cross. It is indeed a wondrous Cross on which the Prince of glory died. 

When I survey the wondrous Cross On which the Prince of glory died, My richest gain I count but loss, And pour contempt on all my pride.

Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast, Save in the death of Christ my God! All the vain things that charm me most, I sacrifice them to His blood.

See from His head, His hands, His feet, Sorrow and love flow mingled down!

Did e’er such love and sorrow meet, Or thorns compose so rich a crown?

Were the whole realm of nature mine, That were a present far too small; Love so amazing, so divine, Demands my soul, my life, my all.

SOPHIA ROMAN is a pioneer, visionary and life transformation coach. Sophia and her husband Theo pastor the West Reach AOG Church in Mitchells Plain.

Father, we thank You for the night, and for the pleasant morning light.

For rest and food and loving care, and for all that makes the day so fair.

Help us to do the things we should, to be to others kind and good.

In all we do, in work and play, to grow more loving every day.

Amen

SERMON

esus J

Jesus Died For Me —by Paul Daniel

T

he entire Gospel can be summed up in four words, “Jesus died for me”. These four words are the greatest personal truth in all eternity. The tragedy for so many Christians, however, is that they no longer appreciate the fullness of the meaning of that statement. Many have become so familiar with God’s truth that it starts to lose its impact and awesomeness in their life.

Desensitised to the Gospel It is my observation that many Christians today are so “Gospelhardened” from hearing it and not doing anything with it that they have actually become immune to Christianity. They have become desensitised. The greatest trick of the devil is to inoculate you with a small dose of Christianity to keep you away from the real thing. He inoculates you and leaves you thinking that you are okay and are going to heaven, when in fact you are far from the real thing. Let’s have a look at Matthew 27:46-50:

and put it on a reed, and offered it to Him to drink.

The rest said, ‘Let Him alone; let us see if Elijah will come to save Him.’ And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice, and yielded up His spirit.”

What did He say as He yielded up his spirit ? “Father I commit my spirit” and his spirit left His body. Let’s continue reading from Matthew 27: 51-54:

“Then, behold, the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom; and the earth quaked, and the rocks were split, and the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised; and coming out of the graves after His resurrection, they went into the holy city and appeared to many.

“And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud So when the centurion and those with him, who were voice, saying, ‘Eli, Eli, Lama Sabachthani?’ that is, guarding Jesus, saw the earthquake and the things ‘My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?’ Some that had happened, they feared greatly.” of those who stood there, when they heard that, said, ‘This Man is calling for Elijah.’ Immediately one of In fear the tough centurion goes on to exclaim, “Truly this was the son them ran and took a sponge, filled it with sour wine of God.” Let’s have a look at John 19:28-30: “After this, Jesus knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the Scripture might be fulfilled, said, ‘I thirst!’ Now a vessel full of sour wine was sitting there; and they filled a sponge with sour wine, put it on hyssop, and put it to His mouth. So when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, ‘It is finished*!’ And bowing His head, He gave up His spirit.” * Greek word tetelestai meaning “it is finished”.

7 statements from the Cross From the Cross Jesus made 7 statements for you and me. The first was as they were busy nailing His hands and feet. If they knew that they were crucifying the Son of God, then redemption for man would not »

These sculptures are part of a collection of Christian sculptures depicting the teachings and miracles of Jesus Christ.

They were created by sculptor Angela Johnson for the Thanksgiving Point Gardens exhibit, “The Light of the World.”

Visit lightoftheworldgarden.com

SERMON

Jesus

Jesus Died For Me

have been possible, but they did not know what they were doing and Jesus cried out and said: “Father forgive them for they know not what they do.” – the first statement on the Cross. Jesus was nailed to the Cross at 9 in the morning, and at midday the whole world became dark for 3 hours. Jesus said 3 things while it was light, 1 thing while it was dark, and then when the light returned, He spoke again.

Before it became dark Jesus said: “Father forgive them for they know not what they do.”

He said to the thief, “Today you will be with Me in paradise,” He said to His mother, “Woman behold your son,” and to John He said, “Behold your mother”.

Then when it became dark Jesus cried out: “My God, my God, why have You forsaken me?”

After the darkness, when the light returned, Jesus said: “I thirst,” “It is Finished,” The last thing He said, “Father into Your hands I commend my spirit”.

Appropriating these statements in our own lives Because Jesus forgave the thief on the cross, therefore He can say to you, “I will see you in paradise”. He doesn’t leave us on our own.

He says, “I am with you”. And because He cried out, “Father why have You forsaken me?” Therefore you don’t have to be forsaken

by God. He said, “I thirst” so that those who hunger and thirst after righteousness will be filled. He said, “it is finished” because He had completed the work. He said, “Father I commend my spirit” because when you die, you too can commend your spirit to God and go to heaven and be with Him.

Everything on the Cross was for us Everything that Jesus did on the Cross He did for you. Jesus died for you. It is finished. He cried out Tetelestai – this word is loaded with meaning. The Bible says that He who knew no sin became sin for us.

The Bible says that as Jesus hung on the Cross, the Lord lay the iniquity of us all upon Him. The whole record of your and my sins, Jesus took upon Himself on the Cross. As He hung with all this sin upon Himself, the whole world went dark and what transpired was between the Father and Son alone as He took on the sins of the saints.

He became sin for us. God the Father struck His Son and Jesus died for us, dying in our place. He faced the wrath of God for you and me.

Everything that Jesus did on the Cross He did for you. Jesus died for you. It is finished.

Prophecy fulfilled

Then as the sun came up, Jesus said, “I thirst” (fulfilling all prophecy). Think of the rich man and Abraham, whereby the rich man cries out to Abraham to quench his thirst but Abraham said he could not go to him because there was a great chasm between them (Luke 16:26).

And here on the Cross, Jesus died in our place and faced the wrath of God. He suffered this wrath in the heavens and on earth He cried out, “I thirst.” The soldiers responded by bringing Him vinegar. The last drink Jesus had was vinegar, representing the bitter gall of life for us. He takes all the bitterness of life that

The Bible says that as Jesus hung on the Cross, the Lord lay the iniquity of us all upon Him. The whole record of your and my sins, Jesus took upon Himself on the Cross.

you and I will ever experience and He dies with it – He is the propitiation for our sins.

Jesus finished everything Christ is our Saviour and sin bearer – He died in our place. And just as He died, He said, “It is finished”. Jesus paid the price and it was completed. All the sins and miseries of the human race were gathered together on Christ. He died for it – scripture was fulfilled. All the types of symbolism from the Old Testament were fulfilled. The priesthood and the offerings, the great high priest, the great sacrificial offering was now complete. The righteous judgement of God was satisfied and is finished. The sting of death is broken and finished. The seed of the woman crushed the serpents head. The pascal lamb, the Passover lamb, the lamb of God was slain, it was finished. The prince of this world was conquered and wiped out, it is finished. The righteous judgement of God was satisfied and was finished. The sting of death was broken and finished. Jesus finished the work of Calvary and when He died He cried out, “It is finished.”

Two times Jesus spoke these words There are two times that the Bible says it is finished. The first time we see Jesus cry out from the Cross, and the second time we hear Him cry out from the throne of God. The first time He cried out, the earth split, which Jesus had previously foretold, “even the rocks will cry out” – Luke 19:40. When the rocks broke, the earth split up and the font of life was received for mankind – the font that was purchased by the precious Blood of Jesus. The earth split and graves were opened, and the saints of old came out of their graves with His resurrection and followed Him to heaven. As He ascended on high they shouted out,

God has invited us to become His children and to enjoy the rest of eternity with Him.

“Lift up your heads, and open your gates – Let the king of glory come in” – Psalm 24:7. And in Psalm 24:8 the Angels cried back, “Who is the King of Glory?” and saints cried back, “The Lord, mighty in battle, He is the king of Glory – lift up your heads, open your gates and let the king of Glory come in.” All of heaven lifted the king into the presence of God and He sat down at the right hand of the Father on the seat of all power and authority, placing His blood on the mercy seat.

Receive Christ in your heart The crux of the Gospel is that “Jesus died for me”. God has forgiven you and me for our sins. Any man or woman who dies outside of Christ will die in their sin and face the consequences for all eternity.

But as many as receive Him, God gives them the right to become the children of God and to enjoy eternity with Him.  PAUL DANIEL is the Senior Pastor at Gateway CFC in Cape Town.

Salvation Prayer Jesus, I believe that You died on the Cross for me. There You were wounded for my transgressions, You were bruised for my iniquities; and the punishment for my peace was upon You. I have been like a lost sheep, I have turned to my own way, but I believe that God laid my iniquity upon You. You died for me. Then You rose from the dead, You ascended into Heaven, and now seated on Your throne as Lord of all. Jesus, forgive me. I now turn away from my sin and put my trust in You. Fill me with Your Spirit, cleanse me, and take me as Your own. Amen JOY! magazine 35

THEOLOGY

Why is the

EmptysoTomb important?

—by Got Questions

F

rom the earliest apostolic period, the reality of the empty tomb—the biblical truth that the tomb of Jesus of Nazareth was found empty by His disciples—has been at the centre of the Christian proclamation.

Evidence supports this truth All four Gospels describe, to varying degrees, the circumstances surrounding the discovery of the empty tomb (Matt 28:1-6; Mark 16:1-7; Luke 24:1-12; John 20:1-12). But are there any good reasons to think that these claims are historically accurate? Could a fair-minded investigator conclude that, in all probability, Jesus’ tomb was found empty on that first Easter morning? There are several arguments that have convinced a good many historians that the tomb in which Jesus was buried was indeed found empty on the Sunday following His crucifixion.

The location of the tomb

other people of prominence. Such a description fits nicely with what we know of Joseph of Arimathea. Moreover, when we couple these considerations with the fact that Arimathea was a town of little importance that lacked any type of scriptural symbolism and that no competing burial tradition exists, any serious doubt that Jesus was buried in Joseph’s tomb is eliminated.

The significance of these facts The significance of these facts should not be overlooked as the Sanhedrin would then have certainly known the location of Joseph’s tomb, and thus, where Jesus had been interred. And if the location of Jesus’ tomb was known to the Jewish authorities, it would have been nearly impossible for the Christian movement to have gained any traction in Jerusalem, the very city where Jesus was known to have been buried, had the tomb not been empty.

The reality of the empty tomb is at the centre of the Christian proclamation.

First, the location of Jesus’ tomb would have been known to Christians and nonChristians alike. While it is true that most victims of crucifixion were either thrown in a graveyard reserved for common criminals or simply left on the cross for birds and other scavengers to feed upon, the case of Jesus was different. The historical record indicates that Jesus was buried in the tomb of Joseph of Arimathea, a member of the Sanhedrin, the very group that had orchestrated Jesus’ execution.

Many sceptical New Testament scholars have been convinced that Jesus’ burial by Joseph of Arimathea is unlikely to have been a Christian fabrication. Given the understandable hostility of the earliest Christians towards the Sanhedrin, whom they felt were largely responsible for their Master’s death, it is unlikely that Jesus’ followers would have invented a tradition about a member of the Sanhedrin using his own tomb to provide Jesus with a respectable burial.

In addition, recent archaeological discoveries have demonstrated that the style of tomb described in the burial accounts in the Gospels (an acrosolia or bench tomb) was largely used by the wealthy and

Where was Jesus’ Body?

Would not any of the Jewish religious leaders have taken the short walk to Joseph’s tomb to verify this claim? Did not the Sanhedrin have every motivation to produce Jesus’ corpse (if it were available) and put an end to these rumours of a resurrected Jesus once and for all? The fact that Christianity began to gain converts in Jerusalem tells us that no corpse had been produced despite the Jewish religious leadership having every motivation to produce one. If Jesus’ crucified Body had been produced, the Christian movement, with its emphasis on a resurrected Jesus, would have been dealt a lethal blow.

The Apostle Paul’s creed Second, the empty tomb is implied in the early oral formula quoted by the apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 15. While all four Gospels attest to the vacancy of Jesus’ tomb, our earliest hint at the empty tomb comes from the Apostle Paul. Writing to the church at Corinth in approximately AD 55, Paul quotes an oral formula (or creed) that most scholars believe he received from the apostles Peter and James » JOY! magazine 37

Why is the

EmptysoTomb important? just five years after Jesus’ crucifixion (Gal 1:18-19). Paul states, “For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve.” – 1 Corinthians 15:3-5

Strong evidence from Paul When Paul writes “…that he was buried, that he was raised…” it is strongly implied (given Paul’s Pharisaical background) that the tomb in which Jesus was buried was empty. As a former Pharisee, Paul would have naturally understood that what goes down in burial comes up in resurrection; he accepted the idea of physical resurrection even before his encounter with Christ. Given that Paul’s source for this creed was most likely the Jerusalem apostles and their proximity to the events in question, Paul’s citation of this oral formula provides strong evidence that Jesus’ tomb had been found empty and that this fact was widely known in the early Christian community.

The oft-repeated objection that Paul was unaware of an empty tomb is answered when we see that elsewhere Paul taught that Jesus’ resurrection was bodily in nature (Rom 8:11; Philip 3:21). For Paul, a resurrection that did not produce a vacant tomb would have been a contradiction in terms.

have been easy to disprove if untrue. For if Matthew were lying, his report of the Jewish response to the empty tomb proclamation could have easily been discredited as many of the contemporaries of the events in question would still have been alive when Matthew’s Gospel was initially circulating. But why would they accuse the disciples of stealing Jesus’ Body if the tomb still contained the dead Body of Jesus? The counter-accusation made by the Jews presupposes that the tomb was empty.

Historic non-biblical evidence That the Jews accused the disciples of stealing Jesus’ Body is corroborated by the Christian apologist Justin Martyr in the middle of the second century (Dialogue with Trypho, 108) and then again around AD 200 by the church father Tertullian (De Spectaculis, 30). Both Justin and Tertullian were interacting with the Jewish debaters of their day and were in a position to know what it was their Jewish opponents were saying. They were not simply relying on Matthew’s Gospel for their information; both Justin and Tertullian mention specific details not found in the Gospel of Matthew.

In fact, all three of these writers cite details not mentioned by the others. Based on these considerations, it appears that there was an early Jewish acknowledgement of an empty tomb.

All four Gospels describe the circumstances surrounding the discovery of the empty tomb.

The Jewish leaders acknowledged the empty tomb Third, there appears to be strong enemy attestation of the existence of an empty tomb. The first of these comes from within the pages of the Gospel of Matthew itself where Matthew reports that there was an acknowledgement of the empty tomb by the Jewish leaders themselves (Matt 28:13-15). They were claiming that the disciples had come and stolen away Jesus’ Body. Given the proximity of the writing of Matthew’s Gospel to the event in question, such a claim would 38 JOY! MAGAZINE

The testimony of women Fourth, all four Gospels report that the tomb of Jesus was discovered empty by women. This point is especially significant given the patriarchal nature of first-century Israel. While it is true that, under very limited circumstances, women were allowed to testify in a court of law, it is also the case that, in first-century Jewish society, a woman’s testimony was worth far less than that of a man. If you were making up a story in an attempt to persuade others that Jesus had been resurrected, you would never have used women as your

THEOLOGY

“If we apply the same sort of criteria that we would apply to any other ancient literary sources, then the evidence is firm and plausible enough to necessitate the conclusion that the tomb was, indeed, found empty.” – Michael Grant

primary witnesses. Any made-up story would have featured male disciples like Peter, John, or Andrew as the discoverers of the empty tomb, as the testimony of men would have provided much-needed credibility to the story.

A useless scenario to make up The Gospels report that, while Jesus’ male disciples were cowering in fear, hiding from the authorities, it was women who were the earliest witnesses of the empty tomb. There would simply be no reason for the early church to concoct such a scenario unless it was true. Why would the early Christians portray their male leadership as cowards and place females in the role of primary witnesses? One of these named female witnesses (Mary Magdalene) was said to have been possessed of seven devils earlier in her life, thus making her an even less reliable witness in the eyes of many. And yet, despite these evidential handicaps, the earliest Christians insisted that the first witnesses to the empty tomb were, in fact, women. The most likely explanation of this insistence is that these women were the initial witnesses of the empty tomb and that the earliest Christians were unwilling to lie about it despite its potentially embarrassing nature.

More to the story than a tomb Of course, there is more to the story than merely an empty tomb.

The reason the tomb was found empty was that the Man who was buried there had risen from the dead. Jesus would not only vacate His grave but appear to numerous people individually (Luke 24:34) and in groups (Matt 28:9; John 20:26-30; 21:1-14; Acts 1:3-6; 1 Cor 15:3-7). And His resurrection from the dead would be the sure proof that He was who He claimed to be (Matt 12:38-40; 16:1-4)—the risen Son of God, our only hope of salvation. 

Of course, there is more to the story than merely an empty tomb.

Cumulative proof All four of these arguments help to provide cumulative proof that the tomb of Jesus Christ was empty on the first Easter. Particularly telling is the conclusion of historian Michael Grant, himself a sceptic of Jesus’ resurrection, “…if we apply the same sort of criteria that we would apply to any other ancient literary sources, then the evidence is firm and plausible enough to necessitate the conclusion that the tomb was, indeed, found empty.”

THEOLOGY

Why didn’t the disciples always

recognise Jesus after His resurrection?

T

he Bible does not specifically tell us why the followers of Christ did not always recognise Jesus after His resurrection.

As a result, some of the following is speculation. Keeping this in mind, there are a few things that might have contributed to the disciples not recognising Jesus immediately when He first appeared to them after His resurrection.

fishing (John 21:4). This could also be related to the distance Jesus might have been from them.

The road to Emmaus

A third instance is when the two disciples on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35) did not recognise Jesus until He broke bread. How could these two disciples have walked, talked, and eaten with Jesus without recognising Him? They were not looking for Him In this instance, it seems that they were supernaturally prevented First, even though Jesus had predicted that He would rise again on the third day, the disciples did not fully understand (Mark 9:32), from recognising Jesus. Jesus perhaps had taken on a different because clearly they were not looking for Him to be resurrected. This appearance to keep Himself from being recognised. Why would Jesus have done this? The Bible does not say. Perhaps Jesus “veiled” can account for some of their surprise and shock at seeing Him. His identity so the two disciples would truly think through the things Jesus Mary Magdalene did not was saying, rather than accepting the recognise Jesus Regardless of what prevents us teaching blindly, as they likely would One of the instances where Jesus was from seeing Christ as we ought, have if they had known it was Jesus. not recognised was Mary Magdalene’s coming to the tomb early in the morning may we all come to know Jesus (John 20:15). Instead of recognising What we know for certain as a friend who walks with us, Jesus, she first mistook Him for the What we can know for certain is that and like the disciples, may our gardener. One thing that is important it was Jesus Himself who appeared to hearts burn with joy as Jesus to remember is that we do not know them because of all the testimonies of how far Mary was from Jesus when she those who saw the resurrected Christ. reveals Himself to us each day misidentified Him. It could be that she In addition, there was the witness of the through his Word. was simply too far to clearly recognise remarkable change that took place in who He was until He spoke to her. the lives of the disciples. Immediately Second, we must remember that before and after the crucifixion, the since it was very early in the morning, the light would not have been eleven apostles were in hiding in fear, yet after spending considerable very bright, which could also have made it more difficult for her to time with the resurrected Christ, they became fearless evangelists see Him clearly. When we couple that with the fact that she was not proclaiming the Gospel boldly no matter how strong the opposition. expecting to see Him alive, it is easy to see why she did not recognise In addition, all eventually gave their lives for the sake of the Gospel.

Him from a distance until He spoke to her.

Only witnessing the resurrected Jesus Christ can account for such a radical change. 

The disciples did not recognise Him

A second instance in which Jesus was not immediately recognised was when the disciples did not recognise Him when they were out

GOT QUESTIONS provides Biblical answers to tough questions. For more info: www. gotquestions.org

JOY! MAGAZINE 41

THEOLOGY

What happened on the

road to Emmaus?

T

he events on the road to Emmaus are discussed in Luke 24.

In this final chapter of Luke’s Gospel, we read of two disciples of Jesus (Cleopas and one unnamed) who were walking from Jerusalem to Emmaus on the day that Jesus rose from the dead.

As they travelled, a Man joined them—the resurrected Jesus, although they did not recognise Him. The Man asked, “What is this conversation that you are holding with each other as you walk?”

– Luke 24:17

Jesus’ response to the disciples The two disciples were surprised that the Man had not heard of the recent events that had Jerusalem in turmoil. They proceeded to tell the stranger of Jesus’ crucifixion and the report of His empty tomb. Jesus responded, “‘How foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken!

Did not the Christ have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?’ And beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.” – Luke 24:25-27

The Author reciting His own story On the road to Emmaus, Jesus gave a lesson on the prophecies of the Old Testament which were fulfilled in His death and resurrection.

What a lesson that would have been! The Author of the Book explains His work, making connections from Scripture to the events they had recently experienced.

The disciples’ reaction to Jesus’ lesson was one of deep conviction of the truth of what He was teaching. “Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked?” they ask each other (v 32). Their physical eyes were blinded to the identity of Jesus, but their eyes of faith were being opened as Jesus opened the Scriptures to them.

Jesus fulfilled His promises

Luke 24 is often seen as a model of the journey that Jesus makes with many of us today.

They finally recognised Him So, as they walked, Jesus taught what the Old Testament had predicted about Himself. When they arrived in Emmaus that evening, the two disciples stopped to eat, and they asked Jesus to join them. He did, and as He broke the bread and blessed the meal, “their eyes were opened” (verse 31), and they recognised Him. Jesus then vanished. Their response? Luke reports, “They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together and saying, ‘It is true! The Lord has risen’” – Luke 24:33-34

Following this account, Jesus appears to His other disciples, removing all doubt that He was alive. Jesus had promised that He would show Himself to those who love Him (John 14:21), and this is exactly what He does on the road to Emmaus.

Why is this story significant?

The story of the disciples on the Emmaus Road is important for many reasons. It provides an emphasis on the Old Testament prophecies related to Jesus, evidence regarding an additional appearance of Jesus, and a connection regarding the many eyewitnesses of the resurrected Jesus. Luke 24 is often seen as a model of the journey that Jesus makes with many of us today, as He opens our eyes, points us to the Word, and reveals Himself along life’s walk as the resurrected Saviour and Lord. 

GOT QUESTIONS provides Biblical answers to tough questions. For more info: www. gotquestions.org

JOY! MAGAZINE 43

rs of the Bibl e Characte

—by Dr Victor Kuligin

A

s we celebrate Easter this month and the resurrection of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, it would be good to take a look at a biblical character who features prominently in Jesus’ passion week account and His last Passover. And yet, he is unfortunately given little thought today.

Passion week

and that the Jewish leaders had only brought Jesus there because of envy (Matt 27:18). Nevertheless, under pressure Pilate agreed to give the Jews an option: release Jesus or release Barabbas, a known criminal. As the Gospels report, it was customary for the Roman authorities to release one Jewish prisoner during Passover (e.g., Matt 27:15).

The events of Jesus’ passion week are well known: His betrayal The first substitution

by Judas and His arrest; the sham trial before both Jewish Agitated by the Jewish chief priests and elders, the crowd opted and Roman authorities; His brutal for Barabbas’ release (Matt 27:20). All who flogging, procession to the Cross (the read this account, mentioned in all four Perhaps what is lost on Via Dolorosa), and His crucifixion. All Gospels, are rightly indignant towards some readers is that of this speaks to Jesus’ willingness to the bloodthirsty crowd and inept Roman innocently suffer on behalf of sinners. leadership. We all know that it isn’t right Barabbas represents us.

Placed in the midst of all these for an innocent man to be given over to familiar events is the exchange that death, while a clearly guilty criminal is takes place between the granted his freedom. Yet in this exchange we see the heart of the Jewish leaders and Pontius Gospel. This is precisely what Jesus came to do.

Pilate, the Roman governor of Judaea. Pilate was God the Storyteller convinced that Jesus While we are struck by the clear unfairness of the situation, was innocent (Luke perhaps what is lost on some readers is that Barabbas represents 23:14-15) us. Jesus takes his place. Make no mistake, this was clearly

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SERIES Barabbas the Insurrectionist Barabbas appears to have been a Jewish revolutionary, what we might call a “freedom fighter” today. Of course, one man’s freedom fighter is another man’s terrorist; it all depends on your perspective. From the standpoint of the Roman authorities, Barabbas was an insurrectionist who looked to overthrow their occupation of Israel.

Luke, similar to Mark, records that he was being held for “rebellion made in the city, and for murder” (Luke 23:19; Mark 15:7). Matthew calls him a “notorious prisoner” (Matt 27:16); John calls him a “robber” (John 18:40). Apparently Barabbas had been involved in many dastardly activities in his desire to see Rome expelled.

orchestrated by God. Embedded in the crucifixion account of our Saviour is the very reason why He would willingly suffer false accusations, flogging, mocking, and the cruellest of deaths. He did it for rebels like Barabbas. He did it for us.

What can we learn from Barabbas?

Apostle Paul then speaks about the glorious salvation that is freely given through Jesus Christ, who became our “sacrifice of atonement.” – Romans 3:25

An unfair exchange

If you think about it, the substitution of Jesus for Barabbas is Theologically we call this “penal substitutionary atonement.” It downright ugly. Do we not all cry out from the pit of our souls, simply means that Jesus has taken our place, and upon Him our “No! They should never have exchanged Jesus for Barabbas!” punishment was discharged. We are like Barabbas, rightfully We want to see the rebel punished and the innocent man go free. Jesus replaced Barabbas, which condemned for the evil that we have was certainly good for Barabbas. But done in God’s sight. We stand in the Jesus has taken our in recognising that this is what Jesus dock, awaiting our execution. But Jesus place, our punishment does for all sinners who put their faith comes to all those who have faith in Him in Him, we must admit that we too are and He takes our place. Without this has been discharged. undeserving of such kindness. Rather merciful exchange, we are all liable for than arrogantly strutting about, acting our own sins before a Holy God. like we deserve to be saved, the realisation that we are like Barabbas should cut our hearts.

Selective memory Unfortunately though, there are many people—some of them even Christians—who believe they really aren’t all that bad. Repentance required They plan one day to stand before God and tell Him about all Until we are willing to admit that we are sinners like Barabbas, the great things they have done in this life, and all the horrible and similarly to him we deserve God’s just condemnation, the sins they avoided. Unfortunately, what they fail to mention is way to salvation will remain barred to us. The first step in our all the good things that they were supposed to do but never conversion is admitting our guilt and repenting of our sin. did (sins of omission), and all the sins they actually committed The portrait of Barabbas during the passion week of Christ is (sins of commission). Just one sin is good enough to eternally indeed a merciful one. It reminds us of our fallenness and our condemn us before a righteous Judge; we have committed need for a Saviour. hundreds (if not thousands) of them.

This Easter season, don’t forget that in Barabbas your sinful heart is exposed and your need for an innocent substitute is recognised. Know that Jesus was crucified for rebels like us.

We all fall short All it took was the eating of one piece of forbidden fruit for “For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might Adam and Eve to suffer the curse of death and banishment become the righteousness of God in Him” – 2 Corinthians 5:21  from Eden. What will happen to us who have gorged our bellies full of the fruit? As Scripture says, “All have sinned and fall short DR VICTOR KULIGIN is an international author and speaker who served as a of the glory of God” – Romans 3:23. missionary in Africa for 24 years. His latest book Meeting Jesus is available at Fortunately, the Romans passage doesn’t end there. The CUM Books. He can be reached at v_kuligin@yahoo.com JOY! MAGAZINE 45

SERMON

3 tests in the life of Joseph —by Nico Bougas

N

orman Grubb, the British missionary and author, said, “Every character in the Bible is tested by God in three ways: body, soul, and spirit.” These tests come out very clearly in the life of Joseph. First came:

1. THE TEST OF ADVERSITY As his father’s favoured son, Joseph seemed to have everything going for him – talent, confidence, good looks, and charm.

Suddenly, his whole world comes crashing down when he is sold into slavery in a foreign land, away from the love of his mother and father, and away from the comforts and privileges of his own home. Can you imagine the disillusionment as he is clapped in chains and dragged into the slave market?

Making the best of the situation But Joseph doesn’t sulk and go into a corner and allow himself to become bitter. He makes the best of the situation and becomes a model slave. So much so that his master cannot help but notice the difference between him and the other slaves, and soon Joseph finds himself exalted to the position of overseer of his whole household.

Do you ever wonder what on earth God is trying to accomplish with your life?

How do you react to adversity?

What a marvellous attitude, what a unique reaction to adversity.

There are times in your life when things seem to go against you – when you stand falsely accused, when you have been unfairly treated, when you have been misunderstood or misjudged. There may have been a time when you tried your best to help someone and somehow they put the wrong construction on things and they ended up slandering you and dragging your name into the mud.

The apostle Peter reminds us, “you get no credit for being patient if you are beaten for doing

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By raising up Joseph, God planned to prosper His chosen people. Joseph saw things through the eyes of faith, recognising that God was with him.

wrong. But if you suffer for doing good and endure it patiently, God is pleased with you” – 1 Peter 2:20. The adversity itself is not important.

What is important is our reaction to the adversity.

2. THE TEST OF OPPORTUNITY Joseph’s second great test is a study of typical tactics that satan uses in his struggle for the souls of men and women. It seemed that everything had conspired to make sin easy and resistance impossible. Joseph had been elevated to the position of overseer in his master’s household. His prospects had not been so bright for many a day.

Temptation does not wait until we have donned our armour He had entered the house as usual, never dreaming that he was about to face the greatest temptation of his life. He was granted no time to brace himself for the shock. Temptation does not wait until we have donned our armour. It doesn’t send out advance warning signals, it sounds no alarms. It is as erratic as lightning in its course and as unpredictable.

Don’t relax your guard

forgotten – a stranger in a foreign land.

He was a normal healthy young bachelor with normal sexual drives, but with little prospect of marriage. So satan attacks him in an area where he is most likely to be most vulnerable. To some that area may be alcohol, to another pride, to another materialism, to another self-control. But it’s satan’s tactic to work at your weak points.

Joseph was tempted by a woman, but he stood firm in his convictions The source of his temptation was an important woman. He could have been flattered by the attention of so important a woman.

Refusal had its dangers. To deny her request could have gotten him into trouble with the boss. He was a slave, a slave had no rights. The temptation came with great opportunity. No servant was near, no one would see, and no one would ever need to know. He was away from home, from the restraining influence of his parents. Joseph, among a nation of idolaters, may have been tempted to think, “When in Egypt, do as the Egyptians do.”

Do you ever question God?

Honour, authority, and When you have won some great It must have been difficult for this young spiritual victory, or when you seem to man to understand what God was trying influence were thrust upon have accomplished something for the to do in his life. Do you ever feel that way? the once discredited slave.

Lord; when you have just had a great Do you ever wonder what on earth God quiet time, or when you have been used is trying to accomplish with your life? Do to witness to someone or share your you look around at your circumstances testimony at some meeting – don’t relax your guard. Temptation and it seems to you that being a Christian just isn’t worth it at all? may strike you completely out of the blue and find you completely unprepared. Do you remember what happened immediately after No one and nothing can stop God – no opposition our Lord’s baptism, when the voice from heaven confirmed, “This can stand in His way is my beloved son in whom I am well pleased”? Immediately He was Sometimes the people of God go through troubles and problems. led into the wilderness to be tempted of the Devil.

We are tempted to say, like the Fiddler on the Roof when considering himself one of the chosen people, “couldn’t you choose somebody else?” Why do we have to go through all this? We forget about God’s Satan attacks your weakest point promises. Be assured, He is in control. No opposition can stand in His Joseph was a susceptible target for the tempter. He was a slave living way, He is supreme and no one can stop Him. in a polluted society, away from home. He was lonely, friendless, and » JOY! MAGAZINE 47

SERMON

3 tests in the life of Joseph 3. THE TEST OF PROSPERITY The days, the weeks, the months, and the years came and went with monotonous regularity. But suddenly God’s time had come. Joseph was summoned before Pharaoh. He interpreted his dreams, drew up a blueprint for saving Egypt, and ended up as Prime Minister of Egypt.

What a sudden transformation. From the depths of the dungeon to the steps of the throne. He was given a ring to signify the bestowal of legal authority as well as linen garments to signify his nobility.

This is a real rags to riches story

Joseph did not hold onto bitterness To the average person, this would have been a marvellous opportunity to get even. He now had the power and authority to pay back all those who had wronged him, with interest. He could have had his brothers sold into slavery. He could have had Mrs Potiphar thrown into the dungeon, and returned that butler to the dungeon where he had interpreted his dreams and forgotten about him. But there is no record of Joseph even threatening or carrying out any revenge. There is no record of him ever nursing any grudges or dissipating his strength, or fretting because of evildoers.

From the victim of envy to viceroy of Egypt. From prison to palace.

Hard on his enemies Joseph was given a chariot to ride in behind Pharaoh. Others Just as the Egyptians had to bow the knee before Joseph, so we would have to walk in his presence. Runners would go ahead and should bow the knee before Christ. Joseph’s rise to power must warn others to get off the path for “here have been hard on those who had been comes Joseph”. Now the fulfilment of that his enemies. How did Potiphar’s wife feel boyhood dream of his brothers bowing when she heard of Joseph’s elevation?

If you had to face the down to him seemed much more possible.

When in court for important functions, seeing Joseph sitting beside Pharaoh, risen exalted Christ today, how ashamed, speechless, and even Joseph’s greatest test how would you fare? fearful she must have been. How did At this stage of his life, Joseph faces the butler feel? Perhaps badly at first, on what may have been his greatest test – recalling his ingratitude and negligence. prosperity. There are many people who But he did remember Joseph and recommended him, so he could thrive in adversity but wilt in prosperity. As has been said, “It takes a great deal of the grace of God to carry a full cup with a steady hand.” at least face the new second in command. How did his brothers feel when Joseph finally revealed himself to them, and his dreams came Sudden elevation frequently leads to pride and a fall. Would Joseph true? They had cast him into a pit to see what would become of his survive this most exacting test of all, prosperity? dreams. And now the dreamer was on the throne. Until things were made right, his presence would have terrified them.

Joseph remained loyal Though still a young man, Joseph possessed maturity and poise, a stability that only a severely tested faith could impart. Although he How would you fare if you encountered Jesus today? was elevated in one step to a position of the greatest responsibility May I ask you, if you had to face the risen exalted Christ today, how in the world of his day, his moral and spiritual equilibrium remained would you fare? If, like Potiphar’s wife you have slandered Him, or undisturbed. The disciplines of the hidden years had not been like the butler you have neglected Him, or like his brothers you have wasted. He resisted the natural temptation of pride and arrogance mistreated Him, take the opportunity to get right with Him now.  with the same thoroughness as he had resisted the advances of the temptress. It was a different sin he was fighting, more subtle and less NICO BOUGAS passed away in February 2021. May he rest in eternal peace volcanic, but still a sin against God who had exalted him. Honour, at the feet of our Lord and Saviour. Having dedicated his entire life to serving Christ, Nico will be sorely missed. He was an extremely close ministry partner authority, and influence were thrust upon the once discredited slave with JOY, featuring in every single issue to date. His teachings and sermons have but never once was he drawn away from utter loyalty to his God. touched the lives of millions of readers.

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ENTREPRENEURSHIP is a Godly Mandate

Matt Bird

I

n the very first book of the Bible, we see that God is an entrepreneur. If you had to define an entrepreneur, you could say, ‘Someone who takes a risk to create something for the good of others’. In Genesis 1:1-31, we see God acting to make something out of nothing, He is the ‘Great Entrepreneur’. For three days, God created the form and then He spent three days creating the content. In verse 27 we see that, “God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it.”

Created in God’s image God created you and me to be in the image and likeness of the Great Entrepreneur, we also have the spirit of enterprise within us. As you read verse 28, it is explicit that God gives us the mandate and purpose to be fruitful, increase and rule. He expects us to be productive and multiply. And, being image-bearers of God, we can exercise the spirit of enterprise. We are made to generate ideas, create and innovate. It is who He has made us to be.

Entrepreneurship isn’t about money According to Andrew Wilkinson, the founder of international tech firm MetaLab, not all entrepreneurs are driven by money. He says, “The siren call for many entrepreneurs is not money, it’s freedom. The freedom to chart your own path, the freedom to build what you want with the people you love.” The truth is that businesses transform lives! That may sound pretentious, but it is true. Giving people dignity and purpose transforms lives. Offering people jobs and the means to provide for their families transforms lives. The theology of work has too often been reduced to simply a hunting ground for people to gain money to bring to church and give away. God save us!

God commands us to work Working is something that God expected of Adam when he was created (Gen 2:15). And in Colossians 3:23 we read: “Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.” God sees work as essential and it gives purpose to our lives.

Therefore, enterprises that grow and provide employment, and meaningful employment, can transform the lives of those who feel a loss of purpose if they are out of work. Your enterprise could make a world of difference. 

The Spirit of Enterprise

My December 2020 article in JOY! Magazine – ‘An Outbreak of the Spirit of Enterprise’ – was later published by The Times Newspaper (UK) on 23 January 2021 under the headline, ‘It’s time for faith-driven entrepreneurs to emerge’ This has inspired an overwhelming response globally, and we at Cinnamon have now launched a Spirit of Enterprise campaign that includes a website and a book already published on Amazon globally. To find out more go to www.thespiritofenterprise.net MATT BIRD is a global speaker and Founder CEO of Cinnamon Network International whose mission is to help churches transform communities. Matt is also the founder of Relationology, helping businesses build profitable relationships and Issachar Global encouraging people about how to live and lead. He lives in Wimbledon UK with his wife Esther and their three teenage children. Visit cinnamonnetwork.com

THEOLOGY

How Can I Be Sure of Eternal Life?

A

re you sure you’re saved and destined for glory? Many respond with a weak, “I think so”. If that is your response, or if you wish you knew how to help friends who need assurance, read on.

Some are presumptuous

—by Jacques Malan “inheritance that is imperishable ... kept in heaven for you” – 1 Peter 1:4.

Stephen, the first Christian martyr, was sure when he looked up and saw heaven open for him (Acts 7:55). On his deathbed, Grimshaw of Haworth was asked how he was. He replied, “As happy as I can be on earth, and as sure of glory as if I were in it; I have nothing to do but to step from this bed into heaven”. In his last moments, my friend’s father sat up in his bed and with obvious joy said, “Look, Jesus is coming for me!”. Many Christians have this privilege.

Yes, some presume they have eternal life when they don’t. Mike* says that he simply grew up as a Christian. His father was a pastor, and his mother teaches Sunday school. Obviously, he has eternal life. Tracy* says that she’s going to heaven because she has never done anything wicked enough to deserve hell. Andrew* died recently. He wasn’t a Assurance is desperately needed churchgoer, but was kind and helpful and And yet there are Christians who are not never did anyone harm. His brother told us, sure and need to be. After all, this is a critical “Andrew suffered a lot, but we know that matter. How can I eat, sleep, or think straight Every child of God has the he’s in a better place now”. But on what if I might be condemned by God? We can be Holy Spirit dwelling in his grounds are they so sure? unsure of other things, but we surely need heart and bearing fruit. to be sure of eternal life. Is there a solution?

Some prefer to be humble about the matter

They read the Bible, pray, attend church, give offerings, and try to obey the commandments. They’re offended by the arrogance of others who confidently say that they’re going to heaven. “People claim such things, but we can’t be sure in this life. Let the Lord decide”.

Some struggle and then come to an assurance John Bunyan, author of The Pilgrim’s Progress, testified to having a long hard battle. He wondered whether he was deceived. Yes, he believed, but was his faith adequate? Yes, he loved God, as believers do, but was his love strong enough? Eventually, he found assurance as he meditated on John 5:24, and his new-found assurance greatly encouraged him to minister the Word to others.

Some truly are sure Paul was sure when he wrote that “to die is gain” – Philippians 1:21.

Peter was sure about himself and others when he referred to the 52 JOY! MAGAZINE

The Lord has graciously provided The main purpose of 1 John is stated in 5:13: “that you may know that you have eternal life”. Two implications are that: (1) some true Christians are unsure, and (2) it’s both a good thing and quite possible to be sure. Indeed, one of the standard treasures which God gives His children is the hope of heaven. The Bible calls it “a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul” – Hebrews 6:19. The main way in which this hope is graciously given to believers is through the inner witness of the Holy Spirit who “bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.” – Romans 8:16

Are you unsure? The following steps might prove helpful: 1. Christ’s saving work: A true Christian’s assurance is strengthened by considering how perfectly adequate Christ’s suffering and death were in dealing with sin. Be sure to read the Gospel accounts, not passing over that cry of triumph in John 19:30.

If you’re converted, you have eternal life.

But a necessary element of conversion is repentance. To repent is to honestly turn in your heart and mind from false religion and from what you know is sinful.

2. Repentance: If you’re converted, you have eternal life. But a necessary element of conversion is repentance (Luke 13:3; Acts 3:19). To repent is to honestly turn in your heart and mind from false religion and from what you know is sinful. If you have not repented, you cannot have true assurance.

3. Faith: “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life” – John 3:36.

Saving faith, the other element of conversion, has various aspects. It includes agreeing with the claims of Christ, trusting in Him as Saviour from sin, resting in His saving work on the Cross, and honouring Him and not yourself for salvation.

4. Truth: Earlier, we referred to the purpose of 1 John. To achieve that purpose, the letter poses some tests. One is the test of truth. The others follow. If you believe the biblical truth about the Person of Jesus, it indicates that you have eternal life (1 John 4:2).

5. Righteousness: Do you hate sin and seek God’s holy will?

One who has eternal life will practice righteous living and not continue in sin without strongly opposing it (1 John 3:10).

6. Love: One who has eternal life will love his neighbour, especially fellow Christians of any tribe, language, or church (1 John 4:7). It might not be perfect, but it will be genuine.

One who has eternal life will practice righteous living and not continue in sin without strongly opposing it.

7. Other fruit of the Spirit: Every child of God has the Holy Spirit dwelling in his heart and bearing fruit. As a fig tree bears figs, so all who are heaven-bound will bear “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.”

– Galatians 5:22-23

Conclusion If you’re still unsure, maybe you’re still unsaved. Or maybe you’re holding onto some sin so that the Spirit is deliberately withholding His inner witness. Be sure to seek and find your answer. Don’t rest until you can confidently sing with us, “Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!”.  *Representative names used JACQUES MALAN is a full-time lecturer and Focus Programme Manager at Mukhanyo Theological College. He previously served as a full-time evangelist, lecturer and director at the Dorothea Mission.

Part 2

SERIES

THE OTHER SIDE Overcoming a Crisis by Studying Scripture —by Prof Gerrie Bester

W

e continue with our series of getting to the other side of a crisis. This month, let’s look at something that we so easily overlook in the midst of a storm – the promises of Abba Father. In our previous article, we studied the picture depicted in Mark 4:35-37, as it was written in Greek. We saw that the Greek pictures, when put together, give us this mind-blowing revelation: “In this journey of purpose with Abba Father, I will travel through circumstances in life through which I may have to pierce, at times. Even though I am surrounded by people, I need Messiah in my vessel. Challenges will sometimes feel relentless in their action and frequency, and the raging passions of those who have not found rest in their own lives will many times toss me to and fro, and I may sometimes feel as though I have reached the end of the path, but...”

Faithful or fearful?

But then we read Mark 4:38-40 and see something Interestingly enough, amazing revealed. Jesus was asleep in the stern the original Greek of the boat on a cushion. The disciples woke Him word for ‘fearful’, and said to Him: “Teacher, do you not care that is also the word we are perishing?” – Mark 4:38. Jesus woke from His sleep, rebuked the wind and the sea, which for faithless. immediately died down into a “great calm” – Mark 4:39. Then He said to them “Why are you so fearful? Have you still no faith?” – Mark 4:40. The word ‘fearful’, interestingly enough, in Greek is also the word for faithless. This illustrates how fear drains you of your faith – the minute you allow fear in and become fearful, you simultaneously become faithless. The disciples ask Him why He doesn’t care that they perish. The Greek word for ‘perish’ means to be destroyed, ruined, or to loose. It is almost as though they don’t understand how He could be sleeping through all of that. But listen to this, and this where the promise of Abba Father comes into a crisis, Jesus had already said to them – “Let’s go to the other side.”

Did you hear that? The promise of the other side and reaching the other side had already been spoken or declared from the mouth of Messiah. What more did they need?

His promises will prevail Does the Word of Abba Father not say that His words will never return void (Isaiah 55:11)?

Even though we pass through the circumstances of life, don’t we – as the bride – have the promise of “the other side?” just because He said so? When attacks feel relentless, can’t we persevere with the promise of, “you are going to the other side, My Bride”? Just make sure that Messiah is in the boat. From the place of promise or prophecy in your life, to the destination of purpose, there are going to be storms. But there is a promise of “the great I AM” who trumps any storm. Do we realise this?

His word is settled Fear tries to move our focus from the promise to the immediate need, crisis, or circum54 JOY! MAGAZINE

LIFE-CHANGING

Fear drains you of your faith – the minute you allow fear in and become fearful, you simultaneously become faithless.

BOOKS

By Prof Gerrie Bester

Virtuous Women stance – in other words, the storm. Fear is the gust of wind that raises the storm of doubt in the promise and purpose that Abba Father dreams over our lives. Many times, when storms come into our lives, we run for another prophetic word, but what if we just stand on the promises that the King of glory has already uttered and declared over His children?

The prophetic is a valuable gift from the heart of the Father, but it cannot cover your lack of faith. His Word never fails. Forever His Word is “settled in heaven” – Psalm 119:89.

The bride of Christ is being prepared It is a very exciting time in the world. The bride is being gathered as the final chapter is being written of the world as we know it. So many times, we tend to scream, “Jesus don’t you care? Don’t You care that the school system is failing as everything constantly shuts down? Don’t You care that the universities are The so-called ‘new sending our kids back?” Maybe He could reply, “I normal’ of the world have already said to you – don’t worry about the does not affect the day of tomorrow? Did you not hear Me? (Matt promises that Abba 6:34)”. Or maybe we siren the scream of, “Don’t You care that the churches are closing down, Father has for us.

Lord?” Maybe He would answer, “Have I not said to you that the gates of hell shall not prevail against the church I build? (Matt 16:18)”. We have to realise that Abba Father is not affected by our meaningless term, “new normal” post Covid-19. It did not surprise Him and throw Him off the plans He has for us. The bride is going to the other side with the Messiah in the boat – period!

The promises of our Saviour are unaffected by Covid-19 Listen to this beautiful picture. One morning Abba Father said to me, “Did you know, Gerrie, that My son Yeshua is sleeping in the boat, during the storm of Covid-19, just like in Mark 4?” Now before you raise your eyebrows – because at first I did not understand it either – the Hebrew and Greek words for sleeping are not in a sense of being uninvolved, but in a sense of being unaffected. He has already given His bride the promises in His Word and no pandemic will alter His Word. The socalled ‘new normal’ of the world does not affect the promises that Abba Father has for His bride. Let us make sure the King of kings is in the boat with us, Oh bride of Messiah. Let’s stop screaming and shouting about something that Abba Father knew about at the beginning of time!  PROF GERRIE BESTER PhD CA(SA) leads Roaring Truth Ministries.

Email info@roaringtruth.co.za. He is also the Dean of Emet Academy of Learning. Visit Emetgroup.co.za for more information.

R190 “Too many women have been broken down and hurt through a lack of knowledge by a broken world and by us men! There is so much more!”

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Waves of Revival at the Seashore Lockdown can’t stop God’s plans!

—by Christ for all Nations

J

essi Green is impacting the west coast of America in a revival that is happening in California, after passionately following the vision God gave her five years ago. Jessi has always been someone who has a huge passion for the lost. One day, she realised she had the gift of evangelism. However, she couldn’t find much information for evangelists to train and prepare for ministry.

“I feel like it’s one of the few spiritual gifts that is just not talked about a ton. People love evangelists but they don’t know what to do with them,” she said in a recent interview. But then she found out about the late Evangelist Reinhard Bonnke. And later on, Jessi discovered the CfaN School of Evangelism (SOE).

Jessi remembers crying and praying almost every day after class, because of everything she had learnt.

A DOUBLE PORTION And on one unforgettable day, during the second-to-last day of school, she went up to Evangelist Reinhard Bonnke. The young evangelist made what she calls a “really weird request” of him. She asked him if she could have a “double portion” of his anointing.

The late evangelist looked at her straight in the eye and grabbed her hands. Then he told her, “You’ll receive the thing that you’ve asked for.”

In September 2015, Jessi graduated from the SOE. She came out of the school completely on fire for God. She has never been the same again! Since then, she has felt a burden for America. When she went back to New York, she started to share the Gospel on the streets and in the subways. Jessi also got to the point where she couldn’t fall asleep because of the fire burning inside her.

She kept sharing the Gospel, and as a result, Jessi received a vision multitudes of people were saved.

Three months after graduating from the from God for California.

SOE, Jessi received a vision from God for She saw “thousands of California. She saw a vision of Huntington people being baptised.” She Beach wherein “thousands of people were said people were “turning being baptised.” She said people were “turning around and baptising people, around and baptising chaotic, no order.” people, chaotic, no order.”

GOD SAID ‘GO!’ God told her that it would be the “next revival that she will be a part of.” The revival will start through the “equipping of the Saints.” God wanted her to take that fire in her to others as well. So, without hesitation, Jessi obeyed and trusted God. She and her husband left everything in New York, including their jobs, and moved to California with a 2 month-old baby. They lived in a tiny apartment in Huntington Beach. They sacrificed everything for the vision God had for their lives.

Join hands with us to bring Africa to Jesus

Since the first week of July 2020, when it started with only 300 people, these revival meetings now happen every Friday night.

For several years, they ministered in that place and founded home churches. As time went on, Jessi began to doubt if the vision God gave her would come to pass because nothing was happening.

Nevertheless, she kept trusting Him. She kept doing things small – equipping and discipling people, teaching them to follow Jesus. And they continued to preach the Gospel in the streets.

In April 2019, she heard God telling her that the vision she saw would happen in the summer of 2020. So, Jessi co-organised an event called SATURATE OC 2020. However, when COVID-19 broke out, she thought this would no longer happen. But the Holy Spirit kept telling her it would still come to pass.

Although she lost partnerships in the event she had co-organised, God told them to keep going.

They wanted to obey God even if that meant they had to go alone to the event. Then, an unexpected “Hundreds of people are miracle happened!

WAVES OF REVIVAL AT THE SEASHORE

getting saved and baptised.

And people are being miraculously healed. Like little children, people are crying out to God on their knees, weeping like 5 year-olds,” Jessi testified, amazed at what God is doing.

Amidst the pandemic crisis, when California had prohibited public worship, waves of revival took place at Lifeguard Tower, Huntington Beach. The vision God gave Jessi finally came to reality. Thousands would come to the events and healings, miracles, and deliverances happened. And many got saved and baptised by the seashore!

“What we are experiencing in California is nothing but miraculous. I know so many have prayed for revival and I’m really humbled that God is using our small family, our sweet friends, and this little lifeguard tower to ignite something in the hearts of believers,” Jessi says.

Since the first week of July 2020, when it started with only 300 people, these revival meetings now happen every Friday night. “Hundreds of people are getting saved and baptised. And people are being miraculously healed. Like little children, people are crying out to God on their knees, weeping like 5 year-olds,” Jessi testified, amazed at what God is doing.

Even with much persecution, Jessi and her team aren’t affected because of the joy of salvation.

They would rather obey God than men. It’s incredible how one person like Jessi is impacting America today. Her obedience led her to this revival that God is stirring up in California in the middle of a global pandemic. How amazing is that? 

YOU CAN IMPACT NATIONS TOO! If you have that burden in your heart for the lost as well, and you’re called to be an evangelist, then watch this space for news about CfaN’s Bootcamp evangelist training, coming soon to South Africa! It is an incubation chamber for evangelists like you. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity.

“This is so much more than a Bible School. This is like the Navy Seals for evangelists,” Evangelist Daniel Kolenda says. Who knows where God will lead you, and how you will impact nations one day for God’s glory? You have to be prepared for your God-given destiny. You aren’t just an ordinary person – you are a child of God. You are a world changer! Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get the latest info as it happens.

Right now, God is moving supernaturally in Africa, with millions coming to Christ.

But CfaN can’t do this alone.

We need you!

Sign up for our weekly email newsletter, and you’ll be hearing great reports from our Gospel campaigns and receiving Bible studies and testimonies to build your faith. Come alongside us – and Africa shall be saved!

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MISSIONS

When FAITH overcomes TRAGEDY

T

—by Open Doors

his Easter, Hajaratu, a bereaved mother from Nigeria, tells her heart-breaking story of child loss during a violent militant attack on her Christian village. Her story of pain and hope reminds us of the pain Jesus took to the Cross on Good Friday and the hope of His resurrection three days later.

Persecution in Africa is increasing Violent attacks on Christians are increasing in sub-Saharan Africa and the wave of extremist violence by militant Islamic rebels and Fulani herdsmen spreads from the north of Nigeria into the Middle Belt.

Hajaratu is a young Christian widow from the Nigerian town Chibob in this area. Her husband died of an illness in 2019, leaving her to care for their five children on her

own. On the night of 10 July 2020, Fulani militants attacked her village and left it in ruins. They killed anyone in their path, torched homes, and ransacked food storages.

Fleeing for their lives

That night Hajaratu lost so much more than her possessions, grain stores, animals, and parts of her home. She survived the attack, but the gut-wrenching reality of life after that night has remained. “I heard gunshots and fled with “Jesus comforted me and my little baby daughter on my back, after I quickly strapped her to me with a cloth. My made me realise that there other kids ran outside to join the rest of the was hope. His light reached people fleeing the village,” she says.

the depth of darkness that I experienced.”

A dangerous escape

She saw some people from the village running towards the river, so she followed, hoping to get help. “When I reached the river, the other villagers were too far away.” Hajaratu didn’t know how to swim, but it was a risk she had to take if she and her family were going to survive. As gunshots cracked the air behind her, she stepped into the rushing water with her baby daughter.

The worst night of her life Photos: © 2021 Open Doors International

Hajaratu and her four surviving children are slowly rebuilding their lives after their traumatic experience.

When Hajaratu reached the deep part of the river, she began to struggle. “I got submerged and began to drown. My daughter cried as I struggled to the surface.

Then I lost my footing and my head went under the water. I struggled against the current and the force of the water. However, somehow I made it to the bank while I was gasping for air. It was at that moment, on the muddy shoreline in the dark, that I turned around to comfort my daughter on my back. Then I discovered that she was gone! The river had taken

Emergency relief and support

She lost her baby girl while fleeing a militant attack.

The ongoing violence in Nigeria’s Middle Belt impacts thousands of Christians, just like Hajaratu.

These believers desperately need both emergency relief and long-term support to recover from deadly Fulani attacks.

Yet hope is risen for Hajaratu because Christ is risen.

Your support this Easter will cause hope to rise for persecuted Christians in northern Nigeria – so they may survive, stay strong, and be safe.

Every R490

can provide trauma care for one victim of extreme violence.

Every R705

could give a Christian family of five food for a month after they’ve fled their home.

Every R1 500

my daughter, along with the cloth wrapper.

I began to cry uncontrollably, but there was nothing that I could do.”

Finding the light

The ongoing violence in Nigeria’s Middle Belt impacts thousands of Christians, just like Hajaratu.

Although this was the worst night of her life, Hajaratu felt that Jesus was with her the whole time. “Jesus was present and saved me from drowning. He was there when I staggered through the bush, hearing the shots of Fulani militants destroying our village, and when I started crying because my baby was gone. He comforted me and made me realise that there was hope. His light reached the depth of darkness that I experienced.”

Support for Hajaratu Hajaratu made it to a makeshift camp for displaced people. She prayed to be reunited with her other children. After three days, God answered her prayers and she was reunited with her four surviving children. Open Doors was able to support Hajaratu and her children through this horrific experience. They received food relief, financial support to rebuild their lives, and trauma counselling to help her come to grips with her loss.

Please pray for this family The counselling has helped her a great deal, as she continues to work through the bitter grief of losing her daughter. “I was greatly encouraged through the trauma programme.

I am saying a big thank you on behalf of those who attended. We are very grateful. May God increase the wisdom that He has given you to do this,” she says. Hajaratu has since returned to Chibob with her children. 

can help train a church goer as a counsellor who can help many persecuted Christians through their trauma.

Please pray, and if you are able to, give a gift today and show our brothers and sisters that they are never alone.

Geopende Deure - Open Doors NPC Nedbank | Branch code: 198765 Acc: 113 750 4552 (Business) Reference: JE2104 Geopende Deure - Open Doors NPC Absa | Branch code: 632005 Acc: 160 340 568 (Current) Reference: JE2104

www.opendoors.org.za

TWR Kenya Broadcasts to Refugees What began in the early 1990s as a distribution of solar cookers to a limited number of young Sudanese boys who had made their way to a newly built refugee camp in Kenya, has almost three decades later become a full-blown broadcast ministry to tens of thousands of refugees of 13 nationalities.

C

—by Richard Greene

OVID-19 almost hijacked this fledgling outreach, but by God’s grace a radio station is up and running – dedicated in November 2020 – and programmes are airing. A cooperative effort between pastors in the camp and from the nearby town of Kakuma is taking root. And TWR Kenya staff are exploring how they can build upon early positive listener feedback and extend the reach to include in-person evangelism and discipleship.

An oasis of hope

The lost boys of Sudan

The Kakuma camp is intertwined with Africa’s seemingly unending tragic history of tribal and civil wars. It’s located in the second poorest region of Kenya and was constructed in 1992, stretching more than 50 kilometres from the town. An influx of refugees arrived from the troubled country of Sudan, as thousands of young boys, as well as some girls – most of them Christians – fled the persecuted south to escape violence perpetrated by the non-Christian north.

“We launched this outreach Many had been orphaned by the fighting, because in the Bible, God while others were urged by their parents to reminds His people to run for their lives. They collectively became remember the foreigners known as the “lost boys of Sudan.”

This sprawling, overcrowded camp in arid northwest Kenya is now an oasis of hope.

“We launched this outreach because in living among them.” the Bible, God reminds His people to remember the foreigners living among Supplying refugees with them.” said Bernice Gatere, TWR Kenya’s food and firewood Executive Director. “We are to show love and extend kindness to Aided by another of TWR’s national partners, TWR Kenya became them.” Those Scriptures challenged the staff to consider how they involved in the Kakuma camp almost from the outset. “With could tangibly minister to these refugees living in difficult – and support from ERF Germany, we started supplying solar cookers to sometimes dire – conditions. young boys, who were not strong enough to fight for the food and “We were also compelled to do something to win these souls firewood rations offered by the United Nations refugee agency, who are foreigners, literally, here on earth so they do not become UNHCR.” Bernice explained, “The solar cookers became their source foreigners to heaven.” Bernice added. of cooking energy for the food they did manage to get.”

One of Atoo’s ardent listeners, a construction worker at the refugee camp

One of the pastors praying for Atoo and being heard from Atoo for the first time

62 JOY! MAGAZINE

Reaching refugees by radio This project later ended as TWR Kenya determined to direct their core mission of programme radio production and broadcasts to devise a way to reach these refugees by radio. “Convinced of God’s love for foreigners and the need to reach them with the Gospel, we applied and received a license to broadcast into the Kakuma refugee camp in 2017.” Bernice said. A fundraising campaign was set in motion, and a survey team arrived to gauge Bernice welcoming guests prospects for setting up a station. Construction during the dedication began in early 2020 but then COVID-19 hit, delaying the process. But praise God, after working around a myriad of challenges, staff safely completed the building and programmes began airing on 12 October 2020, followed a month later with the dedication.

Please support TWR’s ministry:

Giving the people exactly what they need The camp’s population has surged over the years. Based on government figures, 197 000 now live there. The majority hail from South Sudan, which gained its independence in July 2011, but there are still refugees arriving from Sudan. People escaping conflicts in Somalia, Ethiopia, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo compose the bulk of the rest.

“From the responses we have received, we’re convinced that most of the refugees need physiological support programmes and more teaching programmes, especially on holiness and forgiveness, topics like that.” Bernice said, “To increase our effectiveness, these should be produced in the preferred languages of the people to help heal their wounds.”

Deeply moved by listeners

“Convinced of God’s love for foreigners

When Bernice and two of her and the need to reach them with the colleagues travelled from their Gospel, we applied and received a Nairobi office to the camp for license to broadcast into the Kakuma the November dedication of refugee camp in 2017.” the station named Atoo Sifa 90.7, they were deeply moved when they met with listeners of all ages. “We interviewed some children who have become friends of our station,” Bernice said. “We brought them some loaves of bread, which they received with great joy.”

She added, “It was amazing for us to experience the dedication and excitement of our listeners. We blessed them with some radios so they can form more groups.” Another highlight came when those pastors invited to the dedication toured the station. “Each of them went into the studio and prayed for the station live on air.” Bernice said. 

Please Pray!

Please pray with these pastors and with us, asking the Lord to give TWR Kenya continued wisdom for the development of programmes that will deeply minister to the refugees and other listeners living in Kakuma.

Entreat the Lord to inspire and lift up the staff in Kenya to work closely with pastors in evangelising and discipling refugees of the area so that lasting fruit is produced to for His glory.

RICHARD GREENE is a longtime journalist and feature writer who has travelled to more than 60 countries. In addition to serving with TWR, he worked for The Navigators, the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and Samaritan’s Purse.

Visit our secure online giving page at

twrafrica.org/donate

or you can give securely by EFT or deposit into our bank account: TRANSWORLD RADIO SA Standard Bank, Branch code: 012442 OR 051001 for Electronic payments Account number: 011932945 Please use reference: JOY Mag Standard Bank will not accept any cheques from January 2021. If you deposit directly into our account, please email or post the deposit slip to us and state how you would like us to use your donation.

HEALTH

My recovery from

Viv now lives a full, active life after fibromyalgia had previously severely limited her

FIBROMYALGIA —by Viv Woollon

E

ver since I can remember, I’ve suffered from insomnia, anxiety, mild depression, and brain fog. Added to that was the pain that was mostly in my arms, hands, neck, back, and hips. At night, while sleeping, I suffered from pain and numbness in my arms and hands. About 13 years ago, I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia by a rheumatologist. Fibromyalgia is an ‘invisible’ chronic inflammatory disease that causes widespread muscle and skeletal pain in the body. My mother and sister were also being treated for fibromyalgia.

I did not want to rely on medication for the rest of my life I have since learnt that when some doctors do not know what the causes of certain chronic inflammatory conditions are, they often categorise it as fibromyalgia. I was prescribed scheduled medications for sleeplessness, pain, inflammation, and depression. I chose to only take the one medication to help with sleep. At times, I took the anti-inflammatory. I knew I did not want to rely on medication for the rest of my life.

Answered prayer I was too run-down and struggling with pain to even stop and think clearly – let alone pray for myself. My wonderful husband stood in the gap and kept praying for me. In 2014, God answered his prayers by means of a friend who told me about Johan Jacob’s book, Go Natural: Wisdom for healthy living. I read about Dr. Hal Huggins and his warnings about the dangers of dental procedures that can lead to diseases.

“I was too rundown and struggling with pain to even stop and think clearly – let alone pray for myself.”

An immune system under unnecessary stress Being an A-type personality, I continued to put my body under enormous stress. I pushed myself physically, mentally, and emotionally beyond what I should have done. This, together with poor eating 64 JOY! MAGAZINE

habits, caused my immune system to struggle even more.

High levels of heavy metals in my blood After reading Johan’s book, I decided to have my metal fillings and root canals removed by a biological dentist. Before having that done, my naturopath sent me for blood tests to check the levels of heavy metals in my blood. The levels of lead were extremely high, followed by high levels of mercury and aluminium.

Drastically improved health This dental work was done over a couple of months and each time I went straight from the dentist to my naturopath for a vitamin C drip to boost my immune system. I still have two implants in my mouth, but my health has improved so drastically that I don’t need to address that now.

Fibromyalgia is an ‘invisible’ chronic inflammatory disease that causes widespread muscle and skeletal pain in the body.

Get your own HANDBOOK for a LIFE without ‘DIS-EASE’ FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Brad, Viv, Heather & Andrew Woollon

I got rid of unwanted heavy metals in my blood Once all the dental work was completed, I went on a chelation programme for two years, monitored by my doctor. Chelation therapy is a medical procedure that involves the administration of chelating agents that bind with the heavy metals to remove them from the body. I initially had one chelation drip, but that was too strong for my system, so I continued with oral capsules to complete the treatment. About a year into the chelation process, I had another blood test, which showed a drastic reduction in the lead and other metals. All the time, I was feeling better and better. My second blood test, a further year on, showed minimal traces of the metals.

Better lifestyle choices At the same time that I started the dental process, I also started eating correctly – following the directions in Johan’s book. This went a long way to aiding my recovery and reducing the symptoms too.

“For the past five years, I have been living a healthy and pain-free life. I am sleeping well for the first time in my life.”

A pain free life For the past five years, I have been living a healthy and pain-free life. I am sleeping well for the first time in my life, and as long as I monitor my stress levels, get enough sleep, and eat correctly, I have energy and a clear mind. Today, I am grateful to my Heavenly Father for leading me to learn about His God-given way of healthy living. I am also grateful for Johan’s commitment, passion, and willingness to pass on this good news to everyone! 

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RAYMOND LOMBARD MINISTRIES Meet Pastor Raymond Lombard Raymond Lombard is the presiding pastor at the Full Gospel Church in Cape Town. From missionary work in nations around Africa, to training house church leaders in China, Raymond’s footsteps are directed fully by Jesus, and his life’s work is a testament to this humble submission. He has been in ministry for more than 39 years.

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TOPICAL

Vaccinate Against Antisemitism —by David Parsons and Vivienne Myburgh

I

n January 2020, Yad Vashem – the world’s premiere Holocaust Hoax or real threat? memorial and museum – hosted a gathering of international In the case of Covid-19, some have claimed the virus is a ‘hoax’ leaders from 55 nations in commemoration of the 75th anniversary conjured up by Jews to provide a global emergency, which allows them to take over governments or exploit the of the Red Army’s liberation of the Auschwitz accompanying economic crisis. Others have death camp on 27 January 1945. They pledged insisted the coronavirus is a real viral threat to fight the global resurgence of antisemitism.

The spread of coronavirus created by Jews for the very same dubious As these potentates, princes, presidents, over the past year has aims. Early on, when Israel largely escaped and prime ministers returned home from also brought with it a the worst of the first wave of the coronavirus Jerusalem, the world was just starting to wake renewed wave of the through an effective governmental-societal up to the threat of the new coronavirus. virus of antisemitism. response, some used Israel’s good fortune to accuse Israeli leaders and “Zionists” of being A new wave of antisemitism behind a viral plot.

The spread of coronavirus over the past year has also brought with it a renewed wave of the virus of antisemitism.

So often, this oldest form of human hatred latches on to a real or Hate-speech allowed on social media perceived threat and becomes a fellow traveller with it. It scapegoats Such outrageous conspiracy theories have been widely promoted the Jews, falsely blaming them for every problem and peril that on the internet and social media, with tech giants like Facebook and comes along. Ever since the coronavirus outbreak started one year Twitter facing criticism for allowing such racist hate-speech to appear ago, the twisted interests on the far-left and far-right have converged on their platforms, including from sources such as Iranian leaders. An in targeting Jews for either creating or taking advantage of this Oxford survey in the UK also found that 20% of all Britons believed pandemic to further their purported goals of self-enrichment and that Jews were somehow behind the coronavirus, and indeed many global dominance. social media posts referred to it as the “Jew flu”.

The blame game

So where does this hate-speech come from?

It is nothing new for people to blame infectious diseases on Jews.

When the Black Death swept across Europe in the 14th Century, the Jewish people were widely blamed (and even tortured and executed) because there were so few Jewish victims – which mainly resulted from their communal ritual of simply washing their hands before meals. Hitler and the Nazis also routinely described the Jews as parasites and disease-bearing vermin who needed extermination.

In the face of this wave of corona-related scapegoating of Jews, some of the prominent monitors of antisemitism, such as the ADL, have concentrated on right-wing and ultra-nationalist culprits, such as ‘white supremacists’, QAnon conspiracy theorists, and the nation of Islam. One study concluded that the spate of corona-related antisemitic outbursts can be attributed to a small but very active network of a few dozen far-right extremists. When we look at some of

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Evangelical Christians in particular – today the fastest growing stream of Christianity at some 700 million adherents worldwide – are some of the most ardent, vocal supporters, and defenders of the Jewish people and the nation of Israel.

Haifa Home for Holocaust Survivors

the other widespread expressions of antisemitism over recent months, it is clear the extreme left and extreme right each have their own share of militantly anti-Jewish elements.

Global outpouring of support from Christians for the Jewish people and nation of Israel The atrocities of the Nazi Holocaust were a wake-up call to the Christian world, and it has essentially ‘vaccinated’ several generations of Christians now from being susceptible to the new strains of the same old repackaged antisemitic lies and slanders. Evangelical Christians in particular – today the fastest growing stream of Christianity at some 700 million adherents worldwide – are some of the most ardent, vocal supporters, and defenders of the Jewish people and the nation of Israel.

Commemorating the Holocaust But the need to inoculate others – including future Christian generations – from the virus of antisemitism, demands that we continue to undertake serious efforts at Holocaust remembrance and education. On 8 April, our Jewish family commemorates the Holocaust.

At 10 am, Israel famously comes to a stop when The need to inoculate the siren is sounded around the country for others from the virus two minutes. Even cars on the highways stop of antisemitism, and drivers and passengers get out and mark demands that we two minutes of silence for the 6 million Jewish undertake serious efforts. men, women, and children who were brutally murdered. Let us join them in remembering, but also ensure that these atrocities are never allowed to happen again! May we respond according to our Father’s instructions, to love, pray for, and comfort our Jewish family. “Comfort, comfort my people, says your God. Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and cry to her that her warfare is ended that her iniquity is pardoned, that she has received from the Lord’s hand double for all her sins.” – Isaiah 40:1-2 

Help support the ICEJ

The International Christian Embassy Jerusalem (ICEJ) has helped to establish a number of Holocaust Survivor homes in Haifa, Israel, which are largely funded and staffed by Christian volunteers. It is a unique privilege for us Christians to serve these Holocaust survivors in their final days in this way. Contact our office if you would like to get involved in supporting this initiative: email office@icej.org.za or call 021 879 1788.

VIVIENNE MYBURGH is the National Director of the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem (ICEJ) Branch in South Africa. DAVID PARSONS is an author, attorney, journalist and ordained minister who serves as Vice President & Senior Spokesman of the ICEJ. Visit www.icej.org.za for more information.

Giving shelter to those who have suffered enough Approximately one third of Israel’s some 180,000 Holocaust Survivors are impoverished, struggling with illness, or living alone. In 2009, ICEJ began a partnership with the local charity to provide a Home especially for lonely survivors. It offers attractive assisted-living facilities and a warm family environment.

By hearing about survivors in a more personal way, many Christians worldwide have been touched by this project. In turn their love and support has deeply touched the staff and residents. ICEJ is conscious both of the privilege of supporting Holocaust Survivors, and that time is running out as survivors pass away at the rate of 13,000 each year. Our involvement and responsibility to the Home is vital.

You can bless Israel by donating to ICEJ in Jerusalem:

Friends of the Embassy FNB Branch: 200 610 Account: 62730234672 Follow us on Facebook: ICEJSA

www.icej.org.za

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