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Click to expand transcript Brother Bob Pellien: The Bible teaches of only one true Church and that it has the name “Church Of Christ,” is prophesied, and believes the Father alone is the true God.  You’re listening to the podcast version of God’s Message magazine, and today’s topic is “The True Church.” Brother Bob: With the proliferation of so many different religions and churches, many people are confused and do not know where to begin their search for the true Church. On the other hand, there are those who have just chosen to accept the popular belief that all religions are the same. But how could all religions be true when their doctrine  and beliefs are not only different but also in conflict? The Bible teaches of only one true Church and that it has the name “Church Of Christ,” is prophesied, and believes that the Father alone is the true God.  Importance of the name “Church Of Christ” Brother Bob: The apostles called the true Church the Church Of Christ: Take heed therefore to yourselves and to all the flock over which the Holy Spirit has appointed you overseers, to feed the church of Christ which he has purchased with his blood.” [Acts 20:28 Lamsa Translation] Brother Bob: Contrary to what many think, the name, as applied to Christ’s Church, is very essential, for no other name has been or will be given to us by which we can be saved (Acts 4:8-12 The Message). Since it is only by the name of Christ can one be saved, so the name of Christ should not be removed from that of the Church He built (Matthew 16:18). The name of the Church should follow the name of Christ Who built and owns it. Moreover, as the Church is the body of Christ (Colossians 1:18), the name of the Church must follow the name of its head.  Others claim that “Church Of God’ can be read in other Bible translations such as the New King James Version— that it is the more accurate rendering of Acts 20:28. Such claim is wrong because the latter part of the verse states: “which he has purchased with his blood.” The rendering “church of God” means that it was God who died and shed blood on the cross. This contradicts other Bible verses that teach that God is immortal (I Timothy 1:17), is Spirit (John 4:24 Today’s English Version), has no flesh and bones (Luke 24:36-39), and therefore has no blood. It is the Lord Jesus Christ’s blood that washed the members of His Church of their sins (I Peter 1:18-19, Revelation 1:5). The importance of prophecy Brother Bob: Prophecy proves that the religion or church that has the light is the true one. Any religion without light is, of course, in darkness:  To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, it is because there is no light in them. [Isaiah 8:20 New King James Version] Brother Bob The testimony referred to is a biblical prophecy: … For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy. [Revelation 19:10 New King James Version] Brother Bob: Are there prophecies about the Church Of Christ that emerged in the Philippines? In John 10:16, the Lord Jesus Christ prophesied  that He had other sheep. Christ called them His other sheep because they did not belong to the fold or flock at that time. These other sheep of Christ would come from the future: I have other sheep too. They are not in this flock here. I must lead them also. They will listen to my voice. In the future there will be one flock and one shepherd. [John 10:16 Easy-to-Read Version] Brother Bob: Christ would bring them also and they would be made one flock or one Church Of Christ (Acts 20:28 Lamsa). In a related prophecy, Christ’s other sheep is said to emerge from the Far East:  From the far east will I bring your offspring, and from the far west I will gather you. [Isaiah 43:5 Moffatt Translation] Brother Bob: The place of emergence of Christ’s other sheep in the Far East is a nation composed of islands of the sea: Therefore in the east give glory to the LORD; exalt the name of the LORD, the God of Israel, in the islands of the sea. From the ends of the earth we hear singing: “Glory to the Righteous One.” [Isaiah 24:15-16 New International Version] Brother Bob: In fulfillment, the place where Christ’s other sheep would emerge is the Philippines, a country in the Far East composed of thousands of islands: “The Philippines were Spain’s share of the first colonizing movement in the Far East…” (World History, Vol. 2 p. 445); and, “It cannot be without significance that the country which stands almost at the geographical center of the Far East, the Philippines, also be that in which Christianity has taken the deepest root.” (Asia and the Philippines, p. 169). Also as prophesied, the Church from the Far East would reach the Far West. This would happen when in the east or the Philippines people could see God’s brilliant deeds:  Till in the far west men have awe of the Eternal, and in the east they see his brilliant deeds; for his vengeance pours out like a pent-up stream, driven by a blast of wind. [Isaiah 59:19 Moffatt Translation] Brother Bob: When the Church Of Christ’s mission of salvation would have spread throughout the Philippines it would reach the Far West. This part of the prophecy was fulfilled when Brother Eraño G. Manalo officiated at the first worship service in Hawaii on July 27, 1968. This was followed by another gathering of brethren in San Francisco, California. These are the official beginnings of the Church Of Christ in the Far West. According to the 1976 World Almanac, Hawaii and California are part of the region of the United States called Far West (p. 88). The importance of knowing the Father alone as the only true God Brother Bob: Having the knowledge that the Father alone is the only true God is another proof of the true Christian Church (I Corinthians 8:6). Christ Himself revealed why knowledge of the identity of the true God is important: Eternal life is to know you, the only true God, and to know Jesus Christ, the one you sent. After Jesus had finished speaking to his disciples, he looked up toward heaven and prayed: Father, the time has come for you to bring glory to your Son, in order that he may bring glory to you. [John 17:3,1 Contemporary English Version] Brother Bob: Based on the statements of the Savior, knowing the only true God is essential to obtaining the eternal life. In other words, a wrong belief in God, or not knowing who the only true God is, prevents one from being saved. In His prayer, Christ used the pronoun “you” referring to the Father as the “one and only true God.” This discounts the doctrine of the Trinity. If the Trinity were true, then Christ should have used the pronoun “us” to include Him and the Holy Spirit. He never taught the trinity or even the concept of the trinity. The word “trinity” cannot be found in the Bible. The apostles also taught the Father alone as the only true God: All of you are part of the same body. There is only one Spirit of God, just as you were given one hope when you were chosen to be God’s people. We have only one Lord, one faith, and one baptism. There is one God who is the Father of all people. Not only is God above all others, but he works by using all of us, and he lives in all of us. [Ephesians 4:4-6 Contemporary English Version] Brother Bob: In the one body or one true Church, there is only one true faith, and in that true Christian faith, there is room for only “one God who is the Father.” The apostles did not teach that there is one God composed of three divine persons—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The teaching that the Father alone is the true God was also taught by the prophets: Don’t you know that we all have God as our Father? Didn’t the one God create each of us? … [Malachi 2:10 Contemporary English Version] Brother Bob: Therefore, the belief that the Father is the only true God is the teaching of Christ, the apostles, and the prophets. This is also the teaching upheld by the only one true Church today, the Church Of Christ that emerged in the Philippines on July 27, 1914 as the fulfillment of biblical prophecies. No other church called “Church Of Christ” teaches that the Father alone is the only true God. If a church teaches the trinity or a variation of it, it is not truly of Christ and of God.  Even by focusing only on these three main points—name, prophecy, and belief in the only one God, the Father—as the takeoff of one’s search, one can clearly see that the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) is the only true Church. For more articles like these, get your copy of God’s Message Magazine from a member of the Church Of Christ. You can also listen and subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcast, Google Podcast, and the INC Media mobile app. Thank you for listening. I’m Brother Bob Pellien. God bless.

The Family Whose Prayers Will Be Answered   Brother Bob Pellien: As the world faces increasing challenges, many seek help and advice from marriage and family counselors for the welfare of their families. The Bible teaches about Whom people should all the more seek to provide them with unlimited assistance and protection for their household.   You’re listening to the podcast version of God’s Message magazine, and today’s topic is “The Family Whose Prayers Will Be Answered.”   A family’s condition has a great relevance to the well-being, or ill-being, of its every individual member. Studies show that the modern family is besieged by several threats to its stability: the worsening poverty, deadly diseases, destructive calamities, rising criminality, terrorism, divorce, extramarital pregnancy, and negative peer pressure are among the factors that directly or indirectly threaten the family.   In the face of such menaces, there are those who seek help and advice from marriage and family counselors or assistance and protection from concerned agencies that advocate for the welfare of families.   However, the Bible teaches about whom people should all the more seek to provide them with unlimited assistance and protection for their household.   Whom to turn to for help   Brother Bob: If families today find themselves in a tight spot, it is not something that’s new. The Holy Scriptures attest that “people are born for trouble.” In such situations, people should “go to God and present [their] case to Him” (Job 5:7-8 New Living Translation). Thus, if there is someone a family should turn to for help, He is none other than the Almighty God. With Him, all things are possible (Luke 18:27).    However, to benefit from the Lord God’s promised help and protection, people should make sure that they are among His own people because it is to them whom He made a solemn promise that He “will not abandon” (I Samuel 12:22 Good New Bible). Apostle Peter identified who God’s chosen people are in the Christian era: they have been called “out of darkness into His marvelous light” (I Peter 2:9-10 New King James Version).   According to Apostle Paul, those who were called by God out of darkness were “conveyed…into the kingdom of the Son of His love, in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins” (Colossians 1:12-14 New King James Version). The ones who have redemption because they were purchased by Christ with His blood are none other than the members of the Church Of Christ (Acts 20:28 Lamsa Translation).    Here in the Christian era, the members of the Church Of Christ are the ones to whom God made a solemn promise not to abandon them. Families inside this Church can turn to the Lord God and expect for His help and protection because they are among His people. So those who want to benefit from God’s promises ought to become true Christians or faithful members of the true Church Of Christ.    What God can do   Brother Bob: The Bible attests to what the Lord can do for His people. “God saves the fatherless and the poor” and gives them hope (Job 5:15-16 Living Bible). “Time after time,” He saves His chosen ones from harm (Job 5:19 Good News Bible). Even when disasters come one after another, faithful servants of God have nothing to worry about since this is what He will do for them, thus:   From one disaster after another he delivers you; no matter what the calamity, the evil can’t touch you—In famine, he’ll keep you from starving..”  [Job 5:19-20 The Message]   Brother Bob: For this reason, what Christian families should rely on above all else are not human efforts in this world, but God’s promised help to His chosen ones. Apostle Paul taught the true Christians that in all their prayers, they can ask God for what they need (Philippians 4:6 Good News Bible)   That is why families in the Church devote themselves to praying to Him. Parents lead their children in upholding household prayers and encourage them to conduct personal devotional prayers as well. They completely place their trust in God, fully confident that He will listen to and grant their prayers and provide them the best protection there is:   The Lord says, “If a person trusts me, I will save him. I will protect my followers who worship my name. My followers will call to me for help, and I will answer them. I will be with them when they have trouble. I will rescue them and honor them’.”  [Psalm 91:14-15 Easy-to-Read Version]   God’s expectations   Brother Bob: Fervently praying to God and trusting in Him are important, but those are not all that He seeks in them. This is what the Holy Scriptures declare:    The LORD has made a solemn promise, and he will not abandon you, for he has decided to make you his own people. Obey the LORD and serve him faithfully with all your heart. Remember the great things he has done for you. [I Samuel 12:22, 24 Good News Bible]   Brother Bob: Christian parents should make sure that all the family members are obeying and serving God faithfully with all their heart. They always remember all the great things that He has done for His people, including their family, and remind them to their children.    Moreover, they, together with their offspring, love the Lord God with all their heart, soul, and strength. They never forget His commandments; instead, they teach them to their children in every opportunity—when they are at home or away, when they are resting or working (Deuteronomy 6:5-7 Good News Bible).   Thus, if every member of the household is dedicated to serving God and obeying His commandments, everything will be well for them:   All will go well with you if you honor the Lord your God, serve him, listen to him, and obey his commands, and if you and your king follow him.” [I Samuel 12:14 Good News Bible]   Brother Bob: All will go well for the parents and their children in God’s nation who always follow His commandments because His love eternally abides with them:   God’s love, though, is ever and always, eternally present to all who fear him, Making everything right for them and their children as they follow his Covenant ways and remember to do whatever he said. [Psalm 103:17-18 The Message]   First place in one’s life   Brother Bob: Knowing that everything is possible with the Lord God and that He is willing to provide for His people, families in the Church Of Christ keep in mind what the Lord Jesus Christ teaches His disciples:    So don’t worry at all about having enough food and clothing. Why be like the heathen? For they take pride in all these things and are deeply concerned about them. But your heavenly Father already knows perfectly well that you need them, and he will give them to you if you give him first place in your life and live as he wants you to. [Matthew 6:31-33 Living Bible]   Brother Bob: Chrisitan families need not worry about their necessities in life since the one true God, the Father in heaven, not only knows perfectly well what they need, but will also provide for them. Only, they should give God first place in their life and live as He wants them to.    Thus, parents in the Church Of Christ make sure that their entire household are active in their services to the Lord God. They take part in the Christian Family Organizations activities, help in the works of propagation, conduct the INC Family Hour, and most especially, always attend worship services. Faithful servants of God firmly believe that it is during the worship services when He all the more listens to their prayers:   I worship at your holy temple and praise you for your love and your faithfulness. You were true to your word and made yourself more famous than ever before. When I asked for your help, you answered my prayer and gave me courage. I am surrounded by trouble, but you protect me against my angry enemies. With your own powerful arm you keep me safe. [Psalms 138: 2-3, 7 Contemporary English Version]   Brother Bob: Parents in God’s nation not only teach their children to regard highly the worship services to God. Likewise, they themselves lead their sons and daughters in worshiping the Lord God and bringing their offering to Him (Deuteronomy 12:11-12). Despite being surrounded by false religious beliefs and high-sounding philosophies, their unyielding resolve, especially that of the head of the household, is that their entire family will “worship and obey” the true God (Joshua 24:15 Contemporary English Version).   In this regard, children in the Church Of Christ are taught by Apostle Paul to obey their parents who teach them to live according to God’s words for them to receive His promise:    Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise—”that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.” [Ephesians 6:1-3 New International Version]   Brother Bob: More than material inheritance for their descendants, Christian parents make sure to bequeath to their children complete confidence in God and strong determination in holding fast the true faith. Such parents do so, for it is their firm belief that when the time comes that they leave behind their sons and daughters, they can rest assured that the Lord God will take care of their children (Psalms 27:10 New Life Version).    God’s grace for His people   Brother Bob: The Executive Minister of the Church Of Christ, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, exhorts all brethren to intensify their fervent prayers to God in the face of life’s worsening situation. He labors day and night to remind the Church members to completely trust in the Almighty Father. That is why he inspires them to put all their hope in the grace that will be theirs (I Peter 1:13 Easy-To-Read Version).   Through the constant guidance that Church members receive through the Church Administration, they are confident in what the Lord God declares with regards to His people:   So the LORD answers, “Can a woman forget her own baby and not love the child she bore? Even if a mother should forget her child, I will never forget you.” [Isaiah 49:15 Good News Bible]   Brother Bob: The Almighty God, the Father, assures His children or chosen people that He will never forget them. Hence, inasmuch as the Church Of Christ members are the children of God in these last days, they and their families remain firm in their conviction and will always draw near to the Father in heaven through their prayers. With their entire being, they implore Him:   So may it please you to bless the household of your servant, so that it might remain forever in your presence, because you, Lord God, have spoken, and from your blessing may the household of your servant be blessed forever. [II Samuel 7:29 International Standard Version]   Brother Bob: For more articles like these, get your copy of God’s Message Magazine from a member of the Church Of Christ. You can also listen and subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcast and on the INC Media mobile app. Thank you for listening. I’m Brother Bob Pellien. God bless.

Brother Bob Pellien: What makes a good son or daughter? All of us, young and old, are children—sons and daughters—to our respective parents. It is but proper that each of us strives to give joy to our parents while they are still around to savor it.  You’re listening to the podcast version of God’s Message magazine, and today’s topic is “Making Our Parents Proud.” For every achievement, good deed, or adorable trait that a parent sees in his child, he cannot help but exclaim with all pride, “That’s my son!” or “That’s my daughter!” Joy is written all over the faces of proud fathers and mothers, as they behold the wonder that is their child. It’s such a great feeling to be in the shoes of a proud parent. And even greater is the feeling of a child who sees that sparkle of joy and pride in the eyes of his parents.  Not all children may become parents someday. But all of us, young and old, are children—sons and daughters—to our respective parents. It is but proper that each of us strives to give joy to our parents, while they are still around to savor it.  So, what makes a good son or daughter? Let us take into account these biblical instructions:   Be respectful   ‘Respect your father and mother’ is the first commandment that has a promise added: ‘so that all may go well with you, and you may live a long time in the land.’ [Ephesians 6:2-3 Good News Bible]   Brother Bob: One’s respect for his parents, or the lack of it, is often manifested in the way he speaks to them. It goes without saying that a man who bad mouths his father or mother and talks back boorishly at them is a disrespectful child.  More than speaking politely to our parents, however, let us honor them by valuing their teachings and advice , respecting their decisions, and not doing things that will cause them shame or even displease them. Being a grownup is never a valid reason for one to cut off his ties with his parents and have nothing to do with them anymore. Others may think it is old-fashioned for an adult to seek parental consent when getting married, but doing so is undeniably being polite, to say the least.   On the other hand, one who despises his parents is worthy of nothing but condemnation (Matthew 15:4; Revelation 21:8).   Be obedient   Children, it is your Christian duty to obey your parents always, for that is what pleases God. [Colossians 3:20 Good News Bible] Brother Bob: When a Christian youth obeys the good things that his father and mother tell him to do, he pleases not only his parents but also, and more importantly, the Lord God.  Young members of the Church Of Christ should understand that being a true Christian involves more than just being active in going to worship services regularly. It is part of their duty as Christians to obey their “parents in the Lord” (Ephesians 6:1 New King James Version) or parents who teach them God’s will.  So, let us not take our parents’ counsel and corrections the wrong way. Instead, let us keep in our hearts and minds God’s commandments that they pass on to us and be guided by them (Proverbs 3:3,1). In whatever you do, may it concern your studies, or dealings with other people, always make sure that you break none of God’s righteous laws and statutes. After all, to serve God and to obey His commandments is the whole duty of every human being, sons and daughters alike (Ecclesiastes 12:13).    Be responsible   He who gathers in summer is a wise son; He who sleeps in harvest is a son who causes shame. [Proverbs 10:5 New King James Version] Brother Bob: Every sensible parent wants to see his children grow up to become successful and responsible individuals. It means a lot for parents to know that their son or daughter will not roam around begging for food when the time comes that they will live on their own or raise their own family. To do their part in preparing for their future, children should learn to value—not waste—the things their parents provide them with. They should study hard while they have the opportunity so that they can land a stable job someday. Responsible sons and daughters also take care of their parents, especially during their twilight years. They do this not only to return the favor to their parents, but also to follow God’s will (I Timothy 5:4).   Be upright   My son, do not forget my law, But let your heart keep my commands; Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the Lord and depart from evil. [Proverbs 3:1,7 New King James Version] Brother Bob: If there is anything that can greatly grieve a parent’s heart, it is seeing his child’s life ruined because of drugs, bad companions, or any other wickedness. For this not to happen to any Christian youth, they should understand that, free as they are to do everything their hearts desire, still they will be judged by God for what they do (Ecclesiastes 11:9-10). Youths ought to have reverence for God, for this will prevent them from falling into sin or any misdemeanor. They should also choose well the companions they associate themselves with and make sure that in enjoying their youth, they will not break any of God’s commandments but find joy in obeying them: I find pleasure in obeying your commands, because I love them. I respect and love your commandments; I will meditate on your instructions.  [Psalm 119:47-48 Good News Bible]   Be prayerful   O Lord, you alone are my hope. I’ve trusted you, O Lord from my childhood. O Lord, you are my refuge; never let me be disgraced. [Psalm 71:5,1 New Living Translation] Brother Bob: Much as they want to, parents cannot always be around to make things easy for their children. They, too, are human beings who can only do so much for their family as well as for themselves.  In view of this, children of Iglesia Ni Cristo households should know whom to turn to for help during times of trouble. We should make praying to God an important part of our lives, for it is He who, above all, can give us what we need, wherever we are and whatever situation we are in.  Christian parents will surely be appeased to know that their sons and daughters put their trust and confidence in God above all. On the day they will bid this world goodbye, they can rest assured that their children will be left in good hands, for God will take care of them (Psalm 27:10).    How have you treated your parents?   Brother Bob: None of us are perfect, but we all have the chance to reform our wrong ways and become the good and loving sons and daughters that we ought to be to our parents and, above all, to God. If we do so, God will never forget us, His children. These are the tender words of our Almighty Father:  So the Lord answers, “Can a woman forget her own baby and not love the child she bore? Even if a mother should forget her child, I will never forget you.” [Isaiah 49:15 Good News Bible] Brother Bob: May all of us, sons and daughters in the Church Of Christ, do everything we can to show our parents how much we love them while they are still with us. Let us accord them the honor and respect that they so truly deserve. Remember that whenever we bring joy to our parents by being good sons and daughters to them, we also give glory to the one true God, our Father Who created us and called us to be His own.  For more articles like these, get your copy of God’s Message Magazine from a member of the Church Of Christ. You can also listen and subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcast, Google Podcast, and on the INC Media mobile app. Thank you for listening. I’m Brother Bob Pellien. God bless.  

Brother Bob Pellien: Why is life so challenging? Why are there heartbreak, depression, and disappointments? Please know, you’re not alone during these dark moments in life. God wants to help you. But, do you ask for His help? You’re listening, the podcast version of God’s Message magazine. And today’s topic is “Facing Life’s Woes.”  Brother Bob: Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) members or not, people experience problems in life. This fact has led some into the erroneous thinking that since members of the Church Of Christ also encounter problems, then there really is no point in joining or remaining in the Church. While it is true that even Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) members are not immune to the problems that plague this present life, it doesn’t mean that there is no benefit in joining the Church. The truth is, membership in the Church Of Christ is the key to correctly deal with life’s woes. And above all, end them. Through the apostles, God reminds us that we should not consider it strange if we suffer painful trials. Thus,  Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you.  [1 Peter 4:12 Good News Translation] Brother Bob: We’re reminded as such because man is born to trouble as surely as sparks fly upward (Job 5:7). Thus, troubles in all their myriad forms are a part of life. Hence, we should not be puzzled when they come our way. Instead, the best that we can do is to brace and prepare ourselves for the troubles that we will surely experience. In preparing ourselves for the troubles in life, it is vital that we do not forget God’s warning that the world will collapse and never rise again, as cited in Isaiah 24:20.  Brother Bob: Thus, we should consider in our preparation, the truth, that no matter what man does, this world is irreversibly headed to its destruction. This will take place on the great day of the Lord when neither their silver nor their gold will be able to save them because he will make a sudden end of all who live on the earth (Zephaniah 1:14-15, 18).  Therefore, man ought to prepare himself not just for the present woes, but above all the sure punishment on the Day of Judgment. No amount of money, no degree of earthly influence, and no bunch of worldly achievements can make one immune from the troubles in this life, and more so from the destruction that awaits this world.  Brother Bob: Clearly then, it is unwise to just prepare for the troubles in this life brought about by calamities, poverty and violence. For example, neglecting to find a way to be spared from destruction come the end of the world. Through the Bible, God tells us that there is hope. Thus, The time is coming when they will say to Jerusalem, “Do not be afraid, city of Zion! Do not let your hands hang limp! The LORD your God is with you; his power gives you victory. The LORD will take delight in you, and in his love he will give you new life. He will sing and be joyful over you, as joyful as people at a festival.” The LORD says, “I have ended the threat of doom and taken away your disgrace.  [Zephaniah 3:16-18 Good News Translation] Brother Bob: Zion is the last hope for mankind because it is to Zion that God promised victory and a new life. Hence, man must seek and enter Zion. Outside of Zion, there is no hope. Zion symbolically refers to the Church composed of all those registered in heaven and of the redeemed as recorded in Hebrews 12:23, Living Bible. Let us take note that it refers to a single church and not a federation or collection of varied churches. This is the Church Of Christ. Thus,  Take heed therefore to yourselves and to all the flock over which the Holy Spirit has appointed you overseers to feed the church of Christ, which he has purchased with his blood.  [Acts 20:28 Lamsa Translation] Brother Bob: Thus, the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) is the last and only hope for mankind not because it is the Savior or the Redeemer, but because it is that which Christ has redeemed and will save and to which God promised victory over death, grief, and pain, and hence the glorious eternal life in the Holy City (Revelation 21:1-4). People then who are truly intent on being saved from punishment on the Day of Judgment, ought to join and remain in the Church Of Christ, despite problems and sufferings. The suffering that members of the Church Of Christ experience has a purpose. Thus,  Be glad about this, even though it may now be necessary for you to be sad for a while because of the many kinds of trials you suffer. Their purpose is to prove that your faith is genuine. Even gold, which can be destroyed, is tested by fire; and so your faith, which is much more precious than gold, must also be tested, so that it may endure. Then you will receive praise and glory and honor on the Day when Jesus Christ is revealed.  [1 Peter 1:6-7 Good News Translation]  Brother Bob: Clearly, God allows his chosen people to experience suffering for them to prove that their faith is genuine. As we say, trials will show our true colors. Only when we have proven our faith genuine and true will we be considered worthy to receive praise and honor and glory, salvation on the day of Christ’s return. In order to prove that our faith is pure, we need to be patient in order to do the will of God and receive what He promises. (Hebrews 10:36) Brother Bob: Thus, patience is a must for a member of the Church Of Christ. We need to practice patience, especially in the midst of trials. When it seems that the easy way out is to break God’s will. When what is being offered to us by the cohorts of Satan is sweet and tempting. Let us be reminded that when we are patient, then we can do the will of God and receive His promises. Even if problems are so difficult and overwhelming.  Brother Bob: Members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo will not stop believing that God is working for their welfare. We should never let go of this conviction. We should never give doubt a chance to destroy our faith. We have to keep in mind the truth, that is, in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28).  Brother Bob: However, not all sufferings come as trials. There are troubles that come our way because of our sins and God’s anger over our transgressions. In such a case, we must do what God’s servants of old did, thus, We have sinned against the LORD, so now we must endure his anger for a while… [Micah 7:9 Good News Translation] Brother Bob: We should endure His anger and wait for His salvation. Hence, if anyone is suffering because of his disobedience, they should not become petulant and complain. Instead, he must acknowledge his misdeeds, repent, and wait for the grace of God. Whatever problems we encountered in life, let us remain true members of the Church Of Christ. When we feel as if we could no longer go on, we only have to remember and hold on to the promise of our Lord Jesus Christ. Thus,  I am telling you the truth: you will cry and weep, but the world will be glad; you will be sad, but your sadness will turn into gladness. That is how it is with you: now you are sad, but I will see you again, and your hearts will be filled with gladness, the kind of gladness that no one can take away from you.  [John 16:20, 22 Good News Translation]  Brother Bob: To find more articles like these, get your copy of God’s message magazine, from a member of the Church Of Christ. You can also find the podcast version on incmedia.org/podcasts, or on iTunes or Google Play under INC podcasts. Thank you for listening. I’m Brother Bob Pellien. God bless. 

Click to expand transcript The Biblical Teachings About Mary Brother Felmar Serreno: There’s no arguing that Mary, the mother of the Lord Jesus, was a special woman. The Bible records her being called “blessed among women.” But does the Bible also call Mary ‘sinless,’ a ‘mediatrix’ or ‘the mother of God?’ Hello listener, and welcome back to this podcast version of God’s Message magazine. Our topic today is, “The Biblical Teachings About Mary.” Mary, the mother of Jesus, holds a special place in the hearts of most Catholics. Over the course of the Catholic Church’s history, she has gotten increasing attention. Mary’s role in the faith of her devotees is evident. For them, prayers to her are said especially before statues that are supposed representations of Mary, which are common in their cathedrals and chapels, and even in their homes. The teachings of the Marian devotion, long been preached and practiced by Catholics, is considered by them as “authentic doctrinal teaching.” But are they biblical? What does Catholic tradition teach about the Mary whom they worship? Are those beliefs in accordance with the teachings of the Bible about Mary, the mother of Jesus?  Before we continue, we reiterate that in conducting these discussions, it’s never the intention of the Church Of Christ to hurt anyone’s feelings or to attack anybody. Rather, these studies are motivated by our interest for the truth. And in the interest of truth, on this episode we will be comparing teachings from several Catholic books to what is written in the Bible. Here on the podcast, I’ll be mentioning the title and author of each Catholic book. For further details on each book’s publication date, imprimatur, nihil obstat and other details, we have provided that information at the end of the transcript of this episode on our website incmedia.org. Sinless, mediatrix, co-redeemer? Brother Felmar: Catholic authorities teach that Mary did not sin in her lifetime. Here’s a quote from “Glories and Virtues of Mary,” a book by a priest named James Alberione: “The Virgin Mary was immune from every sin. It is a dogma of faith that she was free from original sin. During her life she never fell into either mortal or venial sin. As for actual sin, the Council of Trent says that without special privileges, no one can avoid all venial sins during a lifetime; notwithstanding this, the [Catholic] Church maintains that the Blessed Virgin was exempt from any such sins.”2 This teaching contradicts what the Bible says that all people committed sin (Romans 3:23, 5:12) and that the only One Who did not is our Lord Jesus Christ (I Peter 2:21-22). There is no biblical basis to the Catholic dogma that Mary was free and immune from sin.  This is also the case with Catholic authorities’ calling Mary the “mediatrix”. From this book entitled “What The Church Teaches” which was written by J.D. Conway, a Monsignor in the Catholic Church, he wrote: “We do call Mary the Mediatrix of all Graces. It is a title which stresses the intimacy of her association with her Son in that work which she brought Him into the world to accomplish: the redemption and sanctification of our souls. Some Pope someday may declare it a doctrine of the church that Mary is mediatrix, in this sense.”3 While this may be the teaching in the Catholic Church, however, nowhere in the Bible is Mary given such a title or responsibility. Catholics also believe that devotion to Mary is necessary for salvation. Here’s another quote from “Glories and Virtues of Mary”: “The intercession of saints is most helpful; devotion to the Blessed Virgin is morally necessary for our eternal salvation. Jesus Christ is Mediator by right, Mary is mediatrix by grace.”2 Because of this, Catholic authorities call Mary “co-redeemer” to Jesus and that she also intercedes for sinners. In a book written by a Friar in the Catholic Church, Donald F. Miller, entitled “How To Explain What You Believe as a Catholic” it says here: “OUR CO-REDEEMER. The reasons for giving this title to Mary are these: The very fact that she was chosen to be with Him, from the beginning to work with Him, to suffer with Him, to pray with Him, makes it clear that Christ intended her as co-operator in the work of Redemption, which we express by the title ‘co-redeemer.’ All these things, taken separately or together, show that though He did not need to do so, God actually did choose Mary to help Him redeem mankind. … on earth she worked with Christ for the salvation and happiness of men, so she is doing now, by interceding for sinners…”4 But again, the beliefs that Mary is a “mediatrix” and that she goes “interceding for sinners” are not found in the Bible. Worse, they are against the teachings of the apostles that there is only one Mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus (I Timothy 2:5). It is also wrong to believe that Mary is “co-redeemer” with Jesus and thus “necessary for salvation.” Apostle Peter clearly taught that only in the name of Christ can one be saved:  Let it be known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by Him this man stands here before you whole. This is the ‘stone which was rejected by you builders, which has become the chief cornerstone.’ Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved. [Acts 4:10-12 New King James Version] Brother Felmar Serreno: Christ is the only Redeemer and God-appointed Savior—there is no one else besides Him, by Whom one can receive salvation.  Mary, the mother of God? Brother Felmar: The Catholic devotion to Mary has come so far as to her being called the “mother of God” and being compared to Christ and to God. Here’s a quote from “Fundamentals of Mariology” a Catholic book by theologian Juniper B. Carol: “By the very fact that she is the Mother of God, Our Lady is raised to a rank high above that of any other creature. … This dignity of hers is unquestionably ‘the greatest after God,’ as Pope Pius XI states. … Just as there cannot be anything better and greater than God, so there cannot be anything better or greater than His Mother.”5 This Catholic belief further implies that Mary is equal to Christ or perhaps, even greater. Here’s another quote from “Glories and Virtues of Mary”: “St. Bernardine of Siena declares that all obey Mary’s commands, even God; by this he means to say that God grants her prayers as if they were commands. The Mother has the same power as the Son. Mary was made omnipotent by Jesus.”2 Now, how blasphemous is it to think that Mary is equal to or even greater than Christ? The Bible teaches this: For “He has put all things under His feet.” But when He says “all things are put under Him,” it is evident that He who put all things under Him is excepted. Now when all things are made subject to Him, then the Son Himself will also be subject to Him who put all things under Him, that God may be all in all. [I Corinthians 15:27-28 New King James Version] Brother Felmar: There is no other human being equal to or greater than Christ, and Christ, on the other hand, is subject to the only one true God, who is the Father (John 17:1,3). Aside from God, there is no other God: To whom will you liken Me, and make Me equal and compare Me, that we should be alike?… Remember the former things of old, For I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like Me. [Isaiah 46:5,9 New King James Version] Brother Felmar: Hence, the belief that Mary has equal power to or greater than that of both the Father and the Son is a false belief.  Some may insist otherwise because they recognize Mary as the “mother of God” since they adhere to the Christ-is-God belief. However, over the centuries, the title “mother of God” given to Mary has created much debate and confusion, even to Catholic authorities themselves. A prayer written in Mater Mea Fiducia Me (My Mother, My Hope), page 54, states this: “Yes, oh Mary, you are: ‘Virgin Mother, daughter of thy Son.”6 Also, quoting again from Glories and Virtues of Mary, on page 143, look at what’s written here: “As the true Mother of God, Mary entered into a special relationship with the Blessed Trinity, for reason of which she is daughter, spouse and Mother of God.”2 Questioning Mary’s relationship to the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, according to Catholic authorities, will point to further confusion, thus, leading preachers to embarrassment7–as expressed in the Catholic book “The Restless Christian” which was written by Kilian McDonnell. No wonder there is such confusion in the Catholic teachings about the Marian devotion because these are not found in the Bible, as Catholic authorities themselves admit. In another Catholic book entitled, “The Book of Mary” by Henri Daniel-Rops, it says here: “One point is established and it is one admittedly by every historian of the Primitive Church: in early Christian worship the place accorded to Mary is quite small. … She did not, in any sense, occupy the place she holds today. Up until at least the fourth century, there seems to have been no actual Marian liturgy, and it would be quite true to say that her memory was kept on no more than one or two feasts.” Mary according to the Bible Brother Felmar: Mary should be regarded as what the Bible says who she is. The Bible contains the truth about who she is and her role in Christ’s life. Luke the evangelist wrote this about Mary: Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, To a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” [Luke 1:26-28 New King James Version] Brother Felmar: Mary was chosen by God to bear His Son, thus, was blessed by God, having found favor with Him:  Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS.” [Luke 1:30-31 New King James Version] Brother Felmar: As Christ’s mother, Mary conceived the Lord Jesus Christ in her womb when God used the Holy Spirit as an instrument for His divine purpose:  Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?” And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God.” [Luke 1:34-35 New King James Version] Brother Felmar: Mary’s obedience to God’s will is clearly shown in her response to the message of the angel He sent: Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her. [Luke 1:38 New King James Version] Brother Felmar Serreno: She further expressed her delight by saying,  My soul magnifies the Lord, And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; for behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed. [Luke 1:46-48 New King James Version] Brother Felmar: However, nowhere in the Bible does it say that Mary has authority equal to or even greater than the Lord Jesus Christ’s.  Thus, since the Catholic teachings about Mary contradict what the Bible teaches, people should not give heed to such teachings, as Apostle Paul taught:  Not giving heed to Jewish fables and commandments of men who turn from the truth.  [Titus 1:14 New King James Version] Brother Felmar: Those who teach such things are called false prophets and false teachers who blaspheme against the biblical truth (Galatians 1:6-8).  For more articles like these, get your copy of God’s Message Magazine from a member of the Church Of Christ. You can also listen and subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcast, Google Podcast, and the INC Media mobile app. Thank you for listening. I’m Brother Felmar Serreno. God bless.  

Enjoying God’s Gifts   Brother Bob Pellien: Even though stress and disappointments are part of life, there are several ways to find peace and happiness. The Bible tells us all the things that God created just for us to be happy. You’re listening to the podcast version of God’s Message Magazine. Today’s topic is “Enjoying God’s Gifts”.   Brother Bob Pellien: Being cheerful keeps you healthy. It is a slow death to be gloomy all the time (Proverbs 17:22 Good News Bible).   This biblical passage must serve as a reminder for the problematic and the burdened soul. It surely will not help if we bury ourselves in sorrow. In fact, doing so will only make things worse as it can harm our health and shorten our life.   Scientific studies prove that “stress can indeed cause heart disease, certain ulcers” (Stress and Health Magazine, p. 152-155) “and cerebral stroke”, all of which can eventually lead to death.    So, instead of having a pessimistic view of life because of so many problems, let us cheer up and be happy. It would be helpful to recount the wonderful deeds intended for all of us by the Almighty One Who gave us this life.    God’s gifts to mankind   Brother Bob: From the very beginning, God had manifested His desire to bring joy and happiness to the human beings He created. The Bible enumerates the things God created for the enjoyment of all mankind:    #1 Food. God created earth as man’s home and filled it with all of natures’ bounty. He designed our environment in such a way that we can find food to satisfy our hunger and thus be happy.   #2 Work. God’s desire for man’s happiness did not end when He sent the first human couple out of paradise. He commanded man to work for his needs, thus giving him the opportunity to savor the joy of harnessing the fruits of his labor.   Your work will provide for your needs; you will be happy and prosperous. [Psalm 128:2 Good News Bible]   Brother Bob: #3 Friendship. Another way by which man can afford happiness is through the company of friends whom he can rely on to listen to him and give sound advice when needed. The Bible acknowledges that the pleasure we gain from such friendship is also in accordance with God’s plan:   Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of one’s friend springs from his earnest counsel. [Proverbs 27:9 New International Version]   Brother Bob: #4 Knowledge. God made us different from the rest of the living creatures in that we possess the ability to think rationally. When this uniqueness is served through the pursuit of knowledge, pleasure can be attained:   You will become wise, and your knowledge will give you pleasure. [Proverbs 2:10 Good News Bible]   Brother Bob: #5 Marriage. Still for happiness of the human being whom God created, He established the sacred institution called marriage:   So be happy with your wife and find your joy with the girl you married. [Proverbs 5:18 Good News Bible]   Brother Bob: God willed that a man and a woman find pleasure in each other’s company through marriage. Together they can build their own family and have children to stand by them as they grow old. So, more than just sexual satisfaction, marriage offers emotional, social, psychological, and spiritual assurance of having a family and a caring partner for life.    From these wonderful graces of God, we should understand that He truly longs for our happiness just as we do. So, let us enjoy life. Let us avail of these gifts that God has prepared for us.     How not to abuse happiness   Brother Bob: However, we should be careful not to abuse the pleasure drawn from food, work, knowledge, friends, and marriage. Inasmuch as all these gifts come from God, He tells us the proper way of using or dealing with them. Thus, we should follow the rules He gave, which are also found in the Bible. They may be summed up as follows: Don’t indulge in too much eating or gluttony.    Brother Bob: Concerning food, the Bible says:   Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat, for drunkards and gluttons become poor. [Proverbs 23:20-21 New International Version]   Brother Bob: Our body can only take enough food to sustain our health. Indulging in too much eating should be avoided as this would result in awful consequences.  Do not be filled with greed.   Brother Bob: It is true that hard work has its happy rewards, but to be filled with greed for money and for material success ends in many sorrows:   For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. [I Timothy 6:10 New King James Version]   Brother Bob: Because of greed, others are pushed to cheat, bribe and betray their fellowmen, rob or kidnap them for ransom sometimes even to the extent of hurting them either physically or emotionally. Some may not resort to these desperate measures but are so fixed on acquiring riches that they have no more time left to worship and serve the true God. In both cases, man’s opportunity of working to earn a living is being abused. Thus, true happiness cannot be achieved. Don’t go with bad companions.    Brother Bob: Finding happiness in friends also has its limitations. Apostle Paul admonished:   Do not be fooled. “Bad companions ruin good character.” [I Corinthians 15:33 Good News Bible]   Brother Bob: We should be careful in choosing the people with whom we go. Companions who would influence us to carry out evil deeds with them are not the kind of friends that the Bible says will give us pleasantness. God’s advice is that we should “not walk in the way with them” and “keep [our} feet off their path” (Proverbs 1:15 New King James Version). Do not dishonor marriage.    To be a true source of joy, marriage “should be honored by all” (Hebrews 13:4 New International Version). Thus, we should not make a mockery of God’s sacred union by having the wrong motives (as in the so-called “marriage of convenience”) or false notions about it, like treating marriage as something disposable and infidelity to one’s spouse permissible. God emphatically says:   “I hate divorce,” says the Lord God of Israel. “I hate it when one of you does such a cruel thing to his wife. Make sure that you do not break your promise to be faithful to your wife.” [Malachi 2:16 Good News Bible] Don’t let knowledge mislead you.   Brother Bob: Like everything else, knowledge is also something we should deal with in moderation. There is nothing wrong with being knowledgeable, but one should be careful in handling his intelligence not to become puffed up with pride (I Corinthians 8:1 Good News Bible) and be misled to deny God’s power and existence:   You have trusted in your wickedness and have said, “No one sees me.” Your wisdom and knowledge mislead you when you say to yourself, “I am, and there is none besides me.” [Isaiah 47:10 New International Version]   Brother Bob: Such is the mindset of the morning star or anointed cherubim who was cast out from heaven, thrown to earth, and became the devil or Satan (Ezekiel 28:14; Isaiah 14:12; Revelation 12:9). Hence, anyone who is similarly led astray by earthly knowledge not only misuses the gift but also makes enemies with its Giver. There is no true happiness in it.    Indeed, God made food, work, friends, knowledge, and marriage available for our delight and happiness. But we can draw meaningful joy from these things only if we acknowledge them as God’s gifts and obey His governing rules. If we abuse the pleasures derived from these gifts and go beyond the limitations set forth by God, they will cease to bring us true joy and will become a root of sorrows instead.    Seeking happiness in God   Brother Bob: Hence, beyond the physical, material, social, emotional, and intellectual satisfaction, what kind of happiness should we further seek and aspire for?    How precious, O God, is your constant love! We find protection under the shadow of your wings. We feast on the abundant food you provide; you let us drink from the river of your goodness. You are the source of all life, and because of your light we see the light. Continue to love those who know you and to do good to those who are righteous.  [Psalm 36:7-10 Good News Bible]   Brother Bob: King David mentions the incomparable joy of being under God’s loving care and protection. Those who have the Almighty One on their side are certain that they will never lack in anything. Indeed, God’s goodness transcends all the pleasures that food or work or friends or anything else can provide us.    How can we achieve this happiness? David tells us what we must do to find the happiness that is in God:    Trust in the Lord and do good; live in the land and be safe. Seek your happiness in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desire. Give yourself to the Lord; trust in him, and he will help you; he will make your righteousness shine like the noonday sun. [Psalm 37:4-6 Good News Bible]   Brother Bob: To find our happiness in God we should put our trust in Him. But trust in God is not only a matter of words but of works. According to the Scriptures, to prove our trust in Him, we should do what is good.    That which is good are the laws or commandments of God (Romans 7:12). Foremost of these is Christ’s admonition that we join the fold or flock (John 10:9 Revised English Bible), which is the Church Of Christ (Acts 20:28 Lamsa Translation). It is this Church for which Christ died and shed His blood and that which He will save from God’s anger or punishment on Judgement Day. (Romans 5:8-9, Zephaniah 1:18).   Thus members of the true church will survive whatever problem or difficulty may come their way. Unlike other people in this world, they do not wallow in misery for they have the most valid reason to be joyful, the assurance of God’s salvation.    And it will be said in that day: “Behold, this is our God; We have waited for Him, and He will save us. This is the LORD; we have waited for Him; We will be glad and rejoice in His salvation.” [Isaiah 25:9 New King James Version]   Brother Bob: Let us make it a part of our search for true happiness to join the true Church Of Christ or Iglesia Ni Cristo. By becoming part of this Church, we will find the ultimate joy in God not only in the present life but also in the life to come.    To find more articles like these, get your copy of God’s Message magazine from a member of the Church Of Christ. You can also find the podcast version on incmedia.org/podcasts or on iTunes or Google Play under “INC Podcasts.” Thank you for listening. I’m Brother Bob Pellien. God bless. 

More Important Than Wealth and Wisdom   Brother Bob Pellien: Money and intelligence can take you far, but even that has limitations. If you want to unlock amazing opportunities, the Bible tells us to look to God. You’re listening to the podcast version of God’s Message Magazine, and today’s topic is: More Important Than Wealth and Wisdom.   [Music ends]   Brother Bob: It is true that the basic necessities of life such as food, clothing and shelter are essential to man’s survival in this world. As such, a person must devote a good amount of his time trying to earn enough money to provide these things for himself and for his family, if he has any.   What is unfortunate, however, many people have come to depend only on themselves or on their loved ones for their life’s essentials. This dependence has oftentimes led to disappointments. Who, then, can man depend and count on to always be there for him to provide his every need? Who must man seek for his life and survival? The prophet Jeremiah wrote:    The Lord says, wise men should not boast of their wisdom, nor strong men of their strength, nor rich men of their wealth. If anyone wants to boast, he should boast that he knows and understands me, because my love is constant, and I do what is just and right. These are the things that please me. I, the LORD, have spoken. [Jeremiah 9:23-24 Today’s English Version]   Brother Bob: Man should primarily depend on the Lord God, rather than on his own wisdom, wealth or abilities, which are all impermanent and limited. As God himself pointed out, only His love is constant, and only He can do what is right for us, which includes giving us the solutions to whatever problems we have. What further proves that man’s own efforts are not enough to solve all these problems? The wise King Solomon pointed this out,    You work for something with all your wisdom, knowledge, and skill, and then you have to leave it all to someone who hasn’t had to work for it. It is useless, and it isn’t right! You work and worry your way through life, and what do you have to show for it? As long as you live, everything you do brings nothing but worry and heartache. Even at night your mind can’t rest. It is all useless.  [Ecclesiastes 2:21-23 Good News Translation] Brother Bob: Many people in this world have experienced this to be true. Many wealthy individuals, for instance, have invested a great deal of their time in acquiring education and training in order to become affluent and successful only to die and leave their riches behind to heirs, who may have had little or nothing at all to do with what they had achieved.    Moreover, a good number of rich people live very stressful lives and experience financial worries which in turn have caused not a few restless nights. Furthermore, man’s knowledge has failed to discover solutions to the biggest problems facing society. For instance, in spite of the tremendous increase of man’s understanding in various fields, the problems of widespread poverty, unemployment, and a general lack of peace still prevail in many places in the world. Man’s wisdom has not even found a cure for the common cold, much less a way to prevent a person from eventually succumbing to death.    Why is this life filled with so many uncertainties in the first place? Why has this world become such an imperfect one, and beset with troubles and confusions? God Himself proclaimed:   Listen, earth! As punishment for all their schemes I am bringing ruin on these people, because they have rejected my teaching and have not obeyed my words. [Jeremiah 6:19 Good News Translation]   Brother Bob: People have only themselves to blame for the misfortunes that have befallen this world. Since the beginning of time, man has rejected God’s teachings and disobeyed His words. Many give very little regard or importance to God, as His servant Job pointed out,   The wicked tell God to leave them alone; they don’t want to know his will for their lives. They think there is no need to serve God nor any advantage in praying to him. [Job 21:14-15 Good News Translation]   Brother Bob: Isn’t this exactly the kind of attitude many people in the world today have? People spend a great deal of time trying to become rich and successful. Yet they would spend little or no time at all in serving God or in praying to Him. Others even feel that it is counterproductive or it would be disadvantageous for them to spend their precious hours serving God and following His commands. On the other hand, there are those who say that they want to serve God, but they do so in an improper manner. As Apostle Paul foretold,   The time will come when people will not listen to sound doctrine, but will follow their own desires and will collect for themselves more and more teachers who will tell them what they are itching to hear. They will turn away from listening to the truth and give their attention to legends. [II Timothy 4:3-4 Good News Translation]   Brother Bob: Thus, in as much as it is important to serve God, people must do it in accordance with sound doctrine. It is God’s will rather than one’s own desires that must be followed. Hence, in order for man to benefit fully from His grace and blessings, he must follow the road God chooses, do what He commands and obediently follow His will (Job 23:10-12).    And as the Bible teaches, a person will never stand to lose for dedicating his time to serving God, for he will receive the greatest reward.   This calls for endurance on the part of God’s people, those who obey God’s commandments and are faithful to Jesus. Then I heard a voice from heaven saying, “Write this: Happy are those who from now on die in the service of the Lord!” “Yes indeed!” answers to the Spirit. “They will enjoy rest from their hard work, because the results of their service go with them.”  [Revelation 14:12-13 Good News Translation]   Brother Bob: Thus, if a person desires to serve God and receive His guidance and blessings in this life and in the life to come, then his service of God must be based solely on the Almighty’s will and commandments. God’s will for man to follow is explicitly stated in the Holy Scriptures, that is,  for all men to be gathered together in Christ (Ephesians 1:9-10) by means of becoming members of Christ’s body, which is the Church (Romans 12:4-5; Colossians 1:18). The Church which the apostles referred to, is the Church Of Christ as recorded in Acts 20:28,   Take heed therefore to yourselves and to all the flock, over which the Holy Spirit has appointed you overseers, to feed the church of Christ which he has purchased with his blood. [Acts 20:28 George Lamsa Translation]   Brother Bob: To be in the Church Of Christ is to be cleansed of one’s sins, since the Church Of Christ is the only Church that was purchased or redeemed by Christ’s blood and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness (Hebrews 9:22).    Thus, man must not only place his faith in God and entrust his life to Him. Significantly, he must also make sure that he belongs to the true Church Of Christ. It is here where man is assured of happiness, and is given hope to overcome all of life’s woes and troubles. Most importantly, by joining the Church Of Christ, man is in compliance with God’s will and ensures himself of the Lord’s everlasting guidance and eternal love: here, now, and thereafter.    To find more articles like these, get your copy of God’s Message magazine, from a member of the Church of Christ. You can also find the podcast version on incmedia.org/podcasts or on iTunes or Google Play under INC Podcasts. Thank you for listening. I’m Brother Bob Pellien. God bless.   [Show closes]

Numbers Don’t Make A Religion True   Brother Felmar Serreno: A common appeal in advertising and politics, the fallacy called argumentum ad populum (argument to the people) argues that something must be true and acceptable because many or most people believe or like it. But does a religion’s being composed of the majority translate to its being true and of God? If many believe so, is it necessarily so? You’re listening to the podcast version of God’s Message magazine, where our topic today is “Numbers Don’t Make A Religion True.”   Even in choosing a religion, this “appeal to popularity” seems to deceptively work as many feel guilty if they go against the majority, but feel confident and secured by joining forces with large numbers of other so-called “believers.”   This is precisely the reason some refuse to join the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) knowing that it is not the religion of the majority. “If indeed there is only one true religion,” they say, “it could not be the Iglesia Ni Cristo because its members are comparatively few.”   Fallacious indeed   Brother Felmar Serreno: The truth of a belief does not depend on the preponderance in number of people who hold it. No rule of thought grants infallibility to the majority. In fact, numerous people have been wrong about many things: that our planet is flat and motionless, that the Earth is the center of the universe, and that the Sun and other planets revolve around it, to name a few.    Even in Ethics, the fact that the majority of people support a certain act, say divorce, does not prove that it is morally right. Correct reasoning clearly states that a belief’s widespread acceptance is not counted as its binding justification.    Biblical proofs   Brother Felmar Serreno: The Bible disproves the assumption that the religion where a great number of people belong is necessarily of God. The Holy Book recorded that during the time of Noah, the whole of mankind, except just for eight persons, was annihilated by the great deluge (II Peter 2:5). Noah’s ark, which was purposely designed by God for man’s salvation, was ignored nonetheless by the huge majority of Noah’s time. Relatedly, Sodom and Gomorrah were leveled to the ground by fire and brimstone and only Lot and his two daughters were saved (Genesis 19:16, 29; II Peter 2:6-7).    Also refuting the belief that predominance in terms of membership makes a particular religion true is the universality of Satan’s deception (Revelation 12:9). Those who will be condemned to eternal punishment, according to the Bible, are “as numerous as the sands of the sea” (Revelation 20:8 New Revised Standard Version).    The determinant   Brother Felmar Serreno: The true Church—God’s chosen people in the Christian era—does not need to be composed of the majority for it to be saved on the last day. Of ancient Israel, which was the first nation of God, the Bible says:    The LORD did not set His love on you nor choose you because you were more in number than any other people, for you were the least of all peoples.  [Deuteronomy 7:7 New King James Version]   Brother Felmar Serreno: There were millions of people who lived during biblical times, but only a few were chosen or elected according to God’s will. The right to serve God and to attain salvation, therefore, is not determined by the size of a religious organization, but by election or the setting apart by our Lord God (Psalm 4:3).   About those elected by God in the Christian era, the Bible pronounces:   But God shows and clearly proves His [own] love for us by the fact that while we were still sinners, Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One) died for us. Therefore, since we are now justified (acquitted, made righteous, and brought into right relationship with God) by Christ’s blood, how much more [certain is it that] we shall be saved by Him from the indignation and wrath of God.  [Romans 5:8-9 Amplified Bible]   Brother Felmar Serreno: The true religion in the Christian era, therefore, is that which is the beneficiary of Christ’s death—having been justified or purchased by Christ with His blood:    Take heed therefore to yourselves and to all the flock, over which the Holy Spirit has appointed you overseers, to feed the church of Christ which he has purchased with his blood. [Acts 20:28 Lamsa Translation]   Brother Felmar Serreno: Since not all religions were redeemed with Christ’s blood, not all churches are true. Purchased with Christ’s blood, it is the Church Of Christ which is, as we read from the Bible earlier, “acquitted, made righteous, and brought into right relationship with God.”   Salvation depends not on the choice of the majority but on one’s positive response to God’s specific commands. Though God wishes to save all men (I Timothy 2:3-4), He requires man to do his crucial part in responding to the divine call—becoming a member of Christ’s body, the Church Of Christ (John 10:9; I Corinthians 12:27; Acts 20:28 Lamsa).   For more articles like these, get your copy of God’s Message Magazine from a member of the Church Of Christ. You can also listen and subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcast, Google Podcast, and the INC Media mobile app. Thank you for listening. I’m Brother Felmar Serreno. God bless.  

Children Deserve Parental Love and Concern   [Music starts]   Brother Bob Pellien: With broken families on the rise, families today need to work harder to stay together. We’ll find out what the Bible’s advice is. You’re listening to the podcast version of God’s Message magazine, and today’s topic is “Children Deserve Parental Love and Concern.”    [Music ends]    Brother Bob Pellien: Poverty greatly contributes to the sorry lot of millions of youth and children in many parts of the world, but the utter lack of parental support and concern for children only worsens their condition. Even in their impoverished lot, poor parents who really care for their young can still offer their children a bright future. Of course, with lots of sacrifices on their part.    But a rich one who simply doesn’t care would do nothing good for his children. The failure of parents to provide sufficient food, shelter, and clothing to their offsprings clearly violates God’s command. Apostle Paul in his letter to Timothy says:   If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his own family, he has disowned the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.  [I Timothy 5:8 Revised Standard Version]   Brother Bob Pellien: More blatant transgressions, however, are committed when parents abuse and enslave their children by forcing them to work at a very young age instead of sending them to school for their education. This directly contravenes an exhortation of Apostle Paul to Christian parents. He wrote to the Corinthians:   For children are not responsible to save up for their parents, but parents for their children.  [II Corinthians 12:14 Amplified Bible]   Brother Bob Pellien: Parents should work for their children’s welfare and future, and not vice versa. They should provide a conducive place where their children can grow and develop their talents and potentials at a time when the world is becoming a dangerous place for children. This situation has been brought about by environmental despoliation, drugs, violent crimes, and armed conflicts. Consequently, this planet has become a difficult place to live in.    A case in point that shows how this earth has become a difficult place for children, is the much publicized fratricidal conflict in Bosnia-Herzegovina that showed  how children are the worst victims in a bloody war. Thousands of them have been killed, maimed, or wounded in that ethnic struggle. For the survivors, the psychological trauma of their shell shocked lives would be more difficult to erase. The children of Sarajevo, Banja Luka, & Trebišnjica will forever be traumatized by that brutal conflict.    Their struggle, however, cannot be isolated from the terrible experiences of the starved and brutalized children of Somalia, Sudan, Rwanda, and Burundi, or those even in Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia of the former Soviet Union, all of which are encountering violent political upheavals. Media reports have also publicized the hideous massacres of street children by police-connected death squads in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Indeed, they are all kindred in experience.    In the more developed societies such as the United States and Western Europe, crime, violence, and drug abuse are the main dangers to the children and youth. More than 3 million crimes a year are committed in or near 85,000 U.S. public schools. What’s even more terrifying is the fact that the nature of these crimes has grown more violent in recent years, and both the perpetrators and victims are getting younger and younger (US News World Report, November 8, 1993).  It is very obvious from these collected facts and figures that the children and youth around the world are in dire straits. In the third world, many of them are starved, malnourished, abused, exploited and victimized by war. Their poverty-bound parents are oftentimes helpless in doing anything for their welfare. In some cases, they are even instruments in putting their children to slavery and prostitution.    On the other hand, in the highly developed and very urbanized economies, children are also neglected by separated or divorced parents. There are those who are too focused on their careers. Some are even viciously preyed upon by crimes and the drug menace or bombarded with sex and violence on TV, films, and the printed media.    This unhealthy situation of children and youth in most societies is almost always blamed on extreme poverty and intensified discrimination—whether racial, sexual, or religious. Governments and policy makers are also criticized for their failure to legislate measures to improve the lot of children and youth.    But the analysis given in a special report on campus violence published by the US News World Report, speaks of a more numbing truth. It added that anger, discontent, and violence of the young people in America, is due to the fraying of the fabric of the family. The report enumerated proof of this thesis. Broken homes and two-income families leave an estimated 1 in 5 students home alone after school. The statistics translate into more neglected, abused, and troubled kids. Fully 70% of juvenile court cases involve children from single-parent families.    Obviously, the breakup of families and the failure of parents to support, protect, and guide their children properly are the most serious causes of youth-related social ills. The parents’ dereliction of responsibilities towards their children either by their default and giving material  support or by being amiss and providing emotional and spiritual guidance, is the major reason why contemporary juvenile-related problems are increasing in number. Many parents have failed to provide love, guidance, and the proper direction to their children. Their families have failed to grant sanctuary to the fear-stricken youth of today’s stress-ridden societies.     The parents who are concerned in saving the lives and the future of their beloved children can derive inspiring wisdom from the Bible on how to achieve this most urgent task. To accomplish this, parents must have the proper mindset and attitude towards each other and their offsprings. Spouses should love each other and their children as Apostle Paul admonished the young Christian mothers in his epistle to Titus:   that they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, [Titus 2:4 New King James Version]   Brother Bob Pellien: Parental love must be expressed not only in words but must also be proven in deeds. This is first and foremost proven when parents provide for all the primordial needs of their children: from physical, psychological, emotional, and spiritual. They should allot quality time and effort to be with their kids and they should be available, especially when their offspring need their advice in times of crises and difficulties. They should do everything and anything possible to preserve the unity and the solidarity of the family. Remember, the first casualty of a broken home is the child. Affection to children, however, must be exercised properly and fairly. If there are many offspring in the family, parents must be wise and tactful in relating to them. They must avoid playing favorites. Love should be equally dispensed to all the kids.    Sometimes, parents commit the error of lavishing too much love on their children to the point of spoiling them and giving in to all their wishes, even if such are unreasonable. They even refrain from punishing and disciplining their children when they commit a misdemeanor. This is false parental love. The Bible teaches that true parental love requires correction and even punishment of children who have gone astray. King Solomon wrote in the Book of Proverbs:   He who spares his rod hates his son, But he who loves him disciplines him promptly.  [Proverbs 13:24 New King James Version]   Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child; The rod of correction will drive it far from him.  [Proverbs 22:15 New King James Version]   Brother Bob Pellien: Disciplining a child with a rod of reproof or warning is an act of love, but doing nothing about his miscreant behavior is tantamount to hating him. Why is correcting an errant child a proof of the parents’ love for him? What can correction and discipline do to the child? Again, the Bible has the answer:    The rod and rebuke give wisdom, But a child left to himself brings shame to his mother. Do not withhold correction from a child, For if you beat him with a rod, he will not die. You shall beat him with a rod, And deliver his soul from hell. [Proverbs 29:15; 23:13-14 New King James Version]   Brother Bob Pellien: Of course, the right to discipline a child might be abused by some misguided parents. Punishing the child must not be unreasonably frequent nor excessive. It must not be done out of a sadistic rage or just to hurt the child. To do so is evil and may cause irreparable damage to the child. Punishment should be imposed only when it is really justified, and as a last recourse. Instead of employing too much physical punishment which might even provoke the children to rebel against their parents, Apostle Paul advised:   And, fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the LORD. [Ephesians 6:4 New Revised Standard Version]   Brother Bob Pellien: Parental instruction and guidance through correction and discipline is a very important facet of responsible parenting. The teaching of Christian values and religious upbringing are priority subjects that parents ought to impart to their children. Parents must always be prepared to teach, counsel, or advise their children. When they listen to and obey willingly their elders’ instructions, they must be amply rewarded and encouraged. When out of naughtiness they sometimes refuse to comply, they must be counseled or rebuked. And when they show a pattern for recalcitrant behavior, they must be disciplined. But the best means by which parents can instill worthy ideals and positive moral values to their children is by serving as their example.    The household being the first social environment and organization for them must be insulated from unhealthy influences that may corrupt their young minds. Parents must try at all times to be paragons of exemplary character and the proper modicum of behavior to their children. Television, films and printed materials for home consumption must be devoid of elements that are harmful to a child’s innocent mind. Self-censorship and regulations should at all times be in the minds of parents if they are to serve as their child’s good example.    They should refrain from vices such as smoking, substance abuse, and drinking hard liquor and desist from saying and doing vulgar words and actions. As Christians, parents should live the Christian way of life, ever loving, forgiving, compassionate, and peaceful. They must lead their family in the regular worship services, and participate actively in various Church functions. They must instill in their children the knowledge of the true God and the true religion. This most important aspect of religious education must be taught diligently by the parents to their children for their well-being. As stated in the Book of Deuteronomy, thus:    so that you and your son and your grandson might fear the LORD your God, to keep all His statutes and His commandments which I command you, all the days of your life, and that your days may be prolonged. … And these words, which I am commanding you today shall be on your heart. And you shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down, and when you rise up.  [Deuteronomy 6:2,6-7 New American Standard Bible]   Brother Bob Pellien: To find more articles like these, get your copy of God’s Message Magazine from a member of the Church Of Christ. You can also find the podcast version on incmedia.org/podcasts, or on iTunes or Google Play under “inc podcasts.” Thank you for listening. I’m Brother Bob Pellien. God bless.    [Music ends]

Teamwork And Its Worth  Brother Felmar Serreno: While there is no “I” in team, some say there is an “m-e.” On the other hand, many believe there is strength in numbers. But, are numbers enough? Join us today in this episode of the podcast version of God’s Message magazine, as we take a look at “Teamwork and Its Worth.” Teamwork is essential in organizations, big and small—from business corporations and government institutions to society’s basic unit, the family, and at its core, marriage. Its coinage and use in the study of labor and management is placed in the early years of the 20th century, thus, teamwork is actually a fairly new term. Nevertheless, the concept of teamwork has been in existence and practice long before, as can be gleaned in historical and even biblical accounts.  Many experts and thought leaders have formulated their principles and ideas about teamwork in various settings. Emphasis has been laid on the value of team building in companies and agencies in both the private and public sectors. Instilling “team spirit” in the workforce is an ideal that leaders of organizations put into practice.  The Bible, proven useful for the instruction and motivation of people to reach their fullest potential, contains teachings about unity and brotherhood, which may also provide a framework for effective teamwork as applied in various settings.  No ‘I’ in teamwork  Brother Felmar: A basic rule in teamworking is to acknowledge that while one person working alone may produce the desired outcome, two and more people working together as one can certainly yield greater results. The Bible likewise teaches: Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. … Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. [Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, 12 New International Version 2011]  Brother Felmar: Indeed, an endeavor becomes easier and promises better returns when a team of two or more are working together harmoniously and synergistically rather than just one individual working solo. Amid things like challenges and threats, having a well-functioning team behind you helps ensure success, for in case one falls, the others can help him up. A team can be likened to a cord—the more strands it has, the more it cannot be quickly broken.  Together, Everyone Achieves More  Brother Felmar: There is strength in numbers only when everyone works together, not against one another. In searching for the best model of teamwork and unity, one need not look far as there is much to learn from the human body itself. A single body is made up of many different parts, each having its own function or purpose—feet for walking, hands for working, eyes for seeing, ears for hearing, etc. (I Corinthians 12:12, 15-17 Good News Bible).  Every part matters to the welfare of the whole body, for it is when “each part of the body is joined to the others by the ligaments and as each part functions properly / works as it should, a person’s body grows stronger” (Ephesians 4:16 Translation for Translators).  Likewise, for a team of people to achieve good results, the team members should fulfill their respective tasks, each of them working effectively as he or she should. One’s function may seem small compared to another’s but when put together, contributes to a great output.  One for all, all for one Brother Felmar: A key aspect of successful teamwork is cooperation. But there can be no cooperation in a team if its members are more focused on the “me” rather than the “we” and refuse to acknowledge that each one’s contribution to the team’s output is as valuable as anyone else’s. It will do them well to heed the biblical advice to:    do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others [Philippians 2:3-4 New International Version 2011]  Brother Felmar: Working as a team also entails that the strong should bear the failings of the weak and help them become stronger (Romans 15:1-2 New International Version; Easy-to-Read Version). This doesn’t mean that the negligence of some is tolerated. But, while the disorderly needs to be admonished, they also need to be dealt with patience, encouragement , and support (I Thessalonians 5:14 World English Bible). One team, one goal Brother Felmar: Teamwork requires cohesiveness. What firmly binds a team together is having a common goal or purpose. While a good distribution of tasks among team players makes the work easier, having unity of purpose in working altogether proves highly rewarding not only for the team as a whole but also for each individual worker. This was highlighted in Apostle Paul’s illustration of how a team of two farmers—”the one who plants and the one who waters”—benefits from their cooperative work: Apostle Paul pointed out that it is when they “work together with the same purpose, both will be rewarded for their own hard work” (1 Corinthians 3:8 New Living Translation).  Having one purpose is equivalent to having one mind. Thus, in calling for unity, it should be stressed that there should be no schism, division or discord, or lack of adaptation of the members to each other; rather, each should have the mutual interest in or concern for one another (I Corinthians 1:10 King James Version; Amplified Bible).  In unity there is strength Brother Felmar: Unity is good and pleasant, especially among brethren (Psalms 133:1). A good team, then, is that whose members treat one another as family. For a family to stand strong, it needs the proper guidance and proper direction of a worthy leader, for just as with “lack of guidance a nation falls” (Proverbs 11:14 New International Version), so also “a house divided against itself will fall” (Luke 11:17 New International Version). Thus, in teaching His disciples about unity, the Lord Jesus Christ uses the metaphor of a vine and its branches. Only by being firmly joined to the vine can the branches bear fruit or produce good results (John 15:2, 5). So is a team without a worthy leader guiding it is bound to end in failure.  The more wise counsel Brother Felmar: Even a dream team will need all the advice they can get to ensure success, for “the more wise counsel you follow, the better your chances” (Proverbs 11:14 The Message). Many studies have been made and various approaches have been developed in the pursuit of teamwork, whether for the workplace or home, or anywhere else. But, above all that human knowledge can offer, the best counsel that should be consulted by teams and individuals alike are the words of God in the Bible. For,  All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching the truth, rebuking error, correcting faults, and giving instruction for right living, so that the person who serves God may be fully qualified and equipped to do every kind of good deed. [II Timothy 3:16-17 Good News Bible] Brother Felmar: For more articles like these, get your copy of God’s Message Magazine from a member of the Church Of Christ. You can also listen and subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcast, Google Podcast, and on the INC Media mobile app. Thank you for listening. I’m Brother Felmar Serreno. God bless.