An Interesting Questions Creates An Interesting Thought...

It is my prayer and hope that this report will find you well and active in the kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ. As we all struggle to be Christ-like in this world, which was never promised that all things would be easy and smooth, then we all need to trust God in all things that we plan and do. For with Him all things are possible. And for sure we have seen Him doing greater things in His kingdom here and throughout this world we live. 

Last Sunday, on the rotational Spiritual Discipline studies here in Arusha, things went very well. I was in Ilkiurei, which is a new congregation that is now about three years old. We had a very wonderful worship there; I taught about “Journaling for the Purpose of Godliness” in the Bible class, and completed the rest of it in the worship service. 

After the Bible class I was asked an interesting question, “For those Christians who do not know how to write and read then how does this study of journaling for the purpose of godliness apply to them?”  It was really a tough question for me to answer because I didn’t ever expect to be asked such a question as I was preparing to teach and preach that topic. But I thought for a minute and said, “God will take care of them,” and I saw everybody in the church building laughing.

On the other hand, things here in ACSOP are going well as usual. Our first quarter of studies is getting to the end this week. I checked up with all the teachers, and it seems that we all completed our duties of teaching the studies that we were assigned to teach. Hereafter, there will be two short courses for the second year students and one for the first year, before we get into a second quarter. These short courses will start on Monday, March 20, and go through April 3, 2015. The second quarter will be April 6 - May 15, 2015.

Finally, we really do appreciate God for your great support for this great work which is being done here in East Africa through your financial support. We will always remember you in our prayers that these greater things you are doing for us will not be in vain, but our loving God may pay you back as per His will.   

Your friend and brother in Christ Jesus,

Losotwa Michael
Dean of Academics, 
Andrew Connally School of Preaching 
A Bear Valley Bible Institute International extension school
Arusha, TZ

Posted on March 23, 2015 .

Teaching At Church, School, Businesses, And Homes...

Arusha Youth Seminars
This month I've been teaching the youth from the Arusha Church of Christ every Saturday afternoon. They wanted to be taught about the church so we've been focusing on some things that make the churches of Christ unique. They plan to study about various denominations in the coming months, and wanted to start with a good grounding in what the New Testament church is. We've borrowed a lot of thoughts from Dan Chambers' excellent book, "Churches in the Shape of Scripture." Check it out if you haven't read it yet, and you'll be blessed by it.  

1st Quarter Comes to an End
At the Andrew Connally School of Preaching our first quarter has come to an end. One or two new students realized that they couldn't handle the workload in English, so they will try again to be a part of next year's Swahili class. We fully expect the remaining students to be very successful, and have a great tenure with us. The students will spend the next two weeks in short courses and campaign work, then the next regular quarter will resume. 

Njiro Evangelism  
Things are continuing to go well at the Njiro Chini congregation. In the pictures below you can see images from some of our recent door to door evangelism. We stop at homes and businesses alike in search of those who want to discuss the scriptures. The lady in the shop below asked us question after question in between serving customers. The housegirl in the bottom-right picture generously spent most of her lunch break with us. The top-right picture shows my cohorts walking in search of souls willing to be taught about Christ and His church. As you can see, all in all things are going well and we are busy about the Lord's work,  Mungu ni mwema! (God is good!)

Daniel Gaines

To see Daniel’s report with pictures, please click here.

Posted on March 23, 2015 .

Two Weeks Of Preaching And Teaching In Nigeria...

Dearest in Christ,

Greetings, in Jesus’ precious name, to you lovers of God and His kingdom.

Brother Abraham Idu Yeje, our campus minister, led the students of the Southwest School of Evangelism (SWSE), Ibadan on the weekend of March 14th, to evangelize Kupalo village, while I led the staff to rejoice with the family of brother and sister Shotola over the birth of their new born baby girl. The baby was named Esther Oluwadarasi Shotola.

On Sunday afternoon, brother Kayode Solomon Eniafe was the guest speaker at the naming ceremony of brother and sister Abraham Idu Yeje's new baby girl. She was named Mary Yeje.

On Sunday morning at the Onikokoro / Gbongudu congregation, Ibadan, I taught on “Satan: His Origin, Mission & Destiny,” while brother Segun Idowu, one of our year -1 students, admonished the church from Leviticus 16:1-10.

Brother Kayode S. Eniafe taught on “Remember your First Love” at the Egbeda congregation, Ibadan.

At the campus church, brother Ikechukwu Eze, one of our year - 1 students, taught on “The Mission of the Church,” while brother Akinade Oluwaseun Akinleye admonished the campus church on the “Why of Suffering.”

All our year - 2 students were busy on the Lord's day worship at their respective congregations either in teaching or in admonition. To God be the glory!

We, staff and students of the SWSE Ibadan evangelized Asejire Baale-Ayo in Osun state with brother Adeniji Joseph, one of our year 2014 graduates, and brother Dele Shotola, my co-WBSFUW in the Western state of Nigeria on March 22, 2015 between 10:00am and 4:30pm.

On Sunday, March 22, I concluded my last week of teaching on “Satan: His Origin, Mission & Destiny” at the Onikokoro / Gbongudu congregation, Ibadan, while brother Kayode Solomon Eniafe taught on “You & The Local Church” at the Egbeda congregation, Ibadan and brother Adeniji Joseph taught on “Working with God” (1 Co. 3:9).

At the campus church, brother Abraham Idu Yeje, our campus minister, taught on “The Kingdom of Christ,” while brother Akinade Oluwaseun Akinleye admonished the campus church from Mal. 3:3.

Last week, on Monday at the SWSE campus, Butubutu, Ibadan, brother Zege John Tobi taught on “Draw Near With Confidence To The Throne Of Grace” during our morning devotion. Brother Adedoyin Sola Rotimi taught on “Why Do People Live As If They Will Live Forever?” during the Tuesday morning devotion. Brother Akinade Oluwaseun Akinleye taught on “Self Denial” during the Wednesday morning devotion, while brother Abiola Joseph Olusoji taught on “Buy the Truth, and Sell it Not” during our Wednesday chapel period from 5:00pm - 6:00pm.

Brother Kayode S.Eniafe taught on “Let Your Light So Shine,” during the Thursday morning devotion and I taught on “Living A Positive Life” during the Friday morning devotion, and Friday evening and Saturday morning was set aside to pray for our great country - Nigeria.

Brethren, Lord's willing, we shall be working with the Asejire congregation in Osun state in evangelizing their community. We thank you all for your moral and financial support! May the Lord of blessing continue to bless all your endeavors in Christ Jesus, Amen.

Your fellow laborer in the vineyard of our Master, Jesus. 

Maknde Ebenezer Olufemi (Director of Studies)
Southwest School of Evangelism (SWSE), Ibadan & Lagos, Nigeria

Posted on March 23, 2015 .

One Baptism And Fifteen Prospects From Togo...

Yokele Campaign Produces One (1) Baptism And 15 Prospects
The Yokele Church of Christ is one of our newest congregations in the Kloto Region. The preacher, Koku Tulassi, is a graduate of CBS. Our February campaign was organized to introduce the congregation to the citizens of Yokele by open air preaching, house-to-house evangelism, tract distribution, and worship. 

The personnel during the campaign included: 18 students, 14 preachers, and 11 members from congregations in the Kpalime area. Students are always part of these campaigns to afford them the opportunity to use the skills they have acquired in class. After all the activities, one lady was baptized and 15 visitors were at Church on Sunday. There will be a follow up campaign very soon. 

Chariot’s Daily Visits To Villages
The Chariot has embarked daily visits to nearby villages to distribute tracts, preach, and study with individuals. We are taking advantage of the markets, gatherings, schools, and people on the streets. We even visited tailoring shop. We are being called by inhabitants of several villages to plant the church in their community. Brethren, we now have more than we can even handle. 

“Pastor” Turns Over A Church To CBS Student. 
Mawunyo came to CBS as a member of the “Good Shepherd Church.” He was baptized within a year at CBS. However, he continued to worship with the Good Shepherd church where he had opportunity to preach and teach in his congregation. As Mawunyo continued to share his new found faith, his pastor became uncomfortable with the teachings, while the members were enjoying the lessons. Some even decided to be baptized and give up denominationalism. They did away with their drums and started singing. The pastor became more uncomfortable. Recently, it became evident that he was loosing his grip on the “Good Shepherd Church.” Finally, the pastor made the decision to leave the church in the hands of Mawunyo. He has since left town. God is great! We are in the process of replacing the “Good Shepherd Church” sign board with that of Church of Christ. CBS is paying more attention to this new work. 

Driver Leads A Soul To Christ 
Atsu (Chariot driver) has not rested from sharing his new found faith since the day he was baptized. Atsu is always handing tracts to people he meets while driving in traffic. I admire his zeal to always let people know about the Church of Christ. 

Esperance Taught Class
Esperance preaches for the Nukafo Church of Christ in Lome and has been on the staff of CBS since the inception of the school in 2005. 

Kpalime Area Preachers Meet
Kpalime area preachers held at a meeting in Kpalime. This meeting convenes on the first Monday of each month between 3:00pm - 5:00pm. This particular meeting was to plan the forthcoming lectures in May under the theme “The One Another Experience.” Some of the topics include: Love one another, pray for one another, greet one another, and encourage one another. I am scheduled to speak on the topic “Encourage One Another.” The meeting also discussed the funeral of a sister who was a member of the Nyiveme Church of Christ. This cooperation among congregations in the area is a great source of encouragement to brethren and gives Christians a sense of belonging. 

Meeting With CBS Students 
The CBS students requested to meet with me while I was in Kpalime. The meeting was to discuss some pertinent issues concerning the welfare of students. Their spokesperson used the occasion to thank Gabriel Oaks for the continued support. The key issue had to do with their fate after graduation. I also officially informed them of their graduation on the 5th of September,2015. 

Visit To Hanyigba Church of Christ 
I had the opportunity to deliver the sermon during the worship after a CBS student taught the Bible class. A I sat in the class and listened to the student teach, I gave thanks to God for what he has done with these students in less than two years. I preached using one of the beatitudes: Blessed are the peace makers, for they shall be called the sons of God. Mathew 5:9 

CBS Needs A Motor Bike
It has become essential for the preacher training school in Kpalime - CBS to secure a motor bike. This bike will be used by the students for their Sunday visits to congregations in the Kpalime area and other outreach activities. The school is presently spending too much for hiring a motor bike to conduct business in and around town. I am confident this will be a great asset for the school and the church. One such bike will cost $900.00, which includes the registration. Kindly, let me know if God has touched your heart to purchase a bike for the work in Kpalime, Togo. 

GRADUATION! GRADUATION!! GRADUATION!!! 

CBS graduation is scheduled for Saturday, September 5th 2015.

Report by H. Willie Gley

Posted on March 23, 2015 .

Two-Day Workshop For Preachers In Northern Regions Of Ghana...

Greetings from Tamale, Ghana to all who are in the vineyard.

The Institute has just resumed after a short break. Students and staff are all looking fine and ready for the quarter's activity. It is our prayer that the good Lord will offer us life and the needed strength to do his work.

During the holidays, the Institute embarked on a 2-Day Workshop for all the preachers in the three northern regions. Even though some preachers could not attend, participants came from all the regions. Therefore, there was a representation from the three regions. The total attendance was (56) fifty six.

The theme for the workshop was “Improving Evangelism and Edification in the Northern Sector Congregations.”

The objective for the workshop was to critically examine how evangelism and edification are done and to bring about improvements.

After an intensive examination of how evangelism is done, it was observed that congregations ignore towns and villages where there is no hope of getting someone to care for the newly baptized Christians. 

This we all agreed was not in conformity of the Great Commission and resolved that henceforth, regardless of a known and trusted person we, shall preach to everyone everywhere.

On the part of edification of new congregations, all participants observed that currently, preachers in most parts of the sector take care of between (2) two and (6) six congregations. This we saw to be an inefficient and ineffective approach. To this we agreed to form groups of preachers and also establish centers in the various districts so that men selected from the congregations established would be given training as to how to lead their congregations.

The Institute was tasked to provide guidance and materials to bring about this improvement envisaged.

In all, the Institute and participants were happy of the resolutions made and prayed that the new ways of evangelizing and edifying, which has been accepted, will produce the needed improvement.

They also thanked brother Steven Ashcraft and brother Baah Joseph Okyere who were the resource persons for the excellent way they handled the activities of the workshop.

In another vein, the Board of Directors wishes to inform all loved ones in the Lord, that the Institute is having its Third Graduation Ceremony on the 02/07/2015 at the Institute's premises. We wish to invite all sponsors and fellow workers. Activities slated for the graduation includes naming the main lecture hall in honor of our beloved Sister Avril who died in the course of serving the Lord.

All who will want to attend this important ceremony should call 0 2330247300917 or send an email to joebaah2003@yahoo.co.uk for the necessary arrangements to receive and accommodate you to be put in place. Come and be part of this all important occasion.

Thank you very much
Baah Joseph Okyere

Posted on March 23, 2015 .

Cameroon Campaign Produces Fruit Of A Special Kind...

Dearest in Christ,

Greetings from your brothers and sisters here at BVBIC. Our name has changed from CBIW to the one you can see which is Bear Valley Bible Institute of Cameroon–Wotutu. The family is growing and we praise God for every positive change that is occurring in the family.

I am excited again to share with you what made news from this end. For the past two weeks the students of the Gamma batch were out for one week doing house-to-house evangelism in 22 villages and then transit them to their home for a one week vacation. Praise be to our God as I write that they made it back to the campus and the second quarter will continue after we return from another mass campaign this week.

God was with them and the result they made is great. To God all the glory goes. Their very first outing signifies they will do great things as God leads them.

The students made it to their different places of work safe and sound, but with lots of difficulties, because of the bad roads, so the transport I gave them was underestimated because of the nature of the roads. They were bound to trek to meet up with their assignments. Brother Valentine preached during the house-to-house and left tracts on every home as they passed by.

They are assigned to evangelize and also nurture existing congregations, as our students initiated children’s classes.We are eager to start teaching preachers’ wives in a short course that will help them marvelously to teach children who are the church of tomorrow, so we move along with all under our care.

Many congregations continue to appreciate our efforts through the sending of students to many areas. They said, “We thank you. We are ready to feed students as they work with us, but financially we are handicapped.” Words like this are touching, as you see people eager for someone who will help them know God and serve him, but most of the time they cannot afford to keep a preacher. I have realized that the best way to keep the church growing with soundness is to make sure every congregation has a preacher that will help.

Brother Abanda Edwin, in Nake village, did house-to-house evangelism and distributed tracts to every home. We are getting lots of positive response from this tract exercise, as many continue to gain knowledge from it. Our tracts open doors for prospects and later on leads to converts. God bless Mission Printing for their help and all those who made it possible for us to have the tracts in Cameroon.

Our students bear the risk of bending their waist down because there is no seat where people are ready to receive the word. Brother Mendi Simon stayed in any posture to make sure he transplanted the truth to a soul.

Brother Valentine baptized a soul. Keep praying for him as he plans to move his wife from the village to Wotutu, so that she will learn part-time before they graduate and be in the field full-time.

Brother Mendi Simon baptized a soul. This first campaign made the following results:

Number of baptisms: 35
Number of restorations: 26
Number of new congregation: 1 (Ngwandi church of Christ)

Keep praying for the work here. We know the one that wins soul is wise. The field is ripe and we are doing our best to prepare workers to go, as they think souls, so that they may rob some from the strong man’s house.

Plans
1) These 23 students we depart Wotutu to Lebialem for a 5 day mass evangelism campaign. This involves many in Cameroon, but we want to make an impact, as all our graduates will travel with us to do this job.

2) We will need to send students weekly to this newly established congregation.

3) Bibles are in needed now both for converts and others.

Prayer Request
Please pray for some students who came back with sickness because of may be bad water and food in their own locations..

Pray for our trip to Lebialem which is a long trip from Wotutu village.

Appreciations
Many, many thanks to God for all He did for us, His protection over us and the students. We thank God for you, as you continue to stand with us to make things happen. God will bless you and keep you strong. Share our report with someone who may love to know more about us.

Our students ended their first campaign after the first quarter of long courses. That is why I also followed some of them to their locations to be part of their work.

God bless you. We thank you for all that you are doing for the cross in Cameroon. Keep it up and do not faint, so that you will receive your reward in due season.

The one that wins souls is wise.

Share this with others.

Elangwe and family
By His grace Director CBIW  

Posted on March 23, 2015 .

"The Gospel Must Go Where Motorcycles Cannot Go"

Dearest in Christ,

    Greetings to you all in Jesus name. I am sure you are doing great. We are doing better after a long and tedious journey. I am back home even though I am still not very strong.

    Our students ended their first campaign after the first quarter of long courses. That is why I also followed some of them to their locations to be part of their work.

    Let me share with you some pictures of my recent evangelistic trip to Akwaya sub- division, which is one of those divisions that have been  abandoned by the government of Cameroon in some or all domains  like roads, education, and health care.

   

       It is always my joy to see our students growing from one level to another. This is our beta batch graduate, evangelist Thierry Ngoue. Brother Thierry got married to sister Alpha Tabeson last week. It was great for me to be part of it.

   

      This is me crossing fast running streams in Akwaya. The gospel can take you to many kinds of places.  As we bear risks in some places, all we can do is to sing a song like “COURAGE BROTHER DO NOT STUMBLE” or “ ANYWHERE WITH JESUS I CAN SAFELY GO.” It was not easy to take the gospel to areas where even a motorcycle cannot take you to. You must go some places on foot, climbing, descending and crossing rivers .

  

     Our passion is sharing the gospel and leaving behind a tract that will push our prospect to go back and read. Many do so. The tracts from Mission Printing have gone to the hinterlands of Cameroon and they are making a great impact.

 

    We are standing where the church of Christ in Assaka meets for worship. It is not easy for this congregation to meet during rainy season as they are in need of iron sheets for the roof.

   

      The area is always suffering from strong wind. This is the house that accommodated me for one night. The preacher’s house collapsed by the strong wind with us inside. This, the preacher, his wife, myself, and their 5 children ,were down in there when it collapsed. Thankfully no one sustained serious injuries. Please, as I write this mail, this preacher and his family are homeless. .A good neighbor of theirs helped out, but the preacher and his family cannot stay with the neighbor permanently. They are in need of help.

 

 As we moved around the village to evangelize, we realized that many children don’t have means to go to school because they are orphans or were abandoned by relatives who can no longer help them  because they cannot help themselves .It is very sad to me. My heart goes out for these children and the communities.

 

    Sister Delphine Agia obeyed the gospel in Badoum village. She was happy to know Christ. She asked many questions about polygamy. It was the talk of the day there. Different villages have different things that the gospel calls them out of. For many in this village, it will be polygamy. There was  much talk about polygamy in the village today.

 

    This pa is the one that uses the drum in front of him to send information from one village to another, because there are no network services for mobile phones .

 

    Children here go to farms and have no access to an education. Because of this,  early marriages are common to most young girls .

  

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    This little girl is call Reginal. She has already been married for one year. Her future is blare because no one is ready to help her out of the situation of early marriage .It was a thing that caused me to shed tears. I never thought that this type of practice was still going on in Cameroon ,.

 

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    This is brother Christopher, who at the age of 78 obeyed the gospel. Keep him in your prayers. He has a very large family who will surely love to study with us since their father obeyed the message of Christ.

 

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    A total of 7 precious souls were added to the church in Badoum and Ayimelnike which are both in the Akwaya sub-division. We still have a long way to go, as there are over 90 total villages there.  .

 

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         I am happy to include this picture because of the story attached to it. You can see me using a mega phone to preach. We rented it from a denominational pastor who was in the audience listening to my preaching as well. But, after I had gone far in my message, he got up and ceased the mic from my hands and declared  that I should not speak about the role of women in the church any longer. He did this because he has ordained women to be elders and to do many other things which are in error.

    PLANS

       We shall have a mass campaign in Lebialem. It shall be called “Lebialem for Christ.” Both current students and graduates of CBIW will be part of it. Lebialem is a great distance Wotutu.

    APPRECIATIONS

       God bless you. We thank you for all that you are doing for the cross in Cameroon. Keep it up and do not faint, so that you will receive your reward in due season.

 

                                                       THE ONE THAT WINS SOULS IS WISE

   

                                                                     Share this with others.

                                                                                         Elangwe and family

                                                                                                    By His grace Director CBIW  

 

EVANGELISM IS OUR MISSION AND OUR MISSION IS EVANGELISM.2TIM2:2 2TIM4:2     

Posted on March 21, 2015 .

Mission Printing and CBIW - "From the Press to the People"

Dear Brethren,

           We salute all of the good brothers and sisters in Christ who have a part in the evangelism efforts of Mission Printing. Please know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. You have produced great Bible tracts that are going from the printing press to the people and the Lord is giving much increase. Many souls are being touched in Cameroon and all over the world because of your dedication. Thank you for your great sacrifice to the work. Enjoy the slide show below.

                                               David Ballard (Coordinator of CBIW)

                       

Posted on March 19, 2015 .

Campaigns, Conversions, And Graduations...

Students on the Denver campus are gone this week in campaigns throughout the U.S. and one group traveled to Grand Cayman to work with one of Bear Valley’s graduates, Daniel Mayfield. The work Daniel and his wife, Miranda, do with the church on Grand Cayman is encouraging. The field is open for door-to-door evangelism and we pray God will give the increase to their efforts in reaching out with the gospel. We pray the outreach in Georgia, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Missouri will experience the same growth.

The outreach of students at various locations in the extension program continues to bear fruit also. The reports indicate a number of souls added to the kingdom this week. We are encouraged with God’s activity in giving the increase. While reading through the reports, notice how God is working through these men who are dedicated to share the gospel with those in need of a Savior, Jesus our Lord.

Several schools are preparing for graduation over the next few months. ITL in Guatemala will graduate their third class of students next Sunday. The West Coast School of Preaching in Takoradi, Ghana will graduate their next class in April, along with the Visakha Valley Bible College in India. Others will host graduations soon and several schools will begin a new class of students. Pray for the graduates and those about to begin their journey.

Now on to this week’s incredible reports...

Coordinator Updates
Reports from the coordinators are now located on the website, under Staff Reports. The address is http://www.wetrainpreachers.com/extension-schools/

The latest report from Donnie Bates can be read here.

Extension Reports 

Presenting The Gospel Of Our Lord Jesus Christ In Cameroon: This week’s report involves David Ballard’s work with the brethren in Cameroon to share the gospel with others.

Twelve Baptisms And Fifty Prospects For Study In Ghana: The outreach of the West Coast School of Preaching speaks for itself as the fruit of their labor is making an eternal difference.

Student Preaching Produces Fruit Of Four Souls In Nigeria: As students continue to preach in surrounding areas, we learn how God provides the increase as they plant and water the seed.

Students, Chicken Coop, Farming, And Translation Team: The common thread in these four areas is the work of the Andrew Connally School of Preaching. Read more about their work.

Please Pray On Behalf Of Several With The TZ2000 Team: Please pray for Cy Stafford’s father and the challenges he faces, as well as, Sean and Anita Hochdorf. Read more in this report.

Final Thoughts 
Our hearts are filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share in this work with each of you. The various ways that each of you contribute to the encouragement, growth, and development of every level of the extension program cannot be measured this side of heaven. Thank you for making this work possible. To God be the glory.

God bless
Bob

Posted on March 15, 2015 .

Presenting the Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ in Cameroon

The Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ

“Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel.”

Mark 16:15-16

 

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Do you believe that God is the creator of heaven and earth?

Do you believe that Jesus is the son of God?

Do you believe that the Bible is the inspired word of God and that it is truth? 

What does the word “gospel” mean?

 

Before I ask you what the good news is, I want you to tell me what the bad news is.

  • The bad news – Isaiah 59:1-2, Romans 3:23
  • The really bad news – Romans 6:23

What is the good news?

  • Romans 10:15

 I mean the really “good news” that fixes the “really bad news” about sin.

  • I Cor. 15:1-4

 Let’s go back to Romans 10.

  • Romans 10:8-10 &13

 

Do you believe with all your heart that Jesus rose from the dead?

 Is believing enough or must we obey?  

  • Romans 10:16-17
  • II Thessalonians 1:7-9

How do you obey the “death, burial, and resurrection” of Jesus Christ? 

  • Romans 6:1-6  Romans 6:17-18

 

 

The gospel preached.

  • Acts 2:22-24

Were they saved when they believed and were sorrowful?  

  • Acts 2:36-37
  • James 2:19

 Peter told them to “obey the gospel.”

  • Acts 2:38
  • Acts 2:40

About 3000 did!   

  • Acts 2:41

 

What does it mean to repent?    

  • Luke 13: 1-5
  • Acts 17:30-31
  • Galatians  2:20      

 

 

Some Big Lists of Sins

  • Galatians 5:19-26
  • Ephesians 4:17-31
  • Ephesians 5:1-7
  • James 4:17

Questions about the one body?  

  • Acts 2:47
  • Matthew 16:16-18
  • Acts 4:12
  • Colossians 3:17
  • Revelation 19:7-8
  • Romans 16:16
  • Acts 11:26

 

Questions about the one faith?  

 The Faith  Acts 14:22   Acts 16:5   Acts 24:24  Romans 1:5  Romans 1:12

a. Are women elders, deacons, preachers, or song leaders of the one faith? 

  • I Corinthians 14:35
  • I Timothy 2:12-14
  • I Timothy 3:1-2

b. Are musical instruments of the one faith? 

  • Ephesians 5:17-21
  • Colossians 3:15-17
  • I Corinthians 14:15 (1-40)
  • Matthew 26:30
  • Acts 16:25-34
  • Hebrews 13:8-16
  • James 5:13

c. Is mandatory tithing of the one faith?   

  • I Corinthians 16:1-4
  • Leviticus 27:30-34
  • Numbers 18:21-32
  • I Corinthians 9:11-17
  • Ephesians 4:26-29
  • Malachi 3:6-10
  • II Corinthians 8:1-5, 9:5-9
  • I Timothy 5:16
  • I Corinthians 16:1-2

d. Is partaking of the Lord’s Supper every first day of the week of the one faith?  

  • Luke 22:1-23
  • I Corinthians 11:26
  • Acts 20:7
  • I Corinthians 5:7
  • Exodus 12:43-51
  • Colossians 2:10-13
  • Leviticus 22:17-30
  • Exodus 12:13-15
  • Acts 20:7

Questions  about the one baptism?

a. Does it matter whether you sprinkle pour or immerse?

  • Leviticus 14:15-16
  • Acts 2:38
  • Romans 6:4
  • Acts 8:26-39

b. Should you ever be immersed again?

  • Acts 18:24 – 19:12                                                                                              

What do you hope for?

The One Hope

  • Proverbs 11:7
  • Proverbs 13:12
  • Matthew 7:21-23
  • Romans 15:4
  • Hebrews 6:19
  • Hebrews 11:1
  • I Peter 3:15
  • Hebrews 3:6
  • Titus 1:2

Ephesians 4:4-6  

One Body – One Spirit – One Hope – One Lord - One Faith - One Baptism – One God       

By believing in the “One God” who created all things, believing in the “One Lord” Jesus Christ and believing that He was crucified, buried, and resurrected on our behalf, being taught and believing in the “One Faith” that was taught by Jesus and his Apostles, being baptized with the “One Baptism”, into the “One Lord” Jesus Christ for the remission of your sins, receiving the ”One Spirit” as a gift and being added to the ”One Body” at the time you obey the gospel, you can have the “One Hope” of Eternal Life. It is our prayer that you will make the proper response to the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.

If you wish to study more, or need assistance, please contact David Ballard at:

H: (903)982-7245

C: (903)517-3818

email: davidgballard16@gmail.com

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Posted on March 15, 2015 .

Please Pray On Behalf Of Several With The TZ2000 Team...

Greetings Fellow Servants, 

We thank you for your prayers and participation in the work of God where you serve and where you support. God is able, willing, and doing a great ministry in Tanzania and throughout East Africa and for your partnership in this we thank Him and we thank you. 

The last week has been a blessing in many ways. My travels brought me to TN, AL, and TX. I have been blessed by many brothers and sisters in Christ in so many ways. It was so good to be with the church in Longview, Keller, and Seagoville, TX. I was saddened not to be able to make my appointment at College Station where our good brother John Hall ministers due to a family emergency. 

While leaving Ft. Worth for College Station last Friday, I received a phone call that my dad was admitted to the hospital and was to have emergency surgery. It has been a roller coaster ride for the last few days, very much touch and go. The great news is the surgery to open up a completely blocked cardiac artery has been successful and if all continues as is, my dad (Claude Stafford) should leave ICU today and move to a regular room. For all your prayers, we say thank you and to our God we say thank you for answered prayers. 

The news from Tanzania continues to be good, God is doing so much. Gasper Julius writes: ”Hello brother, we thank God again this Sunday as I received a good report from the Ngorongoro congregation that one brother has obeyed the gospel. Please pray for this new congregation and this new brother in Christ. Yours in the Lord, Gasper

The news from the Andrew Connally School continues to be good with thirteen first year students and fifteen second year students actively engaging in their course work. The evangelistic outreach program is fully underway; each student connected and serving with one of the eleven areawide congregations. They go each week doing personal Bible studies and serve where asked during the Bible class and worship hour on Sunday. GOOD NEWS: We now only lack $4,500 to secure the needed funds to purchase a school van to escort the men on their evangelistic work. The van will also take these men along with ACSOP staff to their home congregations during the breaks conducting gospel meetings. Another blessing with be the transport it will provide for our many short term workers when in country doing God’s will and work. 

We solicit your prayers on behalf of Sean and Anita Hochdorf. Anita had a procedure to hopefully relieve her of some of her back pain. Sean is in need a neck surgery as well. If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact Sean at: shochdorf@wetrainpreachers.com

Also, please remember our good brothers Cotton Box and Gene Davis as they struggle with some very serious health issues. We know our God is able and we know His will, will be done. 

Thank you all for you prayers and support of God’s mission efforts where you are, in TZ, and throughout the world. When our God is glorified in what we do, really good things happen. It is our hope and prayer that our God blesses you all with a great week of service in His Kingdom this week to the saving of some lost soul. 

In Him, 
Cy, Stephanie & Granny

Posted on March 15, 2015 .

Students, Chicken Coop, Farming, And Translation Team Add Up...

I hope this finds you safe and sound, as you travel from one place to another and share good news for the Kingdom’s sake. Back here we are fine. The following is the short report for this week.

Students
We had 13 students in the first year class. We lost one this week, he was not able to keep up with the school. He has written a letter asking if he can come back next year in the Swahili class. Alex Sadat also went back home because he has taken all the classes which are being taught in this quarter. He will be back in October so that he can take the book of Revelation which he did not take.

Students have started going out on our weekly evangelism.

Chicken coop
We were able to finish the construction of the coop for the layers of which we have already both the layers. This month we have also been able to cut down meat expenses by not buying any beef. That has reduced almost 200,000/- in our budget.

Farming
We have planted corn over the last two weeks since we were expecting the rain that time, but it did not rain. The seeds have been burnt by the sun. The weather shows that we might have some good rain in the next few coming days, therefore we have bought new seeds and are planting them these two days.

Translation Team
The translation team is still busy as usual. We have been able to finish the book of Ephesians, 1 & 2 Chronicles, 1 & 2 Kings, and Christian Growth (52 week’s lessons). All these are ready and saved on my hard drive.

The Team’s priority list is as follows:

1. Finishing up with the Spiritual Discipline outlines (ready by March 30th)

2. Translating 5 lessons as recommended by you from our brother Rudy (Back to the Bible)

        Charles will be translating the introduction lesson and Lesson 1

        Michael will be translating Lessons 4 & 5

        Godfrey will be translating Lessons 2 & 3

These lessons should be ready by April the 5th, proofed, and saved on my hard drive.

3. Since next quarter the Swahili class will be studying from the book of 1 & 2 Corinthians we are also working on 1 Corinthians.

        Charles will be translating the Introduction through chapter 4

        Michael will be translating chapters 5-10

        Godfrey will be translating chapters 11-16

This book should be ready, translated, proofed, and saved by April 11th.

We are still facing some hardship using our Macbook since we do not have the office program.

In the past, we also requested some dictionaries, which will help the team to be more effective.

Mkunde has been doing a great work, but she is not in our budget. She just finished her work this week and my plan was to tell her to stop working until you come back since we do not have anything to pay her. I have asked Ahimidiwe to give her 200,000/- from the school’s budget for this time until we hear from you. Before you left, we discussed about her and you said you will include her pay on the translation team while the translation team article is not seen in the school’s draw.

These are just a few for this week. Thank you for all that you do in the Lord’s Vineyard.

Your servant in Him,
Charles

Posted on March 15, 2015 .

Student Preaching Produces Fruit Of Four Souls In Nigeria...

Dear fellow laborers in Christ,

Grace and peace be multiplied unto you all from God our Father and from our Lord Jesus Christ.

The staff and students of the Southwest School of Evangelism, Ibadan evangelized Wainmi town in Osun state between 9:00 am and 4:30 pm and the Lord crowned our effort with a convert.

On Sunday, March 8 2015, brother Destiny Elijah, one of our year 1 students taught on “True Worship” at Onikokoro / Gbongudu congregation while I admonished the church from Deuteronomy 5:1-22.

At Ilisan-Remo in Ogun state, brother Nwaorji Emmanuel, another year 1 student of SWSE, taught on “The Holy Spirit,” while brother Dele Shotola admonished the church from John 3:1-5 and four souls were added to the church as the result of their joint efforts.

At the campus church, Butubutu, brother Olofingorite Mayowa, one of our year 2 students, taught on “Salvation from Sin,” while brother Abraham Idu Yeje admonished from 1 Peter 1:13-25. Brother Ilori Gbenga, one of our year 2 students, taught on “Women's Role in the Church” at the Abusoro road congregation in Akure on Sunday of March 8, 2015.

Brethren, almost all our students took an active part in the service of the Lord on Sunday of March 8 2015 to the glory of God.

Thanks for your brotherly love and kindness. Remain blessed.

Your co-laborer in Christ Jesus,

Makinde Ebenezer Olufemi (Director of Studies)
Southwest School of Evangelism (SWSE), Ibadan & Lagos campus.
For & On behalf of SWSE IBADAN NIGERIA

Posted on March 15, 2015 .

Twelve Baptisms And Fifty Prospects For Study In Ghana...

Dear Brethren,

Again the good Lord has granted us another successful month of operation. Our program for the month required that we use three weeks for classroom work and one week for the campaign for Christ. 

The initial two weeks was used for classroom work and it went successfully. Again, both instructors and students were punctual to class. The third week was used for the Campaign for Christ at Effiakuma.  

Many past students who had heard of the program had expressed interests to join in it. About twelve (12) of them had joined in the program at one point or the other while six (6) carried on with us throughout. Also, some members of the congregation at Effiakuma joined in it.

The program schedule was to preach in the street at night and go from house to house during the day. The entire one week followed the same. By God’s grace (10) ten souls were added to the church, while (2) two visitors among a total number of thirteen (13) who visited to witness our worship on the following Sunday were baptized. This gave a total of twelve (12) baptisms in this program.

A record of over fifty (50) prospects who had expressed willingness for further studies were handed over to the congregation at Effiakuma. Reports have it that they continue visiting and studying with them and as a result (2) two souls were also baptized last Sunday.

1. As indicated in our last report, we still await Brother Todd Clippard and his team to begin the agricultural project next week, God’s willing.

2. The next school graduation is also scheduled for April 18. Twenty (20) men who had gone through the course successfully will be graduating on that day. Looking at the number of students, we have budgeted that an amount of GHC 1,700.00 be provided us to take care of the program. Our expenditure during the day usually includes: renting of canopies, chairs, transportation, water, meals, etc.

3. Brother Daniel Ampadu Asiamah: We are glad to report to you that brother Daniel and his family are back to Takoradi to continue with his medication. We thank God for how far He has sustained our brother. Your prayers are still needed to enable him go through this difficult condition. 

Thanks and God bless you all.
Charles Mensah

Posted on March 15, 2015 .

Dedication, Ingenuity, And Fellowship All To The Glory Of God...

Several areas stand out each week in reporting about the work of the extension program. The first involves the dedication of students who continually share the gospel of Jesus with others. Their efforts are bringing more souls to Christ every week. While reading through this week’s report, please notice the impact this first area is making on the development of the kingdom of our God around the world.

Second, the ingenuity of staff members from each location is amazing to witness. The various ideas presented in how they can further grow the church of our Lord is also making a major difference. The idea of “school” expands in the thinking of these leaders as they work with local congregations for their own school designed to strengthen the knowledge of God’s word among local members and then use as a tool to reach out to nonChristians. The results speak for themselves, as found in the reports below.

Third, the fellowship of working together with others in this training process is exciting. Each week we learn more about ways to strengthen our relationship with each other and our fellowship in working together with God. Here, and only here, do we know that our efforts are blessed. As the program grows more globally, we rely on this fellowship to insure the success of the work in each location. 

Fourth, God’s glory is magnified through the students as they prepare themselves for kingdom work and proclaim the message of His indescribable gift. The purpose of Bear Valley’s existence and the joint effort with others around the world is united in this one area: to glorify our God. Please pray with us and for us in pursuing this task.

Now on to this week’s incredible reports...

Coordinator Updates
Reports from the coordinators are now located on the website, under Staff Reports. The address is http://www.wetrainpreachers.com/extension-schools/

The latest report from Jerry Bates can be read here.

Extension Reports 

The Gospel Is For All: Students in Cameroon are spending the next week on campaign in 22 different villages sharing the gospel with everyone. Pray their efforts are fruitful.

Son Assists In The Spiritual Birth Of His Mother In Cambodia: A parent baptizing their son or daughter is exciting, but witnessing a son baptize his mother is wonderful. Read more. 

Local Minister Injured In Gorlovka, Ukraine: Even though a cease-fire order exists, the fighting continues in Eastern Ukraine and one local minister experienced the impact.

Counting The Souls Added To The Kingdom In Kenya: This report from current students and graduates in Kenya will have you encouraged counting the those who obeyed the gospel.

The Practical Use Of Evangelism And Preaching For Students In Nigeria: The students at SWSE continue to gain practical ministry experience that proves beneficial and fruitful.

More Than 20 Obey the Gospel In Uganda: Recent events, activities, and projects flowing from the Uganda School of Evangelism are pointing to church growth as several are baptized. 

Praying For Sean And Anita Hochdorf: Many challenges face missionaries leaving the field, but needing surgery complicates it further. Pray for Sean and Anita and consider their need.

Kisongo Congregation Working Through A Bible School: From the influence of ACSOP, the local congregation in Arusha provides biblical training for others and the church is growing.

Co-Workers In Tanzania Glorify God To The Saving Of The Lost: Co-working with the brethren in Tanzania is bring souls to the Lord and glorifying God. Exciting news.

Final Thoughts 
We owe each of you a debt of gratitude for all you contribute to the program. This week, like all others, advances because of your efforts to help see the program succeed. God has blessed us through you and we pray He continues to bless your lives as you serve Him.

God bless
Bob

Posted on March 8, 2015 .

"The Gospel is For All"

Dearest in Christ,

         Greetings and love to you all over there. We do hope this report meets you in good health and a sound faith. We praise God! Life is going on well and God is helping us in all that we must pass through.

     Last week in CBIW was a week dedicated for the teaching of short courses. We increased  the number of daily hours to teach the short courses so that the time would not exceed one week. This will allow us the time to do the normal evangelism as well as the mass evangelism to Lebialem.  This also is a very important part of our work and our training.

     As I write this report, all our GAMMA batch students are on their way to their very first mission work. Keep them in your prayers as they travel to 22 different locations. Some will go to places they have never been before. Some students will sail on canoes to get to their destinations. Please, please pray for them.

 

         It is always good for you to watch your child grow. It was amazing for me to sit in the class and watch one of our graduates, Mokwe Eugene, teach a short course. He had the desire to come back and teach a short course and he did extremely. The students understood him well as he taught them “The Cost of Discipleship.”

 

    In CBIW we are all brethren. We have the mutual communion with one another whether you are a staff or a student, but we are aware of the scriptures that says give respect to whom respect is due. We are having this  sweet fellowship with this ex-student who has come back to teach a short course.

 

2.jpg

      Today the Wotutu congregation congratulated the effort of the staff of CBIW, as they can see the growth of our children on their pulpit. This is brother Nguty Victor during his sermon. We are going through the theme, “What God Wants Us To Be.” Keep CBIW in your prayers as the waves keeps going. To God be the glory.

 

       In Wotutu congregation, we take our time to write all of the scriptures on the board so that as the teacher is explaining the reading and explanation of the word of God people can turn to the passages in their Bibles. God’s word is good, and many visitors who visit us will always appreciate the pains we are taken to teach the word to our Christians family.

 

      This month God has blessed us with two babies as you can see babies being prayed for today. We pray that their parents will raise them up to remain and build the church of Christ in their generations.

        The Gamma batch of students smile as they carry their bags for their first mission work, which will beginning today in different locations. Keep them in your prayers as we shall share their reports upon their return .

  

      Their bags are loaded with tracts and with their clothes. They will share the “good news” and then leave someone with good gospel tracts from mission printing. Thanks to all those who are voluntarily giving themselves to the work of Mission Printing. Their efforts are having a great impact in the lives of many. Many here will take time to read the tracts and ask questions about their stand in this world.

 

       Brother Cyprine is ready to go. He is going to a place he has never been to before. That is what the gospel can do for those who obeyed the call. WHERE HE LEADS ME I WILL FOLLOW…

 

      A great thing that I love that has been added to my preaching and teaching life, is the training of men to teach the pure message. I am so blessed in this way that I get confused as to how to try to explain the abundance of this blessing that God has given me. It is amazing to admit a student in CBIW and from the first day realize that the student is almost empty with the knowledge of the Bible, but then to witness the effect of time and effort as you see him growing in knowledge and experience and becoming an evangelist who is rightly handling the word of truth, answering questions on Bible subjects, and speaking out the word in public with all boldness. I was happy to witness as some weeks back our student back knelt down on the dirt floor as a sign of humility and total surrender to serve God full time in preaching and teaching. With tears I saw this as we prayed for him that only God can help strengthen him and keep him for His use. Keep Itoe David in your prayers.

 

       The Lord added brother Abel Chia in His kingdom. Keep praying for us.

   PLANS

1. From the 24 to the 29 of March 2015, all of our current students and graduates will be on our way to Lebialem for a program called,”Lebialem for Christ.” The purpose is to plant the church of Christ in that part of Cameroon which is presently, deeply characterize by Roman catholic dogma. Please keep us in your prayers as all our staff too will be part of it.

2.  I will be traveling to Akwaya regions in Cameroon. This is an area also where there are above 80 villages but there is no single congregation in the area. As we train men, we do our best to reduce the ripe harvest for the Lord. Please keep me in your prayers. This area is also enclaved, but as the gospel is calling we must go. Let the name of God be heard! Let us show them the way to Christ! I am told they belief in witchcraft and traditional beliefs. Why should we sit and watch these people perish? As you pray for me, it is true that you are accompanying me to go and reach out, thinking souls , going for souls, so that God will help us harvest some fruits from the strong man’s house.

    APPRECIATION

       God bless you as you pray for us and continue supporting us in any way you can to help grow the church of Christ in Cameroon. Thanks very much from the bottom of our hearts for all that you are doing with your love and efforts.

      Do your best to share this with others.

    Elangwe and family

    By His grace Director CBIW

 

EVANGELISM IS OUR MISSION AND OUR MISSION IS EVANGELISM.

  2TIM2:2 2TIM4:2

Posted on March 8, 2015 .

The Practical Use Of Evangelism And Preaching For Students In Nigeria...

Greetings in Jesus’ name from students and staff of the Southwest School of Evangelism and my fellow WBSFUW team in Oyo and Osun state.

We evangelized over the weekend in the city of Egbeda and Kupalo and Jago villages of Egbeda and Ona-Ara Local Government, Oyo state.

On Sunday, March 1, 2015, one of our prospects, named Jumoke Adams, was baptized by brother Kayode Eniafe at Asejire River.

On Sunday, brother Ishom Gabriel, one of our year 2 students taught on “Six Evils and Their Cures” at Onikokoro / Gbongudu congregation, Ibadan and brother Segun Idowu, one of our year 1 students taught on “The True Worshipper” at the secondary school class while I admonished from Genesis 11:1-6 on “Vision.”

Brother Kayode Eniafe taught on “The Ark of Salvation” at Egbeda congregation while brother Abiola Joseph Olusoji taught on “What it Means to be in Christ.”

At the campus church, brother Gbenga Ilori, one of the year 2 students taught on “The Ark of Noah” and brother David Edo admonished from Nehemiah 3:1-16 and brother Adedoyin Sola Rotimi taught at Jago congregation on “Steadfastness” while brother James Waleola admonished the church on “Looking unto Jesus” from Hebrew 12:1ff. Brother Godwin Ede (SWSE year 2 student) taught on “Doctrine of Christ” at Wasimi congregation, Osun state while brother Sunday Adegoke, one of my co-WBSFUW taught at Kute congregation, Ibadan on “Positive Usage of Our Tongue” and one of our brother's son named Lawal Gboyega got baptized. To God be the glory!

Beloved, we are joining one of our year 2 students and the minister of the Wasimi congregation in Osun state, named brother Godwin Ede, on Saturday, March 7, 2015 in campaigning for Christ between 9:00am and 4:30pm.

Brethren, we thank you all for your partnership. May the Lord of blessing continue to bless all our joint effort in Christ Jesus. Amen.

Sincerely His & yours,

Makinde Ebenezer Olufemi (Director of Studies)
Southwest School of Evangelism (SWSE), Ibadan & Lagos campus, Nigeria

Posted on March 8, 2015 .

Son Assists In The Spiritual Birth Of His Mother In Cambodia...

Good day fellow workers of Christ! Thank you for taking the time to visit my blog about the work of Jesus Christ in Siem Reap, Cambodia. For the month of February, I wanted to highlight two things: 1) God's adding of another soul into his kingdom, and 2) an example of a mature Christian bearing fruit in Sokchea Lork.

1) It was wonderful to see a son baptizing his mother into Christ! What a beautiful picture! Tuk is one of our 3rd year students who was able to finally immerse his mother for the remission of her sins after 3 years of studying and being an example to her. I pray that one day, I too, will have this incredible moment. Please continue to keep Tuk, his wife Duong, and his mother in your prayers as she walks a new life in Christ. 

2) IBISR students made/planted Pleurotus Ostreatus (Oyster Mushrooms) with Sokchea Lork (one of our graduates who is serving as the local preacher in Leang Dai village). I'm so proud of Sokchea and what he is doing in his community and his willingness to share his craft with our students along with the villagers to teach them how to provide for themselves! This is a three day seminar on how to grow and care for the oyster mushrooms.

These two things that I am highlighting for the month of February is a glimpse of what we are doing here in Cambodia in becoming autonomous. We still emphasize the importance of seeking the lost and saving souls, at the same time helping them to take care of themselves physically. There has to be a healthy balance with the main emphasis focusing on the spiritual life. Thank you for your support and prayers in getting us this far. I pray that God will continue to bless you guys so that you can continue to bless us here and we all can see the blessings of God together! Amen.

Phanat

To see Phanat’s report with pictures, please click here.

Posted on March 8, 2015 .

Local Minister Injured In Gorlovka, Ukraine...

Hello dear brothers.

And since they did not see fit to acknowledge God, God gave them up to a debased mind… (Rom. 1:28)

As you know, February was a busy moth in the life of our country. There was a treaty signed in Minsk, according to which both sides have to cease-fire and move the heavy artillery away from the conflict areas. Ukraine kept its part of the treaty, but the insurgents of the so-called republic continues shooting and making the situation in the area even worse. At this time, our brother in Christ and BVBIU graduate, Maksim Gaykov was injured. He stayed in Gorlovka together with his family and continued serving the Lord there with many other Christians. When he was on his way home, a bomb exploded several feet away from him. The injury was not life threatening, and we have already sent money to pay for his medical treatment. A splinter of a bomb hurt the soft tissue of his leg. Unfortunately, there are thousands of such injuries and deaths among the civilians. We ask you to continue praying for peace in Ukraine. 

Bear Valley Bible Institute in Ukraine
The classes at the Institute continue to take place. In February, Denton Landon and Ralph and Cindy Williams visited us. We are grateful for their ministry and work at the Institute. Denton taught Isaiah to the first-year students; Ralph taught Paul's epistles 1-2 Timothy and Titus to the second-year students. Ukrainian teachers continue teaching via Skype. The classes go according to the schedule, and students get everything that we have in the program in full extent. We are looking forward to the arrival of our brothers Johnny Mack Young and Garth Hilton in March. Then we'll have a week of evangelizing campaign and a Spring Break. Studying 1-2 Peter and Jude, we often noticed the key word “suffering”. It’s a very familiar topic for many of us. Last year and the beginning of this year brought many changes and difficulties in our lives, but we continue praising the Lord and want to spread the good news about the Savior. We have nine men and one young lady studying in the program.  

Institute Church of Christ
There are more people now who know about the church in Ternopil. Last month, we had four visitors who attended Sunday services and asked questions. A young lady, Masha, attends our services regularly. We try to be a very open and friendly congregation, teaching the sound doctrine nevertheless. We have been renting that building for seven months now, and only now people start coming and learning about us. We are making our way around. After our friends, the Tebels, moved to Canada, Bogdan and I preached on Sundays and taught Bible classes in the middle of the week. We try to involve all brethren at Sunday service. Each of them participates in worship. We have youth group meetings on Tuesdays and Bible school for kids on Saturdays.

On February 14, Cindy Williams taught a Bible class for ladies on “Following Christ.” Oksana interpreted for Cindy and led singing. Vera had a workshop on making souvenir candles for the ladies. It was a very memorable and encouraging day for our sisters in Christ. On February 24 (Tuesday), our sisters prepared for men a special event full of games, quizzes and fellowship. We enjoyed that time we spent together. 

There are about 20-22 people attending our congregation. Mostly these are students and their families; there are also some local Christians and visitors. 

We plan to have a major evangelizing campaign in March, giving brochures on the streets, and having personal Bible studies with people. We continue praying for God's work in Ternopil. 

Thank you for your prayers and financial support of the Institute, church, and our students. If you have any questions or comments, please write to me. I'm always open to work together. 

Your brother and coworker for the Lord's cause, 

Dennis Sopelnik

To see Dennis’ report with pictures, please click here.

Posted on March 8, 2015 .

Counting The Souls Added To The Kingdom In Kenya...

It is surprising how sometimes time flies very fast. We have come to the end of the second year here at Kenya School of Preaching. It has been one of the greatest classes and quarters, good reports from the current students and former.

I taught the gospel of Mark and Hermeneutics, Elias taught Homiletics II and Pentateuch II, Prison Epistles was taught by Jacob Omollo and Dr. Mike Reese taught both Godhead and Christian evidence as short courses.

Our 20 students are truly doing well both in class and in personal evangelism.  For the first time in this class we had the 20 students go and serve in 10 local congregations of the Lord. They led worship services, went door to door, conducted Bibles studies, and four souls obeyed the Lord’s gospel and were immersed. The students were very excited to put into practice what they have been learning in class and to report back the response. On behalf of the school and the students, thanks for the brethren and churches that made the sacrifices to send them out.

Denis, a current student, brought the report of five people who obeyed the gospel. These are people he has been studying with and when he visited them, five were baptized.

We had a drip irrigation workshop at the Ahono church and all the current 20 students of KSOP plus former graduates attended and actively participated in the two days event. They were so happy with the skills they learned and hope to get the drip irrigation kit, so they can use in their various villages.

As KSOP, this kind of workshop will really be of help to us, especially when we have school land where we can produce food for the school and cut cost. Otherwise for the individual students, it will greatly benefit them when they are back to the village. Thanks to all who organized it.

This workshop also gave me an opportunity to meet and share with the former graduates how the Lord’s work is going on on their sides.

Laban, a former student, had been sharing the gospel with two different denominational leaders in Bungoma, one of them obeyed the gospel and was baptized. They went together and taught the other members and 16 more obeyed the gospel and were baptized. Eight other members requested more studies and he is following up on them. Furthermore, he restored two churches of Christ, the Shivanga congregation and Kapcheposet congregation, to true worship and the people around the village refer to him as “Bishop.”

Ernest, also a former students, is in the Eastern part of Kenya seeking to plant a new congregation. I am full of joy to hear these great reports from the current and former students of KSOP. Men are truly at work and glory be to God.

We had a three day gospel campaign in Mayoni, near Mumias. I participated on February 28th and March 1st. Four souls were baptized into Christ and added to this new church.   

Your support for the preaching school is worthy and not in vain. Those who love the Mango fruit don’t throw the mango seed (Keith Kasarjian and Mike Reese), those who love the gospel also commit it to the faithful men.

Keep us and the work in your prayers to keep on keeping on with training quality preachers.

Blessings to you all.

In His service,

Charles Ogutu,
Director KSOP (We train quality preachers)

Posted on March 8, 2015 .