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]

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 cal...

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). 

 

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.

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 t...

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 happ...

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....

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 ...

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,

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 ...

Making The Right Decision
[Music starts]
Brother Bob Pellien: We all want to make the best decision, right? God wants us to make the right decisions too. In fact, He wants you to make the best decisions so that He can reward you. That’s how awesome God is… But how do we make these decisions? 
You’re listening to the podcast version of God’s Message magazine. Today’s topic is Making The Right Decision.
[Music ends]
Brother Bob Pellien: We all make decisions. We decide about mundane concerns such as the clothes we wear, the movies we watch, the food we eat, as well as decisions that have greater impact on our future such as what school to go to, what career to pursue, whether to start a family or stay single. It’s important to think things through before making any decision in life because the decisions we make now will influence how our lives will be tomorrow. 
Apostle Paul declared this basic truth of life long time ago, and it remains just as true today:
Do not be deceived; God is not mocked, for you reap whatever you sow.
[Galatians 6:7 New Revised Standard Version]
 Brother Bob Pellien: So, the concept of reaping what one sows or having to face the consequences of an action or decision is thus rooted in the Holy Scriptures. But a deeper understanding of this basic truth will make us more careful in the way we live, and more meticulous in making decisions. 
The decisions we make in life not only affect our future, but most importantly, it determines the way we will be treated by God. 
I, the LORD, search the minds and test the hearts of men. I treat each one according to the way he lives, according to what he does.
[Jeremiah 17:10 Today’s English Version]
Brother Bob Pellien: One must be careful in the way he lives because God Himself will repay him according to his actions. God, through Christ, will judge our actions and the way we have lived when He returns on Judgement Day. 
For all of us must appear before Christ, to be judged by Him. Each one will receive what he deserves, according to everything he has done, good or bad, in his bodily life. 
[II Corinthians 5:10 Today’s English Version]
Brother Bob Pellien: Thus, a person will reap or receive what he deserves based on whether he did good or evil during his lifetime. Hence, it is of great importance that we be careful of the decisions we make. Man indeed has freedom of choice and he can decide whether to do good or do evil. But, what we should remember is that we must be ready to face the consequences of our actions and reap the harvest of the decisions we make in our life. The Bible teaches what the wicked will harvest:
I have seen people plow fields of evil and plant wickedness like seed; now, they harvest wickedness and evil.  
[Job 4:8 Good News Translation]
Brother Bob Pellien: According to the Scriptures, the wicked will harvest to wickedness. Furthermore, they will reap disaster.
If you plant the seeds of injustice, disaster will spring up, and your oppression of others will end. 
[Proverbs 22:8 Good News Translation]
Brother Bob Pellien: Wicked people may enjoy the fruits of their wrongdoing for a while, but the Lord guarantees that even in this life their wickedness will pay them back and eventually kill them. That’s why the wicked never have peace of mind. Instead, they’re always on the lookout for their enemies who plot evil against them. The punishment for the wicked, however,

For he is a chosen vessel

Brother Felmar Serreno: When a CEO is looking for someone to promote, the individual is usually determined based on their credentials and exceptional qualities. This is also true in sports, academics, and other fields. There is always some kind of standard by which people measure others. But how do you determine if someone is a genuine messenger of God? Is there a standard for that? Does it even matter? Hi, and welcome to the podcast version of God’s Message Magazine. Our episode today is: “For he is a chosen vessel.”

Brother Felmar: Man’s daily undertakings involve choosing and deciding. His need for choosing wisely is so evident that, in the modern era, he has formulated a rubric based on vast fields of knowledge to avoid making wrong decisions. Big corporations are thorough in choosing employees. As they say in corporate management, ‘employees are assets of the company’; thus, profiling every applicant is a must, to be certain that he fits the job. Such is the reason man is baffled upon hearing news that is non-normative to his matrix. One of these is the belief of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) about Brother Felix Y. Manalo as God’s messenger in these last days. People ask, how can a man from a developing country with no degree be fit for such a high calling? 

God’s standard 

Brother Felmar Serreno: The Lord God stated, 

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways…

[Isaiah 55:8 New International Version] 

Man might set scholarly standards or put greater value in societal stature but God clarifies that His standards are different from man’s. In fact, in prophecy, the messenger he chose is likened to a worm, meaning people would reproach and despise him (Isaiah 41:14; Psalm 22:6). This is the reason Church Of Christ members are not surprised if others question the divine authority given by God to Brother Felix Manalo. What then is the basis of God in choosing those whom He sends? The Lord looks at the heart: 

So it was, when they came, that he looked at Eliab and said, ‘Surely the LORD’s anointed is before Him.’ But the LORD said to Samuel, ‘Do not look at his appearance or at the height of his stature, because I have refused him. For the LORD does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance but the LORD looks at the heart.’ … Then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the midst of his brothers; and the Spirit of the LORD came upon David from that day forward. So Samuel arose and went to Ramah. 

[I Samuel 16:6-7, 13 New King James Version]
Brother Felmar Serreno: When God commanded Samuel to choose a king for Israel, He stressed not to look on the physical qualities or stature that is often seen as important by man. He clarified that His standard is beyond what man can perceive: He can see through one's heart or intention. Others might say that they do not question these standards, but how can they be sure that Brother Felix Manalo is the one commissioned by God to be His messenger?
Elected by the Most High

Brother Felmar Serreno: Why do members of the Church Of Christ recognize Brother Felix Manalo as God's messenger? They firmly believe that he is the fulfillment of the chosen servant in the following prophecy:

Who has performed and done it, Calling the generations from the beginning? ‘I, the LORD, am the first; And with the last I am He. ... You whom I have taken from the ends of the earth, And called from its farthest regions, And said to you, ‘You are My servant, I have chosen you and have not cast you away.

[Isaiah 41:4,9 New King James Version]

Watch Out For Greed Brother Felmar Serreno: Hi there, and thank you for joining us again on this podcast version of God’s Message magazine. Shoutout to all our avid listeners, our friends, and our brothers and sisters around the world. Thank you for constantly listening and even promoting this podcast. As for our topic today, it’s “Watch Out For Greed.”  It is natural for people to try and better their condition in life. The usual and socially accepted process is to acquire a good education that leads to a lucrative career. This, as perceived, will lead to financial stability, material possessions, and other perks that come with being well-off in life.  However, too many people, even after achieving what others would deem as a successful stature, still desire for more and more, and are willing to do anything to realize their ambitions, be it through fraud, corruption, scams, and even the taking of other people’s life. What have such people fallen to is greed, which, as defined by the dictionary, on merriam-webster.com, is a selfish and excessive desire for more of something than is needed. The evil of being greedy Brother Felmar Serreno: To be greedy does not only refer to an excessive desire to consume food (which is also called gluttony), but it also refers to a desperate craving, for riches, power, fame, or pleasure, no matter how, no matter the cost. All because of the misguided belief that the more a person has, the more complete his life would be. But is it true that a person’s worth is measured by what he has attained materially? This statement of Christ answers that question:  And he went on to say to them all, “Watch out and guard yourselves from every kind of greed; because a person’s true life is not made up of the things he owns, no matter how rich he may be.”[Luke 12:15 Good News Bible] Brother Felmar Serreno: It is a great mistake then to think that, the more a person owns, the more his life is complete. To clamor for more than what one essentially needs is a manifestation of greed. And the danger of being greedy is that it can cause him to forget about God, thus:  The wicked are proud of their evil desires; the greedy curse and reject the LORD. The wicked do not care about the LORD; in their pride they think that God doesn’t matter.[Psalm 10:3-4 Good News Bible] Brother Felmar Serreno: The greedy reject God. They assume that all they have achieved is because of their own intellect and effort. And that through their wealth, and the power that usually comes with it, they assume to have an answer for every predicament or problem. They have placed their trust in what they have accomplished due to greed, and not in God.  The greedy according to the Bible Brother Felmar Serreno: Now many people may deny that they are greedy, but how does the Bible identify those who are? Who are those who feel compelled to accumulate and hoard as much as they can? The Bible says this: Woe to him who builds his house by unrighteousness And his chambers by injustice, Who uses his neighbor’s service without wages And gives him nothing for his work, Yet your eyes and your heart are for nothing but your covetousness, For shedding innocent blood, And practicing oppression and violence.[Jeremiah 22:13, 17 New King James Version] Brother Felmar Serreno: So, an employer who holds back the honestly-earned wages of an employee is practicing greed. So, too, is one who hires a service, but then is not willing to pay for it. Others who have an insatiable appetite for wealth and power also practice extortion, or taking unwarranted advantage of others through business transactions as stated in Ezekiel 22:12 in the New International Version:  In you men accept bribes to shed blood; you take usury and excessive interest and make unjust gain from your neighbors by extortion. And you have forgotten me, declares the Sovereign LORD.[Ezekiel 22:12 New International Version] Brother Felma...

On Having A Close Relationship With God

Brother Felmar Serreno: In one’s hour of need, a person usually seeks the helping hand of those close to them—their family, friends, and acquaintances. But just like the rest of us, not only do they have limited abilities, but they also have their own troubles. However, if one has a close relationship with God and turns to Him for help, he or she will have everything that they need—and more.

Hi friends and welcome back to this podcast version of God’s Message magazine, and our topic for today: On Having a Close Relationship with God. 

There is no one whom we need more in life than the Lord God. The Bible describes the people who have a relationship with God as His children and His chosen people (That’s based on the book of John 1:12 and I Peter 2:9-10). When God’s children are troubled, He will give them the soundest advice; when they are weak, God will strengthen them (Psalm 73:24-26, 28). When God’s people are confronted by the snares of death and ungodliness, He will deliver them (II Samuel 22:5-7). And so, dear friends,, it is very important to be counted among God’s children, His elect, to have a relationship with Him.

King David is one fine example. Though he had wealth and power at his disposal, he still depended on God. When he was beset with adversities and prayed for help, the Lord did not fail him. I quote for you this: 

He sent from above, He took me, He drew me out of many waters. He delivered me from my strong enemy, From those who hated me; For they were too strong for me. They confronted me in the day of my calamity, But the LORD was my support. He also brought me out into a broad place; He delivered me because He delighted in me. End quote.

[That was from II Samuel 22:17-20 New King James Version]

Brother Felmar Serreno: God listened to David’s prayer because he was among the Lord’s chosen ones—the people who were set apart by God for Himself (That’s based on the book of Psalm 4:3). 

So, not all people have a relationship with God. The Bible is clear when it says, quote:

The LORD is far from the wicked … 

End quote [That was Proverbs 15:29 New King James Version]

Brother Felmar Serreno: An act that God finds very wicked is departing from Him (II Samuel 22:22). How does one depart or turn away from God? By transgressing His laws and refusing to listen to His teachings (Daniel 9:11). Hence, sin alienates people from God. Worse, it turns them into God’s enemies (Colossians 1:21), who are bound to suffer His fierce wrath on Judgment Day (Hebrews 10:27). 

If people find themselves in such a predicament, the Bible teaches them to search out and examine their ways and turn back to the Lord (Lamentations 3:39-40). They must turn to God by seeking the good way and walking in it (Jeremiah 6:16). Jesus Christ is the good way; no one can come to the Father except through Him (John 14:6).

How can people come to the Father through Jesus Christ, the good way? Is it enough just to believe? The Lord Jesus has this to say, I quote:

So Jesus spoke again: ‘In very truth I tell you, I am the door of the sheepfold. … I am the door; anyone who comes into the fold through me will be safe.’ 

End quote [That was from the book of John 10:7, 9 Revised English Bible]

Brother Felmar Serreno: So if anyone wants to walk in the good way, he needs to come through Christ by joining the flock, the Church Of Christ (That’s based on John 10:16 and ...

Don’t Be Put Off By Failures Brother Felmar Serreno: From missed business opportunities to failed exams to poor life choices, failures—if we allow them—can take a heavy toll on our mindset and our future. So, for today, in this podcast version of God’s Message Magazine, our topic is: Don’t Be Put Off By Failures. The way to success is not an easy trek. Obstacles and setbacks are to be expected. Riding a bike, as they say, is not always downhill—there are also uphill trails. Indeed, we sometimes fail in what we do. And the sad thing about it is that we can’t go back in time to change the course of events. We are left to face the consequences of our mistakes whether or not you are brave enough to do so.  There are those who, when they do something wrong and fall short of what is expected of them, shy away from new challenges. They end up sulking rather than tapping their potentials, thereby missing many opportunities for personal growth and betterment. Meanwhile, some allow their past failures to drag them down until, one day, they find themselves pinned down, unable to get up from the slump. They could only wish that things would change for the better.  Although the fact remains that we can never turn back the hands of time, we can still do the best we can to make amends for the wrongs we have done. But first, we have to accept that we are susceptible to making mistakes. Let me quote for you what the Bible says here: There is no one on earth who does what is right all the time and never makes a mistake.[Ecclesiastes 7:20 Good News Bible] Brother Felmar Serreno: Even great people of yore had fallen short and had failed at certain instances in their lifetime. David had done wrong when he committed adultery with Bathsheba and murdered her husband, Uriah (II Samuel 11:1-27); Moses failed to show a good example to Israel when he displayed lack of confidence in God by striking the rock at Meribah twice with Aaron’s staff instead of obeying God’s command to speak to the stone for water to come out to quench the thirst of the Israelites (Numbers 20:1-13); Samson made a grave mistake when he married and had relationship with non-Israelites that eventually led him to violate his Nazirite restrictions (Judges 14:1-3; 16:1-22); and even God’s servant Job admitted that he, too, had committed error (Job 19:4). However, like those mentioned, we should not be put off by failures. Going back to David he paid dearly with the life of his child for the sins he committed. But instead of rebelling against God, David repented and accepted God’s punishment (II Samuel 12:1-15)—and David, he ended up being recognized as one of the greatest of the warrior kings of Israel. For Moses, Moses moved on from his mistake and continued to lead God’s nation—he presided over them until his death before they entered the Promised Land (Deuteronomy 32:45-52; 34:1-12). As for Samson, he repented and silently cried for God’s mercy—sacrificing his own life, Samson was able to slay his enemies and the enemies of Israel, the Philistines (Judges 16:23-31). And when it came to Job, well Job never turned from God despite the hardships that he suffered—he then received favor from God, who doubled his wealth and blessed him with children once again (Job 42:1-6, 10-17). Instead of constantly blaming ourselves, we should realize that what happened then should serve as a learning experience for us. As such, we can avoid making the same mistakes again, make better decisions in the future, and lead better lives. By doing so, we have squeezed out something positive from our failures. The Bible reminds us, thus: Once again give them this message from the Lord: ‘When a person falls,

Against The Flow



Brother Felmar Serreno: Moral decay can be found almost everywhere on the planet and on the worldwide web. Many people do not mind it. Others even popularize it. If this is the trend nowadays, then it must be right—but, is it? Hi, and welcome to the podcast version of God’s Message magazine, where today’s topic is: Against The Flow.  



We are living at the times the Bible describes not only as perilous and difficult for the Christians to live (II Timothy 3:1) but also the end times when man’s knowledge shall increase (Daniel 12:4).



Today is also the age of moral decline—modernity has brought with it for many people a newfound sense that switched their focus from God to their own selves. They have chosen to repudiate the moral framework that God gave, and, in exchange, are now preoccupied with the prevailing values of this world: wealth, image, pleasure, and power. With these as their priorities, those people choose to believe that ‘right’ and ‘wrong’ and ‘good’ and ‘evil’ are mere personality lifestyle choices of those who believe such. 



At such a time and amid that kind of culture, man has to make a choice that will determine his direction and destination. While the world flows as it does today, how should one meet this challenge of the times? 



Moral decay: fact or myth?



Brother Felmar Serreno: Others argue that there is no moral decay but only change in morals, or even worse, they see this as progress under the false nomenclature of being free or liberal. On the other hand, the Bible has foretold that this is how it will be in our time as a warning to Christians. Let me quote for you what the Holy Scriptures says here:



For people will love only themselves and their money; they will be proud and boastful, sneering at God, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful to them, and thoroughly bad. They will be hardheaded and never give in to others; they will be constant liars and troublemakers and will think nothing of immorality. They will be rough and cruel, and sneer at those who try to be good. They will betray their friends; they will be hotheaded, puffed up with pride, and prefer good times to worshiping God. They will go to church, yes, but they won’t really believe anything they hear. Don’t be taken in by people like that.



[II Timothy 3:2-5 Living Bible]



Brother Felmar Serreno: “Puffed up with pride” of the worldly knowledge they gained, these people “will think nothing of immorality” as we heard from the Scriptures. The apostles also tell us that in our time “people will love only themselves” and that they will be “sneering at God.” 



From the time of the apostles up to ours, things have worsened at an ever-increasing pace. Illegal drug trafficking has become prevalent. The institution of marriage has degenerated to the point where homosexuality, lesbianism, same-sex marriage, promiscuity, and the like are “the new normal.” A large percent of marriage ends in divorce, and more babies (the ones that escape abortion) are born to unwed mothers. Lying and cheating are so commonplace, and cases of suicide are now arguably at an all time high. 



Sexuality, marriage, and even human life are essentially desacralized.

The Blessed Household



[Music starts]



Brother Felmar Serreno: Chances are you’re part of a family. You might even be on the journey to starting your own family. Maybe you’re wondering, “what does it take to keep a family stable, happy, and peaceful?” Hello, and welcome to the podcast version of God’s Message Magazine, where we hope you’ll join us for today’s topic: The Blessed Household.



[Music stops]



Brother Felmar Serreno: What many people usually consider as a fortunate or favored household is one which abounds in material possessions or is financially stable, such that its members can buy whatever they want. In short, they believe that material wealth defines how blessed such a family is. 



For members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo or Church Of Christ, however, being truly fortunate or privileged is not measured by material things. What they consider as their true wealth are the spiritual blessings from the Lord God—their membership in the Church, their right and privilege to worship Him, and their living hope for the salvation He promised. More than material comfort, they value the peace and security that reign in their household because of God’s fellowship with them as they continue in their steadfast faith and zeal in their services to him. But why are they certain that what they have outweigh any material riches? 



Reverently fears God



Brother Felmar Serreno: The household that has the promise of God’s blessings reverently fears the Lord God. The Bible teaches, thus: 



Blessed is every one who fears the LORD, Who walks in His ways. When you eat the labor of your hands, You shall be happy, and it shall be well with you.



[Psalms 128: 1-2 New King James Version]



Brother Felmar Serreno: Those who fear the Lord deeply revere Him. Instead of staying away from Him, they yearn to be closer to Him and they do stay away from what He hates. They walk in His ways by leading a life according to His teachings. Thus, the members of the family who have reverent fear of the Lord God are obedient to His commands and devoted to their duties to Him. 



Such a family does not stand to lose. The Bible depicts them as blessed and happy, and all will be well with them. With God’s blessings, protection, and help, all its members will be in good health and will be able to realize their good dreams and aspirations. A Church Of Christ family fully understands that obedience to God is the key to such blessings.



Religious instruction begins at home



Brother Felmar Serreno: Because obedience to God’s commands is essential to receiving His blessings, the whole family should give much importance to listening to and learning His teachings. Church Of Christ members are thus exhorted to be active in attending the worship service, during which God’s words are learned (Deuteronomy 31:12-13).



For the children’s sake, religious instruction should begin at home. According to the Bible, teaching God’s words to the children is a responsibility not only of the Church but also of the parents:



And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.”



[Deuteronomy 6:6-7 New King James Version]
...

 



Maintaining Good Health



[Show opens]



[Music starts] 



Brother Felmar Serreno: Things like regular physical exercise and a well-balanced diet are good for us, but is this all it takes to be truly healthy? Hi there, you’re listening to the podcast version of God’s Message Magazine, where today’s topic is: Maintaining Good Health.



[Music fades]



Brother Felmar Serreno: The current pandemic has driven home the reality that the human body is so susceptible to being afflicted with any of a multitude of possible illnesses. Hundreds of millions of people have contracted the coronavirus, and even though many have recovered, sadly, it has also claimed millions of lives.  



Even though it is improbable to make one’s way through life without contracting some kind of illness or experiencing health issues, we should strive to protect our whole being as best as possible, as admonished by the Bible: 



May the God of peace himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be kept sound and blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.



[1 Thessalonians 5:23 New Revised Standard Version]



Brother Felmar Serreno: One’s spirit, soul, and body should be kept sound or healthy as we await the Second Advent of the Lord Jesus Christ. Physically, a person must avoid everything that may harm his well-being, such as smoking, abusing alcohol and/or drugs, sleep deprivation, unhealthy diet, and the like. 



With greater benefit



Brother Felmar Serreno: Physical exercise is crucial in maintaining good health, but what is more beneficial is spiritual exercise:



Physical exercise has some value, but spiritual exercise is valuable in every way, because it promises life both for the present and for the future.



[1 Timothy 4:8 Good News Bible]



Brother Felmar Serreno: An essential step in practicing spiritual exercise is recognizing that, no matter the effort one may exert in an attempt to preserve his life, longevity remains in the hands of God:



I, and I alone, am God; no other god is real. I kill and I give life, I wound and I heal, and no one can oppose what I do.



[Deuteronomy 32:39 Good News Bible]



Brother Felmar Serreno: This is why one should place his hope and trust in God, to gift him with a long or healthy life. If ever any servant of God does become sick, Apostle James taught what he should do:



Is there anyone who is sick? He should send for the church elders, who will pray for him and rub olive oil on him in the name of the Lord. This prayer made in faith will heal the sick person; the Lord will restore him to health, and the sins he has committed will be forgiven.



[James 5:14-15 Good News Bible]



Brother Felmar Serreno: Servants of God recognize Him as the greatest healer of all. That is, whenever Church members are sick, they pray to Him, and have the ministers or deacons or deaconesses anoint them with oil. It does not make it wrong, however, to consult with a doctor when one becomes sick:



Jesus heard them and answered, ‘People who are well do not need a doctor, but only those who are sick.’



[Matthew 9:12 Good News Bible]

 



Do Not Use Harmful Words



[Show open]



[Music starts] 



Brother Felmar Serreno: Are there times where your temper gets the best of you? Is poor anger management affecting your relationship with your spouse, family, or friends? If your answer is yes, then stay with us, on this podcast version of God’s Message Magazine, where today’s topic is: Do Not Use Harmful Words. 



[Music ends]



Brother Felmar Serreno: While it is natural for a person to get angry if someone does him wrong, the apostles advise us, thus:



If you become angry, do not let your anger lead you into sin, and do not stay angry all day.



[Ephesians 4:26 Today’s English Version]



Brother Felmar Serreno: If we don’t remove anger from our hearts and instead let it fester there, this will lead to hate. God considers anyone who hates his brother or sister in the faith a murderer (I John 3:15 New King James Version). Therefore, it is evil to hold grudges. 



According to the Bible, “A wise man controls his temper” (Proverbs 14:29 Living Bible). Nothing good will result from being hot-tempered. Instead, let us prove that we have understanding—especially of God’s commands—by controlling our temper and being careful with our words. This is very important because the Bible says:



Gentle words cause life and health; griping brings discouragement.



[Proverbs 15:4 Living Bible]



Brother Felmar Serreno: Using gentle words or being tactful is truly important to preserve peace and harmony, especially in the family. Let us follow the advice of the apostles:



Do not use harmful words, but only helpful words, the kind that build up and provide what is needed, so that what you say will do good to those who hear you



[Ephesians 4:29 Today’s English Version]



Brother Felmar Serreno: In the same way, we will be able to keep among family members, as well as among fellow Christians, love and compassion for one another. 



[Music starts]



Brother Felmar Serreno: 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.



[Music ends]



[Show close]

[Music starts]



Brother Felmar Serreno: Is there any reason to be positive when the current pandemic has caused a myriad of adversities and misfortune in peoples’ lives? 



Welcome to the podcast version of God’s Message Magazine, where today’s topic is: To Be Cheerful In The Face Of Difficulties.



The COVID-19 pandemic has produced a lot of negative emotions in people. For others, the sheer idea of contracting such a terminal disease and the thought of suffering and dying alone, since they would have to be isolated from their loved ones, can be so scary that it causes them to have paranoid delusions—mistreating and being rude to the people around them, even those who have contracted the disease and our “frontliners.” While some feel so hopeless and depressed about the current situation that they think of taking their own lives. 



With the pandemic causing many complex problems to peoples’ lives, should we dwell on negative emotions? Is there no sense cheering up?



On being cheerful



Brother Felmar Serreno: Being deeply worried and depressed in times of crisis is not good for one’s health. The Bible teaches:



“A cheerful heart makes you healthy. But a broken spirit dries you up.”



[Proverbs 17:22 New International Reader’s Version]



Brother Felmar Serreno: Indeed, taking a cheerful stance even in the most depressing times has great benefits to a person’s well-being. Research attests that being cheerful improves heart health, allows one to combat stress effectively, boosts the immune system, promotes an overall healthier lifestyle, reduces pain, and increases life longevity. We can find that on positivepsychology.com. 



On the other hand, having a “broken spirit” or wallowing in misery dries up  a person or shortens his life (Matthew 6:27). So let us heed the Lord’s timeless advice, “do not worry” (Matthew 6:31)



And although it is natural to feel down at times, we should not let sorrow prevail. To be cheerful in the face of difficulties is to remain friendly, approachable, and be a pleasant companion, for “a merry heart makes a cheerful countenance” (Proverbs 15:13 New King James Version).



In taking care of oneself



Brother Felmar Serreno: Out of too much worrying due to the Covid-19 pandemic, there are people who, as reported on the news, treat with discrimination and disgust those who have recovered from the disease and our frontliners. 



That is wrong. While taking precautions is essential, especially now that there is a pandemic, we must also keep in mind the Bible’s teaching:



“Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” 



[Ephesians 4:31-32 New King James Version]



Brother Felmar Serreno: Even when taking care of themselves, those whom God forgave through Christ—the members of the Church Of Christ—are taught to be kind and tenderhearted to others. They should be “hospitable to one another” (I Peter 4:9). And if others need their help, they must “do good” (Proverbs 3:27 Good News Bible) or help them. In doing so, they will not only be able to ease others’ troubles, they will also be able to fulfill God’s will. 



To be truly safe



Brother Felmar Serreno: Human beings have limitations. Aside from taking all safety precautions,