CHRISTIANITY, LOVE & MARRIAGE

I recently came across some posts about love and marriage from people who call themselves Christians and say that they follow Jesus and read the Bible. But some of the things they wrote made me stop and think.

The person believes that it is okay for a Christian to have a wife or husband with a different faith, especially a non-Christian faith.

I am not writing this to attack that person. And I am not writing this as someone who has experience in marriage—I am not married myself. So I am not here to speak as though I know marriage better than others.

Rather, I simply want to ask:

What does God's Word say?

Because when it comes to Christianity, the standard should not be my opinion, your opinion, or what we personally want Christianity to be.

It should be God's Word.

FIRST, WHAT IS CHRISTIANITY?

Before we talk about love and marriage, we need to understand what Christianity really is.

Christianity is not simply believing that Jesus existed.

It is not simply trying to follow some of His teachings.

It is not simply being a good person.

And it is not something we can redefine according to our feelings.

The Bible tells us that we are sinners.

“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” — Romans 3:23

And because we have sinned against a holy and righteous God, sin has a penalty:

“For the wages of sin is death...” — Romans 6:23

We cannot remove that debt simply by becoming a better person. We cannot pay for our sins by doing enough good works.

That is why Jesus Christ came.

He died on the cross in our place.

He took the punishment that our sins deserved.

Isaiah prophesied about Christ:

“But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities...” — Isaiah 53:5

And 1 Peter tells us:

“Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree...” — 1 Peter 2:24

Christ became the sacrifice for our sins.

He paid what we could never pay.

He died, was buried, and rose again.

And salvation is received—not by our works—but by putting our faith in Jesus Christ.

“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” — Acts 16:31

So when we speak about Christianity, we are speaking about Christ.

He is not simply someone whose teachings we choose to follow when they agree with us.

He is Lord.

And if He is truly our Lord, then His Word must have authority over our lives.

That includes how we love.

That includes whom we marry.

And that includes the decisions we make even when our feelings tell us something different.

THEN, WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT LOVE?

There is nothing wrong with loving someone.

Christ commanded us to love.

But biblical love is much deeper than feelings, attraction, or simply wanting someone to be happy.

The Bible says:

“Love rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth.” — 1 Corinthians 13:6

True love does not separate itself from truth.

Sometimes loving someone means telling them the truth, even when the truth is difficult.

So we should be careful when we hear:

“Love is enough.”

Because we should ask:

What kind of love?

And more importantly:

What does God say love should look like?

WHAT ABOUT MARRIAGE?

Again, I am not speaking from personal experience. I am simply pointing to what Scripture teaches.

The Bible warns believers:

“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers...” — 2 Corinthians 6:14

I understand that the immediate context of this passage is broader than marriage. But the principle of not being spiritually joined with unbelievers has an important application when a Christian considers marriage.

And 1 Corinthians 7:39 gives us another important principle:

“...she is at liberty to be married to whom she will; only in the Lord.”

So the question for a Christian should not simply be:

“Do I love this person?”

We should also ask:

“Does this person know Christ?”

“Do we believe the same Gospel?”

“Will we be able to follow Christ together?”

“Will we be able to raise our children according to God's Word?”

Because marriage is not simply about finding someone we love.

It is about building a life together.

And if two people have completely different foundations concerning God, salvation, truth, and how life should be lived, that difference should not be treated as something small.

BUT WHAT IF YOU ARE ALREADY MARRIED TO AN UNBELIEVER?

This is also important.

What I have shared above is primarily a warning and a principle for those who are still choosing whom they will marry.

But what about those who are already married to someone who does not believe?

The Bible does not tell the Christian simply to abandon the marriage.

Paul addressed this very situation in 1 Corinthians 7:12–16. If an unbelieving husband or wife is willing to remain in the marriage, the believing spouse should not seek to leave simply because the other spouse is an unbeliever.

Paul even gives hope that the believing spouse may become a godly influence in that home.

“For what knowest thou, O wife, whether thou shalt save thy husband? or how knowest thou, O man, whether thou shalt save thy wife?” — 1 Corinthians 7:16

So there is an important difference between preventing a wrong choice and faithfully living in a situation that already exists.

If someone is already in such a marriage, this is not a message saying:

“Your life is now hopeless.”

Rather:

Seek God.
Remain faithful to Christ.
Love your spouse.
Live according to God's Word.
And be a godly testimony in your home.

God's instruction for those who are choosing a spouse and His instruction for those who are already married to an unbeliever are not exactly the same.

For those who are not yet married, Scripture gives principles to help us make wise choices.

For those who are already married, Scripture gives direction for how to live faithfully in that situation.

Whatever situation we are in, Christ remains sufficient.

A WARNING FOR CHRISTIANS

Especially for young and new believers, please be careful with what you read—even when the person writing it claims to be a Christian.

Someone can say:

“I am a Christian.”

“I believe in Jesus.”

“I read the Bible.”

But those statements alone do not make every teaching that follows biblical.

We must examine what we hear through Scripture.

And that includes this post.

Don't believe something simply because I wrote it.

Open the Bible.

Read the context.

Study it.

Pray for wisdom.

And allow God's Word to correct you—even when it corrects something you personally want to believe.

The Bible should be the lens through which we understand our lives, rather than using our feelings as the lens through which we change the meaning of the Bible.

Because Christianity is not about creating a Jesus who agrees with us.

It is about surrendering ourselves to the Jesus revealed in Scripture.

If we truly belong to Christ, then our love should be shaped by Christ.

Our relationships should be shaped by Christ.

Our decisions should be shaped by Christ.

And even our deepest feelings must be brought under the authority of His Word.

So before we ask:

“Can I love this person?”

perhaps we should first ask:

“Am I truly following Christ?”

And before we say:

“God understands how I feel,”

we should also ask:

“What has God already said?”

May we never be satisfied with a Christianity built around our own opinions.

May we know Christ.

May we trust Christ.

May we love according to His truth.

And may we be willing to obey His Word—even when it goes against what our hearts want.

Because Christ is not merely our example.

He is our Lord and Savior.

 

THE LOAKAN BAPTIST CHURCH HISTORY on her 56th anniversary

Edited from the Original by Roldan Egmin Caroy on Monday, December 10, 2012

. . .” the harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.  Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore ,

to send out workers into the harvest field.”

(Matt. 9:27)

 

Yes, God is the Lord of the harvest.  By this, we give Him honor and thanksgiving on our 56th anniversary. God has used many people, many workers, many circumstances and opportunities to accomplish His work. He has sent workers into His harvest field in Loakan . . .

 

It was sometime in the late 1940’s and the early 1950’s that the seed of the work was planted through the ministries of the Association of Baptists for World Evangelism (ABWE).  Missionaries including Rev. Alfred Conant, Rev. Jerome Casner and family, and the Baguio Baptist Church pioneered Bible classes and children’s Sunday school in what is known today as Puroks Ongasan and Mangga in Loakan Proper.

 

A small group of believers were organized and started to hold regular meetings and Bible classes, first in homes like those of the Cuilan and the Pedro Palispis families.  Later, worship services were held in a makeshift chapel made from donated materials including galvanized iron roofing by the late Mr. and Mrs. Hopewell.

 

The beginnings of the Loakan Baptist Church experienced its share of difficulties and persecutions.  Many of the local people whose paganistic traditions and practices were ingrained in daily living and family life did not readily accept the Word of God. The early believers could remember how their pews would be hang on trees by those unsympathetic to the faith. Also, for a period of about five years after the Conants left, the work seemed to come to a halt.  Inspite of the circumstances, there were those who persevered in the faith.

 

In 1956, Rev. Jerome Casner and Pastor Ansen Valentin started the baptism of new believers.  Formal worship and evening services and the remembrance of the Lord’s supper were started.  Before Rev. Jerome Casner and his family returned to the United States, the believers drafted their church constitution. The group then became known as the LOAKAN BAPTIST CHURCH.

 

By 1958, the makeshift chapel was transferred to a lot located on a hill overlooking the Airport or what is known today as Maryhills. The piece of property was donated by the late Mr. Ngamoy Sacay, an elderly who faithfully attended church. Again, unbelievers scoffed at the small chapel and would call it a “chicken coop” but the believers did not “chicken out” but continued to follow The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.

 

In 1970, a wider lot was donated by Mr. Sacay on which the present church building now stands.  Construction started with a little less than P 5,000.00 on hand and with the leadership then of Pastor Felix Bigornia and a few deacons, the church building was put up.

 

Through the years, the expansion of the church building took place on all sides. Sunday School rooms to accommodate a pre-school was built on the eastern side of the church building under the pastorate of Rev. Larry Domingo.  Church members donated and loaned their money to augment the meager amount that was available to finish the project.

 

In 1990, an adjacent 500 sq.m. lot was bought by the church and annexed to the church frontage.  During the same year in July, a killer earthquake hit the City of Baguio and its suburbs.  The church building sustained considerable damage when the southern portion of the building eroded and the wall collapsed. God’s provision was once again made evident through the gifts from His people, friends and members from here and abroad.  Repairs were undertaken not long thereafter.

 

Again in 1998, under the pastorate of Pastor Graciano Saugen, additional Sunday School rooms and a multi-purpose hall were annexed to the western side of the church. This was to accommodate the growth of the pre-school and the Sunday School classes.

 

More important than the growth in property and improvement in physical structure, the Lord added to the number of believers each year.  From a handful of believers, hundreds if not thousands of lives have been touched by the ministry of the Loakan Baptist Church.  The church has brought the gospel not only to the local residents but to the different parts of Baguio and Benguet like Happy Hallow; Antamok Mines; Balatoc Mines; Camp 1; Camp 6; Loacan, Itogon; Daklan; Apalan; Guisset; Beckel; and Gumatdang. Furthermore, extending to the neighboring provinces like Bacnotan and Burgos of La Union; And, Lubo of Kalinga, Apayao. Daughter churches were established like the Happy Hallow Baptist Church; Balatoc Christian Fundamental Baptist Church; Community Fundamental Baptist Church in Loacan, Itogon; Camp 6 Baptist Church; Harvest Baptist Church in Bacnotan, La Union, and The Living Word Fundamental Baptist Church in Apalan-Guisset.

 

Through the years, God in His infinite wisdom, provided workers too many to mention in this piece of written history just so to accomplish His own purpose in the harvest field.

 

At present the church has around 300 members led by Ptr. Ruben Huyo being the Senior Pastor, Ptr. Geru Sardina as the Associate Pastor beginning year 2009 and Ptr. Lemuel Pay-an, who was recently designated as the Youth Pastor. The church has also absorbed and commissioned Ptr. Hubert Caroy as a Missionary Pastor last year 2011, since he has started mission work in places that of Apalan, Guisset, Cubabeng, Beckel and Gumatdang. His family also have been instrumental in supporting and assisting him, as he continues to evangelize and share the gospel of Christ to places who needs to hear the Hope that is in Christ Jesus. The church has been also given the burden to help in Vigan and commissioned Ptr. Nero and Penny Misajon year 2011 under the supervision of Ptr. Huyo.

 

This year, Ptr. Lowell Achedera was then also called to be the Pastor in Daklan, continuing to reach the lost souls and edify believers in the locality. The church has then decided as well to hand-over the work of the Lord in Burgos, La Union to our fellow Bible Baptist believers who are near the vicinity as it profits nothing competing with other Christian groups; Therefore, focusing more to God’s leading toward open doors of opportunity in sharing the Word of God and the Gospel to other unreached places. It has also been a great mileage and celebration as the Christian Education Center has reached it’s 30th Foundation Anniversary this year.   

 

The church continues on as the Living Body of Christ in the locality of Loakan through the given regular church services, prayer meetings, home and school bible classes, Sunday school, home visitations, the church arms – AWANA, AFC, Young Adults Group, Ladies Fellowship and Men’s Fellowship, music ministries, the Christian Education Center, Parents’ Bible classes and counseling sessions.  All  the activities are aimed to proclaim the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to them who are lost and edify or build the believers into becoming like Christ. 

 

The church also sends and supports local and foreign missionaries; Continues to support Bible School students, currently to name Mr. Roujay Balagot and Ms. Sharon Sison; And, even support volunteers who desire to be used in the ministry, currently to name Ms. Jochebed Caroy undergoing training in “Goducate.”  

 

Through some 56 years, God has amazingly and tremendously blessed the Loakan Baptist Church!  Truly the Lord of the harvest is faithful and worthy of our praise and thanksgiving!

 

Not to us, O Lord, not to us but to your Name be  glory, because of your love and faithfulness.

May the Lord make you increase, both you and your children.

May you be blessed by the Lord, The Maker of heaven and earth.

The highest heavens belong to the Lord, But the earth he has given to man.

It is not the dead who praise the Lord, Those who go down in silence;

It is we who extol the Lord, Both now and forevermore.

Praise the Lord.

(Psalm 115 :1, 14-18)

WHERE WERE THE THOUSANDS OF FOLLOWERS?

"In those days Peter stood up among the brothers (the company of persons was in all about 120)..." (Acts 1:15, ESV)

When Jesus walked and roamed the earth living His 33 and a half years or even taking His three years of ministry, it is recorded in the Bible that THOUSANDS followed Him... like when Jesus fed the 5000 or 4000 which was two different events recorded in the Bible... Wherever He went, THOUSANDS FOLLOWED... But the question was "WHERE WERE THEY, after His death, resurrection on the Third day, giving His last instructions and commands for forty days after His resurrection and after His ascension?" Perhaps the good question to ask is, "Were these THOUSANDS truly following after Jesus Christ or was it something else?" If you would think it honestly and carefully the answer, your answer should be the same as what Jesus Himself also declared before these thousands, and yet most of them still NEVER understood...

"Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you are seeking me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill of the loaves. Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you. For ON HIM God the Father has set his seal.” (John 6:26-27, ESV)

What a pity people are, seeking only those that are temporary and not that which is eternal. People easily are caught up with miracles and wonders. And yet from these THOUSANDS that saw Jesus do marvelous things, "How many were faithful to truly follow Jesus Christ whom God the Father has set His seal?" Acts 1:15 says only a HUNDRED TWENTY (120) were left faithful even after seeing their Master crucified and died. 

(2 Kings 18:1-4) "In the third year of Hoshea son of Elah, king of Israel, Hezekiah the son of Ahaz, king of Judah, began to reign. He was twenty-five years old when he began to reign, and he reigned twenty-nine years in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Abi the daughter of Zechariah. And he did what was right in the eyes of the Lord, according to all that David his father had done. HE REMOVED THE HIGH PLACES AND BROKE THE PILLARS AND CUT DOWN THE ASHERAH. AND HE BROKE IN PIECES THE BRONZE SERPENT THAT MOSES HAD MADE, FOR UNTIL THOSE DAYS THE PEOPLE OF ISRAEL HAD MADE OFFERINGS TO IT (IT WAS CALLED NEHUSHTAN).

Do "CHRISTIANS" truly understand what Hoshea had done? And yet until now, professing Christians still does the error of Israel and continue to build what God has always so angry and go against and a reason why Hoshea was declared to be "he did what was RIGHT in the eyes of the Lord." 

God has always been so clear from the beginning and yet people are stiff-necked to think that "Hey, it's our belief and faith on God, NO ONE has the right to choose what is right for us!" or "This is what we believe which is right, therefore, don't judge or tell us to be wrong!".. This what we call today as "Post Modern Thinking".. The thinking that this is the modern era now and those old things are not right anymore. A reason to think that the Bible is outdated and has no life or power or authority at all. The thing is, the Bible stands on Its own and can defend itself as it has always declared to be God's instruction for "Doctrine" = God's Teaching / Principles, for "Reproof" = say what is wrong, for "Correction" = say what is the right ", and for "Instruction for righteousness" = to continue to instruct what is right in order for not to fall to sin in the future. (II Timothy 3:16-17)

While these people hardly listen, still Jesus calls for repentance (turn back against sin and follow after Christ) and remission of sins goes on with a hope that many would truly repent. For there WILL be a time when He shall judge all men. And the most pitiful people to experience is what Jesus said in Matthew 7:21-23:

"Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity."

"I NEVER KNEW YOU! DEPART FROM ME, YE THAT WORK INIQUITY."

When the time comes to face Jesus Christ, the Lord, Master, and the Judge... will He truly welcome us or will say, this dreadful words? Remember, yes! God is Love... BUT He also is Justice! as He is The Righteous Judge.  

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.... =)

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?" 

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