GENEROSITY IS A HABIT, NOT A FEELING
But generous people plan to do what is generous, and they stand firm in their generosity (Isaiah 32:8, NLT).
I HAVE A CONFESSION: I am not, by nature, a generous person. Thankfully, the Lord, in His wisdom, saw fit to give me a wife who is much more generous by nature, and she has helped me grow in this area. He has also given me pastors and teachers who encouraged me in the Christian discipline of giving, along with many godly examples of generosity who have inspired me over the years. Still, my carnal nature tends to hoard resources and blessings, often out of a misguided fear that they might somehow run out. To combat this selfish instinct, I’ve learned that I must plan to give, just as I must plan to prioritize anything else of importance in life. For Christians, this begins with tithing—giving ten percent of our income to God. My wife and I also include specific offerings in our monthly household budget, and we contribute to special offerings at our local church.
As a reader of this magazine, you likely share this commitment to giving. The men and women of the United Pentecostal Church International are among the most generous I have ever met. I know couples who have emptied retirement accounts to fund Kingdom work, sold homes to finance church construction projects, and worked second jobs so the needs of their local congregation could be met. These stories are inspiring and humbling. My own contributions pale in comparison to the sacrifices some have made.
Many of us in North America need regular reminders that the good life is not measured by square footage, horsepower, investment returns, or any other worldly metric. Jesus understood that humans are naturally drawn to material possessions—a form of idolatry that is rampant in the modern world. He challenged us to “lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven,” adding, “where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:20–21, NKJV).
At the heart of this issue of Pentecostal Life are four articles that call us to live and give generously. They are written by authors who have consistently invested in heavenly accounts. I’ve personally benefited from the kindness of at least two of our contributors, Randy Pate and Rick Lovall. In his article titled “God Is a Giver,” Pate shares memories of the late Lee Jackson, a pastor and evangelist from the Midwest who was known for his generosity and kindness, especially to struggling young ministers. I attended Jackson’s funeral earlier this year and listened as multiple ministers shared how he had touched their lives through his generosity. Their stories made me want to follow Jackson’s example.
But if we rely on inspiration alone to motivate us to give, generosity will likely prove elusive. As Isaiah 32:8 reminds us, “Generous people plan to do what is generous, and they stand firm in their generosity.” Giving, like exercise, is a discipline: you do it whether you feel like it or not. Committed runners don’t wait until morning to decide if they’re going to run. They lay out their gear the night before, roll out of bed when the alarm goes off, and hit the streets. Giving is similar. We must determine what and how we’re going to give and then do it—regardless of the circumstances. It’s about standing firm in generosity even when the market is down, commissions fall short, or unexpected expenses arise.
May this issue of Pentecostal Life encourage you to “plan to do what is generous” and to “stand firm in [your] generosity.” PL
JONATHAN MOHR Managing Editor | Pentecostal Life Director of Communications | UPCI
JUNE 2025
PENTECOSTAL LIFE EDITOR Jonathan Mohr
EDITOR IN CHIEF Robin Johnston
ASSOCIATE EDITOR IN CHIEF Lee Ann Alexander
PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Jina Crain
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COPY EDITOR Patricia Bollmann
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OUR MISSION
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FUNDAMENTAL DOCTRINE
The basic and fundamental doctrine of this organization shall be the Bible standard of full salvation, which is repentance, baptism in water by immersion in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and the baptism of the Holy Ghost with the initial sign of speaking with other tongues as the Spirit gives utterance. We shall endeavor to keep the unity of the Spirit until we all come into the unity of the faith, at the same time admonishing all brethren that they shall not contend for their different views to the disunity of the body.
THE ONE TRUE GOD
We believe in the one ever-living, eternal God: infinite in power, holy in nature, attributes, and purpose; and possessing absolute, indivisible deity. This one true God has revealed Himself as Father; through His Son, in redemption; and as the Holy Spirit, by emanation (I Corinthians 8:6; Ephesians 4:6; II Corinthians 5:19; Joel 2:28).
All scriptures are King James Version unless otherwise noted.
VOL. 8, NO. 6
The Pentecostal Life (USPS-427-240) is published monthly by the United Pentecostal Church International, 36 Research Park Court, St. Charles, MO 63304. It is the official publication of the United Pentecostal Church International. Periodicals postage paid at St. Charles, Missouri, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Pentecostal Life, 36 Research Park Court, St. Charles, MO 63304.
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GENERAL OFFICIALS
GENERAL SUPERINTENDENT David K. Bernard*
ASSISTANT GENERAL SUPERINTENDENT Stan O. Gleason*
ASSISTANT GENERAL SUPERINTENDENT Darrell Johns*
GENERAL SECRETARY-TREASURER Scott Graham*
GENERAL DIRECTOR OF GLOBAL MISSIONS Adam Hunley*
GENERAL DIRECTOR OF NORTH AMERICAN MISSIONS Scott Sistrunk*
EDITOR IN CHIEF Robin Johnston
GENERAL CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES DIRECTOR Steve L. Cannon
GENERAL YOUTH MINISTRIES PRESIDENT DJ Hill
DIRECTORS OF MINISTRIES
BUILDING THE BRIDGE MINISTRIES Dave Henry LADIES MINISTRIES Linda Gleason
MEN’S MINISTRIES Paul Pamer MULTICULTURAL MINISTRIES Brocc Chavis
OFFICE OF EDUCATION AND ENDORSEMENT CHAIR Daniel L. Butler
SPANISH EVANGELISM MINISTRIES John Burnett
GENERAL PRESBYTERS
Dennis Anderson, Robert Allen, Jim Blackshear, Tony Bohrer, James Booker, Steve Boyd, Mark Brown, Gaylen Cantrell, Nathan D. Carrington, Brent Carter, Thomas Channell, Mickey Cluster, Brent Coltharp, J. Marrell Cornwell, Jeremy Cox, Jack Cunningham, J. Stanley Davidson, Devon Dawson, Andrew Dillon, Douglas Ellingsworth, Jesse Fortaleza, Eddie Gann, Ken Gurley, Paul Graham, Nathaniel Hampton, Steven Hanson, Arthur E. Hodges III, Gene Holley Jr., Wayne Huntley, Gregory Hurley, Phil Jordan, C.H. Jury, Kevin Leaman, Sean Libby, Justin MacKenzie, Arnold MacLauchlan, Jason McAllister, Richard McGriffin, Matthew Martin, Roy Moss, Bryan Parkey, Jon Petoskey, Henry Poitras, Myron Powell, David D. Puckett, Tim Richmond, Nathaniel Scoggins, Michael Seidenfaden, Edward Sermon, James Stark, Jay Stirnemann, Jeff P. Story, David Tipton Jr., Robert P. Wahler, Derald Weber, Mark Williams, Raymond Woodson Sr., Wayne Wyatt
GENERAL EXECUTIVE PRESBYTERS
Jim Booker*, Tom Copple*, Ken Dillingham*, Tim Gaddy*, P. Ted Graves*, Gene Holley*, G. David Trammell*, David Wiseman*, Raymond Woodward*
HONORARY GENERAL PRESBYTERS
Daniel Batchelor, J.R. Blackshear, Ronald Brown, Carlton Coon, Sr., Kevin Cox, Dean Dickinson, Daniel Garlitz, Billy Hale, Bruce A. Howell, Tommy Hudson, M. David Johnson, Jerry Jones, J. Mark Jordan, Carrol D. Kennedy, Randy Keyes, Carl Lagow, Roger Lewis, John D. Mean, Ronnie Mullings, J.E. Putnam, Paul Reynolds, Rick Stoops, Robert Stroup, B.J. Thomas, Ted Wagner, C. Patton Williams, Chester Wright
* Member of the Executive Board
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Our Compass
Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you. Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways. Do not turn to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil. (Proverbs 4:25–27, NIV)
A BIG PART OF SURVIVAL in the dark of night or in a storm is knowing where you are and where you want to go. Some people are truly directionally challenged, especially at night. That’s when a map and compass become necessary.
As Christians, we must be able to navigate in stormy times, when darkness falls, the fog rolls in, and life seems shrouded in a gray mist. In those moments, we may find ourselves in a holding pattern, waiting for direction.
We want to be like the patriarchs of faith described in Hebrews 11. The first thirty-five verses of the chap -
ter describe men and women of faith, concluding with, “And what more shall I say? For the time would fail me to tell of Gideon and Barak and Samson and Jephthah, also of David and Samuel and the prophets: who through faith subdued kingdoms, worked righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, became valiant in battle, turned to flight the armies of the aliens. Women received their dead raised to life again” (Hebrews 11:32–35, NKJV).
The remaining verses of Hebrews 11 show us a different side of faith, however. “Others were tortured, not accepting deliverance, that they might obtain a better resurrection,” the writer continued. “Still others had trial of mockings and scourgings, yes, and of chains and imprisonment. They were stoned, they were sawn in two, were tempted, were slain with the
in the Storm
(NKJV) continues, “Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”
As we navigate through the storms of life, we must lay aside every weight that would hinder our walk and any sin that would hold us back from what God is trying to accomplish in us. We have crosses to endure in this life, but for the joy that is set before us, we can endure whatever life throws at us! With our compass
not profit them, not being mixed with faith in those who heard it.” We must make sure that when we read or hear the preached Word, we mix it with faith. Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God (Romans 10:17). When we mix God’s Word with faith and focus on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2), He will guide us forward, no matter how severe the storms of life may be. PL
GARY MARCANTONI
Administrative Pastor | The Original Pentecostals
Leesburg, Virginia | Senior Pastor Raymond Windsor
Non-Negotiable Why Being Part of a Local Church Matters
THE TERM “NON-NEGOTIABLE” REFERS TO something absolute, unalterable, and not subject to change or discussion. Certain events, such as dinner at a friend’s house, can be adjusted based on circumstances, and it’s perfectly fine to negotiate or rearrange these plans. However, there are other commitments that should be seen as nonnegotiable—things on which we cannot compromise for the sake of our values, beliefs, and responsibilities. One of those things should be church attendance.
Attending church should never be viewed as optional or up for negotiation. It’s not about whether we feel like going or if it fits into our busy (sometimes crazy busy) schedules. It’s about recognizing the significance of being part of a faith-filled community, worshiping God, and aligning ourselves with a lifestyle that goes beyond personal preference. Church is not another social gathering or a club; it is the body of Christ.
My parents planted a church in Oak Grove, Louisiana, when I was five years old. As a North American Missions Kid (NAMK), I have learned that unique highs and lows come with this experience.
Being part of a youth group in a small church can sometimes feel isolating. It’s easy to feel as though our connections and support might not be as robust as it might be in larger faith communities. But I have learned there are benefits as well.
First, being part of a church plant has allowed me to develop deeper relationships with those around me. It has taught me resilience, adaptability, and the power of a close-knit group of believers. Even when the numbers seem small, the impact of genuine, heartfelt worship and fellowship cannot be underestimated.
Without the distractions of large-scale productions, I also have had the opportunity to engage more deeply with God’s Word and with others in a way that feels deeply personal and meaningful. Serving in this environment has also helped me develop a stronger sense of community and belonging, as everyone contributes and works together toward the same goal. It’s been both humbling and fulfilling to witness how God works in these settings, and I feel my faith has grown in a more authentic and grounded way.
I’m now fifteen, and the past ten years have taught me that being a NAMK means not just attending the church my parents established but also being part of a mission—of living out God’s call in a way that is often uniquely challenging yet profoundly rewarding.
I have learned that attending church isn’t just about fulfilling a weekly routine or just being seen; it’s about immersing ourselves in God’s Word, worshiping Him, and growing in our faith with like-minded people. The purpose of gathering together is to build up our spiritual strength so we can fulfill the mission Christ gave us: “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15, NKJV).
This commission is a call to action, and church is the training ground where we are equipped and encouraged to go into the world and share the message of hope, redemption, and salvation that we have received. Being part of a local church is non-negotiable
because our faith and commitment to Christ are the core of who we are. To neglect the gathering of believers is to neglect our calling and miss the opportunity to grow in our relationship with God and with others in the body of Christ.
In short, church is essential for followers of Jesus. Our attendance should reflect our dedication, our belief in the importance of worship, and our desire to live out the Great Commission in our everyday lives. Church attendance is a non-negotiable commitment because it’s not about us; it’s about honoring God and fulfilling the purpose He has set for us in this world. PL
NAMK | Gateway the Church Oak Grove, Louisiana | Pastor Lance Nugent
MALLORY NUGENT
How to Be a Global Christian
IN MY OFFICE AT UPCI World Headquarters, I have a globe—well, I have lots of globes—but just one with an inscription that reads “9/1/2011: The Day Our World Changed.” I sometimes introduce myself this way: “My name is Jim, and I’m addicted to Global Missions.”
Yep, I’m one of those weeping wimps who totally melts every time flags are waved high in the missionary march at General Conference. I thought I would live and die in West Africa where my wife and I served for more than twenty-eight years. That all changed on September 1, 2011, when I was asked to become the director of Education/Short-Term Missions for Global Missions, at our World Headquarters. I transitioned from being a global missionary to being a global Christian.
A 2018 study by the Barna Group found that over half (51 percent) of US churchgoers had not heard of the Great Commission. Taking a different approach, Barna also presented churchgoers with five different scriptural passages and asked them to identify which one is known as the Great Commission. A little more than one-third of churchgoers (37 percent) correctly identified the Bible passage.
Many believers today have missed the mark in understanding the Great Commission. If we don’t understand, we won’t pray for the lost world. If we don’t understand, we won’t give to reach the lost world. If we don’t understand, we won’t go to the lost world. But when we grasp the magnitude of the Great Commission, we’ll be compelled to pray, give, and go.
Matthew 28:18–20 is the most well-known biblical record of what is commonly referred to as the “Great Commission.” Despite the significance of these and other verses that call Christians to “go and make disciples of all nations,” a surprising proportion of churchgoing Christians in North America is generally unaware of these famous words uttered by Jesus. Some erroneously think the Great Commission appears only once in God’s Word, but it appears five different times to five different audiences.
• “And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, ‘All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations’” (Matthew 28:18–19, NKJV).
• “And He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature’” (Mark 16:15, NKJV).
• “Then He said to them, ‘Thus it is written, and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem’” (Luke 24:46–47, NKJV).
• “As the Father has sent Me, I also send you” (John 20:21, NKJV).
• “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth” (Acts 1:8, NKJV).
Steve Richardson, in Is the Commission Still Great?
8 Myths about Missions & What They Mean for the Church, writes, “The Great Commission is the most ambitious undertaking in the history of the world. It involves hundreds of millions of people and spans thousands of years. It encompasses a vast number of languages, cultures, and locations. No other endeavor—even the creation of the cosmos itself—compares with the audacity of God’s redemptive plan. Adding shock to astonishment, God has entrusted a significant measure of this monumental task to weak-kneed men and women like you and me” (pp. 11–12).
As we embark on this journey to become global Christians, we must first grasp the profound implications of this calling. Global Christians long for the lost to be saved, labor for the Lord, and live to bring glory to God. It should be demonstrated in our daily lives as we interact with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. By showing kindness, empathy, and understanding, we build bridges of trust and create opportunities for meaningful connections. We can have a bifocal vision: short-sighted on the communities and
people around us, and far-sighted to those far beyond us. Global Christians are committed to living a life that reflects Jesus Christ at home and abroad.
I’m convinced all Christians receive a call to be global Christians. We are called to pray globally, give globally, and go globally.
Pray Globally
Global Christians are people who pray with purpose, passion, and precision. They seek God’s guidance, pray for open doors, and believe for God’s empowerment. They pray for the lost, for laborers, and for the gospel to spread rapidly around the globe.
“Then He said to His disciples, ‘The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest’” (Matthew 9:37–38, NKJV).
“Ask of Me, and I will give You the nations for Your inheritance, and the ends of the earth for Your possession” (Psalm 2:8, NKJV).
Give Globally
Global Christians are generous givers, providing financial support for missionaries, projects, and initiatives that advance the gospel and fulfill the Great Commission.
Go Globally
Global Christians are willing to go wherever God leads, whether across the street or across the globe, to share the gospel and make disciples. The Lord could use you to be an effective witness through digital evangelism and engagement. Turn your social media account into a witnessing tool. I live in the St. Louis, Missouri, area, which is home to more than one hundred different cultures. It’s a good place to begin.
Global Christians pray, give, or go. But those are not the only options. One can do any combination of the three. That’s a powerful blend creating synergy that accelerates the advancement of the gospel globally.
All believers can be global Christians, regardless of their location or circumstances. By praying globally, giving globally, and going globally, believers can fulfill the Great Commission and become global Christians who make a significant impact on our world. PL
JIM POITRAS Director of Education/Short-Term Missions
Global Missions |
UPCI
¡CUBA!
IT IS REMARKABLE WHAT GOD has done over the years in the island nation of Cuba. At just ninety miles from the United States, it is one of the closest nations to the United Pentecostal Church International’s home base in the US and Canada. During the Cold War years, however, it was challenging to work together with Cuban churches and believers. With the easing of tensions in the 1990s, doors began to open for fresh efforts to develop vision, unity, and growth. This has been a continual miracle journey.
More recently, since 2013, the work has continued to grow and develop under the careful stewardship of Scott and Linda Guinn, missionaries to Cuba and Mexico and inter-regional evangelists. Recently, they reported the following testimonies about their work in Cuba.
Cuba was affected by two hurricanes and an earthquake within a very short time. We traveled out to several areas with Area Coordinator and Missionary
Steve Shirley and his wife, Kari. They brought help to Cuba from Compassion Services International, and we were able to distribute many items. More important, eleven souls were baptized in Jesus’ name, and eleven were filled with the Holy Ghost. To God be the glory!
The vice-president of the church in Costa Rica, Pastor Fernando, felt to take up a sacrificial offering for Cuba. May God richly bless them for blessing the church in Cuba.
We thank the Lord for new works, new pastors, Bible quizzing, Purpose Institute, and many more wonderful things the Lord is doing in Cuba. Churches damaged by the storms have begun reconstruction, and the church continues on in Jesus’ name! Please continue to pray for the work in Cuba.
“Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1, NKJV). It is a joy and a privilege to work together.
I am blessed to read about aid being sent from our North American church to those in need after natural disasters in Cuba. It moves me to read about a national pastor and leader in Costa Rica leading believers in giving to the work of the Lord in Cuba. As more Cubans are born of water and Spirit and new works spring up with trained new pastors, the future is bright for a sustainable harvest of disciples in Cuba! PL
ADAM HUNLEY
General
Director
| Global Missions | UPCI
A Call to Every Generation
I WAS BORN INTO THIS wonderful truth, called into ministry at nine, and preached my first sermon at twelve. But soon after, I spiraled into spiritual destruction.
All at the age of twelve, my father was removed from my home life, my relationship with leadership was tainted, and I was exposed to explicit content that twisted my desires, leading me to poor decisions, unhealthy relationships, and damaging environments.
But by the grace of God, He restored me and the call on my life. At seventeen, after years of a backslidden lifestyle, I answered once more that never-absent call of God.
Some may ask if this could have been avoided? What if my father and other spiritual leaders had been flawless? While those things could have made a difference, not one of them would have replaced the necessity for me to answer God’s call for myself.
If the previous generation does everything wrong, the next generation still has a call to answer. If the previous generation does everything right—the call remains unchanged. Responding to the call is the responsibility of the next generation, now.
If responding is the responsibility of our youth, what role does the previous generation play? At what point does their calling stop and the next begin?
A key mission of the church is to transfer faith from one generation to the next. This will not happen accidentally. It requires active participation from all generations. It requires generational cohesion.
The opening chapter of I Samuel reveals a foundational truth: generational succession requires generational dedication. One generation must surrender the next to God, and the next must answer His call. Without both, faith is lost.
Nowhere is this truth better illustrated than in the lives of Hannah and Samuel, contrasted by the failures of Eli, Hophni, and Phinehas.
Two Sacrifices, Two Results
Hannah was a woman of prayer, sacrifice, and commitment. She was barren, yet she prayed for a son and vowed, “What You give to me, I will give back to You” (I Samuel 1:11). When God answered, she kept that promise.
When Samuel was three, she brought him to the Tabernacle, dedicating him not just to priestly service, but to God Himself—as a living sacrifice. From that moment on, Hannah only reconnected with her son at the time of sacrifice. Every year, she returned to the Tabernacle with an offering and affirmed Samuel’s dedication with new robes. Hannah embodied sacrifice, while Eli and his sons abused it.
Eli was the high priest of Israel, and his two sons, Hophni and Phinehas, served with him. They held the titles, wore the robes, and worked in the Tabernacle— but they did not know the Lord (I Samuel 2:12).
In fearless rebellion they fattened themselves off sacrifices and pleasured themselves by abusing the nearby women. Where was their father, the representative of the previous generation? Sadly, Eli was complicit towards and sometimes participated in their indulgence. The Lord rebuked him, saying, “Why do you honor your sons more than Me?” (I Samuel 2:29).
Perhaps Eli knew their actions displeased God, but he was unwilling to deny his sons their desires. In his silence, he surrendered them to their lusts, even while they served at the altar.
Hannah gave her son to God’s presence, while Eli gave his sons to their own passions. Hannah surrendered Samuel to God’s purpose, while Eli surrendered his sons to their own destruction. Hannah’s sacrifice led to a prophet, while Eli’s passivity led to judgment. While Samuel grew into a prophet and judge, Hophni and Phinehas perished as foretold by the Lord.
This biblical contrast teaches a sobering truth: if we do not actively dedicate the next generation to the Lord, we risk losing them to their own lusts.
A Call to Every Generation
Each generation has a distinct and crucial role in the succession of truth and salvation. The older generation is called to surrender. Like Hannah, we must opt-out of the attempt to give our children a “good life” and, instead, give them to God.
The younger generation is called to respond. One night in the Tabernacle, Samuel heard the voice of God, even though he was only twelve years old. Hannah’s sacrifice put him in that position, but Samuel had to make the choice to respond. Like Samuel, young people today must listen, obey, and step into their God-given purpose.
The church is called to generational cohesion. When there is a generational dedication and a subsequent response, we witness generational succession.
Today’s generation is growing up in a culture that promotes confusion, is increasingly anxious, and is exposed to explicit content earlier than ever. How can we as a church win that fight? Shall we give this generation to their own passions? No!
We can dedicate this generation to the almighty God. We can raise our youth—the next generation—so that they may respond to His never-absent call now. PL
ALDEN SER VOSS
Student
Ministries Director
| Restoration Church St. Charles, Missouri | Pastor Tom Trimble
Seventeen Years in the Making
SEVENTEEN YEARS AGO, I SAT on the curb with Alex and the other neighborhood kids after our smallgroup meeting. They had a grungy look with long greasy hair, piercings, and a shared love for the band Slipknot. They were new to the church, and I was new to youth ministry. We hardly had anything in common, but surprisingly, we hit it off.
I can’t quite recall how the conversation started, but I vividly remember the tears streaming down Alex’s face. It’s a memory I have carried with me throughout the years. It was a God moment as I sat with my Bible open to Acts 2:38. This was it! This would be the first fruit of our basketball and Bible study group, or so I thought.
Alex’s desire and willingness to be baptized in Jesus’ name was met with opposition and tradition when he got home that night. Years later, he shared his mother’s response: “You were baptized as a baby, and you’re not getting baptized again!” I felt defeated. Despite years of working with Alex and the neighborhood kids—meeting every Tuesday at 7 pm for pizza, games, Bible study, and occasional food outings
where they conveniently “forgot” their money, I didn’t baptize any of them. Alex and the others continued to attend our small-group meeting throughout their high school journey, but we gradually lost touch as their interest waned. That was seventeen years ago.
Alex and I had been visiting the same optometrist for years, yet until recently, our paths hadn’t crossed. He was there for a routine checkup; I was there to pick up my son’s glasses, having missed my original appointment. Thus, seventeen years later, I found myself sitting with Alex once again.
As we talked, we reminisced about life, our families, our careers, and our old small group. Tears welled up in Alex’s eyes as he recalled the conversation we had all those years ago sitting on a curb, just the two of us. I will never forget the words he spoke to me in that doctor’s office: “Every time I think about God, I think about you, that group, and that moment on the curb. I didn’t understand what you were doing then, but I do now. And I just want to say thank you.”
He went on to share how he had drawn closer to God, had become a Christian, and—of all things—
even stopped listening to the band Slipknot! I was overjoyed to hear what God had been doing in his life and family, but I also knew God had some unfinished business.
Alex was moving to Texas in just a few days, and it just so happened that our church was hosting Friends Day the Sunday before his move. I couldn’t invite him fast enough, and to my delight, he agreed to come.
As I left the optometrist’s office that day, tears streamed down my face. I wasn’t sure if it was the thought of a miracle seventeen years in the making or the fact that a student actually thanked me for my efforts, but I was a wreck.
That Sunday, Alex, his wife, Leiana, and their daughter Lillie walked into church for Friends Day. I think I preached my very best that service. And the following week, I had an appointment I wouldn’t miss for anything in the world, because both Alex and Leiana stepped into the waters of baptism, taking on the name of Jesus. Their sins were washed away, and they rose as new creations in Jesus Christ.
I sure am glad I missed my original optometrist appointment.
To the youth pastors and youth workers leading this generation, know that what you do matters. And what you do still works. Don’t grow weary in well-doing. Let the words of Isaiah 55:11 encourage you as they did me in this miracle that was seventeen years in the making: “So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.”
The Word of God was planted in the heart of a fifteen-year-old kid named Alex, and seventeen years later, it prospered for both Alex and his family. PL
MARCO SALINAS
Associate Pastor | Spirit and Truth Church Orange, California | Pastor Tom Copple
FROM DEVASTATION TO DIVINE PROVISION
A Mothers Memorial Testimony
ON MARCH 31, 2023, AN EF3 tornado with winds up to 165 miles per hour swept through our town of Wynne, Arkansas. Others have experienced the trauma and loss a tornado brings, but now it was our turn. As the tornado touched down and lifted in tortuous repetition, it obliterated homes, churches, and beautiful mature trees and destroyed our public high school. Four lives were lost in a tragedy that will mark our town’s history.
My husband was home with three of our children. He settled them under the stairwell in a closet for safety and then, in true male fashion, went out on the deck to assess the situation. He was praying aloud, telling the winds and the storm where they had to stop and calling on Jesus’ name. He pleaded the blood of Jesus as a boundary line and then took cover with the children.
The tornado came right up to our back yard, knocked down a light pole and took part of our privacy fence, then made a hard left away from our property. Our home, private school, and recently constructed church sanctuary were spared. We do not rejoice in the losses suffered by others, but this was a testimony to the power of our God!
God also spared all our congregation’s lives and homes, with one exception. Our youth pastor’s home was demolished by a fallen tree that toppled onto the house only minutes after they evacuated to a friend’s home. God’s hand was upon us all, even in the storm. The devastation in our community was overwhelming. We began serving meals to the community three times per week for ten weeks. Many churches blessed us by helping with this effort, including giving offerings and bringing food, but our resources were soon
tapped dry as we served two hundred or more people at each meal.
In the days that followed, I told my husband I had some Mothers Memorial money saved, so we used what we needed to continue to support our community. When the time came to turn in my offering, I was $1,600 short of my $5,000 goal. I was disheartened, but knew the money had been used for a worthy cause. I turned in the amount that remained.
A few weeks later, a very warm-hearted lady approached me and expressed that the Lord had dealt with her about giving me an offering. She knew she had to be obedient to the Lord. With great internal struggle, I agreed to receive the offering. When the check arrived in the mail, it was the exact amount I lacked to meet my Mothers Memorial goal of $5,000. Wow! I continue to be shocked at God’s attention to detail for seemingly insignificant me.
We are grateful for every monetary gift and the hours invested by volunteers in helping to rebuild our city. But it came to me that a home and our city are only temporal comforts. This raises the question: how much more should I invest in what lasts, that is, in eternal treasure?
Difficult circumstances shift our perspective and shape our faith. They realign our conscious mind to think on what matters most—the eternal. The Word frames it like this: “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding
and eternal weight of glory; while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal” (II Corinthians 4:17–18).
My Mothers Memorial offering is not just me parting with money: it is giving with eternal dividends. Those end products are perfectly expressed in II Corinthians 4:7–9: “But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed.”
The reaching arm of Mothers Memorial helps spread the gospel to every “earthen vessel” who will hear and receive the truth. There also is the added promise that, though we may be troubled, distressed, or perplexed, we are not in despair, forsaken, or destroyed. That, my friends, is treasure enough for me to continue giving for His glory. PL
Arkansas District Ladies President
Ladies Ministries | UPCI
ASHLEA ISON
Massachusetts and Rhode Island are in revival, but the need for churches is greater than ever.
Over 8 million souls are searching for truth, hope, and a place to belong.
Could God be calling you to plant a church in New England?
The harvest is ready—will you step into the field?
CHAPLAINCY THE MINISTRY OF PRESENCE
OF ALL THE PSALMS WRITTEN by David, perhaps none brings more comfort than Psalm 34:18, where he reminds us, “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit” (ESV). The heartbeat of a chaplain is that if the Lord is near to the brokenhearted, then His people should be too. In fact, the most-quoted description of chaplaincy is that it is the ministry of presence. To be a chaplain is to be present.
When our family moved to Washington, DC, to plant Freedom Church as UPCI metro missionaries, I began looking for opportunities to get connected with the community and felt drawn to law enforcement chaplaincy. In an act of divine providence, I reached out to the DC Metropolitan Police Department just as they were looking to expand their Chaplain Corps, and they invited me to apply. What followed was three of the most rewarding, exhilarating, and sometimes heartbreaking years of personal ministry I have ever experienced.
I’ve been present on more crime scenes than I can count. I’ve stood on the shore of the icy waters of the Potomac River as first responders pulled victims of a plane crash from the water. I’ve sat with officers
following traumatic calls and listened to their descriptions of experiences on calls where they’ve seen the worst in humanity. I’ve received late-night phone calls as they wrestled with the “whys” of life and their profession. In short, I’ve been in the presence of the brokenhearted.
And yet, amid all the heartbreak and violence, there’s something beautiful and rewarding about the ministry of chaplaincy. The pay isn’t great; in fact, I serve the fifth largest police agency in the US, and it’s a volunteer role. I can’t even say it’s a method for church growth. But you get to serve as a visible reminder of the truth that God is present in all things, and you never know what will happen when people see that truth for themselves.
For more information about UPCI Chaplains Ministry, visit UPCChaplains.com. PL
JERRY WEST
Pastor | Freedom Church DC | Washington, DC Chaplain | DC Metropolitan Police and US Capitol Police
JERRY WEST RECEIVES AN ACHIEVEMENT MEDAL FROM PAMELA SMITH, CHIEF OF THE METROPOLITAN POLICE DEPARTMENT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, FOR HIS WORK AS A POLICE CHAPLAIN.
Total UPCI Giving
THE OFFICE OF RESEARCH & Development compiled comprehensive giving data for every selfgoverning church and every ministry that funnels through UPCI World Headquarters. Total giving in this report includes one-time contributions to annual offerings and recurring pledges through the seven broad ministry categories: Global Missions, North American Missions, Youth Ministries, Children’s Ministries, Ladies Ministries, Men’s Ministries, and Church Advancement.
Local churches collectively gave more than $63 million to all UPCI missional efforts combined in 2024, which is a record. This reflects an increase of $973,249 from the 2023 report. Global Missions and Ladies Ministries reported record offerings in 2024.
The overwhelming majority of UPCI churches participate in giving. In 2024, 4,023 churches gave to UPCI missions. With approximately 4,200 self-governing churches in North America, this is the second consecutive year that 95 percent of churches gave to at least one ministry effort, an outstanding participation rate.
Representing total giving from a typical UPCI church, the median total offering in 2024 was $5,339. Half of the churches gave more than this amount, and the other half gave less. A median describes the “middle” point of a data series. The 2024 median is $104
higher than the 2023 median. This further supports the theme of increased total giving from last year. Since a median is only one number, a range helps to describe the variation in the capacity for giving from UPCI churches. The middle 50 percent of churches gave between $1,356 and $15,255. This range shows the spread of giving for the middle half of churches. The middle 90 percent of churches gave between $100 and $59,173. This range illustrates total giving for most churches and only excludes the 5 percent at the top and bottom of the total range. Pages 26–27 list the top 100 churches. Total giving in this group ranges from $100,258 to $640,500.
The 2023 and 2024 Total Giving Reports are available at UPCI.org/Stats. For those interested in UPCI statistics, this website offers public reports on UPCI churches, ministers, and offerings. PL
KATHRYN GROVES Director of Research & Development | UPCI
JOCELYN CASTRO Research Analyst Office of Research & Development | UPCI
increase in total giving $973,249 reported a record offering 2 ministries
$63,272,275
IN TOTAL GIVING FROM UPCI CHURCHES TO ALL UPCI MISSIONAL EFFORTS
$5,339 give to at least one UPCI offering 95% of churches
median church giving
Middle 90% of churches gave between $100 - $59k
Middle 50% of churches gave between $1.3k - $15k
The top 100 churches gave between $100k - $640k Ranges
TOP 100 GIVING
1 Georgia District Atlanta West Pentecostal Church, Lithia Springs, GA (Darrell W. Johns)
Louisiana District Pentecostals of Alexandria, Alexandria, LA (Anthony Mangun, Gentry Mangun)
Florida District
First Pentecostal Church of Pensacola, Pensacola, FL (Brian Kinsey)
The First Church of Pearland, Pearland, TX (Ken Gurley, Tyler Walea)
5 New York Metro District Bethel United Pentecostal Church, Old Westbury, NY (D. D. Davis, Sr, Doug Davis, Jr)
6 Indiana District Greater Faith Church, New Albany, IN (J. Todd Nichols)
7 Indiana District New Life Fellowship, Terre Haute, IN (Jeffrey Harpole)
8 Ohio District Calvary Apostolic Church, Westerville, OH (Jimmy Stark, James Stark) $358,091.57
9 Atlantic District
Capital Community Church, Fredericton, NB (Jack Leaman) $341,003.87
10 Mississippi District Woodlawn United Pentecostal Church, Columbia, MS (Jerron Carney)
11 Louisiana District The Pentecostals of Bossier City, Bossier City, LA (Ryan Dean, Jerry Dean)
12
13
14
Louisiana District First United Pentecostal Church, New Orleans, LA (Richard Dykes, Jr)
Louisiana District Wallace Ridge Pentecostal Church, Jonesville, LA (Tyler Stevison)
Missouri District Apostolic Pentecostal Church, St. Louis, MO (Bradly DeLong)
15 Indiana District Calvary Tabernacle, Indianapolis, IN (Joshua Carson)
$289,879.81
$286,247.00
$270,220.16
$264,689.43
$263,783.41
16 Louisiana District First United Pentecostal Church, Denham Springs, LA (William Johnson, Jr) $257,963.91
17 Texas District Apostolic Pentecostal Church of Porter, Kingwood, TX (Joel McCoy)
18 Florida District Eastwind Pentecostal Church, Palm Bay, FL (David Myers)
19* Indiana District Liberty Tabernacle UPCI, Whiteland, IN (Brian Lane)
$250,379.47
$241,420.83
$237,189.10
20 Western District Eureka - The Pentecostal Church, Eureka, CA (Jonathan McDonald) $232,910.92
21 Ontario District First United Pentecostal Church of Toronto, Toronto, ON (Timothy Pickard) $227,749.99
22 Florida District The Pentecostals of Gainesville, Gainesville, FL (Jimmy Toney)
$227,046.96
23 Texas District Greater Love Tabernacle, Lufkin, TX (Ronnie Frankens) $226,981.11
24 Illinois District Christ the King Apostolic Church, O Fallon, IL (Andrew Romine)
$224,568.60
25 Mississippi District Parkway Pentecostal Church, Madison, MS (Jason Dillon, Jerry W. Dillon) $218,858.24
26 Florida District The Pentecostals of Cooper City, Cooper City, FL (Mark Hattabaugh) $214,128.22
27 Western District Truth Tabernacle, Bakersfield, CA (Jonathan Mullings, Ronnie Mullings)
$213,437.49
28 Mississippi District First Pentecostal Church, Jackson, MS (Raymond Frazier) $213,128.40
29 Oklahoma District The Church Today, Tulsa, OK (Barron Longstreth)
$209,334.39
30 Louisiana District First United Pentecostal Church, Winnsboro, LA (Mark Powell, Floyd Hawthorne) $206,203.00
31 Tennessee District First United Pentecostal Church, Nashville, TN (Ron Becton, Roy Duke)
$199,959.25
32 Virginia District Norfolk Apostolic Church, Norfolk, VA (Michael Blankenship) $198,758.50
33 Missouri District The Sanctuary UPC, Hazelwood, MO (Mitchell Bland, Seneatha Carpenter)
34 Alabama District Sanctuary Community Church, Hartselle, AL (Billy Britt)
35 Texas District Eastgate United Pentecostal Church, North Vidor, TX (Matthew Tuttle)
36 North Carolina District Heavenview United Pentecostal Church, Winston Salem, NC (Harold Linder)
37 Southern California District Spirit & Truth Worship Center, Orange, CA (Tom Copple)
38 Missouri District New Life St. Louis, Bridgeton, MO (Aaron Batchelor)
39 North Texas District Dallas First Church, Dallas, TX (Tom Foster)
$198,688.99
$196,716.28
$196,236.23
$190,484.58
$188,664.81
$187,002.11
$185,113.41
40 Missouri District The Life Church, Kansas City, MO (Justin Gleason) $172,330.37
41* Tennessee District Goodlettsville Pentecostal Church, Goodlettsville, TN (Timothy Zuniga) $171,525.95
42 North Texas District Emmanuel Pentecostal Church, Mesquite, TX (R. Chad Flowers, Richard Flowers) $169,843.03
43 Oklahoma District Southern Oaks UPC, Oklahoma City, OK (Mark Parker) $169,349.68
44 Ohio District The Anchor Church, Zanesville, OH (Aaron Bounds) $169,173.63
45 Louisiana District Kings Temple UPC, Shreveport, LA (Damon Magee) $168,125.00
46* Mississippi District Pentecostals of Gulf Coast, Biloxi, MS (Chadwick Craft) $167,820.63
47* North Texas District New Life Church, Garland, TX (Shannon Stanley, Bobby Stanley) $162,922.73
48 Maryland-Washington DC District Antioch, The Apostolic Church, Arnold, MD (David Wright, Chester Wright) $162,417.24
49 Quebec District Saint Laurent United Pentecostal Church, Saint Laurent, QC (Paul Graham) $158,834.70
50 North Texas District North Cities United Pentecostal, Garland, TX (D.G. Hargrove) $156,470.78
51 Tennessee District Centerpointe Apostolic Church, Murfreesboro, TN (Kevin Allen) $153,935.70
GIVING CHURCHES
52 Kentucky District Greater Lighthouse Pentecostal Church, Madisonville, KY (Robbie Knox, Ronald Hendricks) $152,327.87
53 Texas District The Sanctuary, First Pentecostal Church, Cleveland, TX (Kevin Howard) $149,548.00
54 Oregon District Oregon City United Pentecostal Church, Oregon City, OR (Stanley Gleason) $146,663.31
55 Atlantic District First United Pentecostal Church Mission Point, Saint John, NB (Brent Carter) $145,126.79
56 Georgia District The Church of Columbus, Columbus, GA (HL Sheppard) $144,445.48
57 South Texas District The Pentecostal Church of Atascocita, Humble, TX (Kevin Martin)
58* Ohio District New Life Church, Dayton, OH (Thomas Friend)
$143,565.51
$142,720.47
59* North Dakota District The Sanctuary, Bismarck, ND (Shane Paulson) $142,210.76
60* Michigan District South Flint Tabernacle, Flint, MI (Jason McGhee, Robert Henson) $142,086.97
61 Michigan District Saginaw Valley United Pentecostal Church, Birch Run, MI (Kevin Leaman)
62 North Carolina District Temple of Pentecost, Raleigh, NC (Bryan Ballestero, Wayne Huntley)
$141,802.17
$141,522.24
63 Ohio District Harrison Hills Church, Jewett, OH (Philip Spellman, Jr) $138,684.93
64 Canadian Plains District The Bible Pentecostal Church, Edmonton, AB (Daniel Mena)
$138,440.00
65 Indiana District Emmanuel Apostolic Church, Martinsville, IN (Mark Abernathy) $137,371.72
66 Massachusetts-Rhode Island District Christ Temple UPC, Tiverton, RI (Jay Stirnemann)
$136,548.87
67 Ohio District Christian Life Center, Heath, OH (Michael Ensey) $135,167.80
68 Florida District Church of Pentecost, Jacksonville, FL (Rick Olson)
69 Wisconsin District Calvary Gospel Church, Madison, WI (Roy Grant)
$135,071.06
$134,176.04
70 Florida District Cornerstone Ocala, Inc, Ocala, FL (Aaron Sizemore, C. Patton Williams) $134,019.86
71 Arizona District Faith Tabernacle, Tucson, AZ (Paul Conner) $133,803.30
72 South Carolina District First United Pentecostal Church, Sumter, SC (Theron Smith) $133,673.68
73 Oklahoma District Dewar United Pentecostal Church, Dewar, OK (Matthew Martin) $133,388.04
74 Illinois District The Apostolic Church Bartlett, Bartlett, IL (Robert Boettcher) $132,783.28
75 Wisconsin District Christian Life Church, Mequon, WI (Joseph Hanthorn) $132,461.98
76 Mississippi District Life at Tupelo, Tupelo, MS (Jay Carney, II) $131,337.40
77* Western District Revival Church UPC, Modesto, CA (Harold Johnson) $129,629.00
78* South Texas District Royalwood Pentecostal Church, Houston, TX (Ron Macey) $126,523.71
79 Illinois District United Pentecostal Church, Johnston City, IL (Brandon Abernathy, Michael Glasco) $125,610.35
80 Arkansas District Apostolic Faith Tabernacle, Pearcy, AR (William Culberson) $122,741.36
81 New Jersey-Delaware District Jacob's Well, Newark, DE (Lela Cooper, Arash Ahmadpour) $122,170.00
82 South Central Texas District New Life UPC of Austin, Austin, TX (Rodney Shaw) $121,879.38
83 Wisconsin District Apostolic Truth Church, Appleton, WI (Aaron Soto) $121,260.54
84 Virginia District Bible World Church, Chesapeake, VA (Jack Cunningham) $121,126.13
85 Florida District United Pentecostal Church, Apopka, FL (Donavon Hill, II) $119,751.49
86 Alaska-Yukon District First Pentecostal Church, Whitehorse, YT (Craig Colvin)
$118,297.49
87* British Columbia District The Pentecostals of Fort St John, Fort St. John, BC (Jason McLaughlin) $117,822.91
88 Indiana District The Tabernacle at Sandy Creek, Seymour, IN (Larry Arrowood)
89* Arkansas District The Pentecostal Church, Fort Smith, AR (Tim Sullivan)
$117,291.59
$115,740.00
90 Western District Faith Tabernacle of Exeter, Exeter, CA (Don Demyan) $115,517.49
91 South Central Texas District Hope Center Church, San Antonio, TX (Nathaniel Scoggins) $112,085.34
92* North Carolina District Abundant Life Church, Matthews, NC (Brent Watts) $110,014.01
93 Illinois District The Apostolic Church of Salem, Salem, IL (Calvin Jean) $109,013.03
94* North Texas District The Life Church, Dallas, TX (Shay Mann)
95* Colorado District Landmark Tabernacle, Denver, CO (Dannie Hood, Billy Hale) $105,494.45
96 Louisiana District First United Pentecostal Church, Breaux Bridge, LA (Jonathan Haygood) $103,694.52
97* Texas District Tyler Tabernacle UPC, Tyler, TX (Michael Littlefield) $102,297.47
98* Ontario District The Pentecostals of Quinte, Belleville, ON (Shawn Stickler, Arnold MacLauchlan) $101,515.00
99 Indiana District First Church, Hobart, IN (Jonathan Barley) $101,300.41
100* Maine District First United Pentecostal Church, Lewiston, ME (Todd Little) $100,258.64
(*) INDICATES A CHURCH IN THE TOP 100 THAT WAS NOT LISTED IN THE 2023 GIVING REPORT
GOD IS A GIVER
OBJECTIVE: To recognize, receive, and reproduce the giving nature of God
THE GENEROSITY OF GOD IS expressed in His divine nature and the sharing of that divine nature with humanity. This is declared in the words of Jesus in John 3:16: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” This linchpin of scriptural doctrine declares the reality of God’s nature, reveals His character, and offers humanity the opportunity to share in His generous nature.
The psalmist David was intrigued by the nature of God when he expressed his longing in Psalm 27:4: “One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in his temple.” The beauty of the Lord is the expression of His character, which is love, and the way of the Lord is expressed in His temple through sacrifice. The beauty of the Lord’s character was expressed in generous and sacrificial giving.
David also expressed the giving nature of God in the twenty-third psalm when he declared that he was pursued by goodness and mercy all the days of his life. The generous nature of God was revealed both by what He gave (goodness) and what He did not give because He is merciful. Jesus revealed a similar sentiment when He stated, “For he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust” (Matthew 5:45b). The gracious nature of the Almighty is revealed when He withholds well-earned judgment from deserving
humanity, but also by His merciful love to undeserving humanity.
The apostle Peter declared that God’s divine power has given His children all they need to live a life of godliness and the ability to escape the lustful corruption of this world by partaking in the divine nature (II Peter 1:4). This nature manifests the character and ways of God within the lives of God’s children as they express His love through a sacrificial and generous lifestyle. It gives the believer the joy of participating in the merciful withholding of condemnation, unrighteous judgment, unforgiveness, and so much more as they allow the rivers of living water to flow through them in healing, sharing, forgiving, and loving as only God can.
The Scriptures are replete with challenges and promises concerning generosity. Isaiah 32:8 (NKJV) challenges, “But a generous man devises generous things, and by generosity he shall stand.” Proverbs 11:25 (NKJV) promises, “The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself.”
These passages were among those shared at the recent celebration-of-life service for a friend who was a paragon of Christlike giving and generosity. Pastor Lee Jackson of the United Pentecostal Church of Wood River, Illinois, was a man known for generously sharing his time with countless young ministers. He and his wife, Georgia, privately supported many retired pastors and missionaries. An unknown number of young evangelists traveled with gas cards paid by
I remember attending a banquet honoring the Jacksons for serving twenty-five years as pastors of Wood River UPC. They were seated at the head table, and lying in front of Pastor Jackson was a stack of cards. These were not cards that had been gifted to him, however. As retired missionaries, traveling evangelists, and struggling pastors gathered to honor this couple who had secretly supported many of them for years, Pastor Jackson handed the cards to guests. Enclosed with those cards were checks to make sure the recipients were out no expense to come to his anniversary celebration. Pastor Jackson’s life was the reflection of a giving nature inherited from his heavenly Father.
God’s giving nature has not only been revealed, but it also has been shared with each believer. The challenge is to allow that giving nature to be reproduced within our lives through careful cultivation. It begins with prayer, surrender, and the re-evaluation of the true ownership of our lives and resources. It then becomes a matter of practical implementation of the principles of God’s Word as the Spirit imprints them into our new nature.
Matthew 6:3 matter-of-factly states, “But when you do a charitable deed.” The Scriptures assume born-again believers will be known for their love expressed in self-denial, and that it will be practically shared with others in joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and selfcontrol. Opportunities to share our godly character, financial resources, time, a listening ear, forgiveness, forbearance, and much more will be manifested in our lives daily.
The need for the authentic expression of the divine nature of our giving God seems to be at an all-time high. May each of us become that living
expression by following the command of Jesus in Matthew 5:16: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your
RANDY PATE
Senior Pastor | The Sanctuary of Pascagoula Pascagoula, Mississippi
Personal Application:
1. What are some ways God demonstrates His generosity by what He does?
2. What are some ways God demonstrates His generosity by what He does not do?
3. What Scriptures demonstrate the giving nature of the heavenly Father?
4. Have you observed or experienced Christian generosity from anyone in particular?
5. What are practical ways you can demonstrate a generous and giving nature?
A SMILE AND AN OPEN HAND
GIVING CHEERFULLY IS A POSTURE of praise. It confirms our confidence in the great God we serve and is a display of gratitude for who He is. Knowing that “God loveth a cheerful giver” (II Corinthians 9:7) should compel us to always give with our hands and hearts open. We often lose sight of the fact that everything we have comes from Him. Abilities, talents, careers, and blessings are gifts. Acknowledging this creates a joyful demeanor as we give our time, talent, and treasure.
As a parent, I often remind my six-year-old, “It’s OK to be upset or disappointed, but it’s not OK to have a bad attitude.” Most parents desire to foster a heart of gratefulness in their children. I am certain it is no different with our heavenly Father. He offered us salvation at the expense of His own life. Asking us to be cheerful in our giving seems the least we can do. Our relationship with Him should be based upon our love for Him, not upon what He gives. I am beyond grateful for the countless ways He has blessed me, so I want to give with a smile and open hands in everything I do. If He never blesses me again, still I will serve Him by giving of myself.
Barnabas, known as the “son of consolation,” was a giver in all he did. William Arnot defined the character of such a man. “To possess consolation
is to give it; not to give it is not to possess it. The more of it you have, the more you may give; and the more you give to others, the more you retain for your own use. This circle, when it is set a-going, moves perpetually, like the sea giving out its waters to the sky, and the sky sending back the boon by rain and the rivers to the sea again” (BibleHub. com). When Barnabas was converted, salvation impacted his heart and his wallet. He served with both wide open. In Acts 4:36–37, Barnabas sold his land and took the proceeds to the apostles.
The account of Barnabas’s generous and genuine offering is followed by Ananias and Sapphira’s deceitful offering. It is thought that this couple gave with the desire for praise or recognition. Inspired by the Holy Spirit, the apostle Peter responded to their offering with a rebuke: “Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land? Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God” (Acts 5:3–4). Peter called Ananias out, and because of Ananias’s deceit and selfishness, the man fell dead. Soon after, his wife repeated the lie, and she too died.
This account demonstrates that God cares about the condition of our heart when we give. When we hold back what belongs to Him, we are liable for the consequences. But giving with an open hand allows God to pour out blessings and take care of us in our time of need.
When we choose to give with the right attitude, it opens the door for God to move in our lives in significant ways. Consider the widow of Zarephath. A famine was ravaging the land, and even though food was scarce, the widow was still willing to give. Elijah asked her for bread—the bread she planned to “eat…and die” (I Kings 17:12). “Elijah said to her, “Don’t be afraid. Go home and do as you have said. But first make a small loaf of bread for me from what you have and bring it to me, and then make something for yourself and your son. For this is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: ‘The jar of flour will not be used up and the jug of oil will not run dry until the day the Lord sends rain on the land’” (I Kings 17:13–14, NIV). The miraculous provision of the Lord was a direct result of the widow’s faith demonstrated by giving, even when it seemed there would not be enough. Beyond this, the Lord later blessed this woman when Elijah prayed and her dead son came back to life (I Kings 17:20–22). In this woman’s story, we see that when we give, even if our gift seems insignificant, God blesses beyond measure. When we give by faith, God always provides. Giving in all we do, with a cheerful attitude, causes God to pour out provision, grace, and blessings. “And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: (As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever” (II Corinthians 9:8–9). PL
ASHLEY LABOUBE
Director
of
Wagoner,
Education | United Church
Oklahoma | Pastor Micah Wisdom
Personal Application:
1. Why do you think we often struggle to “give cheerfully”?
2. What do you think is more difficult to give—money or time? Why?
3. In II Corinthians 9:7–9, Paul encouraged cheerful giving, noting that God will bless us with His grace and provision. Can you think of a time this happened to you or someone you know?
4. Consider the desperate situation of the widow of Zarephath. How has God used desperate circumstances in your life to show you how He can provide?
5. What are specific ways you can give cheerfully this week to the Lord?
THE POWER OF SACRIFICIAL GIVING
OBJECTIVE: To explore the blessings and benefits of giving sacrificially
THROUGHOUT SCRIPTURE SACRIFICIAL GIVING IS seen as a powerful expression of a willing heart. The rewards of this practice are many, but the greatest is the deep satisfaction of knowing that a selfless sacrifice has advanced a worthy cause. There is an indescribable joy in giving with a heart full of thanksgiving.
But what is sacrificial giving? It is the willingness to give beyond personal ability—often seeming irrational or even impossible to consider. Most of the time, it begins with a God-inspired prompting that tests our faith and willingness to act. There is a contrast between giving with the expectation of receiving a return and giving purely as an act of obedience and faith! Jesus said, “Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over” (Luke 6:38, NKJV). However, true sacrificial giving is not an investment strategy; it is an act of trust in God’s provision.
Why should we who are believers consider sacrificial giving?
Three
Biblical Examples of Sacrificial Giving
1. The Widow’s Offering
The desire to give sometimes arises unexpectedly, with no apparent reason other than the prompting of the heart. This was the case when Jesus observed a poor widow putting two small coins into the Temple treasury. He compared her offering with the offerings of those who had given out of their abundance and said, “All these out of their abundance have put in offerings for God, but she out of her poverty put in all the livelihood that she had” (Luke 21:4, NKJV). Despite her dire circumstances, she gave everything she had, demonstrating faith, trust, and sacrificial love.
2. The Widow of Zarephath
At other times, God tests our willingness to give. During a severe drought brought upon the people by their idolatry, the prophet Elijah found himself in need of sustenance. The brook where the ravens had been feeding him had dried up, and God told him, “Arise, go to Zarephath…and dwell there. See, I have commanded a widow there to provide for you” (I Kings 17:9, NKJV)).
When Elijah arrived at the gate of the city, he found a woman gathering sticks and asked her for a drink of water, a simple test of her willingness. As she turned to fetch it, he made a greater request: “Bring me a morsel of bread in your hand” (17:11). Given her situation, this must have seemed outrageous. She explained that she had only a handful of flour and a little oil, barely enough to prepare one last meal for herself and her son before they perished. Yet Elijah assured her, “Do not fear; go and do as you have said, but make me a small cake from it first, and bring it to me; and afterward make some for yourself and your son” (I Kings 17:13, NKJV). In faith, she obeyed. As a result, she, her son, and Elijah ate for many days, proving that God rewards those who trust Him with what little they have.
3. Mary of Bethany’s Alabaster Box
Sacrificial giving is also an act of worship. When Mary of Bethany entered the house of Simon, the former leper, where Jesus was dining, she brought an alabaster flask filled with “very precious” and costly ointment (Mark 14:3). Even if she had gently opened the container, dipped in a finger, and touched the brow of Jesus, the aroma would have filled the room! However, instead of using the spikenard sparingly, she broke the box and poured all of it on Jesus’ head as He sat eating. Her act of devotion was met with criticism, but Jesus defended her, saying, “She has done a good work for Me. . . . She has come beforehand to anoint My body for burial” (Mark 14:6, 8). Unlike others, Mary understood Jesus’ impending sacrifice, and in response, she gave Him everything—her heart poured out an act of love, faith, and reverence.
The Blessings of Sacrificial Giving
The apostle Paul, in his second letter to the Corinthian congregation, highlighted the sacrificial generosity of the Macedonian believers. Despite their extreme poverty, they gave with overflowing joy, eager to bless the kingdom of God (II Corinthians 8–9). Paul explained that the willingness to give, even beyond one’s means, is an act of faith that God honors. My wife and I experienced this firsthand when our pastor presented a financial need to our congregation. As we prayed, God placed a specific amount in
my heart—an amount that seemed impossible for us to give at the time. When I turned to my wife and asked what she felt we should give, she named the same amount. We knew this was a confirmation from God. Trusting in His provision, we wrote the amount on paper. The next day we received a letter from a pastor friend with a check for that exact amount. He wrote that God had impressed upon him to send it to us. God had already provided the means for us to give before we made the decision.
Sacrificial giving is a gift from God to believing people. Often, our willingness to give is energized by faith rather than personal resources. The apostle Paul reminded us, “God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work” (II Corinthians 9:8, NKJV). “Now unto Him who is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think” (Ephesians 3:20).
Trust in Him, and He will provide. PL
DANIEL SCOTT
Retired Missionary | Global Missions | UPCI
Personal Application:
1. Why is sacrificial giving a gift from God?
2. Why do you think Jesus watched those who gave offerings into the treasury? How does this relate to our personal giving?
3. Does Elijah’s request seem unreasonable during an extreme famine? Or was it a test of the widow’s willingness to serve?
4. Why do you think Mary was willing to offer such an extravagant gift to Jesus?
IMPACTING ETERNITY THROUGH GIVING
OBJECTIVE: To lay up treasures in Heaven that generate eternal rewards
“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also”
(Matthew 6:19–21, ESV).
TREASURES CAN HAVE AN ETERNAL impact if they are managed according to God’s plan and promises. How we steward our time, talents, and treasures reveals our priorities and desires. When we align our hearts and actions with God (i.e., put the Kingdom first), we create an eternal impact for ourselves and for those we serve.
The key to understanding Jesus’ command to “lay up treasures in heaven” is found in His admonition of Matthew 25:40b: “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” This passage speaks of giving water to the thirsty, clothes to the needy, and companionship to the imprisoned. Jesus equates the giving of a cup of water to someone who is thirsty to literally giving it to Him. We give to Jesus anytime we give to those in need.
Giving is a demonstration of priorities. How much we choose to give and to whom we give reveals compassion and love for our fellow man.
As Christians, we are called to love others and demonstrate compassion for those in need. Both love and compassion are attributes of Christ that we should demonstrate daily. It is important to note that an act of compassion is a wonderful way to point people to Jesus. We can impact their souls for eternity simply by loving them to Jesus. Jesus identified three types of treasures as He described the destruction that comes to earthly wealth. Moths were known for eating garments. Rust is a reference to how food perishes. Something stolen speaks of items of monetary value being taken from us. Collectively, we see clothes, food, and money as items of earthly wealth. Amassing an unnecessary amount of these items for one’s personal use while refusing to distribute them to the needs of others is contrary to how Jesus calls us to give. Providing clothes, food, and money to those in need reflects eternal priorities. In the same way, arranging our calendars to make time to serve others will help us develop healthy spiritual habits that consistently impact the lives of others.
Laying up treasures for oneself is a phrase that implies amassing wealth for one’s personal benefit. Laying up treasures in Heaven implies the distribution of wealth for the benefit of others. The act of giving food to the hungry is a practical example of laying up treasures in Heaven. Imagine
the blessing you can be to a neighbor family who just had their first child when you show up at their house with clothes, food, and diapers. You not only serve their practical needs, you also gain an opportunity to share more of God’s grace with them. While serving them, you also serve the Lord. Or look beyond today and fund an endowment that pays annual dividends to bless a ministry or help a Bible college student with tuition. Long after your last breath, your financial gift continues to lay up treasures to help future generations in Kingdom efforts.
“For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also” (Matthew 6:21, ESV). The Bible gives multiple references to becoming ensnared with the things of this world. When our hearts love wealth more than service, we open ourselves up to greed, selfishness, and pride. Conversely, when we love service more than wealth, we open others up to the love of God, impacting eternity for ourselves and those we serve.
Focus on eternal treasures; in doing so you gain a perspective that transcends the material world. Recognize that everything you have is ultimately God’s. Your role is simply to steward the resources wisely. And in doing so, you not only build up the Kingdom but also cultivate a heart that reflects Christ’s love. PL
RICK L. LOVALL President | The Stewardship Group | UPCI
Personal Application:
1. What are practical ways you can shift your focus from earthly treasures to heavenly treasures in your daily life?
2. How does giving to those in need demonstrate your trust in God’s provision rather than in your own wealth?
3. In what ways have you experienced the joy of serving others and how has it impacted your spiritual growth?
4. How can you guard your heart against materialism while still being a responsible steward of your resources?
IN THE CHURCH, UNITY IS an important key to success. On the Day of Pentecost, the believers “were all with one accord in one place” when the Holy Spirit fell on them (Acts 2:1). As people were added to the church, “they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers” (Acts 2:42).
The UPCI Articles of Faith contain a two-paragraph article titled “Fundamental Doctrine.” The first paragraph states the New Testament plan of salvation according to Acts 2:38. The second paragraph refers to “the unity of the Spirit” (Ephesians 4:3) and “the unity of the faith” (Ephesians 4:13): “We shall endeavor to keep the unity of the Spirit until we all come into the unity of the faith, at the same time admonishing all brethren that they shall not contend for their different views to the disunity of the body.”
When the church has unity, it can grow both numerically and spiritually. There will be differences of opinion at times, but we can’t allow them to detract from our mission to proclaim “the whole gospel to the whole world by the whole church.” Achieving and keeping unity isn’t always easy, and we can’t take it for granted. Preventive maintenance is always in order.
To maintain and increase unity, we must regularly attend meetings of the body, support its endeavors, and participate in its activities. We must continue in prayer for our fellowship, our leaders, one another, and people with whom we disagree. It’s difficult to pray for someone and hold a grudge against them at the same time. Prayer is an effective means of keeping our focus and loving one another.
Leadership Speaks
UNITY
Leaders, whether ministers of the gospel or lay leaders, must understand that God has given them a position to serve people, not lord it over them. (See Matthew 20:25–28.) Instead of being protective of their position or area of work, they need to think foremost of what is best for the body and the fulfillment of the common vision. They should be open to suggestions from others and treat people with respect and consideration. They should be open to change, even if it involves their own responsibilities. Leaders need to be flexible, ready to serve in the best way possible at the time, and ready to involve others.
Followers—and we are all followers in one way or another—should cooperate with their leaders and the direction they give. If there is something we don’t agree with, we have several appropriate ways to respond, but grumbling, complaining, and sowing discord are not biblical options.
First, we can pray—talk to the Lord about the problem. Prayer can resolve many issues in an appropriate way at the appropriate time. Second, if a problem still needs to be addressed, we should go to the right person directly or else go to the leader who has the authority and responsibility to deal with the matter. By offering our suggestions and recommendations with a proper attitude, we may do much good. Third, once a decision has been made on a matter at the appropriate level, we should be supportive and cooperative—or at least do nothing to harm or hinder.
Practicing Christian ethics is also important in preserving unity. It’s wrong to solicit people to switch from one Apostolic church to another—whether the solicitation is direct and explicit or indirect and subtle. Sometimes there are legitimate reasons for people to transfer, such as jobs or family circumstances, but overall, we should encourage people to be faithful to their home church and seek resolution for any problems that may arise. If they do need to move, they should request a release or transfer from their pastor.
If people visit another church with the intention to transfer, the pastor of this church should ask them to counsel with their pastor, if they haven’t already. Then this pastor should contact the people’s pastor to facilitate communication. If there is a problem, they should first seek reconciliation; otherwise, a prospective pastor shouldn’t promise to accept them as members or offer them positions.
At the same time, if people are determined to find another church, it’s probably best for all concerned to let them leave on peaceful terms, praying that another church can minister to them effectively and that God will help them in their areas of need. Good communication between pastors and a joint plan of action can help stabilize many situations and can often bring reconciliation and harmony.
In summary, unity means that at times we sacrifice our thoughts, feelings, and convenience for the good of the body. In the long run, all of us benefit by belonging to a united fellowship that has the blessing of Almighty God. As Psalm 133 says, “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! . . . For there the Lord commanded the blessing, even life for evermore.” PL
DAVID K. BERNARD General Superintendent | UPCI
The NJ/DE District has many regions, including two whole counties with no UPCI church. We have a harvest waiting, and we need help answering the call.
DIVERSE CULTURES & COMMUNITIES
A CELEBRATION OF CREATION
AN APOSTOLIC VIEW ON IDENTITY AND GENDER
BY DJ HILL
We have a fantastic mix of communities in a compact area. Oceanfront, bustling metro, charming small town, and peaceful rural landscapes – everywhere you look, there's a unique group of people. We need more churches! Join us in this incredible opportunity. Would you follow God's call and help us reach the souls in this Northeast region? Your “Yes” could change lives forever.
In A Celebration of Creation, DJ Hill uses his years of experience in youth ministry and extensive research on the topic to provide an Apostolic view of identity and gender. This book both defines gender and gives an outline of gender throughout Scripture. Whether you’re a student, young adult, or parent, A Celebration of Creation will not only give answers to important questions, but it will also help you celebrate who God says you are. SCAN TO
World Network of Prayer
PENTECOST SUNDAY AND THE GLOBAL DAY OF PRAYER
PENTECOST SUNDAY WILL BE JUNE 8, 2025. It is a Christian holiday observed on the seventh Sunday after Easter. “Pent” in the word Pentecost means “fiftieth.” The observance of this day commemorates the initial outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the first-century church in Acts 2:1–4. Preceded by a wave of repentance, the Holy Spirit was poured out upon 120 people in the upper room. “Suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance” (Acts 2:2–4, NKJV). Later that day, three thousand individuals also received God’s Spirit.
After this event, the disciples did not stay in the room basking in God’s glory but went out to tell the world. The gift of the Holy Ghost that was promised and given to believers on the first Pentecost is promised to you, your children, and all who are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call (Acts 2:39). Indeed, God is still pouring out His Spirit today!
Onsite and online worship services will be held globally by many churches on Pentecost Sunday. Pray for these services. Pray that laborers will go forth into the fields and reach the harvest. Pray for a spirit of conviction, repentance, and transformation upon spiritual seekers. Pray for a divine outpouring and manifestation of God’s Spirit and for healing, miracles, signs, wonders, and many needs to be met. Pray for the masses to be filled with the Holy Ghost and delivered. Pray that prodigals will be restored. Petition for an unprecedented revival and harvest worldwide. Surely, God still desires to reach the lost through Pentecost!
The Global Day of Prayer
The Global Day of Prayer will also be observed on Sunday, June 8. It always falls on the same day as Pentecost Sunday. The Global Day of Prayer is commemorated annually as “A Day of Repentance and United Prayer.” Christians around the globe will lift their voices in one accord, believing that the power of prayer will transform our world and fill the nations with the glory of God. God is calling people worldwide to unite in prayer.
He wants us to intercede for the nations and answer the call relayed in II Chronicles 7:14: “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” If we pray, God will fulfill II Chronicles 7:15–16: “Now mine eyes shall be open, and mine ears attent unto the prayer that is made in this place. For now have I chosen and sanctified this house, that my name may be there for ever: and mine eyes and mine heart shall be there perpetually.”
The purpose of the Global Day of Prayer is to seek God’s blessing on lives, families, communities, and nations. Christians worldwide will be praying in faith and unity, focusing on repentance, intercession, worship, transformation, and the evangelization of each nation. Let’s fervently pray for a great awakening of Apostolic doctrine and truth worldwide. Pray for the church to unite in one accord before the throne of grace, petitioning for God’s kingdom to come and His will to be done in earth as it is in Heaven. Pray for God to restore those drawn away by false doctrine, deception, and the allure of worldly pleasures. Pray that the church will persist in prayer toward the fulfilment of God’s promises and His great purpose in this world.
On the Global Day of Prayer, we earnestly implore you to join us in praying for our world. PL
FLO SHAW Director | World Network of Prayer | UPCI
Church and Culture
SPIRITUAL ANTINATALISM
REBECCA TODD PETERS, A PRESBYTERIAN Church (USA) pastor and professor of religious studies at Elon University, delivered a sermon on July 19, 2023, in which she stated:
If Jesus were here today, He would be a clinic escort distracting women from the hatred of the protesters, or an abortion doula, holding women’s hands and offering support and love as they end their pregnancies. If Jesus were giving His sermon today, He might also have said, “Blessed are those who end pregnancies for they will be known for their loving-kindness.”
I have been pregnant four times. I have had two abortions, and I have two amazing children. Each of my reproductive decisions to have children and not to have children were sacred decisions, because they reflect the moral responsibility of reproductive power that is part of our inheritance as human creatures. Each of you has a reproductive story and, given that one-quarter of American women will have an abortion by the age of forty-five, I imagine some of your reproductive journeys also include abortion.
Reimagining our theological understanding of abortion is essential to addressing the violence that is being done to people across the country in the name of Christianity. In the face of the rampant reproductive injustice in our society, what does God require of us? Amen.
These sentiments regarding abortion are being voiced in an age that has also seen the rise of antinatalism, “the belief that human beings should not be born” (What Is Antinatalism? And Other Essays, Masahiro Morioka). The antinatalism website StopHavingKids.org states, “Norms should evolve. SHK wants to normalize antinatalism [and] childfreedom, and prioritiz[e] already existing life over the unconceived.”
Philosophies such as antinatalism and the prevalence of abortion are reflected in declining birthrates. According to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), a nation needs a fertility rate of 2.1 babies per mother to maintain growth. Currently, the US fertility rate is 1.66. Since Roe v. Wade in 1973, 63 million abortions have been performed in the United States
alone. In 2023, abortion accounted for 98 percent of infant mortalities, according to the Centers for Disease Control.
Our world has taken on a new detrimental ideology: reproduction is being espoused as a social sin. The narrative is that not only are there enough people, there are too many people in the world. Those who espouse this narrative say childrearing is no longer necessary and it would be better for us to live “childfree” lives.
In a nation where churches are seemingly on every street corner, how has a message like this been allowed to propagate? Sadly, natural children are not the only ones losing their understood value and role in our nation; spiritual children also seem to be losing the value they once had.
According to Christian Today, “In 1970, approximately 90 percent of Americans identified as Christian, but as of 2020, this number has fallen to about 64 percent. If current trends continue, Christians could make up less than 50 percent of the population by 2070.”
Christian Today also notes there are over three hundred thousand Catholic and Protestant congregations in the United States, or approximately one church for every seventeen hundred people. Yet statistics show that the average church in America has sixty-five people in attendance every Sunday.
Has the church adopted a philosophy of “Spiritual Antinatalism?” Have we grown complacent in the face of spiritual childlessness? In a nation that has the greatest church-to-population ratio, our buildings are beautiful and our sermons elegant, but our pews are often empty.
Have we lost the desperation of Rachel, who, “when [she] saw that she bare Jacob no children, Rachel envied her sister; and said unto Jacob, Give me children, or else I die” (Genesis 30:1, NKJV)? Where is this desperation in the church for spiritual children? Where are the churchgoers who, when they walk into the sanctuary and see empty pews, cry out in their heart, “Where are the children?” Where are the Christians who, when they walk down the streets of their city and see the drunkard, the drug attic, the homeless,
“ In a nation that has the greatest church-to-population ratio, our buildings are beautiful and our sermons elegant, but our pews are often empty.”
the forgotten, and the illegal immigrant, shed tears of compassion? The cry of our heart must be, “Lord, give us children lest we die!”
Physical birth is necessary to populate our world, but the new birth must be preached to populate the streets of Heaven. In the beginning, God commanded Adam and Eve to be fruitful and multiply (Genesis 1:28). At the beginning of the church, Jesus gave a similar commission: Go and make disciples (Matthew 28:19). Peter declared, “The promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call” (Acts 2:39).
We cannot allow the apathy of the present age to cause us to become “spiritual antinatalists.” Every believer must heed the call to reach the lost and populate the church. Nothing less than our future is at stake. PL
AARON MATTHEW ARROWOOD II Teacher | Calvary Christian School | Indianapolis, Indiana | Pastor Josh Carson
The Stewardship Group
ETHICAL TAX PLANNING: A CHRISTIAN PERSPECTIVE
FOR CHRISTIANS SEEKING TO BE good stewards of their financial resources while honoring scriptural principles, understanding legitimate tax planning strategies is important. Scripture offers guidance on both our obligations to government and our responsibility as stewards.
• “Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s” (Matthew 22:21b, ESV) establishes the principle of paying legally required taxes.
• “The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it” (Proverbs 27:12, ESV) encourages wisdom in managing affairs, including finances.
• “Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man’s dwelling, but a foolish man devours it” (Proverbs 21:20, ESV) supports the principle of careful resource management.
Let’s review some ethical tax-planning strategies. Charitable Giving. One of the tax strategies most aligned with Christian principles is charitable giving. Scripture encourages generosity: “Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed” (Proverbs 19:17, ESV). A few ways to practice charitable giving while taking advantage of tax savings are:
• Avoid capital gains tax by donating appreciated assets instead of cash
• Establish a Donor-Advised Fund to receive an immediate deduction while distributing gifts over time. This can also allow you to “bunch” donations into a single tax year instead of taking the lower standard deduction.
Retirement Account Contributions. Saving for the future demonstrates good stewardship. “Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man’s dwelling, but a
foolish man devours it” (Proverbs 21:20). Here are a few examples to help you plan successfully for retirement:
• Maximize contributions to tax-advantaged accounts such as a 401(k) or IRA.
• For self-employed Christians, consider a Simplified Employee Pension (SEP) IRA for potentially greater plan flexibility.
• If eligible, contribute to both traditional and Roth accounts for tax diversification.
Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). These accounts offer several tax advantages, including tax-deductible contributions, tax-free growth, and tax-free withdrawals for medical expenses. These are usually paired with a high-deductible health plan. Here is how to properly use an HSA:
• Pay medical expenses out-of-pocket while letting HSA funds grow.
• Use as a supplemental retirement account after age sixty-five.
Education Planning. If you have a child who will be attending school, it is a great idea to capitalize on the tax benefits of a 529 plan. It has tax-free growth when used for a child’s education. We suggest you explore Coverdell Education Savings Accounts for K-12 expenses for each child. You can also claim education tax credits like the American Opportunity Credit or Lifetime Learning Credit.
Business Ownership Advantages. For Christian business owners or self-employed individuals, legitimate business deductions can significantly reduce tax liability. Here are ways this can be accomplished:
• Home office deduction, if part of your home is used regularly and exclusively for business
• Employ family members in your business (especially children) to shift income to lower tax brackets
• Utilize Section 179 expensing for business equipment and qualified improvements
Housing-Related Benefits. For clergy and certain church employees, special tax provisions exist. Some options to consider are:
• Housing allowance exclusion for ministers (parsonage allowance)
• Properly document and allocate expenses between ministry and personal use
• Consider the benefits of homeownership tax deductions
Income Timing and Tax-Loss Harvesting. “The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty” (Proverbs 21:5, ESV). See if you can implement any of these in your plan:
• Time income recognition between tax years when possible
• Harvest investment losses to offset gains
• Consider Roth conversions in lowerincome years
Before we conclude, let’s talk about ethics. Individuals sometimes view wasteful spending by government as an excuse to cheat on their taxes, but Christians should maintain integrity even in tax planning.
1. Avoid false reporting: “Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who act faithfully are his delight” (Proverbs 12:22, ESV).
2. Distinguish avoidance from evasion: Tax avoidance uses legal methods to reduce taxes; tax evasion involves deception or fraud.
3. Seek professional guidance: “Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22, ESV).
Christians can ethically reduce their tax burden through legitimate planning strategies while honoring biblical principles. The key is balancing our obligation to “render unto Caesar” with wise stewardship of resources. As I Corinthians 4:2 (ESV) reminds us, “Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” Ethical tax planning demonstrates faithfulness with the resources God has provided.
And always consult with tax professionals who understand both tax law and your values to ensure compliance while maximizing legitimate benefits. PL
THOMAS A. BUTLER
United Pentecostal Foundation Consultant
The Stewardship Group | UPCI | Butler Financial Services | Indianapolis, Indiana | Board Member | Calvary Tabernacle | Senior Pastor Joshua Carson
HAVING THE TALKS:
NAVIGATING CONVERSATIONS ABOUT IDENTITY AND FAITH WITH LOVE AND CLARITY
JUNE MARKS THE BEGINNING OF summer, family vacations, and church camps. It’s also designated by some as Pride Month. Pride Month, sometimes specified as LGBTQ Pride Month, is a monthlong observance dedicated to the celebration of LGBTQ pride. For many families, it can bring up big questions, especially for parents, teachers, youth leaders, and those mentoring the next generation.
So how do we, as Spirit-filled believers, respond in truth and love? How do we hold conversations that reflect our biblical values while also creating open, grace-filled dialogue? Here are three practical tips that have helped me in both my personal and professional life as a mom, therapist, and church leader.
1. Create a Safe Place for Difficult Conversations.
One of the most powerful tools I’ve learned about is the dialogue model, introduced in the book Crucial Conversations. This model emphasizes the importance of creating a “safe space” where everyone involved feels emotionally secure enough to speak honestly—even about emotionally charged topics.
The goal is to stay in dialogue, not debate. This safe circle is built when people know their perspective will be heard with respect, even if there is dis-
agreement. This doesn’t mean compromising your values—it means communicating them in a way that invites conversation rather than shutting it down. Practical ways to build this safe circle include:
• Listen with the intent to understand, not just to respond.
• Maintain calm posture and tone.
• Remind everyone that the goal is growth, not winning an argument.
2. Be Clear and Direct (and Age-Appropriate).
Let’s be honest—topics such as sexual identity, sex, and family boundaries can make us uncomfortable. It’s tempting to avoid or soften the conversation, but our kids are hearing about these topics, often from sources that don’t have their best interests at heart.
As a family, we decided to be the first voice our children hear when it comes to these sensitive issues. One of the best tools we’ve used is a set of conversation cards created by a fellow Apostolic therapist and her team. They’re called Having the Talks: Conversations with Your Children, Because the Talk Just Isn’t Enough. These cards, which can be purchased on Amazon, offer age-appropriate prompts on topics ranging from body safety to
gender identity. They are designed with biblical values in mind.
In my therapy practice, I’ve also received referrals from parents and pastors who’ve admitted they didn’t feel equipped to have these conversations themselves. They wanted someone they could trust to help their church member or child navigate the topic with care and clarity.
As a professionally licensed therapist, it is important to clarify that we are not legally allowed to try to “talk someone out of” their sexual identity. Now before you gasp and turn the page, hear me out. This does not mean abandoning biblical truth. Instead, it means we strive to help clients and families engage in hard conversations in a productive and loving way. Our role is to create a space where honesty, grace, and biblical values can coexist in meaningful dialogue.
I remember when one of my small children picked a card that made me blush. But instead of skipping it, my husband and I leaned in. We ripped the Band-Aid off and had the talk. It was hard at first, but over time it became easier. And now our kids, who are a bit older, come to us with questions, knowing we’ll be honest and loving. I always say that I’d rather my children hear these things from me than from their friends at school.
3. Set a Rhythm for Family Devotions and Conversations.
We are a busy family. My husband is an engineering director, and I run a group counseling practice. On top of that, we’re active in our church. He leads the children’s ministry, and I serve in the music department. Still, we’ve committed to setting aside time each week for intentional conversations and devotion. We use the PPH Sunday School handouts our kids bring
home as a starting point. On Mondays and Thursdays, my husband leads. On Tuesdays and Wednesdays, it’s my turn. We reduce distractions, open our Bibles, and check in with our kids not just spiritually, but emotionally as well.
Now more than ever, the need for open and honest conversations is essential, but those conversations must be rooted in grace and love. Colossians 4:6 reminds us, “Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.” Ephesians 4:15 calls us to “speak the truth in love.” This is not about avoiding truth; it’s about delivering it with the heart of Christ.
This June, let’s lean into the hard talks with courage, humility, and compassion. Let’s be the first voice our children, students, and congregants hear. And may our voices reflect both biblical truth and Christlike love. Our kids—and our church—are listening. PL
OLIVIA HUFFMAN, LMSW Director of Education and Community Outreach Center for Apostolic Counseling
Greater Life Pentecostal | Grand Rapids, Michigan
Senior Pastor Craig Kleiman
The Last Word
IT ALL STARTED WITH A PICTURE
I LOVE AIRPORTS. DON’T GET me wrong; all things being equal, I’ll take the nonstop flight. However, I am fine with a layover. About seven or eight years ago, I was changing planes in Salt Lake City. Walking a corridor between gates, I glanced along the wall to observe the artwork. Typically, airports feature drawings from nearby university art students or photographs of famous monuments in the city. This time I was greeted by a ruddy photo of rock formations that looked to be from Mars. I squinted at the label “Arches National Park” as the conveyer belt whisked me past the frame. I was surveying my brain to place the image in some type of context when the conveyor whisked me up to another picture labeled “Bryce Canyon National Park,” then one bearing the name “Zion,” and still others. That’s how it started—with
try to describe the collage of red and rust and orange and amber in the cliffs and canyons, but you would really have to see a picture. What can I say? It all started with a picture, but now that I’ve seen the real thing, even the picture doesn’t do it justice.
In a much more real sense, I ponder the glories that await us in Heaven. Paul said of the limitations between then and now, “For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known” (I Corinthians 13:12). I have seen a picture in Revelation 21. My finite mind is limited in understanding every detail, but it is a breathtaking picture of a place where God is wiping away our tears. As interesting as what is within the picture is what is missing, for this place has no death, no sorrow, and no pain. It is only a portrait I have seen, and the portrait is a little blurry from these eyes that are more used to images down here than up there. But I am eager to go to that place, to see the One who is the Lord of the place in the picture.
Some days that place feels more real than this place where I wait. In one of the most striking descriptions of it I’ve heard outside of Scripture, novelist Lief Enger suggested that there we will have no notion of burden and questions. “Is it fair to say that country is more real than ours?” he wrote. “That its stone is harder, its water more drenching?” Yes, I think so. Having seen the picture, nothing here is quite as “heavenly.” No place or moment can measure up or satiate the longing for there.
“I think we need to plan a vacation to Utah,” I announced on the next phone call home. No one took the bait at first. “What’s in Utah?” they countered. I tried to describe what I had seen, but it was only a picture. It was a couple years before I convinced them we would find something worthy of exploration.
I write this column today as we plan for our third family vacation there. It is now our preferred destination. How do I sufficiently describe this place that has so captured our affection? Well, it is home to five national parks, no two the same. I can tell you that you have never seen stars unless you’ve seen them from southern Utah, standing a decent distance from the truck or a light pole. I suppose you wouldn’t believe me if I said that in Utah I am even willing to hike (a word I liken to legalized torture). But even hiking is enjoyable in Utah. I could
It is not merely an escape to long for that place because it is not merely a place, but home. It is home because He is there, and I belong with Him. We hope for it with genuine faith because all things will be set right there, and we will be home with Him forever.
I read these words again with frustration because they do not do justice to the notion of that place. Even less appealing would be any efforts I made to draw a picture of our home there. You simply must see it with me. The good news is that we will get to see it soon. And so we find hope in that single word: soon. PL
This magazine has long understood the power of a picture. That’s why going forward, we are making a special investment in photography and new feature stories that take you into the lives of Apostolic men and women around the world to demonstrate the church in action. Consequently, this column will change in future issues. Details will be forthcoming to describe the changes you can expect with the revamped format. What will continue is our sincere endeavors to celebrate our shared story and equip you to live a Pentecostal life.
LEE ANN ALEXANDER Senior Vice President | Pentecostal Resources Group | UPCI Associate Editor in Chief | UPCI
