December 17, 2017 Sunday Events in Video Compilation

Here are compilations of videos I've taken from the Sunday, December 17, 2017 Loakan Baptist Church's 61st Anniversary.. Most of it are song numbers given by the LBC Choir, a trio and Christians Committed to Christ (C3) ensemble.. feel free to view and enjoy and be blessed by the songs.... =)

Have you ever heard or read the Gospel of Christ like this?

It makes me wonder has people really heard the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ clearly and have they truly understood it?

After this post, I've included some videos of three different people I do believe has a clear understanding of the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ and from which they desire so earnestly to share it to others. But I must say, as the third person shared, the gospel of Jesus Christ has been overly exposed BUT with much great effort by the opposing force to twist and destroy it. An evidence of this is Jesus Christ warning His disciples about false teachers and preachers.

But what is the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ? And have I or you truly understood what is it all about? or what's the real bottom line of it?

To me, I could only think of the gospel of Jesus Christ as being simple and yet complicated. It is so simple to the one who truly accepts, believe and truly put their trust in the Lord Jesus Christ, the center of the gospel or good news. And yet, it becomes complicated to those who lack or has no faith in it but uses mind, logic and "human" reasoning trying to understand it.

But let me make a simple example or reference from the Bible of how I perceive it as simple. In the book of Acts chapter 16 verse 31, it says, "And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house." Simple verse or what the disciples told the prison keeper when he asked, "What shall I do to be saved?"... What makes it complicated is when people do not understand the phrase "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ.." Most people, would not settle in that phrase and therefore would seek out other matters like adding to do things so as to be saved, or in other words to earn Salvation. Here is what separates the true and genuine gospel of Jesus Christ from the twisted and false gospel. Doing something to earn Salvation is not really a gospel or a good news at all and it destroys God's offer of FREE salvation or FREE Gift!! If I may ask you, how would you feel when you give someone a gift, and yet the one who will receive it says, "Wait! Let me do something first for you before I receive your gift!".. Wouldn't that be an insult to you who is sincerely giving a GIFT!? It's really illogical, nevertheless, most people believe and follow this kind of thinking or perception of the gospel of Christ.

Nonetheless, let me share Bible verses (not my words but God's) which I believe is important in understanding the gospel or good news of Jesus Christ:

First things first! Before the need for Good News, there has to be a bad news! And what's the bad news?

Here is the BAD NEWS:

Romans 3:23
"For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;"

Romans 3:10-11
"As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God."
WHY AND HOW IS IT THAT ALL HAVE SINNED?

Romans 5:12
"Wherefore, as by one man[Adam] sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:"
WHAT THEN if all have sinned?
Romans 6:23a
"For the wages of sin is death;.."

Revelation 21:8
"But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death."
BUT THERE IS A GOOD NEWS

John 10:10
"The thief[Satan] cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly."
Romans 6:23b
"BUT the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."

Romans 10:9-10
"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation."
NO AMOUNT OF GOOD WORKS OR EFFORTS CAN SAVE US... 
it is only BY FAITH (Believe and Trust) IN JESUS CHRIST 
(Who He says as He is, Lord, Savior, Master, King)

Ephesians 2:8-9
"For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast."
Titus 3:5
"Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;"
If you have not believed or put your faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and for what He has done for you, I pray that you do NOW!

2 Corinthians 6:2
(For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)
Romans 10:9-10
"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation."

And if you have placed or entrusted your life to Jesus Christ, then it's time you start growing by reading His Word, the Bible. You may read other books, but the Bible, God's Word? It is the VERY MUCH CLOSEST to HIS VERY WORDS.. so treasure it and grow from it.

The Good News of the Lord Jesus Christ

The Gospel or good news of Jesus Christ! This I believe is the reason why the Christian church exists and why Christ Himself established it. But throughout time, so many have tried to destroy the gospel or even to simply distort it. And I believe at some great level, many have successfully done it considering the many denominations or religious sect we now know at this point. Nevertheless, I believe God has also been faithful to preserve it even through the few people He has chosen and continue to use in declaring this good news! Time and time again, His Word shall never pass away (Matthew 24:35).

I honestly would say, I would want to be part of this means of declaring the gospel of Christ to all men and women. I know it's not easy for even the scripture or the Bible have already declared it's not an easy road nor a bed of roses. Jesus Himself declared Christians will suffer as He Himself has suffered (John 15:20). But I also understand it is by far much, much better to suffer with Christ rather than to suffer without Him for eternity. The apostles of Christ knew this that even for the cost of their lives, they still preached the gospel of Christ.

Now the question, "How do I share the good news of Christ in its most simplest way or form?" I couldn't think of any other way but to still go back and give bible verses as references of how Jesus Christ's life and death is a good news. Anyway, the Bible is the only Authority I believe as the means of giving clear understanding of the gospel of Christ.

The gospel of Jesus Christ, I believe, is as simple as "Who Jesus Christ is" and "what He has done?" But that's just the news, the good news. And for this news to have an effect, people has to hear it and understand it. And, IF they understood and they believed with full trust on the gospel of Christ, then surely the mission has been fulfilled. Thing is, that's the power and work of the Holy Spirit - illumination of the mind to give understanding and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Us, Christians? our work is to simply share and tell. So, here's my one way of telling the gospel:

First off, every good news should have first a bad news. And the bad news is "man is condemned to hell for eternity." Why? Because of Adam's sin. The Scripture says:

Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man [Adam], and death through sin, so death spread to all people [no one being able to stop it or escape its power], because they all sinned. (Romans 5:12)

Remember in God's creation, everything was good and perfect. But when sin came, through Adam's direct disobedience of God's simple one rule, destruction and death had its toll. Thing is, God is merciful and loves His masterpiece. He created man in His own image and likeness! Man is His masterpiece and He can't lay it to waste, even if man was worth as a garbage. Therefore, He set forth a plan to redeem His creation and masterpiece. That is God's love at the same time Him being just or justice.

God's plan was Jesus Christ, His only begotten Son, the unblemished Lamb of God to be offered as sin offering for the remission of sin. Scripture says:

In fact under the Law almost everything is cleansed with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness [neither release from sin and its guilt, nor cancellation of the merited punishment]. (Hebrews 9:22)

And in accordance with this will [of God] we [who believe in the message of salvation] have been sanctified [that is, set apart as holy for God and His purposes] through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed) once for all. Every priest stands [at his altar of service] ministering daily, offering the same sacrifices over and over, which are never able to strip away sins [that envelop and cover us]; whereas Christ, having offered the one sacrifice [the all-sufficient sacrifice of Himself] for sins for all time, sat down [signifying the completion of atonement for sin] at the right hand of God [the position of honor], waiting from that time onward until his enemies are made a footstool for His feet. For by the one offering He has perfected forever and completely cleansed those who are being sanctified [bringing each believer to spiritual completion and maturity]. (Hebrews 10:10-14)

This is what God has planned to redeem man unto Himself, but the question is, does man believe it? Or was Jesus' sacrifice effective for ALL MEN or HUMANITY? I don't think so, because the Scripture says:

“For God so [greatly] loved and dearly prized the world, that He [even] gave His [One and] [a]only begotten Son, so that whoever believes and trusts in Him [as Savior] shall not perish, but have eternal life. (John 3:16)

But to as many as did receive and welcome Him, He gave the right [the authority, the privilege] to become children of God, that is, to those who believe in (adhere to, trust in, and rely on) His name. (John 1:12)

For you [who are born-again have been reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, sanctified and] are all children of God [set apart for His purpose with full rights and privileges] through faith in Christ Jesus. (Galatians 3:26)

For it is by grace [God’s remarkable compassion and favor drawing you to Christ] that you have been saved [actually delivered from judgment and given eternal life] through faith. And this [salvation] is not of yourselves [not through your own effort], but it is the [undeserved, gracious] gift of God; not as a result of [your] works [nor your attempts to keep the Law], so that no one will [be able to] boast or take credit in any way [for his salvation]. (Ephesians 2:8-9)

Now, from these verses given, Faith in Jesus Christ is a very important matter and factor of how man is redeemed or in other words "saved" from the punishment of sin. It's not what we do but as simple as faith in Jesus Christ. That's the good news and that is the reason why it is "GOOD" news!

But what is so much bothering is, still many do not believe and many doubt. There are many other Bible verses to give and clear out things about the matter which everybody can choose to read and understand. Nevertheless, the real big question to ask personally is "Do you really, really believe in Who Jesus is and What He has done for you and for me?" 

My Supporting Arguments towards Death Penalty

At this time, there is a great debate within our nation regarding this matter, whether our nation should have this law or not. And, personally I do support this law and these are my thoughts, arguments and answer to some arguments I’ve heard.

First, in terms of the Christian Faith, this law is not against the Christian belief. I, as a Christian, DO NOT support killing / murder, BUT what I support is the law implementing Death Penalty (punishment by death given a proof without any doubt that a suspect has truly committed the crime). Now, there is a difference from simply “killing” to “giving a punishment of death” to a person who committed crime. Some would think there is no difference and would argue that it is not man’s right to take a life but God alone, referring to the God of the Bible. If we go to the Bible, we do find God’s commandment: “Thou shalt not kill” (Exodus 20:13), BUT if we go to Deuteronomy 20:16–18, we find God commanding Israel to completely destroy other tribes. We also would read in Lev. 20:10 "If a man commits adultery with another man's wife--with the wife of his neighbor--both the adulterer and the adulteress are to be put to death.".. Now, that seem to be contradicting but if we look at it in a different perspective unlike most people do, they don’t contradict. Because God’s commandment not to kill or not to murder is a command towards an individual person acting in his own decision / free will representing his own personal selfish motive whereas the other verses are God’s command to a nation to act in accordance to the pursuit of God’s own standard for order, peace and as God sees it to be for the good of the nation.

Second, let’s go to logic or common sense. If we are to choose not allowing death penalty in our country just because of the understanding that it is only God who takes life to the extent that even the worst of all criminals can’t be given this verdict, then the nation should stop recruiting soldiers, because soldiers have no choice but to kill when in the line of battle. It would be unfair for soldiers being placed in such a situation where they have no choice but to kill for the sake of defending the nation as well as defending their life. Well, I know that’s an absurd thinking because having no soldiers for the country will simply invite the nation’s destruction. My point is having no death penalty is just like the same as a country having no soldiers to defend the country.

Now, let me lay my thoughts about the other reasons why people do not agree on death penalty. If I would think about it, the number one reason is connected in the faith of people, namely the Christian Faith. But as I’ve shared early on, the “Christian Faith” itself is not against death penalty. Within the Christian Faith, there is division on how one believes regarding the matter. And sadly, those who are in power are the only ones more of being heard via media, claiming it to be all in the name of God. But in reality it is a twisted idea or concept if one looks and studies the Bible. And I would re-iterate the fact that it is God who really authored this kind of penalty from the very start when He said to Adam and Eve "But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die." (Genesis 2:17)

Some would say or argue that this kind of God’s commandment is just for the Old Testament time. But shall we consider the Christian belief that God is unchanging (Psalm 102:27, Malachi 3:6, Hebrews 13:8). This will contradict the argument that God’s commandment is just for the Old Testament. Furthermore I could point to verses like Rev. 21:8 or Matthew 25:41 where God gives judgment like that of the death penalty. Furthermore reading Romans 13:1-7, we find God’s instruction about God blessing / giving the authority to the government to be the agent for peace and order. Therefore making laws that promote peace and order; And, enforce justice even in terms of giving the kind of punishment for the good of the nation. This is the Government’s responsibility. But, this doesn’t mean God agrees on everything the government decides on. Just reading the history of Israel gives a picture of how imperfect the government is, and we find that if the leadership is in line with God’s ways and principles, then the nation is blessed. But when it goes against God’s principles or laws, then the nation is cursed. Just like the issue about allowing same sex marriage which is surely an abomination to God’s law and principles, see how God destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah. Nevertheless, that’s not the issue here that I wish to talk about. This is just one of the issues the government is dealing with and if the government fails to decide rightly, instead of promoting peace and order, the government can go to a direction of promoting disorder and confusion.

Some would say that religious belief should be separated from the Government quoting the “separation of church and state”. But I would have to ask, what makes the government? Or when we talk about the constitution, how did the constitution came to existence? Didn’t these things come from people itself who has diversified beliefs and culture? No matter what we say or do, our laws are based on what we believe. And basically, what we believe as what is right from what is wrong. For one thing, the Philippines declares itself to be the only Christian nation in the orient, therefore if that’s the case, our beliefs of what is right and wrong would be based on the Bible. Therefore, it would be logical if the government or constitution would base their laws on the Bible. The problem is, Philippines no longer have one religion but many which really also contradicts the law itself mentioning “the church” which is actually pointing to the Christian Religion. So what then? If I remember it right or if my sources are right, the constitution or the form of government Philippines have embraced is based from the US government who is originally founded by the Christian community. And the origin of the “church and state separation” was made in order to protect the church from being controlled or dictated by government. Now? It has somewhat changed its meaning. Nevertheless, I think the point I wish to assert is that the when it comes to order, peace and harmony of the nation, this is the government’s goal and focus. Whereas the church, though partly it promotes order, peace and harmony, her (the church) main goal is actually to deal with what Jesus has been teaching and prioritizes the Great Commission. In other words, the church and state does have boundaries that ought to be respected and each institute ought not to overlap boundaries. But with the diversified views and belief of people within the nation, surely this issue will be a long debate which might never end, unless only if the nation unites in one belief or view.

One of the arguments I’ve heard amongst the anti-death penalty, is that they declare that such law is an anti-poor which claims to serve only the elite or those who have money. And their basis is past experiences which I doubt if it serves a logical basis. This argument is also accompanied by the statement that innocent people might be placed on death row. The problem with these arguments is that these are not a result or caused by having a death penalty but a result of weak justice system. If they use the argument that such law is an anti-poor law (meaning those who have no money can’t defend themselves well), wouldn’t that be the same as all other laws given? It does no difference to people who are sentenced to life imprisonment, whether they are poor or not. And to argue that what if innocents are placed in death row is not an issue of the penalty but of the people who are corrupted by greed and of bias judgment. These kinds of thinking just prove that people don’t trust the fairness and justice in our nation. Therefore means, it is not an issue of the penalty but of the justice system this nation provides.   

With all these arguments, I’ll end with these verses:

"For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Would you have no fear of the one who is in authority? Then do what is good, and you will receive his approval, for he is God's servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain. For he is the servant of God, an avenger who carries out God's wrath on the wrongdoer." (Romans 13:3-4, ESV)

Are you sure you know what the church is?

Are you certain what you believe about the church is right and true? These are questions at times we ought to think and ask ourselves. And surely, some or many of us might shrug it off these questions; Not really scrutinizing what the Bible says about the church. Nevertheless, understand that these questions has been a debate over decades of years now and sadly, most people neglect and care less about it. But the worst, are those who call themselves as Christians giving no importance to it or value.

I'm sure many will not desire nor take time to read my thoughts or beliefs on this matter. Nor, take the challenge to challenge their beliefs. But if at least one would reads this article, and take a moment to reflect and really be challenged to search the truth then that is something I would appreciate. More so, I hope it will be a blessing to whoever reads it.

Thing is, I am not saying one should accept my thoughts or my understanding of what a church is. But to really go through God's Word, the Bible, of what does it really say about the church, the Christian church. Let me lay these verses as our references first (I know it's long but I hope you have patience):

Ephesians 5:22-33 English Standard Version (ESV)
22 Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. 23 For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior. 24 Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit in everything to their husbands.
25 Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, 26 that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, 27 so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish.[a] 28 In the same way husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. 29 For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church, 30 because we are members of his body. 31 “Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.”32 This mystery is profound, and I am saying that it refers to Christ and the church. 33 However, let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.

1 Corinthians 12:12-31 English Standard Version (ESV)
12 For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ.13 For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves[a] or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.
14 For the body does not consist of one member but of many. 15 If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. 16 And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. 17 If the whole body were an eye, where would be the sense of hearing? If the whole body were an ear, where would be the sense of smell? 18 But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose. 19 If all were a single member, where would the body be? 20 As it is, there are many parts,[b] yet one body.
21 The eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you,” nor again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.” 22 On the contrary, the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, 23 and on those parts of the body that we think less honorable we bestow the greater honor, and our unpresentable parts are treated with greater modesty, 24 which our more presentable parts do not require. But God has so composed the body, giving greater honor to the part that lacked it, 25 that there may be no division in the body, but that the members may have the same care for one another. 26 If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together.
27 Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. 28 And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, administrating, and various kinds of tongues. 29 Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? 30 Do all possess gifts of healing? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? 31 But earnestly desire the higher gifts. And I will show you a still more excellent way.

There are more Bible verses we could cite if you like (try googling "church bible verses"), but we'll try just to cover about these verses. And on these verses, there is actually one point about the church that we or I will talk about. The church being compared to as a "body".. and Who is the head? that is of course the Lord Jesus Christ, none other. The Bible actually can speak more about the church, like the church being declared as the Bride of Christ and others. But we can't cover all those stuff.

Now, there are some who views differently as what I'm sharing which is Jesus being the Head of the church. But if we would look at the verses and I'm sure it's very clear that Jesus Christ is the Head of the church and no one can replace Him. You might ask, "But Jesus is not around to head the church!?" Sure He is not, but He is alive and well with the Father in heaven. And does that hinder Christ being the Head? Furthermore in the book of Acts, Jesus Christ sent the Holy Spirit to be the Teacher,  the Comforter, the Guide for the church and as Jesus explained in the gospel, He will remind you ALL things Jesus taught them. Now, talking about the Holy Spirit is another whole big subject to talk about. But just to give understanding and by studying further, the Bible declares what when a person becomes a Christian, the Holy Spirit in-dwells the person, as God's mark declaring His ownership and of whom God relates to be His child. Again, as I've said this subject is another whole new discussion or subject matter and possibility there are those who don't agree to it. Nevertheless, I hope the reader will try to see this perspective and try to compare it to God's Word, whether it be true or not.

Now, the Holy Spirit is actually very valuable and is very much connected with the church and the church's function which I hope will be discussed later.

Let us go first in the question, "Why Christ or the apostle teach that the church is like a body?" Well, these question is actually already answered by the verses read awhile ago. But it is important that we ask, to give much emphasis on "why"? The Bible declares that each Christian is a part of the body of Christ, and also declares that as the members of the body is important, so to with every members of the church. By the way, I hope we understand already that the church is NOT the building or the structure made where we worship or fellowship, but it's the group of believers in the Lord Jesus Christ. The church are the people, not just people but those who have faith in Jesus Christ. Now why is each member of the body or the church important? Because they actually have functions or work to do that others CAN NOT do. But it doesn't mean that one part or member is much more valuable or important than others. No! Each has its own value and each one must understand and acknowledge the value of each.

Furthermore, if we understand how our body works, we should understand that each member does not function on its own or for its own. It actually functions for the whole body. Just as our hands and feet are used. They do not do the things for themselves but for the body. Reflect on the heart or the lungs, they actually function to give something for the other parts of the body in order for the body to function well. So is the same with the church. The members of the church functions to serve others, not for themselves. Whether it be praying, giving, serving, teaching, preaching.. it is for the betterment of others.

One of the things that I believe (which I am unsure if others believe) is the concept that the leaders of the church like the pastor and deacons are actually part of the body or of the church. (This is just my observation) But it seems that most Christians think that pastors and deacons or the leaders are actually not part of the church but seen as the head of the church. Which I believe, shouldn't be. Pastors, deacons and leaders may lead, but they are not the head, Christ is! How can that be? See I Cor. 12:28-30 and Eph. 4:11-16. Pastors, deacons and leaders have a role, and they are actually gifts given by God or the Lord Jesus Christ to the church. Therefore, they are part of the church and still Jesus is the Head. Why Jesus is the Head? Because it is He who gives the Word or decision or direction on what the body should do. And pastors, deacons and the church as a whole fulfills or obeys it.

Now, my previous argument or declaration, it's possible that many would go against it. Why I'd say this because I've heard already some declaring "This is MY church!" and not "This is God's or Christ's church!".. while others do not indeed declare this, but by their actions they do. Well, you may say I'm judgmental or something but I hope we become more of a critical minded people observing what is happening around us. Comparing what the Bible is declaring to what our church is doing. Who do we really follow? is it the self-proclaimed righteous people or Jesus, the one Who became condemned and died for us? I do not wish that you think like me, but that you think like Christ. Because that is the whole concept of Christianity, to be like Christ.

Now, let me connect the connection of the Holy Spirit with the church. If one would actually study and understand one of the work of the Holy Spirit, is to enable God's people to do God's will like that of the great Commission. Reading through the book of Acts, we find fishermen who didn't really attain great education and yet stood up declaring God's Words with authority and was able to turn the world upside down. The greatest thing we could observe on their lives which we rarely see these days is that, they were able to give their lives (even to the point of death) for the sake of preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ (The good news of Jesus Christ). These days? People (and I would include myself on this) would be satisfied and desire comfortable places when serving God or declaring the gospel. In simple terms, our fleshly desire / worldly desire have been overcoming the Holy Spirit's desire to plainly go and preach the gospel even in the most unpleasant places or circumstances. And most often, the church as a whole is forgetting why the church exist. While the church's one reason of existence is to furnish or equip God's people to be more like Christ (2 Tim. 3:16-17), the church's main goal of existence is actually the fulfilling of the Great Commission, which is to preach the Name of Christ! (Matthew 16:18-19, Matthew 28:18-20) and God has not given that responsibility only to the few, but to the church as a whole.

One of the saddest and sorrowful situation of a church are those examples written in the book of Revelations in chapters 2 and 3. Here we find that there are no perfect church but there are commendable churches. But worst, most examples given are a disheartening churches. Which we could actually reflect on churches of today. Many have forgotten what a church really is. There are many churches with great number of members, but does not reflect the early Christian church (see Acts chapter 2). Many look for what they acquire or benefit or profit... rarely does the church think of others. Many do things and reason out it is for others, but actuality in the long run, it is for themselves.

Now, what am I really hoping to impart with this? or main goal of sharing this? Well, if you have survived reading until here. And if you are a Christian, one who has personal relationship with God through the Lord Jesus Christ, I hope you understand that you are important and valuable in the church, in the body of Christ. You may not know what exactly your function is, but simply pursuing towards Christ likeness, I'm sure you will find out. Because in all honesty, churches nowadays need to wake up from slumber. Because as I have shared early on, the examples of churches in Revelations pictures most of the churches these days. Like that of the example of Sardis church, declared by Christ as a dead church, yet there are few who remains faithful (See Rev. 3:1-6). If a church is in this state, even the simplest gift of encouraging the weak and few is a great service one could ever do. And even your presence as means of support can give much encouragement to the wounded and discouraged.

Do you know How Great God's Love is?

When I talk about God, I'm talking about the God of the Bible -- the Christian Bible.

Most often, I think God's love is so easily taken lightly or for granted, even for Christians. Why? or How come? Easy, we have limited minds to comprehend the unlimited, unbounded, incomprehensible and unequally love of the Almighty All-knowing All-present God of the Bible.

Nevertheless, let's consider some of the things revealed to men on the manifestations of God's love (I said some because I'm sure there may be more and these are just the things that have captured my thoughts on God's Love).

First, consider this:

God created the heavens and the earth and it was good. Everything was perfect, except that God created and prohibited the fruit of just one out of the many tree from being eaten and it was clearly stated that once they did eat, man shall surely die. Though even with that one prohibition, would that ruin what God has made to be perfect and good? No. I don't think so. Sometimes men like to see the negative side more than the positive side, nevertheless, it's not man's creation. It's God's and who are we to be the judge? We are nothing but mere creatures of Him who made all things. And we are part of that ALL things.

Next,

Everything was provided and was given for free in that garden of Eden (simple but I think should clearly emphasize how good and loving God is).

But then, man failed and decided to disobey His Creator, His Provider, His Love, His Everything. And still, God exercised His love towards men by not automatically erasing man from existence. Instead, God planned from the very start of man's fall that He will redeem man once again. The verse below foreshadowed or prophesied how God would redeem man:

 “And I will put enmity (open hostility) between you and the woman, and between your seed (offspring) and her [a]Seed; He shall [fatally] bruise your head, and you shall [only] bruise His heel.” (Genesis 3:15 Amplified Bible)  

At first, it may seem gibberish or rubbish, but if one understands and looks at the event of Christ Jesus being crucified, this verse was fulfilled in Mt. Golgotha. "He shall [fatally] bruise your head" means Christ won the victory, while "you shall [only] bruise His heel" means Jesus' suffering was just part of God's plan and literally Jesus' heel was bruised in the cross of Calvary. There are other Bible verses from the Old Testament books which foreshadowed and prophesied the cross of Calvary like in the time of Moses when the Hebrews painted their doors on the sides and on top with blood. But God Himself declaring this from the very start and fulfilling it after almost 4000 years doesn't mean God was late or something but proved He was faithful in fulfilling it according to His word and time.

Now the question remains is "How would God redeem man through Jesus dying on the cross?" Well, let's go back to God's decreed law from the very start which is "If you shall eat of the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, you shall surely die."  (paraphrased from Gen. 2:17). Death is the payment or verdict for the one who would disobey God's command and it cannot be reversed. Romans 6:23a says "For the wages of sin is death..." Now understanding this concept or truth, let me ask this question. "Can a sinner "A" die in behalf of another sinner "B" so that the sinner "B" will be acquitted or justified (meaning declared innocent)?" Of course NO! No one can do that or that is not logical or does not make sense. If the sinner "A" die, it's just "just" or "worthy" for the sinner "A" to die because that's the payment of his sin. You may say that what if sinner "A" never did sin? That would be true or possible but thing is, after Adam's sin, sin was passed to all men. And a very evidence of that is that all men or women will die in the appointed time. Romans 5:12 declares this truth.

Furthermore, little or small sin in our perspective or mind is still sin in God's sight. The best illustration of this is observing the light and darkness. If darkness is sin, even in the least of it or if there is such as we call "small darkness" and God is light: What happens if both comes in contact with each other? darkness fades away. Therefore, no sin done by a sinner can face the Creator of heaven and earth. That is why God's Word says all men are sinners and therefore all men will die. Therefore man is doomed!

Furthermore to clarify, death in reality and in God's perspective actually means to be separated. And an initial effect of death to man when Adam sinned was that man no longer can fellowship with God nor see Him like Adam before sinning. This is what the Bible calls "spiritual death". And of course, the other death we experience is what we call the physical death. We are separated from our love ones or from this reality of life on earth. And the most dreadful and awful death is what the Bible calls the "second death" in Revelations 20:14 which simply means everlasting / eternal death or separation from God forever. And it's not just about separation forever, but everlasting pain and sorrow in the lake of fire along with the devil and demons. (there may be more discussions about this but I would not expand on that portion for this time and let us focus more of the overview of God's love)

What God desires and what it means for God to redeem man is by making man once more to be sinless (no sin), white, pure, clean and like the light so that we can be able to see Him as He is. But again the question to ask is "How?" And that's the reason why Jesus came.

Another reason why God's love is sooooo unfathomable and amazing is that "Jesus, Who came, is also God Himself." Come again? What? Yes, Jesus is God! While some folks wouldn't believe that and use verses to claim their claim. We, Christians too, have verses to claim Jesus is God. Just try to google it and it's there. But let me share my thoughts and not just use a Bible verse (though I have a verse to also relate this thing to). Thing is, compare the love of God becoming man so that He would die for our sins in contrast to an angel or man or created being even if the creature is holy sent by God to die for our sins. Doesn't that distort our view of how God loves us? John 15:13 says in the amplified version "No one has greater love [nor stronger commitment] than to lay down his own life for his friends." Now if you separate Jesus being God from God. Whose love is greater then? And who would you choose to love more? Wouldn't you choose to love the one who gave His life for you? But if "by faith" believing Christ as 100% Man and 100% God, died for you, then wouldn't that mean a very amazing love? And that's just a part of how God's love is sooo great!

Another magnifier of God's love I believe, is that the reality that Jesus was born in a virgin birth. That truth is very important and a treasure! Why? You see, the virgin birth will claim that Jesus Christ was born without sin! That's the reason why the Bible calls Jesus, the Second Adam! Now to understand what virgin birth means I have to say, "just try to google it". Cause it may take more discussion over that. But simple, as it was foretold, being the seed of a woman (Gen. 3:15), this is God's way on how to redeem man. Through the virgin birth, a sinless man is born. Therefore the argument a while ago where the sinner "A" was not really a sinner is fulfilled. And now, Jesus was not simply born, He lived for 33 years. He was actually even tempted by Satan as we all and thing is, HE NEVER SINNED. 1 Peter 2:22 declares this that even with Jesus' mouth no sin was found. Unlike man who sin as fast as our eyes can see.

Now, the biggest part of God's amazing love was that He was crushed, bruised, mocked, spit upon, beaten... every manifestation of condemnation and judgement for a sinner, Jesus received willingly. He never cursed or even retaliated. Instead, He willingly laid down His life even in the point of death. Why? So He could take the punishment of sin that is supposed to be for man. Now that is how God loves us! (John 3:16)

I John 4:19 says "We love Him because He first loved us." Simply states that man cannot unconditionally love God, because God already unconditionally loved us.

Now, here's the catch! Understanding how great God's love for us is not what really matters but how do we respond to that love. Because God's Word is also clear. God is love but He is also just or justice. It is not right to say that because Christ died for man, therefore all man are already clean and righteous and therefore can go to heaven. I don't think that is right and justice. When a man courts a woman so that they would be married, the woman has to say "yes" to the man before they do. If the answer is "no" then there wouldn't be a marriage. The same with God and His decreed law. Christ died because of man's sin so that He may make a "way", the only way for man to be brought back to Himself (John 14:6). How? Faith in Christ! If a person puts his/her faith, his/her trust in Jesus Christ as God's Word declares (John 3:16, Eph. 2:8&9, Rom. 10:9&10). And when we say "faith" it's surrendering everything even our life to Jesus Christ (Rom. 12:1&2). In simple saying, we believe that Jesus is true to what He declares Himself, God, our Lord, our Master, our Savior, etc. etc.. and of course manifested in our life. If we truly believe who Jesus is, then all His teachings and principles, is what we follow and obey. How? When Jesus no longer roams the earth? Read His Word, the Bible. I can discuss further more about these things, and more. But, may we focus on How Great God's love is and may we truly realize it and afterwhich, may we respond positively on God's Love, by believing on Who Jesus is. "Will you receive His gift of Love?"

BEWARE OF FALSE PROPHETS / TEACHERS

"But there were false prophets also among the people, 

even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, 

even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. 

And many shall follow their pernicious ways; 

by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. 

And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: 

whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not."
(2 Peter 2:1-3)

As I always share to those whom I teach or I preach to, "How do you know what I teach is true and not false?"

As a Christian, God's Word has warned us to be very discerning to which is true and what is not. The truth can always be twisted. Just a small twist, makes truth never a real truth. That's the reason why James 3:1 gave such a warning and much responsibility and accountability to the teachers of God's Word. Even the sincerest and trustworthy person doesn't guarantee that one could never twist the truth of God. How then can we guarantee that truths taught will always be true? The best thing we could do, is to compare it to Jesus, Who is Truth! But to a person who doesn't believe and have faith in the Lord Jesus Christ will never benefit from this truth. But if you say you are a Christian, then this truth should be the main truth one takes hold on to. Believing on Who Jesus Christ truly is, He being our Lord and our God as Philip also declared (John 20:28). 

Some believe Jesus as only man, and just a great teacher. If we do, then our faith in Jesus makes no difference in believing in any other man. It's pointless! But God's Word declares Jesus to be more! In fact God's Word plainly declares He is God, the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End! And every knee will bow and mouth will confess that Jesus is Lord! (Phil. 2:10-11). Some don't logically understand this, but by Faith it can be understood and logically too! Because from the beginning God doesn't allow anyone else to be bowed down too except Himself. Doesn't that make logical sense that Jesus is God? 

Now, going back to the topic on falsehood and to the teachers of false teaching. One who has set Jesus as the standard of truth can now discern and compare other teachings to Jesus' truths. And one way to discern false teachers from genuine teachers of the Word of God, is by comparing one's life to Jesus Christ! 

True! None can actually be compared to Him or could really measure up to the standard of Jesus' life. Because even I myself would declare I can not measure up to Him. I can only say I am pursuing towards the likeness of Him, and anyone who rebukes and corrects me so I could be like Him, I shall gladly accept whole heartedly. Just as the apostle Paul always declare "Imitate me, as I imitate Christ" (I Cor. 11:1). Apostle Paul declared this, not because he was already perfect or matured. But he knows the center and focus is not him but Christ. 

In contrast, rebuke and correct the false teacher, be sure to receive scorn and he/she will hate you for it. They will become as wolves to destroy you as they always were! For Jesus already declared, "they come with sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves!" (Matthew 7:15)... They are very dangerous! Read the Book of Revelations on the seven churches. Most churches were condemned / judged by God. Why? Most of them were into false teaching (whether it be small or big false teaching). Only two churches were greatly commended and blessed by God. Why? Because they stood firm and hold fast on God's Truths and not a slightest false teaching made through!

Now, let's go back to the question "How do you know what I teach is true and not false?" or "How will you discern which is true from false?" This question should help us Christians to be alert at all cost. Because when falsehood is received, be sure to receive destruction in the end. May not be in this lifetime, but most grievous be is for eternity. How about your church? Is your church still standing for the truth of the Lord Jesus Christ? or has falsehood slipped through? A question worth pondering....

Updated HISTORY OF COBABENG CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP (Year 2017)

Second visit at Cobabeng year 2011

"For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.
How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed?
and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard?
and how shall they hear without a preacher?
And how shall they preach, except they be sent?
as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them
that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!"
(Romans 10:13-15)

To ask how did Cobabeng Christian Fellowship started? I suppose these verses would remind us how, and how even our own churches started. It started simply by the preaching of the gospel of Christ of those whom God sent to go and preach where ever God leads.

The fellowship of believers at Cobabeng started off when Ptr. Huberto Caroy, along with his wife, started going to "Daclan" and to other churches in Benguet as pulpit supply year 2010. At first, they met Mrs. Rowena Binaldo (former Rowena Tino) at Daclan. Then afterwards, met Mrs. Remy Diaz, who is residing at Apalan, a sitio / place along the road going to Daclan. Both already acquainted with Ptr. Caroy before the killer quake of 1990 and both having families and relatives at Cobabeng.

Mrs. Mat-an hiking down at Apalan

Apalan Bible Study early years

Monday morning coming from the first visit to Cobabeng

Ptr. Caroy teaching at Daclan

Bro. Roy Sanoy took charge for the time being at Cobabeng

When Ptr. Caroy was relieved from other schedules of preaching at other Benguet churches except for Camp 6 and Daclan, by faith, Ptr. Caroy started to have bible studies at Apalan by the month of August 2010, with the help of some colleagues in the ministry and support of individuals like Mrs. Elizabeth Mat-an. Soon, the ministry grew and the desire to reach the people at Cobabeng started to ignite.

With the request of Mrs. Binaldo and Mrs. Diaz, coupled with prayer, a one-Sunday-a-month bible study started at Cobabeng, March 6, 2011, just after the Bible study at Daclan bringing along the folks also from Apalan. The first bible study at Cobabeng was held at the house of Tino Family, Mrs. Rowena's family. It was a memorable one for those who first went, since it rained and the van used as transportation wasn't able to run through the muddy road of Cobabeng. Some tried to push the van, but end up being splattered with mud. Ptr. and Mrs. Caroy, along with some companions, had to stay for the night, due to the strong rain and muddy road. Whereas, some, who had next day appointments, had to walk 30-40 minutes in order to reach the highway and commute back to Baguio City. On the positive side, an evening bible study was held and some folks who were not present on the afternoon bible study was able to join in. Some of the folks knew Ptr. Caroy back then when he was ministering to the place called "Bolo", a site located below the sitio Cobabeng. But due to the damage of the Killer Quake of 1990, residents of the place migrated to Cobabeng and some went to Mangagew. The folks were delighted to see a familiar old minister of the Lord and was glad to see him again. Monday morning, Ptr. Caroy and his companions travelled back to their home place.

The one-Sunday-a-month bible study have been difficult for Ptr. Caroy and his companions, due to some of the reasons like the 2-hour ride distance from home, the muddy and landslide-prone roads and lack of financial support. Ptr. Caroy had to stop for a while going to Cobabeng, due to the fact that only a few individuals were able to support his expenses going to the outreaches. He was limited to holding Bible studies at Sitio Apalan only (45 minutes ride away from home). But soon afterwards, he was absorbed as a missionary pastor of Loakan Baptist Church on April 2011. With this, the ministry at Apalan grew and the one-Sunday-a-month bible study at Cobabeng was resumed along with Sunday School for kids.

The ministry at Cobabeng still had its difficulties because even with Loakan Baptist Church's support, the distance and the road are still obstacles, especially when it rains hard. Furthermore, Ptr. Caroy's ministry grew bigger and wider. The believers at Apalan grew in number and places nearby are also being reached by the gospel of Jesus Christ. It also branched-out a new fellowship of believers in another area called "Sitio Muyot, Gumatdang". Therefore managing / pioneering two churches or fellowship on different places while continuing the once-a-month bible study in Cobabeng became tedious. With this, there is a need to call for a full-time, faithful and God-sent laborer in God's harvest field to help build-up these new group of believers as a church. But God has not yet provided or answered "YES" on our prayers on this matter. Instead, He provided volunteers, drivers with vehicles, deacons, laymen, teachers for children and pastors from home church or even from other sister churches willing to help through pulpit supply on these outreaches. With these, the Lord be praised and be glorified for what He has done! God's work continues on...

Throughout the ministry, there were ups and downs, challenges and triumphs. For even when Ptr. Caroy and his wife went to visit their son, Gideon and his family (6 months for Ptr. Caroy and 1 year for Mrs. Shirley Caroy), the Lord be praised as He continued to enable and provide people in order for the ministry at Cobabeng to continue. Bro. Roldan Caroy was tasked to coordinate and continue to handle the ministries and outreaches along with the helps from individuals and volunteers. Bro. Roy Sanoy, a deacon of Loakan Baptist Church, took charge of continuing the Bible study once a month while Ptr. Caroy and his wife was on their leave. And even Ptr. Dencio Wong of Buyagan Christian Fundamental Baptist Church took one Sunday every month to go to Cobabeng while he was able to, until he was assigned on one of their own outreaches. The month of September year 2014, Ptr. Huberto Caroy came back from US and continued to minister again.

The year 2015, 3 individuals (on January 3) and 2 on Dec. 26, followed the Lord Jesus Christ through water baptism. And, Ptr. Caroy made the once-a-month to twice-a-month bible study. The Bible study from the house of Tino family was transferred to Mrs. Editha's house due to house renovation. But also moved the children's sunday school previously held at the school's stage and huts to the wide grassy area where a single pine tree serves only as shade. Thus, this became difficult for the kids specially when rain comes. Consequently, they seek shelter and ask permission on someone else's houses. Because of this, the believers at Cobabeng desires to have their own chapel and not simply rely on residential houses which cannot cater to their growing number of attendees.

First look of the proposed lot at Cobabeng Scraped land of the proposed lot

Work fellowship to build the temporary chapel and soon to be parsonage

Kids were the first to use the temporary room

Dec. 25, Cobabeng Christmas Program and first time to use the temporary chapel for Worship Service / Bible study

In response to this desire, a 1,145 sq.m. lot worth P229,000 was offered and a fund raising campaign started at the month of May 2015. It was negotiated that the amount should be paid by October 2015 -- 6 months to raise the money. And surely enough, God has displayed His graciousness and generosity, for the amount was raised and even exceeded the target amount through the help of fellow Christians, here and abroad. Though the payment was delayed due to miscommunications, still with gladness, joy and praises to our God, a temporary gathering place is put up in the lot where the group is now currently assembling for worship service or bible study. The lot was fully paid by July 23 of 2016, more than a year after the initial negotiation of the lot.

January of 2016, officers for the group was elected and 2 men were appointed to be deacons and it was decided to hold services every Sundays of the month, by assigning people to go to Cobabeng for the first Sunday while Ptr. Caroy goes to Gumatdang. Though it was a good start, it also proved to be still tedious due to the vast work God has given to His servant. And it is therefore a reason that His people are constantly praying to the Lord of the harvest to send forth more laborers. By February of the same year, another 2 individual followed the Lord Jesus Christ through water baptism. And December 25, 2016, the group held their first service in the temporary built chapel of the acquired lot.

And now, an evidence of God's faithfulness, graciousness and abundant love, constantly still extending the call of repentance so that many might come to know Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior and therefore, be saved. With this, all glory and honor be to Him alone, both now and forever. Amen!

Apalan Group year 2011

early visitation at Cobabeng year 2011

Dusty and muddy (when raining)
road - 2011

30-40 minutes walk when raining, going to Cobabeng

Gumatdang Christian Fellowship believers

Water baptism of three individuals

3 Baptized believers with Ptr. Huberto Caroy

2 more baptized believers with Ptr. Huberto Caroy

Another 2 baptized believers with Ptr. Huberto Caroy

Inside the house of Tino Family

Sunday school in a hut

School stage is also used for sunday school, specially when it rains

School grounds for games

Inside House of Tino family

Editha's place facing a wide area of grassy land

teachers and students make use of the grassy land as sunday school room

The one and only pine tree that serves as shade for the kids

Vacation Bible School 2014

Vacation Bible School 2015