Kingdom Fellowship Weekend

Brother, sister, respected friend, have you paused to examine carefully this faith that is being highlighted again and again over these days?

This message will take a fast flight over human history from the book of Genesis until now and look again at the foundations of this FAITH! The just shall LIVE by faith… and that wasn’t just the idea of Luther and the reformers, it IS the Word of God! But wait, LIVE by faith? Is this a concept… or a life changing reality? And, as the old song states: will it “do when I am dying?”

Fallow ground is unprepared, unseeded, and unattended. It is both neglected and hardened, unable to reach its full potential. Fallow ground speaks of missed purpose, lukewarmness, apathy and slothfulness. Count on it… fallow ground never leads to abundant fruitfulness.

The call to break up fallow ground was not given to the heathen nations, but to God’s people. Repentance was the first message of Jesus as He began His preaching ministry. It is more than a one-time experience in becoming saved. Repentance is a way of life for those living in the light and are bearing glorious fruit for God.

The theme of the panel discussion is taken from 1 Corinthians 16:13.

“Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.”

—1 Corinthians 16:13, KJV

Each panelist focuses on one phrase, then wrestle through questions. Following are the four topics:

Tradition is a system of beliefs or expected behaviors passed down within a group of people with symbolic meaning or special significance…customs, ethics, values, norms, heritage and culture are nearly synonymous terms.

Traditionalism refers to a profound distrust of anything that would alter or interfere with maintaining traditions. In the extreme, this behavior becomes “reactionary,” that is, an opposition to (and rejection of) any and all innovations that cause traditions to be modified or lost.

Anabaptist commitment to a cultural heritage has been a two-edged sword. It has been a tremendous blessing… insulating our churches from many damaging societal influences… “a friend to grace to help us on to God.”

Clearly, though, an unhealthy preoccupation with the past can diminish our ability to portray the glory of Christ. It can distract us (and the watching world) from His Gospel. It can damage our compelling portrayal of His kingdom.

This sermon will attempt to consider an answer to Francis Schaeffer’s pressing question: “How, then, shall we live?”

As the focus of this conference will include the inspiring history of some courageous young men in the 1500s who took a tough stand for clear principles of the Word of God, this message for youth will jump back a few centuries earlier and gain courage and inspiration from a boy in the Bible. This boy stood firmly with faith in his God in a very absorbing and challenging cultural setting that was not entirely unlike ours today. Will you?

What would come to be called the “Radical Reformation or Anabaptism” began in a time of unrest and upheaval. The medieval traditions and the authority of the established church were being challenged by many voices and ideas.

How could someone know the truth in such a chaotic and confusing time? If the traditional medieval church model was corrupted, should it be reformed or completely rebuilt? How should the Scriptures be interpreted and applied to give the right direction? By what process would believers determine God’s direction for their lives and how would they counsel other believers?

Those decisions were important, because they would live, and perhaps die, by what they believed and by whose voice they chose to follow.

Thousands of courageous young men willingly gave their lives to defend the “cause of freedom” in the World Wars.

Where are the men and women, young and old, who would willingly risk their lives for the cause of Spiritual Freedom today? Why aren’t we hearing about more Anabaptist people losing their lives in spreading the Gospel?

Fifty days after Christ’s resurrection, the mighty wind of the Spirit of Power roared through the midst of 120 disciples when the Day of Pentecost “was fully come.” This birthed the Church of the Firstborn, 3,000 strong, from a rag-tag band of disciples. Corruption invaded almost immediately (Acts 5) among the Brethren. This disgrace quickly “made havock of the Church… perverting its Gospel” (Gal. 1:6-9), and devastating its testimony.

The Spirit of Pentecost continued to whisper breezes of Truth among nascent reform movements through long centuries riddled with compromise and error among God’s people. Early in the 16th century, these stirrings became storm-clouds and the “rushing mighty wind” of the Spirit roared again on another tiny band of disciples. Reformers? Yes, but radicalized… doggedly determined to unleash the Spirit of Truth and the Sword of His Word. Their non-negotiable goal? A rebirth in the Church of the Firstborn.

Four men that loomed large in the early days of this Spirit-powered upheaval deserve some thoughtful consideration. Ulrich Zwingli, Felix Manz, Conrad Grebel and George Blaurock all bled and died in the early days of Anabaptism for their understanding of the Church. We do well to examine the two Spirits clashing among them… the Harlot Church, and the Church of the Living God have come to blows. This same battle rages in our day. Whose testimony will we pattern the church after in our day?

Peering through 500 years of history, how can we know what caused the Reformation? When the prophet Habakkuk lamented that he did not understand what God was doing, God replied pointedly, “I am working a work in your days which you would not believe even if someone told it to you.”

We begin with God’s promises before talking about central issues such as the believer’s church, non-participation in warfare, the nature of the Kingdom of God, and new access to Scripture. Then we discuss contributing factors such as plague and threat of invasion before returning once again to God’s promise.

Imagine a church out of touch with reality! What kind of answers could it provide for the European masses? On top of that, imagine religious ignorance born from illiteracy and followed by religious totalitarian control.

Any lessons for us?

In this talk, Kinley Coulter outlines three points to highlight the battle we are in, and how to effectively win by God’s grace:

THE INESCAPABLE REALITY:

The forces powering the conflict that is raging between the Church and the kingdoms of this world are invisible but utterly real and eternally dangerous.

OUR INFERNAL RIVAL:

The kingdoms of this world are walking in blind, faithful obedience to the God of this world. We do well to consider the ‘wiles’ and ‘devices’ of the prince of this world so that we can better perceive how he operates against us through fallen humanity, deceiving us into compromise and disobedience.

OUR INFINITE RESOURCES:

The church will, most certainly, prevail. The kingdoms of this world will become the kingdoms of our Lord. The resurrection power we wield as the people of God is without limit, and so we are without excuse. Tragically, many Christians, many congregations, and many denominations will be ineffective, or worse, suffer needless shipwreck.

The topic ends with a call to faithfulness.

In this engaging talk, Melvin Lehman discusses how Communism and Socialism have failed. He begins with the its history and high aspirations: goals we could identify with. Yet it’s famously crumbled. Why?

Are we destined to have a society with disparate poor and wealthy classes? How can worthy goals like equality be realized today? Melvin points to the answer offered by Jesus.

This chorus of 150+ youth attendees of KFW 2024 praised the Lord in song together.

“Media” by Melvin Lehman

We do well to be wary of the negative effects digital media has on our lives. But “What hath God wrought?” to quote Samuel Morse, is an important question. How might our heavenly Father direct us to use this tool to serve the Kingdom of God in our day? We hope to look at the issues pro and con that are raised by this question.

“Business” by Leo Eby

Business and hospitality as usual? Hardly!

Seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteous puts a hard reset to business and hospitality!

Business and hospitality are not in competition with apologetics or community building, or media opportunities. Instead, business and hospitality provide a perfect spring board for apologetics, community building, and media opportunities.

“Community Development” by Pete Garber

What does it look like when the truth transforms a community? Community Development believes in the inherent dignity and value of people, the latent resources and capacities within communities, and the comprehensive plan and provision of God for human flourishing. As His emissaries, we have the opportunity to be a catalyst in the work that God is doing to heal, redeem, restore a broken world. Come join the work of proclaiming the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ the Son of David!

“Apologetics” by Kinley Coulter

Apologetics is articulating a reasoned defense of Christian truth… responding to unbelievers’ objections to the faith. We are, like Paul, to be “set for the defense of the Gospel” (Philippians 1:17).

Polemics is the other cutting edge of the Christian apologist’s blade… we move beyond defense of truth and go on the offensive… pointing out errors and undermining the worldling’s irrational and anti-scriptural worldview.

We must use both cutting edges deftly, convincingly and compassionately as we obey Peter’s imperative to “Be ready, always, to give an answer to every man” (1 Peter 3:15).

Purpose, meaning, fulfillment, motivation—these are things every human longs for. But what exactly is purpose, and how do we know when we’ve truly found it? What is your reason for being? While there are no simple answers, a biblical perspective offers foundational principles to help us begin answering these questions in each of our own lives. In this talk, we will discuss the universal pursuit of meaning and purpose in life.

When our homes become hospitality centers, it’s sort of like a combination of a restaurant and a hospital with no charge.

God has given each of our homes a strength or a talent that we can offer to the people that God sends to our homes. What is a strength that God gave you to share? Do you have one specialty food that you love to make? Or you can serve cereal. We are really without excuse.

Besides food, people are hungry for acceptance and value, a listening ear, a safe place to cry. Share a song, share your children.

Be strong where it matters most – loving God and loving people. Even though we will never be the perfect hostess, we can practice on people, as if they were an angel, or as if they were Jesus himself.

Join us as we explore the reality of poverty and some of the ways to measure it. What we identify as the cause will determine what we propose as the solution.

We'll be discussing economic disparity, considering the opposite of poverty (it's not wealth), and precedents in poverty alleviation.

Imagine what the world might be like if communities applied what God has shown us of His heart for the marginalized and the vulnerable. How did the early church respond. What will it cost us, where do we begin, and what can we expect?

As Anabaptists interact more freely and frequently with news media, they are faced with greater pressures—internally and externally—to become involved in national and international affairs. Should we be doing more? If so, what is the more we should be doing? This talk is not entirely descriptive (since a small percentage of Anabaptists are involved to one small degree or another politically), but it is more prescriptive as we look at ways non-resistant Christians are and should live consistently, clearly and caringly toward the broader national culture in which we find ourselves.

Prayer for political leaders:

Dear God, thank You for the peace and stability You have granted us. Please move upon the leaders of this nation and help them recognize the responsibility they have before You. I pray for President Biden, Vice President Harris, the Supreme Court justices and all judges across this nation. I pray also for the representatives and senators, both state and national. I lift the governor, the county commissioners, the township supervisors, and all who are in authority, to You. Help them to lead in such a way that we may live quiet and peaceable lives. I pray that You would bring to nothing the counsels of the ungodly, foil the plans of the evil one and let truth prevail. In all these things I pray Your kingdom come and Your will be done in this nation and in every nation on earth as it is in heaven. Amen.

The sands of time are sinking! This message is an urgent call to devote our hearts, lives, time, and energy completely to the kingdom of Jesus. Jesus said his followers are the light of the world, but before that can happen each of our own lamps must first be lit by a personal walk with Jesus.

Time moves on, eternity draws nearer every day, and the world and our own flesh are trying to distract us from our mission: to keep our eyes on the Bridegroom, and to expand his glorious kingdom! We need to refocus, to set our affection on things above, to examine our hearts and see if we are in the faith, and to live always in the joyful anticipation of the glorious dawning of the day when the last sands slip through the glass, the dawn of heaven breaks, and the Bridegroom comes for his bride!

Jesus is building a spiritual kingdom on earth in earthen vessels sanctified for the Master’s use with none other than resurrected, crucified flesh! His kingdom doesn’t exist in a vacuum, but in flesh and blood, in a world groaning and broken by sin.

"So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us." -1 Thessalonians 2:8

Does it matter if we share, or do not share, our souls and emotions in sharing of the Gospel? Just how far do we go in sharing our souls and emotions and resources? How does this verse challenge me and all of us in areas of business and hospitality to share our souls, emotions, and resources, along with the Gospel of the kingdom?

In this panel discussion, moderator Wendell Martin fielded questions from the audience in relation to these preceeding three messages:

Andrew Kurtz contrasts Jesus’ teaching on greatness with the worldly methods of self-exaltation and power politics. Jesus teaches that the ones being served have greater value than the leader. An attitude of humility and service is more important than the leadership structure.

Justin Wadel speaks about the need for Christians to “be real,” living above the compromise and division that too often characterize Christianity. Each person is a necessary part, required for the Church to work properly. Corporate discipleship is how we press into the Kingdom, with self-examination, setting goals for personal growth, and being the change that is needed in the world.

Beginning with a call for us to be unified in Christ, Melvin gives an overview of historical changes in the Anabaptist movement. He reminds us that we need all the members working together for the body to flourish. Melvin urges us to respect boundaries and to be proactive rather than reactive to issues that need to be addressed.

Spiritual disciplines are basically hidden from the eyes of others, but that which we’ve received from Jesus is going to splash out to bless all the people around us. We will be under pressure what we have rehearsed in our leisure.

A mother can incorporate spiritual disciplines as she goes through her day. Singing and Bible memory is something that you can do with your children. It doesn’t need to be an either-or thing of spending time building your relationship with God or managing the household. That running conversation going on in your head during the day – you can turn it into a conversation with God. There are numerous ways that a child-bearing mother can fast, and thereby nurture an eternal perspective.

Motivated by our highest love to Jesus, we’re willing to diligently pursue priorities that help us thrive spiritually. As we sense our weakness and inadequacy, we lean into Christ’s strength.

What is the mission of the Church? What does God want to see from us as Christians? The church has withstood many adversities throughout its history, and there have always been true followers of Jesus that have carried His message to the world. God has always had a remnant of people who have carried the faith further.

Listen as brother Trent shows how God has faithfully kept a remnant throughout history to show his glory to the world. We need not be discouraged because of hard times. We need to see that there is a glorious opportunity for us a Christians to portray Gods glory and honour, especially in times trouble and persecution.

What are some distractions and temptations the church is facing today? Join these four men along with Nathan Overholt as they wrestle with these four topics relevant to our day.

"Are you infinitely distracted," Trent Eikenberry asks us, "with up to the minute news from the other side of the world?" He suggests that this relatively new phenomenon is keeping us from seeing real needs and lost souls right around us. How much should we be "in the know"?

Next, Elisha Byler introduces what he calls "pop up theology". This is old heresy covered with a skimpy varnish of Christian terminology that spreads quickly through social media platforms. These half truths we are bombarded with can distract us from deep genuine Bible study. How are you combating this distraction?

What about materialism? Philip Showalter tells us that far too often our souls are lean and sickly and we lack the power of God, but our bank accounts are fat and our businesses are flourishing. Hard work and industry are good, but the problem is our accumulation of money. He challenges us to stop justifying materialism and to repent of our love for money. What is first place in your life?

Lastly, Kevin Brechbill calls out the sin of gossip. A gossip is a person who habitually reveals personal and sensational facts about others. Churches are struggling to be united because of this root problem of massive gossip. The most effective way to combat gossip is to talk a good report about others. Ask your brother or your sister to tell you when you are gossiping. Are you building others up or tearing them down with your words?

Self-denial. It sounds like a very negative thing. But is it? What is Gelassenheit? What does it take for brothers to have Brotherhood Agreements? What does it take to live in true Community as Jesus intended? What does it mean to deny self? Why should I deny self? Why is it necessary to submit my life to other members in the church?

These questions get answered in this message, and the importance of denying ourself is explained. If viewed correctly, it is a glorious thing to deny self. Self gets in the way of so many things. Let us strive to deny and crucify self!

How much do you want to get done in life?

How can we be useful vessels that God can use to get a lot done in His kingdom? Self-control, one of the fruits of the Spirit, is an essential element in our lives if we want to be fruitful Christians. We make a firm decision, and the Holy Spirit gives us the power to live it out. Spiritual disciplines such as prayer, daily morning devotions, and a pure thought life will make us vessels that God can use. As we find victory from things such as lust, idolatry, grumbling, and addictions, we can be a soldier in God’s Kingdom. In this message Elisha Byler shares from the things he has learned in his journey with the Lord and from his years of experience working among an indigenous group in Mexico.

In architecture, pillars provide crucial strength and stability to buildings that can last for generations. In the same way, any enduring church needs members who are faithful ‘pillars’ that others can rely on (Galatians 2:9). Brother Philip Showalter shares six simple steps to becoming a pillar in the church.

Open transparency in the brotherhoodBe un-offendableLearn the heart of your leadersBending and blendingCommitment to the churchVibrant walk with God

Do you want the church to be what Christ intended? Resolve in your heart to become a pillar in the church, for God’s glory. It’s a calling for each one of us!

In this message, Joel Martin challenges us to consider three prophetic keys that are absolutely essential for those of us who hope to overcome the accuser of the brethren. How will the victorious saints overcome the devil? Let’s learn together how we will be able to conquer that great dragon of whom the Scriptures say, “Woe unto you ye inhabitants of the earth for the devil is come down unto you having great wrath!”

We all yearn to witness the realization of heaven on earth, but the question remains: How does this transformation occur? Does God suddenly change us into completely new Christlike people? Will it come with a group of averagely good individuals? Or will heaven truly come to earth only when we as individuals and churches press into intentional growth into mature Christians.

This message presents and emphasizes the importance of Christlike maturity becoming an intentional pursuit of every individual and the core passion of each church. Maturity serves as the gateway to building trust, which is the currency of credibility for both individuals and churches. It creates an avenue for churches to experience sustainability and longevity.

How can we be a church not just in name, but in holiness, and in the character of God? Is the church of Jesus Christ prepared to face her battles? Do we know who our enemy is? Are we unified against our enemy? Are we winning our battles?

A soldier for King Jesus must have complete surrender to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. We serve our Captain Jesus. Jesus is the Author and Finisher of our faith. If we want to stand in the time of testing, trials, and temptation we must put on the whole armor of God.

If we want to know how to win the battles ahead of us, we must know whose side we are on, who is on our side, and who our enemy is.

The question is not if temptations will come, the question is, “When temptations come are you prepared to stand?”

In his call for the church to “lengthen the tent cords and strengthen the stakes,” Raymond Glick points to the need for brotherhoods to identify the gifts individuals have been given, to bless and encourage the use of those gifts, and for leaders to delegate responsibility to gifted members.

Raymond Glick, Kevin Brechbill and Micah Hozen discuss and take audience questions raised by the message on “God’s Equipment for Building His Church.” Panel discussion moderated by Andrew Kurtz.

Elisha Byler emphasizes personal surrender and the practice of spiritual disciplines of prayer, fasting, and Bible reading. These practices fortify us for the experiences in kingdom work that feel like going through a meat grinder.

Andrew V. Ste. Marie paints a powerful picture of the dedication and desperation that powered the spread of God's kingdom in the days of the early Anabaptists. Andrew calls us to cultivate faithful communities that shine a welcoming light into the darkness around us.

This message was given at the Church Growth Seminar 2023, which is a segment organized by the Church Planters’ Forum (https://churchplantersforum.org/).

Let All Things Now Living

Katherine K. Davis, 1892-1980

Descant by Tom Fettke, 1941-

© Word Music, LLC (ASCAP) and Integrity’s Hosanna! Music (ASCAP).

All Rights Reserved. Used by permission.

1 Let all things now living a song of thanksgiving

To God the Creator triumphantly raise;

Who fashioned and made us, protected and stayed us,

Who still guides us on to the end of our days,

God’s banners are o’er us, His light goes before us,

A pillar of fire shining forth in the night:

Till shadows have vanished and darkness is banished,

As forward we travel from light into light.

2 His law He enforces, the stars in their courses,

And sun in its orbit obediently shine,

The hills and the mountains, the rivers and fountains,

The depths of the ocean proclaim Him divine.

We too, should be voicing our love and rejoicing

With glad adoration, a song let us raise:

Till all things now living unite in thanksgiving,

“To God in the highest, hosanna and praise!”

Chorus director: Mark Beachy

Hymns of the Church, # 14

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Blessed Are They Who Will Trust in the Lord

Friedrich Munz, 1865-1916

Tr. Dan Nickel, 1993

Words & music © Copyright 2010 by Larry K. Nickel. Used by permission.

Sorry, verse 1 and 2 are not recorded.

1 Blessed are they who will trust in the Lord

Who offers us love and grace.

Almighty Pow’r, every foe is subdued

He saves us in wondrous ways.

Chorus:

Blessed are they who trust in the Lord,

Blessed yes, wonderf’ly blessed are they.

Praise to the Lord! Shining Star of Grace.

Guide us, O Father, along your way,

Guide us, O Father, along your way.

Blessed are they,

Blessed are they,

Blessed are they who trust in the Lord.

Blessed are they,

Blessed are they,

Blessed are they who trust in the Lord.

2 Blessed are they who are led by His hand

Thru the ups and the downs each day.

Blessed the hand who reigns over all,

Who strong and secure shall stay.

3 Blessed are they who are quiet in pain,

Such pain that the Lord allows.

Comforting cross where the Saviour was slain

Brings hope to the suffering brow.

4 Blessed are they who will trust in the Lord

And follow that Godly light.

Eternal Word, what a fortress of pow’r

Victorious it takes the fight.

Chorus director: Mark Beachy

Hymns of the Church, # 997

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Bread for the Journey

Bret Hesla

Copyright 1990 Bret Hesla.

Posted by permission of Augsburg Fortress.

1 Give us bread for the journey. Give us bread.

Give us bread for the journey. Give us bread.

When our feet are getting heavy

And we’re hanging down our heads,

Give us bread for the journey. Give us bread.

2 Guide our way as we travel. Guide our way.

Guide our way as we travel. Guide our way.

With so many roads before us,

Where to go is hard to say.

Guide our way as we travel. Guide our way.

3 Make us one with each other. Make us one.

Make us one with each other. Make us one.

All the walls we’ve built around us

May we learn to tear them down.

Make us one with each other. Make us one.

4 Lead us home to the garden. Lead us home.

Lead us home to the garden. Lead us home.

Where we’ll live with all creation,

Find our place and never roam.

Lead us home to the garden. Lead us home.

5 Give us bread for the journey. Give us bread.

Give us bread for the journey. Give us bread.

When our feet are getting heavy

And we’re hanging down our heads,

Give us bread for the journey. Give us bread.

Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing

Robert Robinson, 1735-1790

1 Come, thou Fount of every blessing,

Tune my heart to sing thy grace;

Streams of mercy, never ceasing,

Call for songs of loudest praise.

Teach me some melodious sonnet,

Sung by flaming tongues above.

Praise the mount I’m fixed upon it

Mount of God’s redeeming love.

2 Here I raise my Ebenezer;

Hither by thy help I’ve come;

And I hope, by thy good pleasure,

Safely to arrive at home.

Jesus sought me when a stranger,

Wandering from the fold of God;

He, to rescue me from danger,

Bought me with his precious blood.

3 Oh, to grace how great a debtor

Daily I’m constrained to be!

Let thy goodness, like a fetter,

Bind my wandering heart to thee:

Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it,

Prone to leave the God I love;

Here’s my heart, O take and seal it;

Seal it for thy courts above.

Chorus director: Mark Beachy

Lord, in the Fullness of My Might

Thomas H. Gills, 1819-1906

1 Lord, in the fullness of my might,

I would for Thee be strong;

While runneth o’er each dear delight,

To Thee should soar my song.

2 I would not give the world my heart,

And then profess Thy love;

I would not feel my strength depart,

And then Thy service prove.

3 I would not with swift-winged zeal

On the world’s errands go,

And labour up the heav’nly hill

With weary feet and slow.

4 O not for Thee my weak desires,

My poorer, baser part!

O not for Thee my fading fires,

The ashes of my heart.

5 O choose me in my golden time,

In my dear joys have part!

For Thee the glory of my prime,

The fullness of my heart. Amen.

Chorus director: Mark Beachy

Hymns of the Church, # 965

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The Music of Heaven

Elisha A. Hoffman, 1839-1929

1 The music of heaven is sweeter in measure

And purer in every strain,

Than the music of earth, tho’ it fills us with pleasure,

As it thrillingly rolls over valley and plain.

Chorus:

Oh, music of heaven

So rich and so sweet;

Oh, joy that it brings us!

So full and complete.

2 The music of heaven is grander in rhyming

Than any that mortal e’er toned,

And the mansions of glory forever are chiming

With the songs that arise to the Saviour enthroned.

3 The music of heaven, no mortal can sing it,

Save he who attunes his poor soul,

At the throne of the Father, to swell and to ring it,

With the angels to make it thru paradise roll.

Chorus director: Mark Beachy

Hymns of the Church, # 1013

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Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross

Fanny J. Crosby, 1820-1915

1 Jesus, keep me near the cross,

There a precious fountain;

Free to all, a healing stream,

Flows from Calv’ry’s mountain.

Chorus:

In the cross, in the cross

Be my glory ever,

Till my ransomed soul shall find

Rest beyond the river.

2 Near the cross, a trembling soul,

Love and mercy found me;

There the Bright and Morning Star

Shed His beams around me.

3 Near the cross! O lamb of God,

Bring its scenes before me;

Help me walk from day to day

With its shadow o’er me.

4 Near the cross! I’ll watch and wait,

Hoping, trusting ever;

Till I reach the golden strand,

Just beyond the river.

Chorus director: Mark Beachy

I Would Love Thee

Madame Guyon, 1648-1717

1 I would love Thee, God and Father!

My Redeemer, and my King!

I would love Thee; for without Thee

Life is but a bitter thing.

2 I would love Thee; ev’ry blessing

Flows to me from out Thy throne;

I would love Thee; —he who loves Thee

Never feels himself alone.

3 I would love Thee; look upon me,

Ever guide me with Thine eye:

I would love Thee; if not nourished

By Thy love, my soul would die.

4 I would love Thee; I have vowed it;

On Thy love my heart is set;

While I love Thee, I will never

My Redeemer’s blood forget.

Chorus director: Mark Beachy

Hymns of the Church, # 379

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Jesus Shall Reign Where'er the Sun

Isaac Watts, 1719

1 Jesus shall reign where’er the sun

Does its successive journeys run;

His kingdom stretch from shore to shore,

Till moons shall wax and wane no more.

2 To him shall endless prayer be made,

And praises throng to crown His head.

His name like sweet perfume shall rise

With every morning sacrifice.

3 Blessings abound where’er he reigns:

The pris’ner leap to lose their chains,

The weary find eternal rest,

And all the sons of want are blest.

4 Let every creature rise and bring

Peculiar honors to our King,

Angels descend with songs again,

And earth repeat the loud Amen.

Hymns of the Church, # 263

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Come, We That Love the Lord

Isaac Watts, 1674-1748

1 Come, we that love the Lord,

And let our joys be known;

Join in a song with sweet accord,

Join in a song with sweet accord,

And thus surround the throne,

And thus surround the throne.

Chorus:

We’re marching to Zion,

Beautiful, beautiful Zion;

We’re marching upward to Zion,

The beautiful city of God.

2 Let those refuse to sing

Who never knew our God;

But children of the heav'nly King,

But children of the heav'nly King

May speak their joys abroad,

May speak their joys abroad.

3 The hill of Zion yields

A thousand sacred sweets

Before we reach the heav’nly fields,

Before we reach the heav’nly fields,

Or walk the golden streets,

Or walk the golden streets.

4 Then let our songs abound,

And ev’ry tear be dry.

We’re marching thro’ Immanuel’s ground,

We’re marching thro’ Immanuel’s ground,

To fairer worlds on high,

To fairer worlds on high.

Chorus director: Mark Beachy

Hymns of the Church, # 30

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Great Is Thy Faithfulness

Thomas Obediah Chisholm, 1866-1960

1 Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father

There is no shadow of turning with Thee

Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not

As Thou hast been, Thou forever will be.

Chorus:

Great is Thy faithfulness!

Great is Thy faithfulness!

Morning by morning new mercies I see

All I have needed Thy hand hath provided

Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me.

2 Summer and winter and springtime and harvest

Sun, moon and stars in their courses above

Join with all nature in manifold witness

To Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love.

3 Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth

Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide

Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow

Blessings all mine with ten thousand beside.

Chorus director: Mark Beachy

O the Deep, Deep Love of Jesus

Samuel Trevor Francis, 1834-1925

1 O the deep, deep love of Jesus,

Vast, unmeasured, boundless, free,

Rolling as a mighty ocean

In its fullness over me.

Underneath me, all around me,

Is the current of Thy love;

Leading onward, leading homeward,

To my glorious rest above.

2 O the deep, deep love of Jesus,

Spread His praise from shore to shore;

How He loveth, ever loveth,

Changeth never, nevermore;

How he watches o’er His loved ones,

Died to call them all His own;

How for them He intercedeth,

Watcheth o’er them from the throne.

3 O the deep, deep love of Jesus,

Love of ev’ry love the best:

‘Tis an ocean vast of blessing,

‘Tis a haven sweet of rest.

O the deep, deep love of Jesus,

‘Tis a heav’n of heav’ns to me;

And it lifts me up to glory,

For it lifts me up to Thee. Amen.

Chorus director: Mark Beachy

Hymns of the Church, # 291

https://scrollpublishing.com/products/hymns-of-the-church/

Drawing on the prophetic vision of the kingdom of God as illustrated in Psalm 48, Nathan Yoder calls for a close inspection of God’s design, as the Psalmist says:

Walk about Zion,

And go all around her.

Count her towers;

Mark well her bulwarks;

Consider her palaces;

That you may tell it to the generation following.

For this is God,

Our God forever and ever;

He will be our guide

Even to death.

-Psalm 48:12-14 NKJV

Paul’s diagnosis of the Corinthians was that many were weak, sickly, and sleeping. With a passion for a strong, healthy, and wakeful church, Nathan gives a fervent call for renewed vibrancy and life.

Thomas’ words to his fellow-disciples, “Let us go with Him that we may die also,” once spoken in fatalistic tones, took on a new and exciting perspective for the apostles after Jesus’ resurrection.

In this presentation, Ken Miller shares a graphic, historical profile of the crucifixions of Stephen, James son of Zebedee, Philip, James “the Lesser,” Barnabas, Mark, Peter, Paul, Andrew, Bartholemew, Thomas, Matthew, Simon the zealot, Matthias, and Luke.

“We conquer in dying; we go forth victorious at the very time we are subdued. […] Kill us, torture us, condemn us, grind us to dust; your injustice is the proof that we are innocent. […] Nor does your cruelty, however exquisite, avail you; it is rather a temptation to us. The oftener we are mown down by you, the more in number we grow; the blood of Christians is seed.” -Tertullian, 155-220

This topic illustrates persecution with an expectancy of heavenly reward, spiritual growth, victory over sin, and maturity.

Brothers Ken Miller, Barry Grant, Zack Johnson, and John D. Martin discuss what issues must be pursued with wholehearted conviction, with no regard to the cost. Panel discussion moderated by Brother Paul Shirk.

How do we prepare to suffer for the cause of Christ?

Peter tells us, “Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind…” This would indicate that we are to have the right mindset regarding suffering for our faith. How do we prepare our minds to suffer for Christ as God would choose for each one of our lives?

In this panel discussion, we consider:

Janie Wagoner touched on several different crosses we face as women, including marriage, singlehood, and loss of health.

However, the crosses we face in life are not the end. A quote from her experience with her daughter’s death from a heart defect, “God chose not to heal [my daughter’s] heart, but He can heal our hearts.”

Janie shares personal experiences relating to different crosses women bear in an uplifting and tangible way that people in different walks and stages of life can all relate to.

In this presentation, Barry Grant offers a Scriptural basis for loving our enemies, combined with stories from his personal experience interacting with gangleaders in Haiti.

Theories of enemy-love are great over the coffee table, but is that the best way to prepare to rightly respond when a gun is on your forehead? What is the one tool the evil one uses to intimidate, which we can overcome by the power of God?

When God does a work in our life we would be unable to achieve on our own, humility is the result. This message is a call to walk in that humbly before God.

Christ calls his followers to a radical approach to sacrificial peacemaking that expects persecution, surrenders rights, and will sacrifice all for just one soul.

In this talk Zack Johnson explores the question “what is peacemaking?” – he introduces the “four quadrants of Peace” to understand different approaches to peace and concludes that NO BLOOD BUT OUR OWN should be the mantra of peacemaking.

Christ’s people must move toward a biblical and sacrificial approach to Two Kingdoms peacemaking. For love of God. For love of enemies. For King Jesus.

Have you ever wondered what the kingdom of God is? It was the greatest theme of Jesus’ preaching, but today is often misunderstood by Christians. This is tragic, because a genuine expression of God’s kingdom on earth is the primary way a broken world will come to know Him.

In this message, Brother John D. Martin explains these vital elements of the way:

A Kingdom MentalityA Kingdom TheologyA Kingdom Society

The way of the kingdom is the treasure of all true Christians, but history is littered with individuals and churches who were seduced away from God’s ideal. The way is simple, but not easy. Not automatic.

Would you like to know the secrets to experiencing what God intends for His kingdom? Both now and in the future? Drawing from over forty years of passionately pursuing God’s kingdom, John gives us seasoned guidance on how to thrive and endure in the only way that can truly bring joy to the world.

In this presentation, Barry Grant gives a rousing call to awake from spiritual slumber.

Sleeping is tricky: you can accidentally fall asleep, and you cannot wake yourself up. We talk the talk, we sing the songs, and we pray the prayers – but where is God? With Judgment Day honesty, are you confident Jesus will not deem you lukewarm on the last day?

The more the enemy comes into our face with things we never thought we could face, the closer we get to God. Are you in the fight against evil? Are you confident in walking in the light – not only while in church, but while you’re among your peers in the world?

The sleeping church doesn’t face persecution. When the church rises up forsaking all, the battle begins. Does Satan laugh at your spiritual commitment?

The way of the cross is more than historic drama that occurred on a hill far away. It’s more than a conflict of conscience because of the terribly large discrepancy between Christ’s holy standard and one’s faulty example of it. Something must happen to us on the cross. It must be the position of our faith to die on the cross.

How can callings contribute to good team relationships and how can they hinder good working relationships? Should a team screen those who want to join the team? What are some good questions that team members should ask each other before committing themselves to each other? What stages do teams often go through before they become productive and effective. What are some things that can bring conflict in a church or team? In this panel discussion, the panelists Andrew Kurtz, Dwight Nisly, and Kevin Brechbill reflect on their life observations and experiences. Panel discussion moderated by Ernest Eby.

This message was given at the Church Growth Seminar 2022, which is a segment organized by the Church Planters’ Forum.

From which three groups do churches grow their numbers? What principles should churches keep in mind as they seek to grow their churches? What should churches avoid and what should they concentrate on if they want their church to reflect a cross section of the local population?

This message was given at the Church Growth Seminar 2022, which is a segment organized by the Church Planters’ Forum.

What kind of heart and character is necessary to be effective in spreading the Gospel in countries with high rates of property. Can people communicate the Gospel of Jesus in other places if they don’t do it at home in their own neighborhoods. And what Gospel and worldview should we make known anyway?

This message was given at the Church Growth Seminar 2022, which is a segment organized by the Church Planters’ Forum.

In this sermon, Brother Finny Kuruvilla delivers a powerful message to the church of today. The framework of his sermon is the Beatitudes. The picture he paints is that of Jesus standing with His hand on your head giving you a blessing as a result of you keeping the Beatitudes. If you or your church is struggling to receive the blessing and glory of God take time to listen to this blowing of the trumpet in Zion.

In this sermon, Brother Dale Heisey of Costa Rica delivers a powerful 21st century message on structure and life. Is kingdom building possible without structure? Is life itself possible without structure? Brother Dale preaches a clear message on a foundational principle every believer should hear and every church cannot live without.

Brothers Patrick Matthews, Mark Yoder, Wolfgang Miggiani, and Tim Kuepfer discuss their experiences in restoring life to broken situations. Panel discussion moderated by Brother Joe Kurtz.

Helping the Homeless

A few losses that cause a downward spiral in some people’s lives are the loss of loved ones or the loss of a job which can cause the loss of their housing. Some of these stabilizing factors in a person’s life are flimsy at best, and the tipping point is always just around the next corner. Instability seeks stability, but stability avoids those who are in instability. So how do we find a way to bridge the gap for those who have struggled from some overwhelming circumstances and fall out from a lifestyle that began by their own separation from God? Come help me find a new way of loving as Jesus did. -Patrick Matthews

Loving the Fatherless

We all need a father figure in our lives. What does a father provide? So many don’t have a father. How can we lead others to find our real Father that supplies all our needs? -Mark Yoder

Exposing Unethical Vaccines

A number of modern vaccines used aborted fetal tissue in their development and production decades ago. How far should we as Christians accept the faint ripples of those remote abortions that occurred in the distant past for the sake of the public good and safety today? Find out how we can still follow the principles of Romans 12:9 by showing our sincere love and concern for others, abhorring that which is evil, and clinging to that which is good. -Wolfgang Miggiani

Fighting Addictions

All addictions are sin; some are particularly destructive to our bodies, but ALL can be overcome by God’s grace. Pornography and other sexual sins have a giant and deadly foothold in our Churches; they are a noose that is strangling our spiritual life. Thus, we must take decisive action steps to provide a space for healing. -Tim Kuepfer

Sister Deborah Bercot shares that we are in the school of God and what we choose to learn now, takes us into eternity. No matter our age, we all have something to grow or improve in. Our response to the beauty of life should be with love, forgiveness, submission and a pure heart.

(Admin note: We apologize for the poor sound quality for those who were in attendance. Also, due to the poor record quality, this message was rerecorded for your use here; thanks to Deborah Bercot for her willingness to rerecord.)

Two months before sharing this message at Kingdom Fellowship Weekend, Brother Mark Yoder was struggling to breathe in the Covid unit of a Costa Rican hospital. God answered many prayers to restore him to health!

Brought back from the brink of eternity, Brother Mark gives an impassioned call for men to dedicate their youth for what’s truly important in life. There’s no honor or glory in just following the crowd. Aim higher! Strive with all your heart to fulfill your unique mission from the King!

Sometimes we can feel that our life’s ‘unchangeables’ hinder our usefulness, but the secret to fruitfulness is to “be what Jesus would be in your body.” And “If you are what Jesus wants you to be right now, there’s no telling where He’s going to take you in the future!”

The Kingdom of God is people! So how we care for people is of utmost importance. Learn how to use difficult relationships as priceless opportunities to grow in being like Jesus.

The future of the church depends on young men who embrace the joy of giving their all for Christ and His Church! Young men who are outstanding in their values. Young men who are prepared to endure suffering in the advancement of the Kingdom. Rise up, O men of God!

“Our families are one of the most powerful testimonies we have for the Gospel of Jesus Christ.” The purpose of our families is to show the love of God in human relationships!

Sharing from his own life, and his more than thirty years of counseling first-generation Christian families in Latin America, Brother Mark Yoder shows us how the power of the resurrected Jesus brings Life in our homes.

What we want in our families more than anything else is the presence of God, and the blessing of the Holy Spirit. And to experience that, we need to crucify the flesh through the work of the Holy Spirit, so that we can truly love. The success of a man or a woman is measured by their relationships. And it’s never too late to turn from conflict and carnality to pursue God’s beautiful design for the family. Today is the day to choose Life!

How does the Resurrection of Jesus Christ “inaugurate” Him as King of kings and why is the resurrection central to our faith? Can the resurrection be documented historically, and if so, how? What was the central message of the Apostles?

Listen to this rousing message and be inspired to press forward in overcoming personal struggles and advancing the Kingdom with the battle cry that echoes down through the ages “Jesus is risen!”.

“Through Jesus’ resurrection the curse has been reversed and now Life is the dominant force!” -Ken Miller

In this midnight message Brother Finny Kuruvilla gives a clear warning to the professing Christian community. Observing the text of Ezekiel 37 and the vision of dry bones Finny points out the disconnection, disjointedness, and dry deadness pictured in the valley. Is this a picture of my life or the life of my community? Listen to this message to find a way out of deadness.

(given during the night of prayer at 12:00 AM)

From the perspective of eternity, our life is only a mist that will soon vanish away – so what is its purpose?

When John said, “He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life” he was not talking about physical life or consciousness; he was talking about something more.

From the first century, Jesus brings His followers face to face with the mystery of life. Join Brother Philip Hess as he explores how we can experience the essense of life, relationship with God and unity with Him.

What is the vision for having a Christian school in an urban or church plant setting? What are the challenges and blessings? What influences might children from Christian homes need to face from peers that have a very different home life? Brother Dwight Nisly, a veteran intercity teacher and administrator shares from his years of experience.

This message was given at the Church Growth Seminar 2021, which is a segment organized by the Church Planters’ Forum.

God gifts the church with different gifts. In this message Brother Eric Shorey looks at the church in the book of Acts and gleans teaching from the epistles to show how God gave a variety of gifts to the church. He also shows how those called of God worked together at bringing people into the church and making disciples. This message lays a good foundation for how brothers and sisters can team together in fulfilling the Great Commission.

This message was given at the Church Growth Seminar 2021, which is a segment organized by the Church Planters’ Forum.

Brother Daryl Witmer, a missionary from South America, identifies issues that are encountered in trying to reach the unreached. He addresses such things as cultural misunderstandings, recognizing cultural clash and preparing for it, looking at what can be done toward accessing unreached people, and how to send native people back to their villages to teach and live the Gospel.

This message was given at the Church Growth Seminar 2021, which is a segment organized by the Church Planters’ Forum.

Have you ever wrestled with the role of politics and culture in advancing God’s kingdom? The Apostle Paul answers these questions with a call to “the ministry of reconciliation” and a profound political analogy!

What is the message should Christians be communicating to the world?

This message was given at the Church Growth Seminar 2021, which is a segment organized by the Church Planters’ Forum.

Through stories and illustrations, Brother Ken Miller shares a three-fold burden for anyone who hopes to be involved in evangelism, disciple-making, and church planting.

The need for true discipleship to be taught.The importance of learning from history.The value of hearing from experienced church planters among us.

This message was given at the Church Growth Seminar 2021, which is a segment organized by the Church Planters’ Forum.

Brother Eric Shorey and his family are from Maine. Eric did not grow up in a Christian home or church. Many Christians do not know what this like. Sometimes testimonies focus on how God delivered a person from a life of sin. In this topic Eric does not talk so much about deliverance from a life of sin, but he will be more focused on helping us understand what it is like to grow up in a non-Christian setting. This message can inspire us to reach out to our neighbors and help us understand better the thoughts and perspectives of those who live life without hope!

This message was given at the Church Growth Seminar 2021, which is a segment organized by the Church Planters’ Forum.

In this topic, Brother Mark Yoder, a pastor and church overseer, shares a topic that is dear to his heart. In this topic he addresses questions such as… What does a biblical church look like? Who do we look to as our model? How can we build solid churches on scriptural principles? Mark’s involvement in church planting for many years has given him a wealth of experience.

This message was given at the Church Growth Seminar 2021, which is a segment organized by the Church Planters’ Forum.

In this topic, Brother Dale Heisey casts a vision of the overall need for churches in Latin America and what makes this a harvest field that should be reaped. He discusses regions of Latin America that are currently unreached and describes the kinds of people that are needed to reach these remote people groups.

This message was given at the Church Growth Seminar 2021, which is a segment organized by the Church Planters’ Forum.

There’s an army of people they’re marching on

Their faces like flint but their hearts are warm

It’s the army of God in an end time war

They’ve got a lot of scars but they just don’t care

‘Cause they’ve set their hearts on a battle won

And they’ll give their lives for a victor’s crown

You can hear them shout as they still fight on

In their weary heart they’ve still got a song.

There’s a battle fierce and an angry foe

And there’s wounded soldiers where ‘ere they go

But let courage rise to the weary in heart

‘Cause it won’t be long we’ll hear the Captain’s call

He’ll say well done my child and a welcome home

You’ve fought a good fight and the battle’s been won

You’ve been wounded sore I have heard your cry

Then He’ll wipe those tears from your tear stained eyes.

They have fought so hard they’ve been tempted sore

To give up the fight but they’ll fight once more

‘Cause they won’t give up though they sometimes lose

The enemy’s mark they will still refuse

They’ve put their hands to the plow and their back to the load

And their feet march on in spite of the road

‘Cause it won’t be long till the triumph song

And you can’t look back if you want to go on.

Words and music by Dale Schmucker. Used by permission.

We want to give special thanks to the City Light Christian Fellowship congregation for hosting the John Byler family for this presentation.

Who has held the oceans in His hands?

Who has numbered every grain of sand?

Kings and nations tremble at His voice,

All creation rises to rejoice.

Refrain:

Behold our God seated on His throne,

Come, let us adore Him!

Behold our King! Nothing can compare,

Come, let us adore Him!

Who has given counsel to the Lord?

Who can question any of His words?

Who can teach the One Who knows all things?

Who can fathom all His wondrous deeds?

Who has felt the nails upon His hands

Bearing all the guilt of sinful man?

God eternal humbled to the grave,

Jesus, Savior risen now to reign!

You will reign forever, let your glory fill the earth,

You will reign forever, let your glory fill the earth,

You will reign forever, let your glory fill the earth,

You will reign forever, let your glory fill the earth.

Words and Music by Jonathan Baird, Meghan Baird, Ryan Baird, and Stephen Altrogge, copyright 2011 Sovereign Grace Worship. Used by permission.

We want to give special thanks to the City Light Christian Fellowship congregation for hosting the John Byler family for this presentation.

I’m a tool for the task

Of the Master’s Great Commission

He said “Go ye into all the world.”

I have a voice to tell the story

And eyes to see the hurting

And arms that I can open wide in love.

So let my eyes see the one who walks in darkness

And let my arms reach out to love them in Your name

And let my voice forever tell the story

That You loved the world, and that is why You came.

Source unknown. If you own rights to this song, please contact us.

We want to give special thanks to the City Light Christian Fellowship congregation for hosting the John Byler family for this presentation.

Some day a bright new wave will break upon the shore

And there will be no sickness, no more crying, no more war

And little children never will go hungry any more

And there will be a bright new morning over there.

There’ll be a bright new world for us to share.

Some day there’ll be an end to unkind words and cruel

The man who said there is no God will know he is a fool

And peace will be a way of life with love the only rule

And there will be a bright new morning over there.

There’ll be a bright new world for us to share.

Some day we know not when, when time on earth is done

And those redeemed from every land will all become as one

With voices of all ages praising God the three in one

And there will be a bright new morning over there.

There’ll be a bright new world for us to share.

Some day a bright new wave will break upon the shore.

Words and music by Dallas Holm. Used by permission.

We want to give special thanks to the City Light Christian Fellowship congregation for hosting the John Byler family for this presentation.

God, our refuge when in trouble, God, our strength when death is near;

Though the earth should quake and tremble, yet Thy servants need not fear;

Though the waters roar and tempest, mountains fall into the sea:

Oh Father Thou are faithful, there is refuge ‘neath Thy wings.

There’s a peaceful river flowing through this wild tempest’ous land

Where a sinner may find healing and the weary be made glad;

An oasis in the desert full of dry relentless heat;

Oh Father Thou the river, there is refuge at Thy feet.

Come behold the Lord of glory and the works His hands have wrought;

War doth cease when He give utt’rance, sword and spear doth break apart;

He has power o’er the waging of the cruelest enemies:

Oh Father Thou our refuge, thou dost cause the wars to cease.

O, my child, be still and know that I am ever in control;

I’m exalted o’er the heathen, I’m exalted evermore;

O, the Lord of hosts is with us, He’s our God and He’s our stay:

Oh Father Thou our refuge, blessed refuge, come what may.

Words and music copyrighted 2013 by Todd Benner. Used by permission.

We want to give special thanks to the City Light Christian Fellowship congregation for hosting the John Byler family for this presentation.

Starting with the imperative of genuine love, Brother Donald Brechbill speaks of the church’s interaction with society in three different ways:

as a presence in society,as a voice in society, andas a person in society.

Using personal examples, historical illustrations, and Jesus’ interaction with humanity, he asks us to consider how our efforts of reaching the world are accomplishing the Great Commission of Jesus. And how committed are we to alleviate the suffering brought into the world through sin?

The presentation ends with an interactive question-and-answer session from the audience.

Who is on the Lord’s side? who will serve the King?

Who will be His helpers, other lives to bring?

Who will leave the world’s side? Who will face the foe?

Who is on the Lord’s side? Who for Him will go?

By Thy call of mercy, by Thy grace divine,

We are on the Lord’s side; Savior, we are Thine.

Not for weight of glory, not for crown and palm,

Enter we the army, raise the warrior psalm;

But for love that claimeth lives for whom He died;

He whom Jesus nameth must be on His side.

By Thy love constraining, by Thy grace divine,

We are on the Lord’s side; Savior, we are Thine.

Jesus, Thou hast bought us, not with gold or gem,

But with Thine own life-blood, for Thy diadem;

With Thy blessing filling each who comes to Thee,

Thou hast made us willing, Thou hast made us free.

By Thy grand redemption, by Thy grace divine,

We are on the Lord’s side; Savior, we are Thine.

Fierce may be the conflict, strong may be the foe,

But the King’s own army none can overthrow.

Round His standard ranging victory is secure,

For His truth unchanging makes the triumph sure.

Joyfully enlisting, by Thy grace divine,

We are on the Lord’s side; Savior, we are Thine.

Amen.

Authored by Frances R. Havergal, 1877. Composed by Caradog Roberts, 1921. Public domain.

We want to give special thanks to the City Light Christian Fellowship congregation for hosting the John Byler family for this presentation.

In a time of national reckoning when racism dominates the media, this message presents a unique perspective that God’s people are challenged to embrace. How should followers of Jesus respond to the polemic positions of individualism versus structuralism? How can Antioch be a lesson for the church today? Is peacemaking an escape from conflict, or an engagement among a hostile society?

Learn how to effectively dialogue with those of diverse backgrounds, and ultimately reconcile a distressed world to the Prince of Peace. In this presentation, Finny Kuruvilla presents kingdom solutions to the evils of racism.

The presentation ends with an interactive question-and-answer session from the audience.

Why is there pain in the world if God is good? If God could part the Red Sea, raise the dead, and stop the lion’s mouths, why did He let this happen to me? Does God really care about me? Why should I serve, let alone love Someone who, by all appearances, stands by and watches and maybe even plans the death, suffering, abandonment, and abuses in my life and all around me in the world?

Every person has wrestled with these kinds of questions. For some, it is from very personal experiences and for others, it is what they see around them that eats at their faith or puts the damper on their enthusiasm for loving and serving God.

In “The Problem of Pain – part 1” I addressed some truths about God and the world that radically alters the way the situation is often made to appear.In this Part 2, I addressed truths that have helped me cope with the pain in my life and open myself to God’s love when it hurts.

Why is there pain in the world if God is good? If God could part the Red Sea, raise the dead, and stop the lion’s mouths, why did He let this happen to me? Does God really care about me? Why should I serve, let alone love Someone who, by all appearances, stands by and watches and maybe even plans the death, suffering, abandonment, and abuses in my life and all around me in the world?

Every person has wrestled with these kinds of questions. For some, it is from very personal experiences and for others, it is what they see around them that eats at their faith or puts the damper on their enthusiasm for loving and serving God.

In this Part 1, I addressed some truths about God and the world that radically alters the way the situation is often made to appear.In “The Problem of Pain – part 2” I addressed truths that have helped me cope with the pain in my life and open myself to God’s love when it hurts.

Starting with establishing the centrality of Christ, Melvin Lehman then reflects on historical lessons for our generation. What can we learn from Biblical and contemporary examples of revival? How do the four eras of peace illustrate the sovereignty of God? With stories and illustrations, the timeline from Christ to the Reformation to the present time is examined for relevance to our modern experience. How are God’s people in the Western world being affected by global socialization or nationalism? Message concludes with a call for Kingdom communities that bring God’s kingdom to the earth.

The presentation ends with an interactive question-and-answer session from the audience.

From the life of the early Waldensians, Brother John D. Martin draws several practical lessons — The Preaching of the Gospel is non-negotiable. True Christians are committed to literal obedience. True Christians should maintain a healthy suspicion of clever theological rationalizations. The priority of Christians is a thorough understanding of the Scriptures. The Biblical teachings of wealth should be taken seriously and literally. “Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ.”

Brother Ernest Strubhar presents the challenging and sobering stories of Perpetua, Annekin Jansy, Aisha, the Mother of Seven, and others. What do these all have in common? They refused to recant or turn back from following their Savior no matter the consequences. What are you willing to give up for Christ?

Michael Sattler left his life as a monk and became an early leader of the Anabaptist movement. Brother Dean Taylor picked five highlights from the legacy of this dedicated Christian from which we can draw much inspiration — Michael Sattler was a man of the Bible. He studied Biblical languages and knew how to discuss doctrine. He was very concerned about love, boldly followed the commands of Christ in evangelism and mission work, loved the church, and followed the commands of Christ for the church. But most importantly Michael Sattler was faithful to Christ to the end.

Brother Steve Clapper shares some of his life experiences and admonishes the young men to consider how the decisions and choices they make today will affect their life and future. Have you given up everything to be a disciple of Christ or have you fallen into the traps of pride, arrogance, drugs, alcohol, love of money, sexual immorality, pornography, media, internet, or entertainment? If you find yourself in bondage, you can be set free! “I have written to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the wicked one” (1 John 2:14b).

Drawing inspiration from the ladies mentioned in Hebrews 11, and then sharing her own life story and walk of faith, Sister Wendy Good encourages women today to be faithful, no matter what the circumstances of their lives. The only thing that can hinder God’s will or purpose in our lives, is us ourselves. The things in our lives may not be what we consider good, but God can use them to work together for our good as we surrender to His will for us.

Brother Ernest Strubhar challenges the listener with the life and experiences of Casiodoro de Reina, a Bible translator sometimes called the “William Tyndale of Spain”. Casiodoro de Reina spent twelve years translating the Bible into Spanish facing many adversities and strong persecution. What have you done in the last twelve years of your life? What are you willing to sacrifice to fulfill the calling of God on your life?

James, being the brother of Jesus, experienced very closely the earthly life of our Lord. In this well-researched message, Brother Brandon Byler shares how James was there to observe Jesus’ childhood, ministry, death, and resurrection. He believed the Gospel message of his Brother. He lived and taught a very practical faith and left a legacy to be followed. James was a doer. What are you doing?

What tells you that you are hungry? Why are you hungry? We become hungry either by habit or by exertion. Brother Zack Johnson encourages the listener to make a connection between physical hunger and spiritual hunger, drawing lessons from his recent discharge from the Army as a conscientious objector. Just as physical energy exertion is needed for physical hunger we need to be spiritually exerting ourselves to increase our spiritual hunger. A lack of spiritual hunger is a symptom of spiritual health problems. How does your life prove you are hungry?

(given during the night of prayer at 2:00 AM)

In this midnight message, Brother Peter Hoover shares several experiences of God speaking to him and challenges especially the youth to listen carefully for the voice of God. Are you truly connected with God? Does God speak to you? Do you listen? Do you take the time to listen?

(given during the night of prayer at 12:00 AM)

“And these all… obtained a good report through faith.” Brother Curt Wagoner shares the relational, sacrificial, and visual aspects of this good report as lived out by Enoch, Noah, Abel, Moses, Gideon, Samson, and a host of others as portrayed in Hebrews 11. Are you willing to join this “great cloud of witnesses”? Are you really walking with God? Are you living sacrificially? Are you striving to rout the invaders in your life?