Revive | Vol 8 | Issue 4 | April 2015

News paper Reg. No. KERENG/2007/22479

REVIVE (ENGLISH) APRIL 2015

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Date of Publication : 1/04/2015

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IBC & Seminary Graduation Service 2015

Vol. 08, Issue No. 4

Prayer of Commissioning by Pastor Sunny Kurien

Pastor P. A. Mathew gives away prizes

Director awards certificates to Riya Roy, Sajitha Babu & Dr. Daniel Rajan

IGO partners with Gilgal Ashwasa Bhavan

April 2015

Hebron, Kumbanad, Kerala

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Pastor M. V. Varghese, Vice-Principal, Malayalam Medium awards certificates

IGO reaches out to stand with the humanitarian efforts of IPC Tabor, Tvm

Pastor Amos Dodge gives away prize to Bro. Stephen Koshy

APPRECIATION AWARDS to: Pastor M. V. Varghese, Pastor T. C. Easow & Mrs. Annamma Mathews

f e l i c i t a t i o n s

PLEROMA: Annual College Souvenir released by Pastor Amos Dodge and Rt. Rev. Bishop Thomas Samuel Alumni Association inaugurates its Charity activities by granting one time help to widowed wives of alumni of IBC/HBC.

Rt. Rev. Thomas Samuel, (Bishop Emeritus, CSI)

Pastor Randolph Romero

Pastor T. J. Abraham gives away prizes

Santosh Abraham

J. P. Rajan & Rebecca Rajan were the special voices

A BIG Thank You: Maj. Luke

Printed, published and owned by Major V.I. Lukose (Retired), published from P.O. Box 31, Hebron, Kumbanad, Pathanamthitta, Kerala, India and Printed at Viani Printings, Ernakulam, Kerala, India. Editor: Rev. Dr. John K. Mathew

Graduat ion 2015

IBC

IBC & Seminary Graduation Service 5th March 2015

Graduation Service - Theme : Witness (Acts 1:8)

Pastor K.C. Thomas

Procession led by students holding high the college and national flag – stepping out of the college into the nation as Christ’s “Witnesses”

Pastor Amos Dodge, Convocation Speaker

Pastor Phinni Joseph, Academic Dean & Mrs. Starla Luke, Administrator – present the students to the President to receive their diplomas

Santosh Abraham leads worship with IBC Melody

student graduation speakers Hartly Samuel, (English) Rev. Dr. T. Valson Abraham welcomes and introduces the guests

graduates

Silju Varghese, (Malayalam)

Witness (Acts 1:8)

Pastor Sajan Varghese & Pastor K. Y. Thomas, lead in responsive prayer of dedication

Awarding of certificates by the Director

evening class graduate

Senior Faculty members and guest pastors

Faculty prays for graduates

Pastors and well-wishers

Some of our staff and audience

Pastor Emmanuel P.G. congratulates the graduates Mrs. Mary Abraham, Pastor A. C. Kurian and other pastors & friends

contents

revive

www.revivemegod.org

renewing and enriching life Vol.08, Issue No. 4 April 2015

A magazine that will enrich and renew your Spiritual life and give Christian perspective on current events.

CHAIRMAN PASTOR T. S. ABRAHAM VICE-CHAIRMAN PASTOR Dr.T. VALSON ABRAHAM MEMBERS BRO. JACOB THOMAS BRO. SUNNY KODUMTHARA

E-mail: revivemegod@gmail.com

igotoibc@gmail.com

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Editorial

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ELEMENTS OF EFFECTIVE WITNESS

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Witness Christ during Festivals, Celebrations and Special Occasions

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Challenges to Witnessing

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Witness Unto Death - A Historical Glimpse

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WITNESS TO PEOPLE OF OTHER FAITHS

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PASTOR K. M. JOHN

Pastor Dr. John K. Mathew

Rev. Dr. T. Valson Abraham

Pastor Saju Joseph

Dr. J.N. Manokaran

Pastor Binoy Eapen Philip

EDITOR PASTOR DR. JOHN K. MATHEW ADMINISTRATIVE EDITOR PASTOR SAJU JOSEPH ASSOCIATE EDITOR MRS. STARLA LUKOSE MANAGER PASTOR T.J. ABRAHAM CONTRIBUTING WRITERS JUNE THOMAS ANN ABRAHAM PUBLISHER, PRINTER & OWNER MAJOR V. I. LUKOSE (Retired) HEBRON, KUMBANAD, PATHANAMTHITTA, KERALA. PRINTED AT VIANI PRINTINGS, LISSIE JN., ERNAKULAM, KERALA PLACE OF PUBLICATION KUMBANAD, PATHANAMTHITTA, KERALA - 689 547 DESIGN Beam Design S2dio Ph: 0481-2563554 beamfine@gmail.com

POSTAL ADDRESS P.O. BOX. 31, HEBRON, KUMBANAD KERALA, INDIA, PIN - 689 547 Phone: 0469 - 2664075, 2665855 Mobile: 94476 08954

Pastor Joji Mathew

Mrs. Starla Luke

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news

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Quiz

The views and ideas expressed in each article are those of the writer.

- Editor

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Pastor Dr. John K. Mathew

AA car fewthat years ago I was involved in a car accident. came from the opposite direction hit

mine.The other driver came out of his car and started shouting and yelling at me, suggesting I caused the accident. He did not let me speak a word.

It is a common practice in India where, finally, it is the fittest that survives.

A man was watching everything from behind the walls of a nearby house. He appeared on the scene and started describing in detail all that he witnessed and he unambiguously stated that it was the fault of the other driver. Immediately the driver stopped all his arguments and begged for my pardon.

A true witness reveals the truth. It can stop arguments, false accusations and bring peace and justice.

A witness is powerful. But, what if a witness doesn't open his mouth and speak? Jesus Christ called us to be his witnesses.Yet we could use a hundred reasons not to witness.

Following is a list of such reasons, prepared by the School of Lifelong Education at Oral Roberts University How can I witness to a non-Christian?

I stutter when I talk.

I don't know the Bible well enough.

What if I am asked questions I don't know how to answer?

What if he / she knows the Bible better than I do?

What if he makes me question my own faith?

If I witness at work or school people will make fun of me.

Why should I witness? There are plenty of other Christians to do it.

Witnessing is not my calling. I do other things for God. Although these are genuine reasons, God's requirements for a witness is just to know Jesus Christ.

What exactly does it mean to witness? "Witnessing is a science, an art, and a mystery. It involves connecting your faith with people's experience in a way they can understand it, in their own time and manner. It means cooperating with whatever God's Spirit may be doing with them and leaving the results to Him". (The Ultimate A to Z Resource).

The Samaritan woman was just an ordinary person.The very first thing she did soon after she recognized Christ to be the Messiah was to get back to her town and witness Him. The demon possessed in Gerasenes (Gadarenes) did the same thing. As soon as he was released from the demon he wanted to follow Jesus, although Jesus did not ask him to. Instead Jesus asks him to go home, to his own people, and tell them how much the Lord had done for him (Mark 5:19,paraphrased) It is written that, "The man went away and began to tell in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him. And all the people were amazed." (Mark 5:20).

All it takes to witness is to know Jesus. It is the responsibility of all of us to know Him and make Him known.

A true

witness reveals the truth. It can stop arguments, false accusations and bring peace and justice.

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Rev. Dr. T. Valson Abraham

We must

see ourselves as soldiers for Christ.

When a new recruit takes his oath of loyalty, he gives his superiors the right to send him anywhere, even into battles that require great risk to his life, from which he may not return.

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ELEMENTS OF EFFECTIVE WITNESS Three years before he became President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, was a lawyer,

called upon to defend an old family friend accused of murder. The murder took place at night, and a key witness strongly testified that he saw the defendant kill the man “by the light of the full moon.” This seemed compelling evidence to many.

However, during cross-examination, Lincoln forcefully used a simple almanac to prove that on the night of the murder, there was no full moon. Very simply, the accuser could not have seen what he claimed to see. The jury declared the defendant “not guilty.”

Today, we all stand accused by Satan of crimes against our Creator. His evidence against us appears not only compelling but overwhelming.

There is no doubt that we all stand dreadfully guilty before God. But through Jesus Christ, God has evidence on our behalf that saves us from our clever arch-accuser, Satan.

Before He ascended into heaven, Jesus told His disciples that they would become His witnesses to His power to save all who believe in Him from the power of sin and from Satan, and that their witness would carry them to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8).

What kind of compelling “witness” did Jesus have in mind? How effective is our own “witness”?

The Greek word for “witness” used by Luke has more than one meaning. First, a “witness” is one who speaks from first-hand experience about actions in which he participates. Specifically, this “witness” means our testimony to others of our relationship with Jesus Christ and what God has done in our own lives to save us from our sins, make us part of His kingdom, transform us and prepare us for our eternal destiny.

Second, a “witness” is one who makes an evangelistic confession of specific truths. In Luke 24, Jesus said that this “witness” must include the truths involving His suffering and death on the cross and his resurrection on the third day—the key to our salvation. Our “witness” must declare the need for repentance from sin to receive forgiveness and reconciliation with God. Third, Luke tells us that Jesus sent His disciples forth on their mission as “witnesses” with the promise of His Father and the power of the Holy Spirit. In other words, an effective witness depends upon trust in the word of God to empower us and bless our witness in great and marvelous ways.

Fourth, before He left them, Jesus also grounded their “witness” firmly in the scriptures.

He systematically showed them how the entire Old Testament—“the law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms”—was the foundation for His saving life, death and resurrection.

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In short, effective “witness” comprises four major elements for compelling communication of the gospel to others: (1) personal experience, (2) clear evangelistic confession, (3) trust in Holy Spirit power and (4) solid biblical foundations.

If one or more of these elements is lacking, our “witness” suffers, and a needy world fails to hear the Good News and escape Satan’s grave accusations against them.

Another important thing to keep in mind…

In the Greek New Testament, the word for “witness” is also the root word for “martyr.”

When Jesus tells His disciples, “You shall be my witnesses…,” He is also saying, “You will lay down your lives for My sake.”

This does not mean that we must seek martyrdom to become a “witness” for Christ. But it requires that we count the cost of discipleship.

We must see ourselves as soldiers for Christ.

When a new recruit takes his oath of loyalty, he gives his superiors the right to send him anywhere, even into battles that require great risk to his life, from which he may not return.

To become a “witness” for Christ means that we serve a life bigger than this earthly life.

The circumstances of our lives are short and uncertain. There are other things better and eternal, centered on Christ. A true “witness,” like Jesus, has compassion upon people and a world that wander like sheep without a shepherd.

Whether in life or death, true witnesses trust Jesus to provide everything they need, to go wherever He says to go.

Jesus warns His “witnesses” that He may assign them to take the gospel as “sheep to wolves.” Many will gladly accept the Good News, but others will hate the “witness,” claim that he is destroying society and seek to defame him or her.

Like Jesus, witnesses may also have to stand before the authorities in trial for their faith. But their suffering will further the gospel, and the Holy Spirit will give them the words to say at the right time.

We are to become Christ’s witnesses with the perspective of Christ’s own suffering and of His Second Coming. We are to know that whatever suffering we face will bring glory to God, a great reward in heaven and ultimate judgment for those who persecute us. We are to know that even if we lose our lives, human power over us ends at death, but God’s power is eternal.

Grace is costly, Dietrich Bonhoeffer reminds us. The gift is free, but it costs our lives. Beware

of “cheap grace,” he warns, “the grace that we [not God] bestow on ourselves…forgiveness without repentance…baptism without discipline, communion without confession.”

“Costly grace,” he goes on, “costs a man his life, and it is grace because it gives a man the only true life.”

Dietrich Bonhoeffer knew what he was talking about. God called him as a witness to serve Him in Nazi Germany—a place unfriendly to the gospel. He became a leader of the Confessing Church when other German churches were giving in to Hitler. His friends wanted to save him by bringing him to America, but after a few months, Bonhoeffer knew he must return to the place God called him.

Bonhoeffer indeed paid with his life, but he became the ultimate winner. Days after his death, Hitler went down to total defeat—and suicide.

Bonhoeffer’s witness continues throughout the world in his writings and his example of commitment to Jesus Christ.

We can tell how well we are doing as “witnesses” by whether the state of our society is becoming either more or less committed to Jesus Christ.

Too often, we must admit, our words and actions have denied Jesus. Too often, we have played the coward, fleeing from opportunities and hiding from the opposition.

When we share our faith with others, we can expect only three results.

1. We can see someone come to Christ.

2. We can plant a seed.

3. We can be rejected.

We must

allow the cross to help us overcome our own sense of guilt, our own sense of hopelessness in the face of our own sin.

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Let us

confess our own failures as effective witnesses, and let us heed the disciples’ example of repentance, for God’s forgiveness and renewal is the same yesterday, today and forever.

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Most people are afraid of rejection and therefore say little or nothing. We need to overcome our fear of rejection and ask ourselves honestly what we fear. 1 Peter 4:14 says, “If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory rests upon you.”

Basically, God says, do not fear rejection, fear silence. That becomes easier when we understand the price Jesus paid for our salvation. To become an effective witness, we must discover the “why” of the cross, not just the fact of the cross. We must allow the cross to help us overcome our own sense of guilt, our own sense of hopelessness in the face of our own sin.

According to Romans 5:8, God demonstrated his love toward us that when we were still sinners, Christ died for us. We must see ourselves as the people for whom Jesus made his great sacrifice.

Let us not become discouraged at our failures, our own silence and fear of rejection. Let us remember that in the beginning, Jesus’ own disciples also failed miserably. After boasting that they would stand faithful, disciple like Peter, denied Jesus with curses or fled from those who came to seize Jesus. After Jesus’ death on the cross, they hid like cowards behind locked doors.

Faculty congratulate the graduates

The ultimate success of the disciples’ witness followed their own abject denials and cowardice.

They saw their risen Lord and repented. A few days later, they received the power of the Holy Spirit, and boldly preached the gospel. In just one day, 3,000 people put their faith in Jesus Christ. In the end, the disciples fulfilled the words of Jesus, boldly witnessing to the power of the gospel “in Jerusalem, in Samaria and in the uttermost parts of the earth.”

Let us confess our own failures as effective witnesses, and let us heed the disciples’ example of repentance, for God’s forgiveness and renewal is the same yesterday, today and forever. Then we will also experience a successful witness for Christ.

Let us remember Christ’s costly sacrifice and His triumphant resurrection. Let us count the cost of discipleship and commit ourselves to effective witness however and wherever Christ calls us.

Father God, make me an effective witness for the gospel. I confess my failures at being an effective witness for you, and I humbly ask you forgive and renew me to become your witness even as you empowered your early disciples. In Jesus’ Name.

Amen.

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Pastor Saju Joseph Registrar (On Leave), IBC& Seminary

Witness Christ during Festivals, Celebrations and Special Occasions The chief task of a Christian is to witness for Christ. If a Christian is reluctant to witness for Christ, we have to

suspect his or her Christian conviction.

The early Church was a witnessing Church. In fact, the main intent behind the sending of the Holy Spirit by our Lord on the day of Pentecost was to empower His disciples so they could witness for Christ everywhere on earth.

When we think of witnessing during festivals and special seasons, it can take place in two ways. We can communicate the gospel with peoples of other faiths during their festivals without disturbing their celebrations or ceremonies. During festivals, large crowds gather together. We can witness on the roadside or as they travel in vehicles - wherever, Christians can witness for Christ meaningfully and peacefully without hurting the religious feeling of others.

We must use Christian festivals, seasons and celebrations as times to witness Christ. Christians celebrate Christmas, Easter, and Passion Week and other holy days. Other times of social celebrations such as marriage ceremonies, house warming, birthday parties are opportune moments to share Christ with others. The Christians who follow sola scriptura (Bible only) generally don’t have special celebrations of Christmas or Easter. But the majority of people, irrespective of any religious differences, consider

Evangelical

Christians don’t believe in the outward celebrations of Christian themes.

Instead, they emphasize the inward experiences of Christ’s life and teachings.

They don’t celebrate Christmas or Easter and don’t observe Passion Week.

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Our Lord

commanded his disciples to just share the gospel with all people in His last Commission.

However, Our Lord has never commanded us to compel or force others to follow Christ or Christianity.

Pastor Saju Joseph

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these festivals as typically Christian. They are in an open state of mind not just to celebrate but to know the origin and purpose behind these celebrations or observances. Evangelical Christians must use these occasions to witness for Christ and His salvation through communicating the Gospel in effective and attractive ways.

Evangelical Christians don’t believe in the outward celebrations of Christian themes. Instead, they emphasize the inward experiences of Christ’s life and teachings. They don’t celebrate Christmas or Easter and don’t observe Passion Week, Lent or other days. But since these are generally accepted Christian seasons of celebrations, the biblical/ evangelical churches can organize special meetings, public programs, rallies with attractive singing or music concerts to communicate the gospel to people from all different walks of life. Our ultimate aim must be to truly witness for Christ and His salvation to all people.

Our Lord commanded his disciples to just share the gospel with all people in His last Commission.

However, Our Lord has never commanded us to compel or force others to follow Christ or Christianity. Neither did Jesus nor the apostles ever compel anyone to follow him. Compulsion or force is the work of the Holy Spirit. But the Holy Spirit will work only if we share the gospel with people.

There are so many special occasions in a Christian’s life. They are all golden opportunities for us to witness for Christ. For example: our marriage ceremonies. Most Christians today give importance to the external decorations and feasting in marriage ceremonies. Evangelical/ biblical Christians may even set apart a time for the ministry of the Word of God. However, most times these messages focus on the counseling aspects. It is good, no doubt, to mention a few things related to married life during its solemnization – but this Minati Oram - Sadri

must not be seen as a substitute for pre-marital counseling.

In many Christian marriages in India, the only semblance of marital counseling the couple receive is during the wedding service – this is not really the place for effective counseling. Instead, more time can take place in the marriage services for communicating the gospel in very simple terms for the benefit of the many friends and relatives of the bride and bridegroom. This is an audience that one cannot have easy access to in any other way. If used well, we can impact lives with the salvation message and create in hearts of the people a hunger for the Truth. May God give us the wisdom and creativity to use such occasions most appropriately.

House-warming and birthday celebrations are also occasions when all our friends, relatives and neighbors gather together, hailing from various religious or church backgrounds. Contextual presentation of the gospel must be the focus.

Besides festive occasions, there are times and situations of sorrow and pain like sickness, death and burial in homes. These are also poignant moments when we have a chance to present the gospel in a very meaningful way. Wisdom and the power of the Holy Spirit alone cause us to make use of these special occasions. What is of utmost importance is to reduce the number of repetitious and self-promoting condolence speeches in burial services! Instead adequate time must be set apart to present brief yet comforting gospel messages in simple, lucid style appropriate to the occasion.

No matter where we go as Christians, let us not cease to use every opportunity to lift up the name of Christ and be His WITNESS, in season and out of season.

Athuo Kayina - Mao

Robin Oommachen - Marwari

Recitation of Theme Verse, Acts 1:8 in 24 Languages

Gitanjali Digal - Odiya

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Dr. J.N. Manokaran A Civil Engineer by profession. God called him and his family to be missional leader in Haryana as cross cultural missionaries for eleven years. Since, 1997 they returned back to Tamil Nadu to help missionaries and pastors to build their capacities by teaching, training and writing.

The

Challenges to

Witnessing

"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.� (Acts 1:8) The risen Saviour guaranteed that His children would be empowered to witness for Him. The focus of this verse is not power. Some Christians misunderstand the word power and think they will have powers like god men of other religions.

The emphasis is on witnessing. The mandate of witnessing is not optional or one of the many choices. It is expected from each Christian.

Witnessing is also not for just professionals (full time workers), it is the obligation of all Christians.

However, there are several challenges faced by people who care or dare to witness. They could be broadly divided into two categories: Inner

Praveen A. - Kannada

Esther S. - Tamil

struggles and external struggles.

Inner challenges Spiritual: There are inner spiritual challenges as well as external spiritual challenges. There are Christians who have authentic born-again experiences, lead a righteous life but are not involved in witnessing, even when there are opportunities. The reason is the lack of understanding about the call and mandate for each and every Christian to witness. Sometimes, they have a false understanding of God, witnessing and missions. A good example is the leadership of the local church, where the great missionary, William Carey, was a young man. When he shared his heart and burden for reaching Indians, the leaders replied: "If God wants to save Indians, He could save them without your help or my help." This is a classical mistake. They did not

Ajo Dickson - Malayalam

Ezra Prince - English

Acts 1:8 - "you shall receive power ....''

risen Saviour guaranteed that His children would be empowered to witness for Him. The focus of this verse is not power. Some Christians misunderstand the word power and think they will have powers like god men of other religions.

Feroza Banu - Hindi

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All the

religions search for God or truth.

However, the gospel declares that the God of heaven and earth came down to earth to redeem lost humanity.

There are many people in various religions who truly seek the truth.

When we share our witness, they are ready to accept our testimony.

understand that God uses human instruments to accomplish His purposes.

Psychological: India is a country with many faiths. There are also many castes and a welldefined hierarchy. The Christians who come from the lower social status in the society have psychological barriers: "How can a high-class message go from low-class people to high-class people? Will they accept it?" Again, it is the lack of understanding of God's work. Naaman was touched by God through the witness of a slave girl. (II Kings 5) Emotional: Indian culture, like many other Asian cultures, is based on 'honour and shame'.

When some one shares the gospel, there is a fear of rejection. This is understood as a shameful act.

So, many are reluctant to share fearing failure.

Again, it leads to misunderstanding the scripture.

When we are persecuted for the gospel sake, we have to rejoice. (Mathew 5:10) Physical: Some Christians think witnessing should happen in formal settings. The settings could be in a church atmosphere or a special stage with other communication equipment. Again, this is a misconception.

Naaman's slave could have shared the good news of hope in the kitchen. Naaman's wife could have been the only audience, or the couple. Paul witnessed to Aquila and Priscilla when they were making tents together. (Acts 18) Aquila and Priscilla shared with Apollos over a meal. (Acts 18: 26) Our physical stature is not a matter of concern. All characters in the bible were simple, humble people like any of us.

Mental: Many Christians feel that they are inadequate in knowledge to become witnesses.

Yes, getting as much knowledge is wonderful, but that is not sufficient. There is a need to be guided by the Spirit of God. We should be mentally alert

Joyce Bhatti - Punjabi

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Moses Lianza - Mizo Chin

and spiritually discerning to get insights from the Holy Spirit. Here is an interesting story. A notso-well-educated missionary from South India was serving as a missionary in Bihar. One day, a few non-Christians came to argue with him. They said that their god is mighty enough to carry even a mountain. The missionary asked them to sit down and asked a question: “Why did he carry a mountain?” The ill-informed young people did not know. The missionary explained: "If your mother is sick, and the doctor states the name of an injection. You rush to get it from a pharmacy.

However, you forget the medicine. What will you do? Will you carry the whole medical shop home?

He was physically powerful to carry a mountain but could not remember the name of an herb that he had to bring, hence brought the whole mountain.” The Bible says that God has engraved us in his palms (Isaiah 49:16), and he will not forget us, even if a mother forgets her child. (Isaiah 49:15) This was a wise answer although the missionary was not very well educated. The reason is that he was well-versed in the Scripture, sensitive to the Holy Spirit promptings and insights.

External challenges Religious challenges: Witnessing hits the road block of religion. There are numerous religions in the world. All the religions search for God or truth. However, the gospel declares that the God of heaven and earth came down to earth to redeem lost humanity. There are many people in various religions who truly seek the truth.

When we witness, they are ready to accept our testimony. However, there are many who are not for truth, but proud of their own religion.

Such people do not have minds open to receive the gospel.

Social challenges: There are many social challenges in India and also abroad. There are

Monica Tanaji - Marathi

Srinivas Sargam - Telugu

"...after the Holy Ghost is come upon you....." Acts 1:8

Romeo Kom - Kom

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social traditions that are not conducive to share the gospel. For example, in the Western world saying "Christmas greetings" is replaced by “Seasons greetings" so that they do not hurt the sentiments of others. In India, in many places, Christians are branded as 'foreigners' or 'aliens' or 'low-caste people' or even 'traitors'. In such situations, there is prejudice in the minds of the people. In such situations, Christians have to work hard on relationships to remove such prejudices.

Political challenges: In some states in India, there are 'anti-conversion laws'. The law forbids conversion by allurement or coercion. However, this law is misused against Christians. There has been harassment in many places. The truth is that there has not been a single conviction for such kind of conversion. This kind of political pressure hinders Christians from witnessing.

Spiritual challenges: Witnessing results in release of people from the bondage of blindness, darkness and the kingdom of Satan. (Acts 26:1618) Like the Pharaoh who refused to let the children of Israel go, Satan will not let his slaves go free. Witnessing is a spiritual warfare. There is a need for spiritual resources to counter Satan's strategies. That needs spiritual preparation, wisdom, method and strategy.

Challenge in every generation There will be always intimidating challenges like the giant Goliath (experiences, expert and well-equipped with a modern warfare arsenal).

Goliath was irrelevant to the God of Israel. India is a religious country, however, no one would speak against the Lord Jesus Christ (would speak against the Church and other institutions).

Today, we can observe this phenomenon. Goliath changed the rules of war to make it advantageous for himself. Satan would subvert laws and Janet Mol - Gujarati

Sanjay Kumar - Urdu

regulations to work against Christians. Another psychological strategy adopted by Goliath was to mock the children of Israel. In fact, they were intimidated and terrified.

God's answer is a shepherd teenager, David, with just a sling and few pebbles. In fact, David was provoked by Goliath that his identity, zeal and faith surfaced. David questioned: "Who is this Philistine?" He compared Goliath to his own position as a child of the living God and belonging to the people of the Covenant. David in his zeal discussed this with common people. His brothers' comments and rebuke could not quench the zeal of David. Saul tried to quench his zeal by saying that he was only a lad, in contrast to Goliath. Perhaps David's age equaled the years of Goliath’s experience. Saul tried to discourage David by stating that he did not have the experience or expertise. Again, Saul pointed out that he did not have the equipment for war, and asked him to use his uniform style. David was not comfortable with this. David made his own rules to counter Goliath, who made his own rules. If Saul could change his strategy by changing rules, David also would change his strategy and have his own rules. So, he took pebbles and sling instead of sword, shield and spear. David's pebbles were inexpensive, available, but effective. Witnessing need not be an expensive enterprise. The reason for victory is that David did not depend on himself or his weapon but on the Name of the Lord God Almighty. (I Samuel 17: 44-47)

Conclusion

David's

pebbles were inexpensive, available, but effective.

Witnessing need not be an expensive enterprise.

The reason for victory is that David did not depend on himself or his weapon but on the Name of the Lord God Almighty.

Lord Jesus Christ is not an unreasonable God to give a command that could not be accomplished.

He gave this mandate, because it is possible for all born-again believers. Witnessing should not be seen as a challenge but a privilege and honour.

Witnessing Christians are victorious Christians.

Yashoda Pun - Nepali

Sudarshan Singh - Chattisgarhi

Acts 1:8 - "... be my witnesses ....''

Luissy Chongloi - Kukki

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Pastor Binoy Eapen Philip Faculty, IBC & Seminary

Until

the Emperor Constantine recognized Christianity as a lawful religion in AD 313, Christianity was a marginalized sect, subject to heavy persecution.

Witness Unto Death - A Historical Glimpse

In the early

church, Christians were not bad neighbours nor disloyal subjects, nor plotters against the state. Most of them were ordinary working people or slaves. They met in houses.

On Sundays, they worked, so they met at nights.

When people dislike a minority, they start imagining things that are not there.

Thus persecution against Christians started because the Romans heard that the night meetings of the Christianswas called a “love feast.” The rumor spread that after dinner, they got drunk and ended with a sexual orgy. When leader of the church blessed the bread and wine and said, “This is my body and blood,” they accused Christians of cannibalism.

However, Christianity grew day by day. The Roman emperors feared that if Christianity

Sanjay Bohat - Hariyanvi

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ChingNgiah Chiang - Zomi

continued to grow, it would soon become a strong force in Rome. So they decided to destroy this sect. Until the Emperor Constantine recognized Christianity as a lawful religion in AD 313, Christianity was a marginalized sect, subject to heavy persecution.

Persecution the believers underwent in the 1st Century Church The first persecution took place under Nero Domitius, sixth emperor of Rome. Nero ruled well in the beginning, but later, he became very cruel.

Nero contrived all manner of cruel punishment for the early Christians. But the believers who underwent persecution during his time stood faithful until death.

Deepak kumar Nayak - Kui

Longshin Phom - Phom

Acts 1:8 - ".... unto the uttermost part of the earth".

Sinlo Semp - Rengma

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He had believers sewed up in the skins of wild beasts, tortured by dogs until they died. He had others dressed in shirts of stiff wax, fixed them to the trunk of trees and set on fire in his garden.

One morning, he ordered that the city of Rome set on fire and blamed it on Christians.

Erastus, the chamberlain of Corinth, Aristarchus the Macedonian, Trophimus, an Ephesian by birth, were helped in their conversion

by St. Paul. Joseph, commonly called Barsabbas, and Ananias, Bishop of Damascus, were prominent martyrs during this period.

After Nero, the emperor Domitian persecuted Christians. Some of the martyrs were Simeon, Bishop of Jerusalem who was crucified, St. John who was boiled in oil, and afterwards banished to Patmos. Aavia, the daughter of a Roman senator, was also burned and sent to exile.

Domitian passed a cruel law against Christians which said that every Christian brought before the Tribunal must renounce his or her religion to escape punishment. But this did not move the believers to forsake Christ and His gospel.

The Emperor Trajan ordered that “all the people those who are from the clan of David should be killed.”

Phocas, the Bishop of Pontus, refused to sacrifice to Neptune (a Gentile god) and was cast into a burning lime kiln. He was pulled out and thrown into a scalding bath where he died.

Symphorosa, a Christian believer, and her seven sons were commanded by Trajan to sacrifice to heathen gods, but when she disobeyed, Trajan ordered her taken to the temple of Hercules where she was hung for some time by her hair. When she was told to renounce Christ, she stood firm for her faith. A large stone was tied to her neck, and she was thrown into the river and drowned. Her sons also suffered brutal deaths.

Believers who stood firm for the Lord in the 2nd century In the second century, persecution to the Christian church began with Marcus Aurelius (161–180). During his period, many Christians were martyred, particularly in Asia and France.

Some believers were asked to pass with alreadywounded feet over thorns, nails and sharp shells.

If they still stood without renouncing Christ, they were destroyed by the most terrible deaths.

Polycarp – A witness unto death Polycarp, the disciple of John, on hearing that he was on the hit list for serving Christ, decided to escape. But he saw a vision which helped him

to become more committed to Christ. In his vision, his bed caught fire and was consumed in a moment. Convinced that this vision foretold his coming death, he submitted himself to God’s will.

When the soldiers came to capture him, he fed them, and then he requested an hour for him to pray, as his last wish. He was given time to pray after which he was thrown into fiery flames where, like the Hebrew sons in the book of Daniel, Polycarp sang praises to God amidst the flames.

To kill him, the emperor ordered him pierced.

But when he was pierced with a spear - to the surprise of all, the blood from his body consumed the flames. What a great witness. But the cruel ruler brought him out of the fire, killed him and burned his body. To the end, Polycarp stood firm for the cause to which he was called.

Felicitates and her sons witness Felicitates, a Roman lady of high rank and great ability, was a devout Christian. She had seven sons whom she had educated with most pious care. Publius, a Roman senator, received an order from the emperor to get her to renounce her faith. But he couldn’t persuade her. Thus the whole family was condemned to die. But they were ready to die for Christ. Januarius, the eldest, was scourged and pressed to death with weights.

Felix and Philip, the next two sons, were killed by dashing out their brains with clubs. Sylvanus, the fourth son, was killed by being thrown from a precipice, and the three younger sons, Alexander, Vitalis and Martialis were all beheaded. The cruel acts of killing the boys were done at the sight of their mother. But a divine grace helped Felicitates to withstand these cruel hours. She was at last slain with the same sword that had ended the lives of her three sons. This brave act of the mother and the sons even shocked the cruel Roman soldiers.

At Lyons, some of the martyrs were compelled to sit on a red hot iron chair till their flesh was boiled. One of the most dreadful events recorded in the history of the Christian martyrdom took place at Utica where three hundred Christians were hanged around a burning limekiln.

In the

second century, persecution to the Christian church began with Marcus Aurelius (161–180).

During his period, many Christians were martyred, particularly in Asia and France. Some believers were asked to pass with alreadywounded feet over thorns, nails and sharp shells.

Persecutions in the 3rd century Persecutions in the 3rd century began by Emperor Maximinus against Christians in AD 235. He ordered to hunt down and slay all Christians.

Origen, a well-known presbyter of Alexandria, was seized and thrown into a prison loaded with

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chains and his feet placed in the stock for several days. Pontianus, Bishop of Rome, was banished to Sardinia and murdered for preaching against idolatry.

Metrus, an aged and venerable Christian who refused to worship idols, was beaten with clubs, pricked with sharp reeds and at last stoned to death. Quinta, a Christian women refusing to worship idols, was dragged by her feet over sharp flint stones, beaten with whips and finally was killed in the same manner as Metrus.

The brave history of Theodora, a young lady for Christ

Persecutions

in the 3rd \century began by Emperor Maximinus against Christians in AD 235.

He ordered to hunt down and slay all Christians.

Theodora, a young Christian lady of Antioch, on refusing to sacrifice to the Roman idols, was condemned to prison. Her lover in disguise submitted himself as a woman and requested to be killed. But Theodora, on hearing that the lover was about to be killed, came to the judge, fell at his feet and begged that she might be killed, for she was the actual person whom they were planning to kill. But the cruel emperor condemned them both to be killed. They were beheaded and their bodies burned.

Saturnius - A brave witness unto death The cruel treatment suffered by Saturnius, the Bishop of Toulouse, is a heart breaking history of refusing to sacrifice to the idols. He was tied by the feet to the tail of a bull. At a signal, the animal was driven down the steps of a temple and the head of Saturnius was broken into pieces. This cruel punishment for refusing to sacrifice to the idols for the sake of gospel and Christ was gladly undertaken by him.

Rufina and Secunda - they loved Christ more than their future husbands Rufina and Secunda, two beautiful and well settled young women, were daughters of a rich Christian, who was also a citizen of Rome. They were engaged to two Christian young men. But when the persecution started, the young men renounced their faith but these courageous young ladies put aside their earthly futures. They valued their heavenly future more than the pleasures of the world. They refused to renounce their faith, and they were cruelly tortured and beheaded.

History of Martyrdom in Utica

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One of the most dreadful events in the history of martyrdom was that which took place in Utica, where 300 Christians were placed around a burning lime-kiln and they were commanded to sacrifice to Jupiter otherwise they would be thrown into the kiln. All 300 refused and then

bravely jumped into the burning kiln where they died. They all were a witness to Christ till their last breath.

Trachus, Probus and Andronicus were offered promotions if they offered sacrifice to the Roman gods. But they stood firm for their faith and refused to offer sacrifice. They were at first put in a dungeon and brought before the emperor.

Still, they refused to offer sacrifices. They then were brought again before the emperor, and wild beasts were let out to kill them. But to the surprise of the emperor and everyone, none of the wild beasts touched these three great servants of the God. The emperor then brought a big bear which on that very day had killed three other persons. But our God who shut the lions’ mouths for Daniel, shut the mouth of this wild bear too.

Maximus, the emperor, on seeing this, feared God inside, but outwardly, he raged and ordered the three Christians to be beheaded. On 11th of October AD 303, they were slain by a sword.

Results of persecution The rapid spread of Christianity, even during the heaviest persecution, proved the word of Tertullian right: “The blood of Christian martyrs is the seed of the church.”

The blood of persecution was also the seed of civil and religious liberty. At first, Christianity was not given any freedom but later Christians were allowed to conduct their worship. The Edict of Milan, passed in 313 by Constantine, put Christianity in equal terms with any other Roman religion. Christianity was no longer in conflict with the Roman Empire. The fortune or table changed for the persecuted sect to such an extent that Christianity became a procured religion and finally the only legal religion within the Roman empire.

The Diocletian persecution forced upon the church the problem of the Caanan of the New Testament. If the possession of letters might mean death, the Christians wanted to be sure that the books that they would not give up on pain of death were really Canonical books. This consideration contributed to the final discussion as to what literature was Canonical. Apologetic Literature was also created.

The era of persecution is interesting for the light it throws on the perennial problem of the relation of the church to the state. Christianity claimed the exclusive loyalty of its followers in moral and spiritual matters. Christians were to be obedient to the state as long as it did not ask them to violate their moral and spiritual

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allegiance to God. The problem of obedience to Christ or Caesar is perennial in the history of the church.

Conclusion The unbending faith of the Christians during the first centuries of the church stood as a shining example to the pagan world. How could somebody stand unflinching in the face of death and claim the crucified Jesus be God, if the story was a myth? Such absolute trust in an unseen God was unexplainable to the pagan mind. What was the source of such a courage? Many nonChristians began their Christian life asking these questions.

Persecution, thought the Roman world, would end the faith of Christians in their God. But century after century persecution only strengthened the faith of Christians in Christ. No Christian ever in the History of Christianity has prayed God to take away persecution from us, rather God gives us boldness to face persecution was their prayer.

Because they knew that if their Master was persecuted, persecution was their inheritance. As an answer to their prayer God enabled the martyrs to die for Him like bold soldiers. Their brave death not only attracted ordinary people, even emperors were influenced. Constantine, the Roman emperor

who passed the Act of Toleration on Christians in AD 313 started acknowledged the living God. Persecution in the present century is not as severe as in the early centuries. But nobody is sure what is in hold for the Christian church.

Let whatever come, the need of the hour is bold Christians. Let us pray that God give us boldness to face persecution.

The words of a martyr (IPC believer) who recently died for Christ in Chhattisgarh challenge all of us. The heretics caught him and warned him, saying that if he continued to proclaim Christ, he would be killed. In response, the Christian believer said that as long as he would continue to witness of Christ. This is boldness in Christ, and this is the need of the Christian church of today. He was brutally killed on January 22, 2015. But the church in Chhattisgarh shall continue to grow because the blood of their martyr is a seed of the church there.

The same happened in the early centuries in Rome, and in our times in parts of Odisha and Gujarat. But these persecutions only strengthened the Christian church. “The blood of a martyr is the seed of the Christian church.� Tertullian.

Christianity claimed the exclusive loyalty of its followers in moral and spiritual matters.

Christians were to be obedient to the state as long as it did not ask them to violate their moral and spiritual allegiance to God.

Special prizes to Emmanuel Moktan & Silju Varghese awarded by Pastor P. J. Daniel and Pastor Mathew John

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Pastor Joji Mathew Faculty, IBC & Seminary

‘Be Christ’s

witness’ is our primary mandate. All disciples of Christ are expected to be his witnesses.

Jesus Christ asks his followers to witness everywhere.

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WITNESS TO PEOPLE OF OTHER FAITHS Christ commands us to be His witnesses to the ends of the earth. We are to proclaim His Good

News to all people, everywhere and at all times. The world has many religions. Christians in India have long lived, surrounded by people of other faiths.

Whatever the context, Christians are to witness to others of Christ. Witnessing to people of other faiths is a challenge.

A Basis for Christian Witness “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth" (Acts 1:8). Acts 1-7 describe the gospel in Jerusalem, Acts 8-12 record the spread of the gospel in Judea and Samaria, and Acts 13-28 tell of the gospel going to the ends of the earth. “You will be my witnesses” is both a command and a prophecy. For this purpose, they were appointed; and for this design they had joined with him for more than three years.

The disciples saw his manner of life, his miracles, his meekness, and his sufferings. They heard his instructions, conversed and ate with him as a friend. They saw him after he rose, and when he ascended to heaven, and they were qualified to bear witness to all these things in all parts of the earth.

‘Be Christ’s witness’ is our primary mandate.

All disciples of Christ are expected to be his

witnesses. Jesus Christ asks his followers to witness everywhere. Obedience to the Lord is the primary motivating factor in witnessing. The last commandment of the Lord Jesus Christ in Matthew 28:18-20 is the Great Commission. No Christian can disobey this.

The world needs Christ more than any other time. Witnessing is the primary act of Christian mission. It has an experiential dimension. A disciple who has seen, heard and touched Christ cannot deny the mandate of witnessing.

Role of the Holy Spirit But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you. The verb here is in the “predictive future tense”. This indicates something will certainly take place or come to pass. The disciples still seemed to think in terms of political power, of Jesus restoring Israel’s power as an earthly kingdom. But they would get a different power.

The disciples were focused on the restoring of the Kingdom of Israel. Jesus says that “it is not for us to know the times or epochs. Your job is to be my witnesses in every part of the world.”

The word “power” here refers to all the help or aid which the Holy Spirit would grant; the power of speaking with new tongues; of preaching the gospel with great effect; of enduring great trials, etc. Our work as Christians demands divine power. We cannot rest upon our personalities and

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natural abilities to do the work of evangelism and world missions. The coming of the Spirit in power was necessary for the Church to carry out the commands of our Lord.

The Spirit's coming was necessary for knowledge and understanding of God's Word.

"But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you" (John 14:26). Every believer needs to understand the Word of God. But apart from the Spirit's work, that is impossible. We can understand spiritual truth only by spiritual revelation. That kind of revelation comes only from the Holy Spirit. The Spirit's coming was necessary also for boldness in living and testifying of Christ. The Spirit's coming was necessary for the disciples to witness effectively to the good news of Jesus Christ.

"When the Helper comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, that is the Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father, He will bear witness of Me, and you will bear witness also, because you have been with Me from the beginning" (John 15:26-27). As the Holy Spirit bore witness of Jesus Christ to the disciples, they in turn would bear witness to a waiting world. The

confusion that seemed to veil their minds was lifted when the Spirit came in power. The Spirit's coming was necessary for the disciples to carry out the work of evangelism and missions.

People of Other Faiths It is said that we no longer have to worry so much about going to the world. The world has come to us. We may be hesitant, shy, or downright uncomfortable when sharing our faith with people who dress so differently from us, speak languages we hardly understand, and adhere to religions we know nothing about. India and the world situations are not appropriate for witnessing and evangelization. Western Christians face challenges from secularization, though there is talk about an emerging post-secularism which marks the return of religion. But right now, the situation generally does not favour witnessing of Christ. Religious pluralism existed in India for centuries, and it has become an ongoing situation in the West also.

India is the birthplace of some major world religions. In India, we find followers of all religions. The nations that once closed their doors to certain religions have had to change their policies in the face of new realities. When people migrate for jobs and studies, they take

We can

understand spiritual truth only by spiritual revelation.

That kind of revelation comes only from the Holy Spirit.

The Spirit's coming was necessary also for boldness in living and testifying of Christ.

Ruchunhile Thyug and Neethu Raj receive prizes from Rev. P. T. Subrahmanyan and Pastor Varghese Mathew

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Thus,

all human beings have equal rights and responsibilities.

Where any religion becomes used for political ends, or where religious persecution occurs, Christians are called to engage in a prophetic witness denouncing such actions.

their faith with them. In the present situation, all major religions are all over the world. Every day, we come across people of other faiths. Therefore, witnessing to people of other faiths has become a major concern in theology and missiology.

Religious fanaticism has become a threat to the peaceful living of the people all over the world. Religious intolerance and extremism are becoming threat to the world. In any civilized society, people have the freedom to profess and propagate any religion. Extremism in the name of faith is the major hazard in the present-day world.

Therefore followers of Christ are to be wise and vigilant as they witness to the power of Christ.

In some contexts, living and proclaiming the gospel is difficult, hindered or even prohibited, yet Christians are commissioned by Christ to continue faithfully in solidarity with one another in their witness to him (cf. Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:14-18; Luke 24:44-48; John 20:21; Acts 1:8).

Principles to Follow in Interreligious Contexts Christians believe that God is the source of all love. In their witness, they are called to love their neighbour as themselves (cf. Matthew 22:34-40; John 14:15). In all aspects of life, and especially in

Dr. George Thomas gives away the Dr. T. V. Thomas Memorial Award for Academic Proficiency in English Language

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their witness, Christians are called to follow the example and teachings of Jesus Christ, sharing his love, giving glory and honour to God the Father in the power of the Holy Spirit (cf. John 20:21-23).

The example and teaching of Jesus Christ and of the early church must be our guides for Christian mission. Jesus Christ is the supreme witness (cf.

John 18:37). Christian witness is always a sharing in his witness, which proclaims the kingdom, service to neighbour and the total gift of self even if that act of giving leads to the cross. Just as the Father sent the Son in the power of the Holy Spirit, so believers are sent in mission to witness by word and action to the love of the triune God.

Christians are called to conduct themselves with integrity, charity, compassion and humility. (cf. Galatians 5:22). Christians are called to act justly and to love tenderly (cf. Micah 6:8). They are further called to serve others and in so doing to recognize Christ in the least of their sisters and brothers (cf. Matthew 25:45). Acts of service, such as providing education, health care, relief and acts of justice are an integral part of witnessing to the gospel. The exploitation of poverty and need has no place in Christian outreach. Religious freedom includes the right to publicly profess, practice, propagate and change one’s religion. This flows

Santosh Abraham awards the Pastor K. E. Abraham Memorial Award for best student to Silju Varghese (Malayalam Medium)

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from the dignity of the human person created in the image and likeness of God (cf. Genesis 1:26).

Thus, all human beings have equal rights and responsibilities. Where any religion becomes used for political ends, or where religious persecution occurs, Christians are called to engage in a prophetic witness denouncing such actions.

Christians are to speak sincerely and respectfully; they are to listen to learn about and understand others’ beliefs and practices. Any comment or critical approach should be made in a spirit of mutual respect, making sure not to bear false witness concerning other religions. Witnessing is a must, but should be done with an attitude of love

and respect towards the people of other faiths.

Conclusion In a context where violence and death take place in the name of religion, Christians are to live as true witnesses of Christ. To be "my witnesses," as Jesus calls every disciple, means that we are His emissaries representing Him before a world alienated from Him by sin. We go to the world with His authority and blessing. We go to the world carrying the solitary message that delivers a sinner from eternal damnation: the gospel of Jesus Christ. Christians affirm that while it is their responsibility to witness to Christ, conversion is ultimately the work of the Holy Spirit (cf. John 16:7-9; Acts 10:44- 47).

Live as a credible witness. If our actions don’t line up with the message we’re proclaiming, we risk losing our credibility.

Christians are to speak sincerely and respectfully; they are to listen to learn about and understand others’ beliefs and practices.

David Jeremiah

Pastor Benjamin Varghese and Pastor Alex John give away prizes to Joby Varghese and Renjith Kumar P. T.

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Mrs. Starla Luke

With

their service from long experience came a God given recognition bringing them to positions of leadership within the church.

Pastor K. M. John was a good example of those whom God honors for sincere labor.

PASTOR K. M. JOHN (1929-2015)

The twelve disciples of Jesus Christ became great spiritual leaders and preachers, not because

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they possessed any oratorical skills, leadership abilities or academic qualifications. Their influence came because “they were with Jesus”.

The power of association with the Person of Jesus , their faith in Him, their testimony concerning Him and the power of the Holy Spirit transformed them to mighty apostles.

Pastor K. M. JOHN, 86, became who he was because He preached Christ. A man of God who served as a senior faculty member at India Bible College & Seminary for over 30 years, and with IPC at the Kerala State and General Council. He

served as vice-president and president of IPC Kerala State Council and also served as Joint Secretary of the IPC General Council.

IPC has grown to its present status through the labor and services of committed men and women called of God. They faithfully labored in the vineyard of the Lord, often unknown to others, not expecting any reward or honor.

They were accountable and submitted to the anointed servants of God who were placed by God to mentor and govern them. They served the Lord sincerely and endured hardships without complaining. With their service from long experience came a God given recognition bringing them to positions of leadership within the church.

Pastor K. M. John was a good example of those whom God honors for sincere labor.

An alumnus of Hebron Bible School, Kumbanad, he was taught and mentored by Pastor K. E. Abraham – a fact he always shared with pride.

The relationship between them as student and teacher developed into a special bond of love, deep respect and trust.

I have heard K. M. John Appachen often mention that he was prayed for and sent to Malabar as an IPC minister and missionary by my grandfather, the late Pastor K.E. Abraham. The IPC Kozhikode church was going through a crisis when Pastor K. M. John was entrusted to handle the entire legal proceedings. Such was the trust reposed in him. Pastor K. M. John judiciously and wisely handled the matters.

I have seen how this bond of relationship has been strengthened through the years and

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generations, between the families. He was always a close friend of our family.

My father - Pastor T. S. Abraham now in his 90th year, has enjoyed a seamless loving relationship with Pastor K. M. John. Their friendship, commitment to the Lord and His church, has strengthened and taken the India Pentecostal Church to a higher level and growth in spiritual and administrative realm as they worked together in many different capacities.

Also my brother, Rev. Dr. T. Valson Abraham, served with Pastor K. M. John in the IPC General Council, at India Bible College & Seminary and several other areas of Christian ministry. His service and leadership at the Chenganoor district, Kerala state and General Council was a real blessing.

The legacy of mutual love and respect we inherited from our parents and grandparents for those who truly serve the Lord was evidenced each time we met. He was always cheerful and had a pleasant smile. The joy he felt on meeting those he loved could never be hidden or understated. He had a good sense of humor, always in good spirits and was a pleasure to talk to him whether in person or over the phone. He had an endearing personality.

Master's Prize in Theology to Karthick by Rev. Shalin Lal

Known as "the apostle to the Malabar area,�

Pastor K. M. John is respected throughout the IPC for his consistent commitment in serving the Lord in the northern parts of Kerala. In those days, not many were willing to go to Malabar. He labored under very difficult circumstances. A year ago, my husband and I had the privilege of being at the Nilambur district convention with Pastor K. M. John. We saw the great honor and love with which the believers and pastors regarded him.

We praised God for the labor of love of Pastor K. M. John which continues to bear much fruit for His Kingdom.

Pastor K. M. John was seen as a very strong administrator of the Kerala State Council. He was well respected for handling problems that faced the church. He was not afraid to take a strong stand.

His relational ability and sharp mind and intellect was noticed by Pastor K.E. Abraham in the early days of his ministry. He was entrusted with responsibilities with great foresight. He had a discerning spirit and shrewd mind – this God given quality helped him in his church administration. K. M. John Appachen always dressed impeccably and looked his best - be it at home or on the pulpit.

A beloved teacher loved by the students of

The

legacy of mutual love and respect we inherited from our parents and grandparents for those who truly serve the Lord was evidenced each time we met. He was always cheerful and had a pleasant smile.

Enjoying a lighter moment.

Pastor M. V. Varghese, Amos Dodge and Dr. T. Valson Abraham

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A beloved

teacher loved by the students of India Bible College & Seminary.

We have lost a passionate teacher and spiritual Christian leader.

India Bible College & Seminary. We have lost a passionate teacher and spiritual Christian leader.

His decades of teaching at India Bible College was a blessing to thousands of students. We will miss his presence and teaching. He and his wife were always punctual and were loved by students and faculty alike. Pastor K. M. John has taught us to be committed to God's Word. We will continue to be committed to that Great Cause. We pray that God will raise up a generation of committed and faithful young men and women who will carry forward the legacy entrusted to us.

We loved him and we will miss him. I was always blessed by his his assurances always whether in person or over a conversation over the phone of his prayer for us as a family and for the Bible College. Pastor K. M. John loved the people of God and he related to them whole heartedly.

I am reminded of the words of Adoniram Judson, "I am not tired of my work, neither am I tired of the world; yet when Christ calls me home, I shall go with gladness". This is how Pastor K, M. John lived. He was full of life and until the very end. He had nothing to despair of, and nothing to hold him back from walking into eternal life with Christ.

India Bible College & Seminary is grateful to God for the opportunity to have gleaned from the life of this dear man of God. We pray God's peace and comfort to reign in the hearts and minds of the family members. Thank God for the pleasant

Rev. Thomas Cherian, as a teacher, appreciates a graduate

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Every day you are witnessing.

What are you witnessing to?

Your witness is the total package of your attitudes, character, and actions. It does not lie.

Winkie Pratney memories of dear Appachen's life and ministry.

The children and grandchildren, have much to be proud of! And we move forward in the assurance that we will see him soon!

He has gone ahead of us to his eternal dwelling place, resting from all his labor, awaiting his reward. “For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first.� (I Thess. 4:16)

A proud wife

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A Prisoner of War’s Bible from World War II, left behind when he escaped in 1943 has finally been returned to his family 70 years on.

B

ritish POW Albert Douglas fled Camp 59 in Italy while on a working party under armed guard. He left behind the few possessions he had, including his treasured Bible.

Inside were the words, ‘If anyone should ever find this book will they please return to L/CDL Douglas, Belfast, Ireland, as it means more than all the world to me and is of great sentimental value’.

Albert was a devout Christian. His faith helped him through the ordeal of war as he fled across the mountains into Switzerland and eventually home.

The tiny New Testament also held a photo of Albert and wife Ellen, who were married just two years before the war. Alongside this was a verse from Joshua, ‘Be strong and of good courage.

Be not afraid for the Lord thy God is with thee wheresoever thou go’ - a friend’s message of encouragement to Albert.

POW Sapper George Alan Boanas, a driver from 4th Field Squadron Royal Engineers, found

the Bible. He carried it from camp to camp, finally taking it home in 1945 and vowing to return it to its owner. But life and time took over.

Seventy years on, George’s daughter Maggie re-discovered the Bible. But efforts to find Albert’s family drew a blank. The Belfast house where Albert had lived had long been demolished.

Maggie sought help from Rowland Clarke, a family tree researcher. His articles in the Royal British Legion magazine and a Belfast newspaper were spotted by Irish relatives of Albert and forwarded to his son, who now lives in Buckinghamshire.

Some 70 years since their fathers served their country, Maggie Boanas and Paddy Douglas recently met to share stories and pass on the much-loved Bible. With tears in their eyes, they hugged. ‘You don’t know how much this means to me,’ Paddy said.

Maggie told Bible Society, ‘It’s right that the Bible is back. My mother is absolutely delighted.

It was her and Dad’s greatest wish for it to be returned.’

Presbyterians Give Final Approval for Same-Sex Marriage

A

fter three decades of debate over its stance on homosexuality, members of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) voted on Tuesday to change the definition of marriage in the church’s constitution to include same-sex marriage.

The final approval by a majority of the church’s

171 regional bodies, known as presbyteries, enshrines a change recommended last year by the church’s General Assembly. The vote amends the church’s constitution to broaden marriage from being between “a man and a woman” to “two people, traditionally a man and a woman.”

You don’t have to be an extrovert or be well versed in academic studies or in theology to be a witness of Christ.

All that is required is a personal experience of Christ as your Lord and Saviour, and a willingness to be used

by Him as His mouthpiece.

Melvin Tinker

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The ABC of becoming a Christian

Aare dmit that you in need of

someone to save you from guilt, shame and bondage or addictions.

Admit that you have violated God’s Laws.

B

elieve that Jesus Christ is the only One who is able to save you and to bring deliverence and offer forgiveness of sins. Believe that Jesus is the only One to conquer death and is the risen Saviour.

C

onfess with your mouth that Jesus is your Lord and submit to His rulership in your life.

QUIZ–35 HEALTHY CONFESSIONS 1. Who confessed to God that he had done wrong in taking a census of Israel?

2. What sneaky Israelite confessed that he had stolen goods from fallen Jericho?

3. Who confessed his own sin and Israel’s after seeing a vision of God on His throne?

4. What scribe bowed in front of the temple and confessed the sins of Israel while the people around him wept bitterly?

5. What young man confessed his riotous living to his forgiving father?

6. Who made a false confession to Aaron and Moses?

7. Who was visited by the angel Gabriel while he was confessing his sins?

Pastor T. S. Abraham and Pastor M.V.Varghese enjoying a relationship for the past over 7 decades - as brothers in Christ, fellow-ministers, co-laborers and friends.

APRIL 2015

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8. Who confessed that he had been selfrighteous?

9. Who confessed his sin to an angel that only his donkey had seen?

10. Who was pardoned by David after confessing his sin and begging for mercy?

Answers for Quiz - 34 1. Habakkuk (1: 1-3) 2. Jeremiah (15:18) 3. Cain (Gen. 4: 9) 4. Abraham (Gen. 18:25) 5. Moses (Exo. 3:10-11) 6. Job (40:3-4) 7. Elijah (I Kings 17:20) 8. Solomon (I Kings 3:5-9) 9. The Israelites (Judges 21: 2,3) 10. Moses (Exo. 17:3-4)

Rev. Dr. T. Valson Abraham inaugurates activities of Charity activities

by IBC Alumni Association. President: Pastor Jacob Varkey & Secretary: Pastor Samkutty Mathew, also seen.

IBC & Seminary Graduation Service 5th March 2015

Graduation Service - Theme : Witness (Acts 1:8)

Pastor K.C. Thomas

Procession led by students holding high the college and national flag – stepping out of the college into the nation as Christ’s “Witnesses”

Pastor Amos Dodge, Convocation Speaker

Pastor Phinni Joseph, Academic Dean & Mrs. Starla Luke, Administrator – present the students to the President to receive their diplomas

Santosh Abraham leads worship with IBC Melody

student graduation speakers Hartly Samuel, (English) Rev. Dr. T. Valson Abraham welcomes and introduces the guests

graduates

Silju Varghese, (Malayalam)

Witness (Acts 1:8)

Pastor Sajan Varghese & Pastor K. Y. Thomas, lead in responsive prayer of dedication

Awarding of certificates by the Director

evening class graduate

Senior Faculty members and guest pastors

Faculty prays for graduates

Pastors and well-wishers

Some of our staff and audience

Pastor Emmanuel P.G. congratulates the graduates Mrs. Mary Abraham, Pastor A. C. Kurian and other pastors & friends

News paper Reg. No. KERENG/2007/22479

REVIVE (ENGLISH) APRIL 2015

Price

Date of Publication : 1/04/2015

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IBC & Seminary Graduation Service 2015

Vol. 08, Issue No. 4

Prayer of Commissioning by Pastor Sunny Kurien

Pastor P. A. Mathew gives away prizes

Director awards certificates to Riya Roy, Sajitha Babu & Dr. Daniel Rajan

IGO partners with Gilgal Ashwasa Bhavan

April 2015

Hebron, Kumbanad, Kerala

www.revivemegod.org

Pastor M. V. Varghese, Vice-Principal, Malayalam Medium awards certificates

IGO reaches out to stand with the humanitarian efforts of IPC Tabor, Tvm

Pastor Amos Dodge gives away prize to Bro. Stephen Koshy

APPRECIATION AWARDS to: Pastor M. V. Varghese, Pastor T. C. Easow & Mrs. Annamma Mathews

f e l i c i t a t i o n s

PLEROMA: Annual College Souvenir released by Pastor Amos Dodge and Rt. Rev. Bishop Thomas Samuel Alumni Association inaugurates its Charity activities by granting one time help to widowed wives of alumni of IBC/HBC.

Rt. Rev. Thomas Samuel, (Bishop Emeritus, CSI)

Pastor Randolph Romero

Pastor T. J. Abraham gives away prizes

Santosh Abraham

J. P. Rajan & Rebecca Rajan were the special voices

A BIG Thank You: Maj. Luke

Printed, published and owned by Major V.I. Lukose (Retired), published from P.O. Box 31, Hebron, Kumbanad, Pathanamthitta, Kerala, India and Printed at Viani Printings, Ernakulam, Kerala, India. Editor: Rev. Dr. John K. Mathew

Graduat ion 2015

IBC