PASUGO

D'SMPSSAGE
. AUGUST 2012 VOLLME 64 Nt MBER 8 ISSN 0116- 636 .
Page 1 of 44
PASUGO
GOD'S MESSAGE
The Magazine of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ)
PUBLISHER
Iglesia Ni Cristo
EDI TOR- I N-CHI EF
Richard J. Rodas
MANAGI NG EDITOR
Nicanor P. Tiosen
SENI OR EDITORS
Maximo M. Bularan \I . Rene J. Panoncillo
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
Lyndon A. Aguirre' Robert F. Pell ien
EDITORI AL ASSOCIATES
Roland A. Aguirre Marlex C. Cantor
Celerino G. Baclaan . Dennis C. Lovendino
Pedrito B. Placio
WRITERS
Siegfred T. Gollayan Marie F. Ruiz
Norman A. Reyes
GRAPHIC ARTISTS
Bienvenido A. Santiago Jr . . Samuel T. Solano
Sylvia N. Dreo . Regina B. Burgui ll os
PHOTOGRAPHERS
John Borg' Glady C. Gaddi
Sa muel P. De Leon Christian R. Barrera
GOD'S MESSAGE is published monthly by the Iglesia Ni
Cristo wit h editorial office at No. I Central Avenue, New
Era, Quezon City 1107 Philippines Telephone: (632) 981-
4311 Fax: (632) 981-4333. Entered as second-class mail
matter at the Central Post Office in Manila on February 13,
1979. Published under pePM Certificate of Registration
No. Sp. 237. All manuscripts and photographs submitted
for editor ial consideration must be accompa nied by a self-
addressed envelope and return postage. G O ~ ' S MESSAGE
assumes no responsibil ity to the return of unsolicited ma-
terials. Copyright 1986 by Igl esia Ni Cristo.
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CONTENTS
AUGUS T 2012 VO LUME 6 4 ' UMBER 8
Features
8
22
24
27
27
28
GLOBAL PASTORAL VISITATIO S
Shepherding an ever-growing flock
NORTH DIVERSION, METRO MANILA NORTH
Fight the good fight of faith
INC UNGAP SA MAMAMAYAN SETS WORLD RECORDS
The Lord's work excelling
CALIFORNIA, USA
First INC Media experience held
in Southern California
PI NUGAY, RIZAL, PHILIPPINES
NEU conducts tree-planting activity through ALS
INCELEBRATION: THE INC 98TH ANNIVERSARY PRESENTATIONS
Faith celebrated through culture and the arts
Articles
4
36
39
Deliverance from sin and punishment
by Nicanor P. Ti osen
Sino ang tunay na malaya?
by Arvin T. Galang
El hombre debe ser puesto en libertad
traducido por Jose V. Ventilacion
Departments
1,34
3
32
EDITORIALS
MAILBOX
CHURCH REPORTS
AROUND THE GLOBE
Our Cover: A photo after the
Church anni versary thanksgiving worship
service officiated by the Executive Mi ni ster,
Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, in Rome, Italy.
Page 2 of 44
EDITORIAL
The greatest freedom
T
HROUGHOUT HUMAN HISTORY, many li ves
have been sacrificed in the name of freedom
whether for reli gious expression, politi cal ends 0;
simpl y emancipation from slavery. The word "freedom"
itself has been a perenni al ca tchphrase in fueling many
wars and revolutions all over the world in the past as
well as in the present.
Political and socia l movements have used the term
as a rall ying point to eradi cate slaver y everywhere that
woefull y continues to exist under the euphemisms
"bonded labor" and "human trafficking". Many nati ons
and countri es cry for freedom fro m tyranny, yet continue
to be plagued by corrupti on, poverty, wi ckedness, and
misery.
There are even acts today that many peopl e perceive
as manifestations of freedom and favorabl e to the welfare
of man-like assertion of gay ri ghts, legalized gambling,
abortion, legali zation of prohibited drugs-but these
in fact will bring destructi on unto them for they are
blatantly against God' s teachings and commandments
(I Cor. 6:9-10, Amplified Bible). Truly, freedom has been
given various meanings and definiti ons.
Man ought to reali ze that freedom in its very
essence does not mean being absolutely free. Even in a
very perfect setting like the Garden of Eden where God
placed the first coupl e, Adam and Eve, and gave them
dominion over the fi sh, the birds, and all the animals,
God had set a limitati on. True, God gave them also His
laws, one of whi ch was the prohibiti on to eat of the fruit
of the tree of knowledge of good and evil at the center of
the garden, but they di sobeyed . And the rest, as biblical
records articul ate, is history.
Since the fall of Adam and Eve, man has been trying
to get out from under the curse on account of sin-that
curse being death, because as all men sinned, so death has
spread to or has been experi enced by the entire human
race (Rom. 5:12). So how can man recaptu re the freedom
God gave them originall y in paradi se? How can man be
free? Those who are trul y free have been enthusiastically
identified by the Savior Himself, thus: " If the Son sets
you free, then you will be reall y free" (John 8:36, Today's
English Version ). These people have been set free from
" the law of sin and dea th" (Rom. 8:2, 1, Ibid.), hence, the
strict instructi on to them is that they make sure to stay
free and not get ti ed up again by sin and wickedness .
Man has no alternati ve for the Savior' s soluti on
because the wages of sin is death (Rom. 6:23) in the lake
of fire and brimstone (Rev. 20: 14) on the Second Advent
of the Lord Jesus Chri st. No true Chri sti an would ever
di scount the great importance of belonging to Jesus by
being part of Hi s body or the Church (Col. 1:18), the
name of which is Church Of Chri st (Acts 20:28, Lamsa
Trans lat ion). Man needs the Church Of Chri st so as to
benei.l t from the redempti ve bl ood of the Savior, thus,
being freed from the shackles of sin and death.
God's sending of Jesus to die on t he cross is a
clear expression of Hi s mercy to redeem man. Man's
resp onsibility then is to do whatever is necessa ry
to . preserve and maintain that freedom from sin by
maintaining a ri ghtful relati onship with God within the
Church Of Chri st. His ultimate destiny is at stake.
The probl em is, there is within man an ever-present
desire to sin and commit evil- it is ca lled the si nful
nature of man. Apostl e Paul powerfull y said so: "What
I say is thi s: let the Spirit direct your li ves, and you will
not sati sfy the desires of the human nature. For what
our human nature wants is opposed to what the Spi rit
wants, and what the Spi rit wants is opposed to what our
human nature wants. These two are enemi es, and this
means that you cannot do what you want to do" (Gal.
5: 16-17, TEV) .
Man naturally loves to do evil things- gra ti fyi ng the
cravings and desires of the fl es h or human nature-that
are Ju st tIl e opposite u f wha t t h e Spirit 0 " Cod wonts.
These two forces within man are consta ntly fig ht ing
each other to wi n control over him.
.-\ L'G L'ST 2012 . GOD' S M ESSAG E 1
Page 3 of 44
If man becomes alienated from God because of his preju-
dice, his carnal passion, or his worldly interest, he is courting
his ultimate destruction and death for being enslaved again to
sin as vehemently declared by the apostle: "Surely you know
that when you surrender yourselves as slaves to obey some-
one, you are in fact the slaves of the master you obey-either of
sin, which results in death,
or of obedience, which re-
teousness of God? Apostle Paul spiritedly answers: "But
now that you have been set free from sin and have become
slaves to God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the
result is eternal life" (Rom. 6:22, New International Version).
How can it ever be considered a "loss of freedom" if
what man gains is holiness and eternal life? Great rather is
, the blessing attained
by those freed from sin:
sults in being put right
with God. ... What did
you gain from doing the
things that you are now
ashamed of? The result
of those things is death!"
(Rom. 6:16, 21, Ibid.).
ult the Son sets you free, then you will be
really free. " -John 8:36, Today's English Version
they have become slaves
to God and will earn the
present reward of holi-
ness and its end is ever-
lasting life in His heav-
enly kingdom.
These people have been set free from
Uthe law of sin and death." -Rom. 8:2, " Ibid.
\
)
In familiar human
Hence, those who
live in sin and sheer
transgression of God's
laws-living in wanton
pleasure and self-gratifi-
cation-are already con-
sidered dead even if they
Hence, the strict instruction to them is that
they make sure to stay free and not
get tied up again by sin and wickedness.
terms, man must yield
his natural limitation to
a Christian way of life
as the apostle unequivo-
cally states: "Now, the
important thing is that
are still alive (I Tim. 5:6)
for they certainly will end up in hell. Although man
possibly can do anything he wants, so much so that
he declares himself to be the captain of his soul and
destiny-he still is not truly free for he is a slave to
sin and death. His life, habits, actions, and reactions
are all strongly affected by his immorality.
It is heartbreaking, to say the least, that many
people from the moment they wake up in the
morning until they fall asleep at night, do not want
to be told what to do-that is the concept of freedom
people of this world have. It's no surprise then that
such people are counted by God as His enemies,
thus: "And so a person becomes an enemy of God
when he is controlled by his human nature; for he
does not obey God's law, and in fact he cannot obey
it. Those who obey their human nature cannot please
God" (Rom. 8:7-8, Ibid.).
The old sinful nature within man-with its
carnal thoughts and purposes-is hostile to God. It is
not in conformity with God's laws and ways. That's
why those who are still under the control of their old
sinful selves, being bent on following their old evil
desires, can n.ever please Cod.
Does man lose his freedom and subject himself
to oppression if he submits completely to the righ-
2 A U GUST 2012 GOD'S MESSAGE
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Page 4 of 44
your way of life should be as
the gospel of Christ requires, so
that, whether or not I am able to
go and see you, I will hear that
you are standing firm with one
common purpose and that with
only one desire you are fighting
together for the faith of the gos-
pel" (Phil. 1:27, TEV).
One great purpose for
which members of the Church
Of Christ were redeemed is
to proclaim God's great glory
(Rom. 15:5-6, NIV), showing
to all that God is worthy to be
loved and praised by mirroring
in their lives the gospel of the
Lord Jesus Christ. God demands
from them to abstain from
the abominations that people
of this world passionately
embraced. As God's people in
the Chri stian Era, they are no
longer distinguished by racial
or territorial characteristics but
exclusively by living their faith
in Christ.
Indeed, human history tells
us of many epic stories of man' s
struggle and triumph in his
quest for freedom from tyranny
and oppression; but unless he
also is freed from sin and its
consequence, which is death in
the lake of fire and brimstone, the
price he pays for such freedom
is in vain. Comparatively, to be
a servant of God is extremely
desirable, within the true Church
Of Christ which Jesus "freed" or
redeemed from sin and death,
to be such is to look forward to
recapturing the "true freedom"
and the perfect life in God's
eternal kingdom. 0
- RICHARD J. RODAS
Editor-in-Chief
MAILBOX
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upon request.
Page 5 of 44
By NICANOR P. TIOSEN
H
OW MANY TIMES have we heard people say they want to be
free from punishment? How many have expressed their desire
to be delivered from sin and to win eternal life for themselves,
hence, be saved?
Writing to Timothy, a co-worker in the Church Of Christ in the first
century, Apostle Paul advised the former, thus: "Run your best in the
race of faith, and win eternal life for yourself; for it was to this life
that God called you when you firmly professed your faith before many
witnesses" (I Tim. 6:12, Today's English Version). And as to how valuable
faith or belief is, Jude, another apostle of the Lord, wrote, thus: "For
even though you know all this, I want to remind you of how the Lord
once rescued the people of Israel from Egypt, but, afterward destroyed
those who did not believe" (Jude 1:5, Ibid.).
Contending with the enemy
Throughout the history of God's people,
the devil who is the enemy of the elect
has been doing what he is best at which
caused Apostle Peter to remind the faithful,
thus: "Be sober, be vigi lant; because your
adversary the devil walks about like a
roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.
Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing
that the same sufferings are experienced by
your brotherhood in the world" (I Pet. 5:8-9,
New King James Version).
Certai nl y, Satan will use every ploy or
machination in his hands to deceive the
gullible. To safeguard the believers, Apostle
Paul warned them, thus: "The Wicked One
will cume with the power of Satan and
perform all kinds of false miracles and
4 AUGUST 2012' GOD'S MESSAGE
wonders, and use every kind of wicked deceit
on those who wi ll perish. They will perish
because they did not welcome and love the
truth so as to be saved. And so God sends the
power of error to work in them so that they
believe what is false. The result is that all who
have not believed the truth, but have taken
pleasure in sin, will be condemned" (II Thess.
2:9-12, TEV).
Of course no one in his right mind will
admit to having been deceived by Satan.
H o w e v e l ~ the Bible has a way of exposing
those who have unfortunately fallen to the
wiles of the devil, thus: "You are doomed!
You call evil good and call good evil. You turn
darkness into li ght and li ght into darkness. You
make what is bitter sweet, and what is sweet
you make bitter" (Isa. 5:20, Ibid.). Therefore,
Page 6 of 44
With the true Church, that which belongs to our
Lord Jesus Christ and to our Lord God, membership in it
is a necessary condition to be saved and be
free from punishment.
we can glean from the Bible that those who
are deceived by Satan have succumbed to
distorting the truth to their own doom, as
evidenced by their calling good evil, and vice
versa; and turning darkness to light and li ght
to darkness. Hence, they come to believe the
opposite of what is right and good. One ought
to realize though that the commandment of
God is what is right and good (Rom. 7:12,
Ibid.).
The truth concerning salvation
Take the issue of salvation. Many believe one
can be saved without the benefi t of the Church
Of Christ. To them, membership in the Church
Of Christ is no longer necessary. And that
belief in Christ as one's personal savior is all
that is needed to be saved from punishment
and win eternal life. They further allege that
what is important is one's relationship with
Christ, irrespective of church membership.
What do these people who espouse such
beliefs fail to realize? They have totally
relegated to the background and ignored the
Significance of Apostl e Paul's message, thus:
"This is a great mystery. (I'm talking about
Chri st's relationship to the church" (Eph. 5:32,
God's Word).
It is true that Christ is the Savior, but
what He is going to save is the Church,
whi ch is His body, thus: "For a husband
has authority over his wife just as Christ
has authority over the church; and Christ is
himself the Savior of the church, his body"
(Eph. 3:23, Tr;V). S adly, C\ lot of people failed
to see this tru th .
A U GU ST 20 12 ' GOD'S MESS AGE 5
Page 7 of 44
The Church Of Christ
and redemption
But the true believer of Christ ought
to believe in what is written, thus "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
... " (John 10:7, 9, Revised English Bible).
And the fold or flock that man must
come into is the Church Of Christ
according to Apostle Paul, 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). This
should silence once and for all the
belief that Church membership is no
longer necessary. If it were not the
true Church Of Christ, yes. But, with
the true Church, that which belongs to
our Lord Jesus Christ and to our Lord
God, membership in it is a necessary
condition to be saved and be free from
punishment.
Should anyone insist that faith
alone is sufficient, Apostle James
replies in no uncertain terms, thus:
"My brothers, what good is it for
someone to say that he has faith if his
actions do not prove it? Can that faith
save him? ... You see, then, that it is by
his actions that a person is put right
with God, and not by his faith alone"
(James 2:14, 24, TEV).
Winning the battle
It will do well for the true members
of the Church Of Christ to heed the
admonition of Apostle Paul, thus:
"Use every pi ece of God's armor to
resist the enemy in the time of evil, so
that after the battle, you will still be
standing firm" (Eph. 6:13, New Living
Tro11f; ]ot;OI1) . So as n.ot to give 'Nay to
the enemy, with much resolve Apostle
Paul advised the Christians further,
thus: "So stand ready, with truth as
a belt tight around your waist, with
righteousness as your breastplate,
and as your shoes the readiness to
announce the Good News of peace.
At all times carry faith as a shield; for
with it you will be able to put out the
burning arrows shot by the Evil One.
And accept salvation as a helmet, and
the word of God as the sword which
the Spirit gives you" (Eph. 6:14-17,
TEV).
Asking God's help
through prayers
The heavenward journey is fraught
with trial s. We, members of the Church
Of Christ, God's people in these last
days, are very much aware of this.
Nonetheless, in our great desire to be
free from punishment or to be saved
on Judgment Day, we do our best to
safeguard our faith, buoyed by Apostle
Paul's reminder, thus: "Do all thi s in
prayer, asking for God's help. Pray on
every occasion, as the Spirit leads. For
this reason keep alert and never give
up; pray always for all God's people"
(Eph. 6:18, Ibid.).
We, likewise, draw inspiration
from the prayer of King David, thus:
"I look to the mountains; where will
my help come from? My help will
come from the LORD, who made the
heaven and earth. He will not let
you fa ll; your protector is always
awake .... The LORD will guard you;
he is by your side to protect you ....
The LORD will protect you from all
danger; he will keep you safe. He
wi ll protect you as you come and go
now and forever (Ps. 121:1-3, 5, 7-8,
Ibid.)." With the Father Almighty at
our side to guide us, we can truly
be certain of deliverance from life's
vvocs and throes, ITtOre ;:,u frorn. ::5 111
and punishment. 0
Page 8 of 44
Emerge victorious
Roaring like a lion
The devil hunts for prey;
All forms of lies he uses
To take our faith away.
The devil deceives man
By twisting his mind;
The good look bad
And the evil look kind.
Be alert! Be on guard!
The faith defend and hold;
Be firm! Be steadfast!
Remain in the fold.
Be prepared! Be aware!
Trust in God above;
Be brave! Be strong
In faith, hope, and love.
Worship God and Christ!
Fight the lies so vicious;
Live by the gospel of truth
To emerge victorious!
Bernard F. Asuncion
Legazpi City, Albay, Philippines
AUGUST 2012 GOD'S MESSAGE 7
Page 9 of 44
Page 10 of 44
4 -c. .
.. ' . ~
3 ~
Page 11 of 44
Page 12 of 44
and have our devotional prayer to
God. Although we've been here for 12
years already, we still get homesick.
But when we pray, our loneliness
disappears," said Sister Veronica
Tuanon. In response to God's message
through the Executive Minister, she
promised, "I will be a good example
to the b rethren. Even thnug h life is
hard and work schedules sometimes
conflict with the schedule of worship,
I will prioritize my duties because it
is during worship services that we
receive the words of God."
Those who attended the gathering
also witnessed two important
events: the announcement of the
establishment of a new ecclesiastical
district in the Middle East (there are
now two districts in that part of the
world- the districts of Qatar and
UAE); and the oath-taking of five
ministers-Brother Raul Basco as
district minister of Qatar, Brother
Sarwan Singh as district secretary
of Q a t a l ~ Brother Antonio Banez
as district auditor of UAE, Brother
Florente Ladrillo as district treasurer
of UAE, and Brother Jeffrey Labasan
as district secretary of UAE.
This historic development shows
the fast expansion of the Church in
that part of the world, a proof that
God until now fulfills His promises
to His Messenger and His Church in
these last days. ~
AUGUST 2012 GOD'S MESSAGE 11
Page 13 of 44
Page 14 of 44
Page 15 of 44
II Ringraziamento e iniziato con iI canto degli inni di
lode a Dio condotto dai membri del coro. Fratello Oliver C.
Canlas, ministro del distretto del Sud Europa, ha guidato
la congregazione nella preghiera d'apertura.
Fratello Eduardo Manalo inizi6 if suo sermone
rammentando che if 27 Luglio 2012, e la data di due
importanti anniversari: iI 98 anniversario della Chiesa
Di Cristo e if 18 anniversario del suo ufficiale ritorno a
Roma, un'occasione storica condotta dall' allora Ministro
Esecutivo, Fratello Eraflo G. Manalo. Predicando con
I'uso della Bibbia, Fratello Eduardo ha enfatizzato che e if
vo/ere di Dio che i membri della Chiesa ringrazino sempre
Dio qualunque cosa succeda. Qualunque problema 0
calamita possa arrivare, come I'attuale crisi finanziaria
e Ie guerre che accadono ora, in felicita 0 in tristezza,
c'e comunque un motivo per cui ringraziare Dio: la lora
chiamata come membri della vera Chiesa Di Cristo. Per
questo loro sono sicuri che i lora nomi sono scritti nel
Libro della Vita; perci6, sono sicuri che riceveranno la
promessa salvezza nel Giorno del Giudizio.
Inoltre, Fratello Eduardo ha rammentato ai fratelli che
questa Chiesa e opera di Dio, ed e per questo che continua
ad avere successo. La sua espansione e incessante. 11
numero degli edifici per I'adorazione, i membri e i ministri
continuano ad aumentare. Comunque, tale benedizione
di vittoria non e limitata solamente per la Chiesa nella sua
interezza. Questo arriva anche agli individuali membri.
Fin quando uno rimane un membro fedele della Chiesa,
Dio Ii aiutera, Ii rafforzera e Ii sosterra poiche questa e la
promessa Sua promessa al Suo popo/o. Invero, questo e
stato ci6 che ha sempre fatto dai tempi del Fratello Felix
Y. Manalo, if Messaggero di Dio in questi ultimi giorni.
The Thanksgiving worship service began with the singing of hymns
of praise to God led by the choir members. Brother Oliver R. Canlas. district
minister of Southern Europe, led the congregation in the opening prayer.
Brother Eduardo Manal o began hi s sermon by pointing out that July
27, 2012, is the date of two important anni versari es: the 98th anniversary of
the Church Of Christ and the 18th anniversary of its official return in Rome, a
historic occasion that was led by the then Executi ve Minister, Brother Eraiio G.
Manalo. Preaching from the Bible, Brother Eduardo emphasized that it is God's
will that Church members should always thank God no matter what happens.
Whatever problem or calamity may come, such as the current financial crisis
and wars, whether in happiness or sadness, there is still a very important reason
to thank God: their calling as members of the true Church Of Christ. Because of
it they are certain that their names are written in the Book of Life; hence, they
are assured that they woul d receive the promised salvation on Judgment Day.
In addition, Brother Ed uardo reminded the brethren that this Church is
God's work, whi ch is why it continues to succeed. Its expansion is unceasing.
The number of worship buildings, members, and ministers is constantly
increas.hg. However, such blessing of victory is not limited to just the
Church in its e nti rety; it also extends to the indi v idual me mbe rs. As long
as one remains a faithful member of the Church, God will help, strengthen
and uphold them because that is Hi s promise to Hi s people. Indeed, that is
what He has always done since the time of Brother Felix Y. Manalo, God's
Messenger in these last days.
14 AUGUST 2012 . GOD'S MESSAGE
Page 16 of 44
Dopo iI servizio di adorazione, la fede dei fratelli fu
rafforzata. Sono grati a Dio per iI Suo amore per la Chiesa
come dimostrato dal Ministro Esecutivo, iI quale non si
stanca mai nel visitare i fratelli in tutte Ie parti del mondo.
Fratello Maurizio Borghetti, un fratello italiano di 54 anni,
dalla sede congregazionale di Lucca, ha nota to, "Mentre
[Fratello Eduardo] stava stringendo Ie mani ai fratelli e
mentre sentiva iI lora affetto, la sua gioia nel stare con
lora e stata vista nei suoi occhi e nel suo radiante sorriso. "
I fratelli nel distretto ecclesiastico del Sud Europa
sono emersi molto piiJ determinati nel conquistare
qualunque cosa possa ostacolarli dal servire in modo
attivo Dio e nel tenere una vita Cristiana, in quanta ancora
una volta hanno sentito I'immenso amore di Dio attraverso
l'Amministrazione della Chiesa. 0
After the worship service, the faith of the brethren was strengthened. They
are grateful to God for His love to the Church as imparted through the Executive
Minister, who never tires of visiting the brethren all over the world. Brother
Maurizio Borghetti, a 54-year-old Italian brother from the local congregation of
Lucca, observed, "While [Brother Eduardo] was shaking hands with the brethren
and while he was feeling their affection, his joy to be with them shone in his eyes
and raulanl ~ l l l i l t : . "
The brethren in the ecclesiastical district of Southern Europe have emerged
more determined to conquer anything that may hinder them from actively
serving God and upholding the true Christian way of life, for once again they felt
the wondrous love of God through the Church Admi ni stration. 0
AUGUST 20 12 GOD' S MESSAGE 15
Page 17 of 44
Ibiza, Es ana
E
L 25 DE Julio de 2012, la devocion de la
congregacion de Ibiza, Espana, situ ada en una
isla en el mar Meditemineo, en Espana, se via
recompensada con bendiciones que proceden del Senor
Dios al dedicar un nuevo edificio de adoracion. Este
servicio de adoracion especial, fue dirigido por nuestro
querido Ministro Ejecutivo, el Hermano Eduardo V. Manalo.
La congregacion de Ibiza tuvo sus inicios humildes
en 1984. A pesar de tener impedimentos geograficos
puesto que esta aislada de la peninsula y a pesar de la
disminucion de la poblacion en invierno, el Senor Dios les
bendijo con un continuo crecimiento. En respuesta a la
necesidad de un lugar de adoracion mas grande, debido
al incremento de sus miembros, la Administracion de la
01 JULY 25, 2012, the devotion of the local congregation of Ibi za, Spain, situated
in an island in the Mediterranean Sea, was rewarded with blessings from the
Lord God with the dedication of a new worship building. This special worship
service was led by the Executive Minister, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo.
The local congregation of Ibi za had its humble beginnings in 1984.
Des pite geogra phical obstacles due to its remoteness from the Ibe rian
peninsula and in spite of the d ecrease in population during winter, our
Lord God has blessed it with continuous growth. In response to the need
for a bigger pl ace of worship due to the increase in membership, the Church
Ad mini stration approved the purchase of a property in March 2011.
16 AUGUST 2012 GOD'S MESSAGE
Iglesia aprobo la compra de la propiedad en Marzo de
2011.
Poco despues de empezar la renovacion, surgieron
impedimentos y persecuciones. Sin embargo, los
hermanos de Ibiza no cesaron de acercarse al Senor
Dios por la finalizacion de la renovacion. Por la gracia
de Dios, la renovacion siguio adelante. Para recuperar
el tiempo perdido, los hermanos ayudaron en la
construccion. Trabajaron sin descanso, conscientes de
la gran importancia del proyecto. Tres dias antes de la
consagracion del edificio de adoracion, hermanos de
Barcelona, Mal/orca y Madrid I/egaron para ayudar. Con la
firme fe en 10 que Dios puede hacer por Su pueblo, todos
trabajaron dia y noche, para completar la obra.
Shortly after the renova ti on began, hindra nces and persecution
arose. Howeve r, the b rethren in [biza did not cease in pray ing to our Lord
God for the completion of the renovation. By God's grace, the renovation
proceeded. In order to make up for the lost time, the brethren helped in
the construction. They did so without res t as they were well -aware of the
grea t importa nce of the endeavo r. Three d ays before the d edication of the
wo rs hip building, brethren from the local congregations of Barcelona.
Mallorca, and Madrid arrived in order to assist. With a fir m fait h in what
God can do for His peo p le, all of them la bored day and night to accomplish
the task.
Page 18 of 44
En el servicio de adoracion especial, dirigido por el
Ministro Ejecutivo, el Hermano Eduardo Manalo, nuestro
Senor Dios bendijo a los hermanos con su sagrada
presencia. Desde los himnos de alabanza, liderados por
un cora de mas de 50 miembros de Ibiza, Barcelona y
Madrid, Su poder ya fue evidente. Y continuo sintiimdose,
en la primera oracion, liderada por el Hermano Oliver C.
Canlas, ministro del distrito del Sur de Europa, y durante
todo el servicio de adoracion.
En la predicacion de las palabras de Dios, nuestro
querido Ministro Ejecutivo, el Hermanc Eduardo Manalo,
recorda ti na vez mas a los hermanos la gran importancia
de ofrecf::r aDios la verdadera adoracion. Enfatizo, que
como miembros de la Iglesia De Cristo, somos los unicos
que tenemos tal preciado derecho y privilegio porque
pertenecemos a la unica verdadera religion. Por tanto,
en adorar aDios, debemos dar 10 mejor de nosotros.
Ademas, debemos lIevar una vida justa estemos donde
estemos. Aunque tengamos que sacrificarnos para servir
a Dios en la manera que lEI quiere, nuestros esfuerzos
nunca seran en vano. Y esto es exactamente 10 que fue
probado verdaderamente en las vidas de los hermanos de
Ibiza en vista de 10 que han tenido que pasar antes de
alcanzar tal bendita ocasion.
Ahora que el local de Ibiza cuenta con un nuevo
edificio, los hermanos estan muy motivados para mantener
la voluntad de Dios, que es compartir la fe a mucha gente
para que puedan ofrecer la verdadera adoracion al Senor
Dios, y asi recibir la salvacion. ~
In the special worship service offi ciated by the Executi ve Minister, Brother
Eduardo Manalo, the Lord God blessed the brethren with His hol y presence.
During the singing of the hymns led by a choir of more than 50 members from
Ibi za, Barcelona, and Madrid, Hi s power was already evident. And it continued
to be felt in the first prayer that was led by Brother Oli ver R. Canlas, di strict
minister of Southern Europe, and throughout the worship service.
In the preaching of God's words, Brother Eduardo reminded the brethren
once again about the great importance of rendering to God the true worship.
He emphasized that as members of the Church Of Christ we are the onl y ones
who have been given such a precious ri ght and pri vil ege because we belong to
the one true reli gion. Thus, in worshiping God, we should give our very bes t. In
additi on, we must al ways lead a ri ghteous way of life no matter whe re we are.
Even if we have to sacri fice in order to serve God in the way He wants us to, our
efforts will never be in vain. And that is exactly what was proven true in the li ves
of the brethren in Ibi za in view of what they hod gone through before rcacll ing
sll ch a blessed occasion.
Now that the local congregation of Ibi za has a new worship building, the
brethren here are all the more inspired to uphold God's will, one of which is to
share the faith so that many more will al so be able to render the true worship of
God, which results in one's sa lvati on. ~
AUGUST 20 12 ' GOD'S MESSAGE 17
Page 19 of 44
A CONGREGACION DE
Barcelona comenzo, desde
el Mayo de 1980 en un
pequeno apartamento alqui/ado,
con 18 hermanos. A pesar de la
persecucion, nunca cesaron de
adorar al Sefior Dios. En 1993,
con tan solo 50 miembros en
la congregacion, se adquirio la
primera casa de adoracion en la
calle Tarragona 108 sotano. Desde
18 AUGUST 2012 ' GOD'S MESSAGE
Barcelona, Es ana
entonces, el numero de hermanos
ha ido creciendo. Con la ayuda de
Dios, el28 de Julio de 2012, el nuevo
edificio de adoracion fue dedicado
al Sefior Dios en un servicio de
adoracion especial liderado por
el Ministro Ejecutivo, el Hermano
Eduardo \I. Manalo.
EI edificio, situado en la calle
Dante Alighieri 18 de Barcelona
fue adquirido a los testigos de
Jehova el mes de Febrero de 2012.
Tiene una capacidad para unas
1000 personas y una superficie
construida de mas de 3.400 m2
contenidos en 6 plantas diferentes.
Esta considerada actualmente la
casa de adoracion de la Iglesia
De Cristo mas grande fuera de
Filipinas.
A pesar de las profunda crisis
espanola, hermanos de todos los
Page 20 of 44
local es de Europa yespecialmente
de Espana, se unieron a nosotros
en este momenta tan especial
para adorar y agradecer al
Senor Dios. A pesar de no
haber transporte publico a a/tas
horas de la madrugada, algunos
hermanos caminaron desde
sus hogares para poder asistir
con anticipacion al servicio de
adoracion.
THE LOCAL CONGREGATION of Barcelona
started in May 1980 in a small apartment rented
by 18 brethren. Despite the persecution, they never
ceased to worship our Lord God. In 1993, with
onl y 50 members in the local congregation, the fi rst
house of worship was purchased at 108 Tarragona
Street. Since then, its membership has continued
to grow. With God's help, on Jul y 28, 2012 its new
house of worship was dedi cated to God in a special
worship service led by the Executive Mini ster,
Brother Eduardo V. Manalo.
The building, located at 18 Dante Ali gheri
Street in Barcelona, was purchased from the
Jehovah's Witnesses on February 2012. It can
accommodate more than 1,000 people and has a
total area of 3,400 square meters di stributed in six
floors. It is considered the biggest worship building
of the Church Of Christ outside the Philippines.
Despite the severe economi c brethren
from the local congregations in Europe, and
especiall y in Spain, gathered for this special moment
to worship and thank our Lord God. Because there
was no publi c transportation in the earl y hours of
the I lIul l l i n g, brethre n :1 11 th" \N<'Iy
from their homes so that they could attend the much
anticipated worship service.
AUGUST 2012 GOD'S MESSAGE 19
Page 21 of 44
EI Hermano Pepito Y.
Acuesta, ministro supervisor
de la Oficina Central de Europa,
Iidero la primera oracion de la
congregacion. EI Hermano Jay
Acuna, secretario del distrito del
Sur de Europa, leyo la historia de
la congregacion de Barcelona.
Seguidamente, el Hermano Oliver
C. Canlas, ministro del distrito
del Sur de Europa, junto con
treinta ministros, invocaron al
Senor recitando la ora cion del
rey Salomon cuando consagro
20 AUGUST 2 0 12 ' GO D'S MESS AGE
al Senor Dios el templo de
Jerusal{m.
Tambi{m en este servicio de
adoracion especial, el Ministro
Ejecutivo anuncio la formacion del
distrito eclesiastico del Reino Unido
e lrIanda, con 10 que el numero total
de distritos en Europa son tres. EI
Hermano Antonio D. Duenas, juro
como ministro del distrito del Norte
de Europa mientras el Hermano
Danilo Caalim y el Hermano Darwin
Blanco jura ron respectivamente
como secreta rio y tesorero.
Brother Pepito Y. Acuesta, supervising
minister of the Europe Main Offi ce, led the opening
congregati onal prayer. Brother Jay Acuna, di strict
secretary of Southern Europe, read the hi story of the
local congregation of Barcelona. Afterwards, Brother
Oliver R. Canl as, di strict minister of Southern Europe,
along with 30 ministers, call ed to God in a prayer that
was patterned after Solomon's prayer when he had
dedi cated to God the templ e in Jerusalem.
In thi s special worship service as well, the
Executi ve Minister announced the formations of
the ecclesi asti cal di strict of the United Kingdom
and Ireland, bringing the total number of di stri cts
in Europe to three. Brother Antoni o D. Dueiias, took
oath as di stri ct minister of I orthern Europe whi le
Brother Danilo Caa lim and Brother Da rwin Bl anco
as treasurer and secretary respecti vely.
Page 22 of 44
Durante el estudio de las
palabras de Dios, el Hermano
Eduardo predico sobre el estado
g/orioso que tiene la Iglesia hoy
en dia. Mientras otras reJigiones
venden sus propiedades, pierden
seguidores y oficiales, merman en
fuerza, la Iglesia De Cristo en estos
ultimos dias es cada vez mas fuerte,
mas grande y mas triunfante por la
ayuda del Senor Dios.
Los hermanos fueron inspirados
en el servicio de adoracion. Fueron
recordados del preciado derecho
que les fue otorgado--servir y
g/orificar al Senor Dios. Tal divina
eleccion, viene con la promesa
de Dios que no les abandonara
mientras Le sirvan fielmente suceda
10 que suceda.
EI Ministro Ejecutivo tambi{m
enfatizo a los hermanos que son
muy afortunados porque tienen
un edificio de adoracion donde
el Padre Todopoderoso habita y
donde los miembros de la Iglesia
pueden encontrar el consuela
de sus pesares y problemas.
EI Ministro Ejecutivo alento a
los hermanos a acercarse con
humildad a Dios para que escuche
sus supJicas. EI Ministro Ejecutivo
imploro a nuestro amado Dios, que
su am or permanezca para siempre
en este nuevo edificio de adoracion
y que bendijera a cada miembro de
la Iglesia, desde los oficiales hasta
los padres e hijos, para que se
mantengan firmes y fuertes en sus
deberes. @
During the study of God's words, Brother
Eduardo preached about the Church's glorious
state. While other religions sell off their properties
and lose followers, officers, and strength, the
Church Of Chri st in these last days is becoming
stronger, bigger, and more triumphant with God's
help.
The brethren were inspired in the worship
service. They were reminded of the precious ri ght
that was bestowed to them- to serve and glorify
God. Such di vine election comes also with the
promise that God will not forsake them as long as
they serve Him fa ithfull y no matter what happens.
The Executive Minister also emphas ized to
the brethren that they are very blessed because
they have a worship building where the Almi ghty
Father dwell s and where Church members can
find comfort amidst sorrows and troubl es. The
Executive Minjster encouraged the brethren to
humbl y approach God for He wi ll listen to their
prayers. Brother Eduardo implored to the loving
God to always let Hi s love abide ill the new worship
building and bless every Church member, from the
officers to the parents and chi ldren, to remain firm
and strong ill their duti es. @
Write rs : Kim Borghetti , Jeffrey Cabacungan, Albe rto Manzano, Miri am Manza no and Je romya San Vice nte, with assistance lrom Markle l Serreno
Cont ributing Photographers: Angelo Era no V. Manalo, Christophe r Ali gnay, Jeffrey Cabacungan, Serginio Santos a nd Marklel Serreno
A U GUST 20 12' GOD'S MESSAGE 21
Page 23 of 44
FEATURES
FIGHT THE
GOOD
FIGHT
OFFAITH
The Executive Minister conducts
Pastoral Visitation in North Diversion,
Metro Manila North
J
ULY 7, 2012- a special worship
service was held with a message
aimed to teach the members of the
Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ)
on how to fight a good fight of faith.
It was led by the Executive Minister,
Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, during
his pastoral visitation in the local
congregation of North Diversion,
Metro Manila North.
In his homily, Brother Eduardo
emphasized that it is not enough to
be a member of the Church Of Christ
to be saved. Just like what Apostle
Paul did, the brethren should all the
more prepare against the enemy of
their faith (II Tim. 4:7-8). The devil
is cunning and determined to lead
people to destruction. His time is
getting shorter that is why he uses
every means to take more people away
22 AUGUST 2012 GOD'S MESSAGE
from hearing the truth and receiving
salvation (I Pet. 5:8-9; Rev. 12:12).
The Executive Minister further
explained Satan's "modus operandi."
The devil will employ every means in
this battle to sway the people of God
from obeying His teachings and will
use even natural calamities, financial
worries, false preachers (such as
"televangelists" who claim to be
true prophets), and worldly lust to
persuade the servants of the Lord God
into committing sin (Mark 4:15-19;
Luke 21:8, 11, 26, 34). For this reason,
a member of the Church Of Christ
should not be easily discouraged,
but should instead put on the armor
of God- the belt of truth, the vest of
righteuwmess, the shield of faith, the
helmet of salvation, and the sword
of the spirit. Brother Eduardo also
reminded the brethren the great
importance of prayer. He explained
that prayer is an effective instrument
against the devil and distress (Eph.
6:11-18). He reminded the brethren
that prayer should be a part of their life.
Every family should have devotional
prayers. He also emphaSized the
importance of spiritual training like
what Apostle Paul reminded Timothy
(I Tim. 4:8).
Members of the Church should
constantly practice righteousness.
They should stand firm in their
faith by constantly obeying the
commandments of the Almighty God.
Every member should also be active in
participating in the different Church
activities especially attending the
worship services, where they receive
the words of God.
Page 24 of 44
In conclusion, Brother Eduardo
enjoined the brethren to put their trust
to the formidable allies of the Church
Of Christ-the Almighty God and
the Lord Jesus Christ. The strength
will surely be given when they pray
because the Almighty God will corne to
rescue (Ps. 29:11; Phil. 4:13; Ps. 89:15).
Before the homily, Brother
Isaias T. Samson Jr. led the opening
prayer. Brother Armando F. Ernie
led the congregation in prayer after
the preaching of the gospel. Brother
Ernesto V. Suratos led the prayer for
the voluntary offerings, and Brother
Bienvenido C. Santiago said the
benediction.
Brother Roy Montemayor, a
ministerial student assigned to the
local congregation of Grace Park,
Metro Manila North said, "It is such a
great blessing to have Brother Eduardo
Manalo corne to teach us today. I am
so thankful to the Almighty God for
giving to us the Administration who
painstakingly teaches us. Through
this, we know that the Almighty never
forgets us, His children."
"I got here at the chapel at 3:30
in the morning. 1 cleared my work
schedule for the past couple of days
so 1 could prepare for this special
occasion. Now, I feel my strength is
rejuvenated!" Brother Mark Anthony
Santos, 19 years old and a KADIWA
president and choir member. "I learned
how to fight a good fight of faith
against the devil and the temptations
in this world. Thank. you, Brother
Eduardo. 1 hope that God con.tin.ues
to guide you because you are such a
blessing to all the congregations."
A few days after the pastoral
visitation in North Diversion, the
Executive Minister began another
series of pastoral visitations to various
congregations in the Middle East,
Europe, Canada, and the United States.
All the brethren are united in praying
for the continuous help of God so that
the Executive Minister may all the
more strengthen the Church members
around the world. ~
Written by Erman Vem M. Canlas, and
Rodrigo C. Valdez Jr.; With assistance
from Ed H. Lumbao, Raymond M.
Reyes, and Ramfel T. Serreno
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPI-JERS;
CHRISTOPHER ALiGNAY, CHRISTIAN
BARRERA, and JEFFREY CABACUNGAN
AUGUST 2012' GOD'S MESSAGE 23
Page 25 of 44
O
VER 200,000 PEOPLE IN one day.
This is the total number of benefi-
ciaries in the Iglesia Ni Cristo's Lin-
gap sa Mamamayan that was held on July
7, 2012 in Tondo, Manila, Philippines.
Dubbed on this particular project as the
International Aid For Humanity, this ac-
tivity is one of the biggest launched by
the Church Of Christ as part of its 98th
anniversary celebration this year.
Lingap sa Mamamayan is a med-
ical -dental-relief mission extended
by the Church regularly to calamity-
stricken or depressed areas in the Phil-
ippines. Guided by the biblical man-
date "to be openhanded toward your
brothers and t01Nard the poor and
needy" (Deut. 15:11, New International
Version), the Church, through this pro-
gram, has been providing these ser-
vices and other aid as early as 1950.
So big was the event held last Jul y
that it even set three new "world re-
cords" for International Humanitarian
Mission in the Guinness Book of World
Records. These new world records
in "Largest Dental Health Check,"
"Most Blood Pressure Reading Taken
in 8 Hours," and "Most Blood Glucose
Level Reading in 8 Hours" were an-
nounced and made official by a Guin-
ness representative on site.
A sign of hope
"We are so thankful. God proved that
we are not short of people who care,"
Lizel Etel, one of the beneficiaries of
thE' aid, a pregnant mother vvith an-
other two young children in tow, said.
"This is a sign of hope for us here. My
children had not even been to a doctor
before this because we do not have the
means. This is really a great help," she
imparted.
A total of 40,130 people benefitted
from the medical mission, which not
only provided free check-ups, X-rays,
and ECG, blood pressure reading and
glucose reading, but also gave away
free medicines. Meanwhile, the den-
tal mission, which also provided free
check-ups served 12,384 people.
Moreover, 50,000 families, who
came from different barangays in Del-
pan, Parola, San Nicolas, and Baseco
received relief packs-five kilos of
rice, noodles, and canned goods-
from this project on that day. Police
and s taff from Manila City Hall ""ho
helped maintain order on the site es-
timated the crowd to 150,000-200,000
that peaked around 2:00 in the after-
noon to 8:00 in the evening.
Page 26 of 44
"There are a lot of people who
need help. Nevertheless, the turnout
here is also really astounding. I have
been part of various medical missions,
but this is so different. Even a hundred
times over better." Mr. Isko Moreno,
Manila Vice M a y O l ~ observed. He also
expressed, "We thank the Church for
giving its part to help and show love to
these poor people. In my whole life in
public service, this is the only time that
I have seen a medical mission so grand
that is done by an organization."
Unsung heroes
The volunteers for this mission were
composed uf lll.em.bers of the Church
and some nonmembers who as-
sembled to the event to participate
through whatever their abilities could
give. Their sheer number, though not
great, catered to the tremendous size
of the crowd. Ministers and evangeli-
cal workers, Christian family organi-
zations officers and SCAN members
from the five ecclesiastical districts of
Metro Manila, medical practitioners
coming from different ecclesiastical
districts and New Era General Hos-
pital who numbered 146 doctors, 123
dentists, 486 paramedics, New Era
University staffs and nursing students,
and volunteers from the Department
of Health office were all in the venue
as early as 5:00 a.m. and stayed there
as late as 11:00 p.m. to aid in the health
mission, maintain peace and security
around the area, and help in the distri-
bution of relief goods.
"I have been part of this kind of
mission for the Church, but this is the
biggest crowd we served that I have
seen," Dr. Michael Hernandez, a non-
member who has been participating
with the mission regularly, shared.
"And whenever the Church have this
activity, it is always organized and
complete. This is also what separates
it from other missions. That is why we
can provide help to these people effi-
ciently," he added.
Some volunteers had even set their
own personal records. Sister Rosalie
Acebuque, a dentist who has worked
regularly with the mlSSlOn, conveyed
after the activity, "It will be very hard to
top this experience. This is already part
of the history of my life. This is the first
time in my career that I had performed
120 tooth extractions in a single day. We
are tired, but it feels so good to be a part
of this endeavor of the Church."
The site to see
The site in Tondo, Manila where the
health mission was held was situated be-
8,026
BLOOD PRESSURE
Reading in 8 Hours
4,128
DENTAL HEALTH
Check Patients
in 8 Hours
5,217
BLOOD GLUCOSE
Level Test taken
in 8 Hours
* Figures include only patients who
are 18 years old and above.
Page 27 of 44
beside an informal settling compound that
has a population of almost a hundred thou-
sand. This compound comprises two dis-
tricts, the Parola district three and Isla Pu-
ting Bato. In order for the members residing
there to have a land where they can build
their own house of worship, the Church
purchased a one-hectare land along 2nd
street at the Port Area in Tondo, Manila,
previously owned by a local business
organization. On this lot, makeshift
structures were erected for the one-day
medical and dental mission. Construc-
tion volunteers even stayed up all night
to prepare the venue. The Church,
through its General Auditor, Brother
Glicerio Santos Jr., announced also that
it would build on the site a huge house
of worship with a seating capacity of
2,014. It is projected to be completed
and dedicated in 2014, coinciding with
the Church's centennial anniversary.
The Guinness adjudicator, Miss
Tarika Vara, was all praises, "I have tru-
ly never seen anything like this, not just
as a representative of Guinness Book of
World Records, but in my life, I have nev-
er seen an organization so dedicated to
helping other people." She also was sur-
prised because although, as she admit-
ted, she adamantly required the "high
standards" be complied with, still, a
single organization had succeeded in a
single attempt to break these three re-
cords in a single event in one day. With
the help of a local accounting outfit, the
SGV & Co., she implemented their insti-
tution's strict standards throughout the
event. "You are now officially amazing!"
sh e announced to the croW'd after n1.en-
tioning the numbers set by the activity
which surpassed the previous records.
What counts the most
Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, the Execu-
tive Minister of the Church Of Christ,
gave the directives for the implementa-
tion of the program that day and saw
to it that all aspects were taken care of,
and were effectively and efficiently car-
ried out. Through the Felix Y. Manalo
Foundation, Inc., the social arm of the
Church, the Church also establishes
linkages with government organiza-
tions and non-government organiza-
tions that undertake similar objectives
in the spirit of mutual cooperation and
understanding.
More than the record set, members
of the Church Of Christ, even those who
do not have much in life, are overjoyed
and will continue to willingly shell out
anything that they can muster and share
them with their less-privileged brethren
and fellowmen, for they know that in
fulfilling this deed, they please the Lord
as the Bible teaches, "We can be assured
of receiving from God whatever we ask
Him fol', because we are obeying His
commands [i.e. especially the one about
loving others1 and are practicing what
is pleasing to Him. So then, as occa-
sion and opportunity open up to us, let
us do good to all people. For the whole
law can be summed up in this one com-
mand: ' Love your neighbor as yourself"
(Excerpted from I John 3:22, An Under-
standable Version; Gal. 6:10, Amplified
Bible; Gal. 5:14, New Living Translation).
(With reports from Luila Tumanan) 0
Page 28 of 44
FIRST INC MEDIA EXPERIENCE
HELD IN SOUTHERN CALI FORNIA
T
HOUSANDS OF PEOPLE attended
the first-ever INC Media Experience
event held on the chapel grounds of
Montclair Congregation in the ecclesiasti-
cal district of Southern California on June
16, 2012. The event marked the first time
the television programs produced by
the Church's INC Media Services were
taped in front of a live studi o audience.
The programs that were taped through-
out the day were Face the truth, The INC
Giving Show, and That's in the Bible.
Through this live format, the audi-
ence was able to interact with the hosts
of the shows. This was particularly ben-
eficial for That's in the Bible wherein the
audience were able to ask Brother Robert
Pellien, a minister of the Church and host
of the show, questions about the Bible, the
Church, and the doctrines upheld by Igle-
sia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) members.
A tent, especially set up for the
taping, was filled to capacity as guests
and brethren from as far as the states of
New Jersey, Colorado, Utah, Arizona,
and Nevada in the US and Vancouver
in British Columbia, Canada formed
lines outside the venue hours before the
scheduled taping times.
Another important aspect of the
event was the outreach services pro-
vided by brethren from the district. Free
dental and medical ser vices, well a s
financial aid advice for students and
career assistance for those looking for
work during this time of economic dif-
ficulties, were available.
The guests were given a guided
tour of the Montclair house of wor-
ship and an overview of the Church Of
Christ. Ministers of the Church were
also available to answer the questions
of the guests regarding the Church.
The INC Media Ex-
perience is scheduled
to be held in different
ecclesiastical districts throughout the
world to introduce the Church and its
media programs to more people.
For more information about
INC Media Services, one can visit
incmedia.org. 0
NEU CONDUCTS
ACTIVITY
THROUGHALS
structional managers,
facilitators, and sup-
port groups (Christian
family organizations
By RONALDO C. FLOR
P
ROMOTING ENVIRONMENTAL
protection and conservation cam-
paign, the New Era University
(NEU) through its Alternative Learning
System (ALS) Department, in partner-
ship with the Department of Education
(DepEd), conducted a tree-planting ac-
tivity dubbed as "ALS Lingap Kalikasan"
on May 19 and June 23, 2012.
A total of 500 mahogany seed-
lings were planted in Pinugay, Rizal;
1,600 mahogany seedlings in Palangue,
Cavite; 200 mangrove seedlings in
Sampinit seashore, Negros Occiden-
tal; and 1,000 narra seedlings at Prenza
Dam, Bulacan. More than 1,600 par-
ticipants, including ALS learners, in-
members and officers),
took part in the activity.
Brother Sonny Villanueva, NEU-
ALS Director, noted that since its es-
tablishment in 2007, the NEU-ALS
has helped thousands of out-of-school
youths and adults, regardless of their
religious affiliation, to pursue their
dream of finishing school. During the
NEU-ALS graduation held at the Tab-
ernacle last June 2, a total of 549 el-
ementary and high school ALS learn-
ers graduated and obtained their ALS
certificates. Using these certificates, the
graduates may enroll in any technical-
vocational or collegiate courses. They
can also apply for any vacant position
in any government agency provided
they meet its requirements. 0
Page 29 of 44
~ .
; , , &. I
FEATURES
INCELEBRATION: THE IGLESIA NI CRISTO
By MARIE F. RUIZ
P
HILIPPINE DISTRICTS OF the Iglesia
Ni Cristo simultaneously celebrated the
Church's 98th anniversary through
a weeklong activity dubbed INCelebration.
After holding Thanksgiving worship services
on July 21 and 22, 2012, the celebration started
with filmed stage play performances tagged
"INCinema" shown for free at various venues
and screening dates nationwide. In Metro
Manila, the films ran from July 23-26 and 28-29
at the New Era University
Hall in Quezon City which
was installed with a big
screen and other technical
equipment that gave an
audio-visual resemblance
of a movie theater, and on
July 30 at the Tabernacle
Multi-Purpose Hall of the
Iglesia Ni Cristo Central
Office Complex.
Page 30 of 44
98TH ANNIVERSARY PRESENTATIONS
BRATED

ARTS
The project's mISSIOn is to pro-
duce low-budget but quality pro-
grams filled with Christian values.
The films, stories written by breth-
ren-two love stories, one on greed,
and one tragedy, but all with a dash
of comedy-highlighted the firm
faith of members of the Church even
under adverse circumstances. Production of the films, with assistance
from the Church's Central Office, were assigned to selected ecclesiastical
districts-Quezon West for" Ang Mga Tagapagmana", Mindoro Occidental
for "Ala-a lang Magbabalik", Benguet for "Sa Muling Pagkikita", and Cebu
South for" Panahon Na". After conducting auditions, acting workshops
were held, venues were chosen, outfits were picked, props were made,
then the cameras rolled. The films were accompanied by original Chris-
tian music videos entitled "TangZaw Sa Aking Daan", "Bagong Landas ng
Buhay", "Sa Ating Muling Pagkikita", and "Kamusta Na Kayo?", respective-
ly. The films garnered various reactions ranging from thrills of emotion
to tears of sympathy to billows of laughter from those who watched.
Page 31 of 44
The districts then held grand evangelical mis-
sions, the highlight of the celebration, in different
venues nationwide. Thousands of brethren with
their guests flocked to the venues to listen to the
words of God preached by the Church's ministers
of the gospel.
Capping the celebration, the "IN Concert" se-
ries of musical presentations were conducted in the
districts highlighting the brethren's strong faith in
the Lord God and in the Lord Jesus through origi-
nal religious and inspirational song compositions.
In Metro Manila, the concert was held on July 29
and 30 at the Tabernacle Multi-Purpose Hall at 7:00
in the evening featuring a 1,000-voi ce choir accom-
panied by the Iglesia Ni Cristo Orchestra, the per-
formances interspersed with video presentations
of highlights of the visitations of Brother Eduardo
V. Manalo, the Church's Executive Minister, to the
brethren in different parts of the world, admonish-
ing them to remain steadfast in faith. Guest per-
formers were the New Era University Rondalla
and the Church's children's choirs.
Former and first-time guests expressed hap-
piness and thankfulness, for despite their being
nonmembers of the Church, they were given the
opportunity to witness the Church's 98th anniver-
sary celebration- an experience they will never
forget. 0
Page 32 of 44
IN
Page 33 of 44
AFRICA
LUSAKA, ZAMBIA-The newly established
group worship service (GWS) of Lusaka, Zambia,
held its fi rst Hol y Supper on Jul y 8, 2012. After the
Hol y Supper, brethren invited their fri ends and co-
workers to attend an evangelical mission which
was officiated by Brother Alexander Batulan, the
assigned minister in Zambia. After hearing the
importance of the Church Of Christ for man's sal-
vation as proven by the Bible, many guests, most
of them Zambians, decided to attend instructions
in bibl ical doctrines to know more about the
Church. The following Sunday, Jul y 15, they all
attended the worship service bri nging with them
their friends and loved ones. (T. Batulan)
NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
The campaign for more Church officers to help
oversee the spiri tual needs of an ever-increasing
membership in the distri ct resulted in the oath-
taking of 357 new Church officers simul taneously
held on July 14 at the houses of worship of the
local congregations of San Jose and Sacramento.
The gathering in San Jose was offici -
ated by Brother Joselino Casti llones,
district minister, whil e the other one
in Sacramento by Brother Manuel
Andaya, USMO supervising min-
ister. The attendees were reminded
about their important role in edify-
ing the faith of the brethren ond
in leading them in helping out in
the intensive propagation of God's
words. (G. Abella)
32 AUG UST 2012 . GOD'S MESSAGE
Brethren in Cerritos Congregation after their inaugural worship service.
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
The district continues to grow with the recent
establi shment of the local congregati on of Cer-
ritos. Its inaugural worship service was held at
the Mason ic Lodge, 11 531 187th Street, Arte-
sia, on June 24 and was officiated by Brother
Robert Pellien, district minister. Brethren in
Cerritos plan to hold many propagational ac-
t ivities in order to share the true faith wit h t he
people in the neighborhood and the surround-
ing areas. The minister currentl y overseeing
the newly established congregation is Brother
Ricardo Adali a, who also oversees the Long
Beach Congregation. (N. Trinidad, J. Dayrit,
and T. Antonio)
PACIFIC NORTHWEST
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON-After successfully
inviting over 100 guests during the grand evangel-
ical mi ssion (GEM) on May 20, the congregation
treated the brethren's families and their guests to
a Famil y Fun Day on May 28 at the Lake Sam-
mamish State Park. More than 200 brethren and
30 guests participated in sports and fun games.
Brother Dominador C. Santos, resident minister,
said, "The Seattle Congregation is thankful to God
for His guidance and to the Church Administra-
tion for supporting activities that enri ch the rela-
tionship between members of the fami Iy and their
loved ones." The guests, on the other hand, ex-
Brethren and their
guests participated in
a Family Fun Dny in
Seattle. Washington.
pressed their willingness to learn more about the
Church Of Chri st. (M. Marcos)
Page 34 of 44
PHILIPPINE DISTRICTS
MISAMIS ORIENTAl-(:hristian famil y organi-
zation (CFO) district officers, including members
of the Society of Communicators and Network-
ers International (SCAN International), sponsored
a grand evangeli cal mission (GEM) on June 26,
2012. The GEM was held at the house of worship
of Cagayan De Oro City Congregation and was
Blood donation and
attended by 870 guests. A blood donation activity
was then held at the Bulua Gymnasium on June
29. Tllrough the volunteerism of the brethren, a
total of 14,000cc of bl ood were coll ected and de-
posited at the Northern Mindanao Medical Center.
(D. Apayor & J. Santiago)
CAGAYAN EAST- The distri ct bapti zed 51
converts at the local congregation of Gattaran on
June 23. Offi ciating in the baptism, Brother Dio-
nisio Mateo, di strict minister, underscored in hi s
homi ly the great importance of receiving the true
baptism and of liv-
ing a Chri stian way
of life. Brother Ma-
teo also offi ciated in
the dedication of the
Newly dedicated house
of worship in Buguey
IlIld dis triel baptism ill
Cagnyan East.
new house of worship of the local congregati on
of Buguey on June 29. (S. Castro)
Brethren in San Pascual, Bohol
after the dedication worship service.
ROHOl-The brethren in the local congre-
gation of San Pascual received a great bl essing
as their new house of worship was dedicated
to God on June 29. The special worship ser-
vice was officiated by Brother Ceasar Cali zo,
distri ct minister. After the chapel dedi cation,
the f irst-ever baptism in the local congregation
was held. A total of 71 new converts were bap-
ti zed in the undertaking supervised by Brother
Diosdado Dades, assistant district minister. In
the evening, a GEM was also held wherei n 433
guests were abl e to hear the words of God deliv-
ered by Brother Ramero Forro Jr., district edifica-
tion overseer. (R. Flor)
PAMPANGA-CFO and SCAN International
members throughout the distri ct gathered at the
Porac Mega Dike to take part in a tree-pl anting
acti vity on Jul y 7. Brother Manuel Sori ano Jr.,
di stri ct minister, supervised the activity. More
than 2, 000 brethren worked hand in hand in
planting 3,000 banaba seedli ngs suppli ed by
CAGAYAN SOUTH-
June 30 marked an impor-
tant event for the brethren
u S the di strict celebratecl its
26th anni versary. To com-
memorate the occasion, a
series of evangelical mis-
sions was held simultane-
the Provin-
cial Environ-
ment Natural
Reso urc es
Office (PEN-
RO). (R. Car-
los)
Tree-planting
activity in
Pampanga.
ousl y in Amulung, Cabagan, San Jose, Tuguegarao
City, and Sampaguita on June 29. A total of 465
guests attended. Still a part of the celebration, 40
new converts were bapti zed at the local congre-
gation of T uguegarao. Brother Mamerto Gabriel,
district mini ster, supervised the baptism. Since
its establishment in 1986, the district has grown
to include 32 local congregations and 12 exten-
sions. (j. Seguban)
PANGASINAN CENTRAL- The district dedi-
cated to God its newest house of worship in the
local congregation of Baluyot on Jul y 13. Of-
ficiating at the special worship service, Brother
Librado V. Santos, district mini ster, expounded in
hi s homil y the importance of building houses of
worship for the glory of God and the utmost care
that must be accorded unto these. (\I. Sarmiento)
AUGUST 20 12 . GOD'S MES SAGE 33
Page 35 of 44
FILIPINO SECTION
PANGULONG TUDLING
Ang pinakadakilang kalayaan
N
AKATALA SA KASAYSAYAN ng tao sa mundo
na marami nang nagbuwis ng buhay alang-alang
sa pagtatamo ng kalayaan- na ito'y maaaring
tumukoy sa malayang pagpapahayag ng relihiyon 0
simulaing pampulitika, 0 kaya naman ay kalayaan mula
sa pagkaalipin. Mismong ang salitang kalayaan ang
naging karaniwang sigaw ng maraming mga digmaan
at rebolusyong sumiklab sa buong daigdig, noon man at
hanggang sa kasalukuyan.
Ginamit ng mga kilusang pampulitika at panlipunan ang
katagang ito bilang kanilang pinakasimulain sa pagsugpo
at pagpapawalang-bisa sa pang-aalipin (sLavery) sa lahat ng
dako, subalit nakalulungkot na patuloy na urniiral ang pang-
aalipin sa panibagong katawagan na "bonded labor" at "human
trafficking". Mararning mga bansa at estado ang sumisigaw ng
kalayaan mula sa paninikil, sub alit patuloy silang nakararanas
ng katiwalian, kahirapan, kasamaan, at pagkaaba.
Mayroon pa ngang mga gawa sa kasalukuyan
na inaakala ng marami na kahayagan ng kalayaan at
magbubunga ng kabutihan sa kapakanan ng tao-gaya
ng pagsusulong ng tinatawag na "gay rights" 0 karapatan
ng mga taong may naiibang oryentasyong seksuwal;
legal na pagsusugal; pagpapalaglag ng bata 0 "abortion",
pagsasabatas ng legal na paggamit ng ipinagbabawal na
gamot-na ang totoo'y pawang magdudulot sa tao ng
kapahamakan yayamang ang mga gayon ay tahasang
paglabag sa mga aral at utos ng Diyos (I Cor. 6:9-10) .
Tunay ngang ang kalayaan ay binigyan ng iba't ibang
pakahulugan at interpretasyon.
Dapat maunawaan ng tao na ang kalayaan sa kaniyang
kasiyangaan ay hindi nangangahulugan ng pagiging
absoluto 0 walang kaakibat na pananagutan. Maging sa
isang dako na masasabing perpekto- gaya ng halamanan
ng Eden kung saan inilagay ng Diyos ang unang lalake
at babae, si Adan at si Eba, at doo'y binigyan sila ng
kapangyarihan sa ibabaw ng mga isda, mga ibon, at mga
hayop- ang Diyos ay nagtakda rin ng limitasyon. Ang
totoo'y hindi sila binigyan ng Diyos ng napakaraming mga
tuntunin at regulasyon kundi ilan lamang at ang isa sa mga
ito, alalaong baga'y huW'ag nilang kakanin ang bunga ng
punongkahoy ng pagkaalam ng mabuti at masama na nasa
gitna ng halamanan. Ang ibinunga, gaya ng isinasaad sa
Biblia, ay nakaukit na sa kasaysayan.
Mula nang mahulog sa kasalanan sina Adan at Eba ay
pilit nang sinisikap ng tao na makatakas mula sa sumpa ng
kasalanan, na ito nga ang kamatayan; dahil sa ang lahat ng
tao ay nangagkasala, lumaganap ang kamatayan sa buong
sangkatauhan (Rom. 5:12). Kaya, paanong mapapasakamay
muli ng tao ang kalayaang ibinigay sa kaniya ng Diyos
mula pa nang una doon sa paraiso? Paanong magiging
tunay na malaya ang tao? Ang mga taong tunay na malaya
ay ipinakilala ng mismong Tagapagligtas: "Kapag kayo'y
pinalaya ng Anak, tunay nga kayong malaya" (Juan 8:36,
Magandang Balita Biblia). Ang mga taong yaon ay pinalaya
na mula sa batas ng kasalanan at kamatayan (Rom. 8:2,
I, Ibid.), kay a nga may mahigpit na tagubilin na tiyaking
manatili silang malaya at huwag muling maalipin pa ng
kasalanan at kasamaan.
Maliban na ang tao'y palayain ng Tagapagligtas, wala
siyang ibang pagpipilian sapagkat ang kabayaran ng
kasalanan ay kamatayan (Rom. 6:23) sa dagat-dagatang
apoy at asupre (Apoc. 20:14) sa ikalawang pagparito
ng Panginoong Jesucristo. Walang sinumang tunay na
Cristiano ang magsasabing walang halaga ang mapasa
kay Cristo sa pamamagitan ng pagiging sangkap ng
Kaniyang katawan 0 Iglesia (Col. 1:18), na ang pangalan
ay Iglesia Ni Cristo (Gawa 20:28, salin ni Lamsa) . Kailangan
ng tao ang Iglesia upang makinabang sa dugong pantubos
ng Tagapagligtas, at nang sa gayon ay mapalaya sa
pagkakagapos sa kasalanan at kamatayan.
Ang pagsusugo ng Diyos sa Panginoong Jesus upang
mamatay sa krus ay malinaw na kahayagan ng Kaniyang
habag na ang tao ay matubos. Dapat gawin naman ng tao
ang lahat ng kaniyang pananagutan upang makamtan at
maingatan ang kalayaang dulot ng katubusang ito mula
sa kasalanan sa pamamagitan ng pagkakaroon ng marapat
na kaugnayan sa Diyos sa loob ng Iglesia Ni Cristo. Dito
nakataya ang magiging kapalaran ng tao.
Ang suliranin, nasa tao ang pagnanasa na magkasala
at gumawa ng kasamaan- tinatawag itong makasalanang
likas ng tao. Kaya ang buong kapangyarihang itinuro ni
Apostol Pablo: "Ito ang sinasabi ko sa inyo: ang Espiritu
ang ga\'l1in ninyong patnubay sa inyong buhay at huwag
ninyong susundin ang pita ng laman. Sapagkat ang mga
pita ng laman ay laban sa mga ninanasa ng Espiritu, at ang
mga ninanasa ng Espiritu ay laban sa mga pita ng laman.
34 AUG UST 2 012 . GOD' S MESSAGE
- F IL IPI N O SECTION -
Page 36 of 44
Magkalaban ang dalawang ito, kaya hindi ninyo magawa
ang ibig ninyong gawin" (Gal. 5:16-17, MB) .
Likas sa tao na nasain na gumawa ng masama-na
sinusunod ang mga pita 0 nasa ng laman 0 ng likas na
pagkatao-na ito naman ay kaibayo ng nais ng Espiritu
o ng Diyos. Ang dalawang puwersang ito ay laging
nagtutunggali upang siyang makapamayani sa tao.
Kung ang tao ay nahiwalay sa Diyos dahil sa kaniyang
makalamang pita 0 makamundong pagnanasa, siya na
mismo ang nag-aanyaya sa kaniyang pagkawasak at
kamatayan dahil sa kaniyang pagiging alipin ng kasalanan,
gaya ng itinuro ni Apostol Pablo: "Alam ninyong kapag
kayo'y napailalim kaninuman bilang alipin, alipin nga
kayo ng inyong pinapanginoon-mga ali pin ng kasalanan
at ang bunga nito'y kamatayan, 0 mga alipin ng Diyos at
ang bunga nito'y pagpapawalang-sala ... Ngunit ana nga
ang napala ninyo sa mga bagay na iyon na ikinahihiya
ninyo ngayon? Ang kinauuwian ng mga ito ay kamatayan"
(Rom. 6:16, 21, Ibid.).
Kaya, ang mga nabubuhay sa kasalanan at sa paglabag
sa mga batas ng Diyos-pamumuhay sa kalayawan at
pagbibigay-kasiyahan sa sarili-ay itinuturing nang patay
bagama't buhay pa (I Tim. 5:6) sapagkat sila ay tiyak na
hahantong sa impiyerno. Bagama't totoong magagawa
ng tao ang anumang naisin niya, anupa't itinuturing niya
ang kaniyang sarili na siyang mayhawak ng kaniyang
kaluluwa at kapalaran-ay hindi siya tunay na malay a
sapagkat alipin siya ng kasalanan at kamatayan. Ang
kaniyang buhay, gawi, kilos, at pamumuhay ay pawang
napangingibabawan ng kaniyang imoralidad.
Labis na nakalulungkot na maraming tao, mula
sa sandaling sila ay gumising sa umaga hanggang sa
makatulog sa gabi, ay tumatangging mapagsabihan
kung ana ang dapat nilang gawin-at ito ang uri ng
kalayaang hinahangad ng mga tao ng sanlibutan. Hindi na
nakapagtataka, kung gay on, kung ang mga taong gayon
ay ituring ng Diyos na Kaniyang mga kaaway: "Sapagkat
kalaban ng Diyos ang sinumang nahuhumaling sa mga
bagay ukol sa laman. Hindi siya sumusunod sa kautusan
ng Diyos, at hindi niya kayang sumunod. At ang mga
nabubuhay ayon sa laman ay hindi maaaring kalugdan ng
Diyos" (Rom. 8:7-8, MB).
Ang dating makasalanang pagkatao-na taglay ang
makalamang pag-iisip at adhikain- ay kalaban ng Diyos.
Hindi nito sinunod ang mga batas ng Diyos, at kailanma'y
hindi nito magagawang makasunod. Kaya naman ang
mga taong nasa ilalim pa ng kapangyarihan ng kanilang
masamang pagkatao, na nakahilig sa pagsunod sa kanilang
mga masasamang pita, ay hindi kailanman mabibigyang-
kaluguran ang Diyos.
Nawawala ba ang kalayaan ng tao at siya ba ay
nagpapaapi kung lubos siyang magpapasakop sa
katuwiran ng Diyos? Ganito ang sagot ni Apostol Pablo:
"Ngunit ngayong malaya na kayo sa kasalanan at alipin na
ng Dios, mag-a ani kayo ng kabanalang hahantong sa buhay
na walang hanggan" (Rom. 6:22, New Pilipino Version).
Papaano itong maituturing na "pagkawala ng
kalayaan" kung ang matatamo naman ng tao ay kabanalan
at buhay na walang hanggan? Tunay ngang dakila ang
biyayang makakamit ng mga nakalaya sa kasalanan:
sila'y pawang naging mga alipin ng Diyos at mag-aani
ng kasalukuyang gantimpala sa kabanalan at sa wakas ay
ng walang hang gang buhay sa makalangit na kaharian ng
Diyos.
Sa madaling salita, dapat isuko ng tao ang kaniyang
likas na kahinaan sa isang maka-Cristianong paraan ng
pamumuhay, gaya ng itinuro ng apostol: "Anuman ang
mangyari, mamuhay kayo nang naayon sa ebanghelyo ni
Cristo. Sa gayon, makarating man ako 0 hindi sa inyong
piling ay mabalitaan kong kayo'y nananatiling matatag
sa isang isipan, at sama-samang ipinaglalaban ang
pananampalataya ng ebanghelyo" (Filip. 1:27, Ibid.).
Ang isa sa mga layunin ng pagkakatubos sa mga
kaanib ng Iglesia Ni Cristo ay upang ipahayag nila ang
dakilang kaluwalhatian ng Diyos (Rom. 15:5-6), na
ipinapakita sa lahat na ang Diyos ay karapatdapat na
ibigin at purihin sa pamamagitan ng pagsasabuhay ng
ebanghelyo ng Panginoong Jesucristo. Inaasahan ng
Diyos na lalayuan nila ang lahat ng mga kasuklam-
suklam na gawa na ibinubuhay ng mga tao ng sanlibutan.
Bilang mga lingkod ng Diyos, sila ay namumukod-tangi
hindi dahil sa kanilang lahi 0 dakong pinagmulan, kundi
dahil sa kanilang pagsasabuhay ng pananampalataya
kay Cristo.
Ang kasaysayan ang nagtuturo sa atin ng maraming
mga pakikipagbakang ginawa ng tao at ng kaniyang mga
tagumpay na magkamit ng kalayaan mula sa pang-aalipin
at paninikil; subalit maliban nang siya muna ay mapalaya
sa kasalanan at sa ibubunga nito na kamatayan sa dagat-
dagatang apoy at asupre, ang kaniyang pinuhunan
sa pagtatamo ng nasabing kalayaan ay nawawalang
kabuluhan. Sa kabilang dako, ang pagiging lingkod ng
Diyos ay marapat pakahangarin at ito ay nasa loob ng
tunay na Iglesia Ni Cristo na "pinalaya" 0 tinubos ni Jesus
mula sa kasalanan at kamatayan, dahil ito ang maghahatid
sa pagtatamo ng "tunay na kalayaan" 0 isang buhay na
sakdal sa walang hang gang kaharian ng Diyos. 0
-RICHARD J. RODAS
Editor-in-Chief
-FILIPINO SECTION- AUGUST 2012 GOD' S MESSAGE 35
Page 37 of 44

Inoan
~ ~ K a y a I<apag pinalaya kayo ng Anak,
kayo'y tunay ngang magiging malaya."
- Juan 8:36, New Pilipino Version
Sinulat ni ARVIN T. GALANG
A
NG PAGIGING MALAYA ay pangarap at
hang ad ng maraming tao-hindi lamang
mula sa mga kamay ng mapagsamantala
at mapanikil, kundi, maging sa iba't ibang
suliranin ng buhay na tila gumagapos sa kanila.
Subalit, maaaring sa pananaw at sa pakiramdam
ng tao ay malayang-malaya siya sapagkat
walang anumang puwersa siyang nakikita na
sumisikil sa kaniya 0 pumipigil sa kaniyang
mga ginagawa. Ngunit, pansinin ang sinabi
ng ating Panginoong Jesucristo na mayroong
"tunay" na magiging malaya.
Paano ba magiging tunay na malaya
ang tao? Dito pumapasok ang kahalagahan
ng pagkakaroon ng tao ng pagkaunawa sa
katotohanang magpapalaya sa kaniya (Juan 8:32,
New Pilipino Version), na ito ay ang mga salita ng
Diyos na pawang katotohanan, ayon din mismo
sa ating Panginoong Jesucristo (Juan 17:17).
Ipinakilala ni Cristo kung sino
ang binabanggit Niyang nangangailangan ng
kalayaan sapagkat sila ay nasa kalagayang
alipin: "5umagot si Jesus, '5inasabi ko sa inyo
ang katotohanan, bawat nagkakasala ay ali pin
ng kasalanan" (Juan 8:34, NPV).
Ang l1."lga taong nagkakasala ay alipin ng
kasalanan at dito dapat makalaya ang tao. At
sapagkat ang lahat ng tao ay nagkasala (Roma
5:12) at nakatakdang magbayad ng kamatayan
sa dagat-dagatang apoy (Roma 6:23; Apoc.
20:14), kaya ang lahat ng tao, saan man sila
naroroon at anoman ang kanilang kalagayan sa
buhay, ay alipin ng kasalanan.
Ang tunay na kalayaan
Kapag kalayaan ang pinag-uusapan, karaniwang
ipinalalagay na ang kahulugan nito ay ang
kalayaang gawin ang balang maibigan kahit
na ito ay ayon na sa pita ng laman 0 kasalanan
(Gal. 5:16-17). Ayaw nila na sila'y nalilimitahan
o nasasagkaan sa ibig nilang gawin.
Tunay nga bang malaya ang taong ganito
ang isipan 0 pakahulugan sa kalayaan? Hindi,
sapagkat ayon sa itinuro ng mga apostol:
"Hindi ba ninyo alam na pag ibinigay ninyo
ang inyong sarili kaninuman upang sumunod
ay ali pin kayo ng inyong sinusunod, maging
sa kasalanang umaakay sa kamatayan 0 sa
pagtalimang hahanga sa pagiging matuwid?"
(Roma 6:16, NPV).
Isang ali pin na maituturing ang taong
napaaakay sa kasalanan na maghahatid sa
kaniya sa parusang kamatayan. Ito ang tiniyak
ng rnga apo1;tol na sasapitin ng mga alipin ng
kasalanan: "Sapagka't nang kayo ay mga alipin
ng kasalanan, kayo'y laya tungkol sa katuwiran.
36 A UGUS T 2012 GOD'S MESSAGE FILIPINO SECTION.
Page 38 of 44
Ano nga ang ibinunga ninyo sa panahong yaon sa mga
bagay na ngayo'y ikinahihiya ninyo? sapagka't ang wakas
ng mga bagay na yaon ay kamatayan" (Roma 6:20-21). Ang
kamatayang tinutukoy ay ang ikalawang kamatayan sa
dagat-dagatang apoy na nakaambang parusa sa lahat ng
alipin ng kasalanan (Apoc. 21:8).
Tunay na walang kalayaan ang taong alipin ng
kasalanan 0 nagpapakabuyo sa kalayawan. Kaawa-awa
ang kalagayan ng ganitong tao, sapagkat kung ilarawan
ng mga apostol ay "bagama't buhay ay patay" (I Tim. 5:6).
Sentensiyado na siya sa kaparusahan sa dagat-dagatang
apoy. Ganito kung ilarawan ng Biblia ang kalagayan ng
mga tao na ginagawa ang lahat ng maibigan kahit na ito ay
labag sa kalooban ng Diyos.
Ang mga nagtataglay ng kaisipan ng laman 0 patuloy
sa paggawa ng kasalanan ay nakikipag-alit laban sa Diyos
at hindi napasasaklaw sa kautusan at hindi maaaring
maging sa Diyos (Roma 8:7) palibhasa'y tumatangging
sumunod sa kautusan, na ang ginagamit na pamantayan
sa buhay ay ang sariling kalooban 0 karunungan. Mataas
ang pagkakilala nila sa sarili, bunga marahil ng taglay
nilang karunungan, kung kaya't ipinipilit na sila naman
daw ay may layang makapamili ng kung ana ang susundin
sa kanilang buhay. At may nang-aakit pa ng ibang mga
tao na sumama sa kanila na malayang nakapag-iisip at
nakapagsasagawa ng ibang mga bagay-bagay sa buhay
nila sa mundo. Mapanganib at nanganganib ang taong
may ganitong isipan. Sinabi ni Apostol Pablo: "Kung ang
sinoma'y nagtuturo ng l b a n ~ aral, at hindi sutnasangayon
sa mga salitang nakagagaling, sa makatuwid ay sa mga
salita ng ating Panginoong Jesucristo, at sa aral na ayon
sa kabanalan; Ang gayon ay palalo, walang nalalamang
anoman, kundi may-sakit sa mga usa pan at mga pagtatalo,
sa mga salitang pinagbubuhatan ng kapanaghilian, mga
pagkakaalit, mga pagalipusta, mga masasamang akala"
(I Tim. 6:3-4). Kaya, nagpayo ang mga apostol na huwag
maging palalo ang tao at sa halip ay magtaglay ng
mababang isipan at ipalagay na lalong mabuti ang iba
kaysa kanila (Filip. 2:3). Sa ganito ay magagawa ng tao na
sumunod sa kautusan 0 katuwiran ng Diyos.
Ang dakilang kalayaan
Mawawalan ng kabuluhan ang kalayaang maaaring
makamit ng tao sa mundo na kaniya pa man ding
pinamumuhunanan at ipinakikipaglaban kung hindi
siya magiging malay a sa pagkaalipin sa kasalanan. Hindi
makaiiwas dito ang sinuman sapagkat may itinakda ang
Diyos na araw na kaniyang huhukuman ang lahat ng
tao batay sa kautusan ng kalayaan: "Gayon ang inyong
salitain, at gayon ang inyong gawin, na gaya ng mga taong
huhukuman sa pamamagitan ng kautusan ng kalayaan"
(Sant. 2:12). Sa kautusan ng kalayaan na binabanggit ng
mga apostol nakasalalay ang ikapagtatamo ng tunay na
kalayaan. Mahalagang ito'y matupad upang hindi lang
maging malaya kundi magtamo rin ang tao ng pagpapala
(Sant. 1:25). Sinasabi rin ng Biblia na kapag ang kautusan
o tuntunin ng Diyos ang sinunod ng tao, tiyak na lalakad
siya sa kalayaan: "At lalakad ako sa kalayaan; Sapagka't
aking hinanap ang iyong mga tuntunin" (Awit 119:45).
Kaugnay nito, dapat na maging maingat ang tao sa
paghahanap ng tunay at dakilang kalayaan-hindi kung
sino na lamang ang kaniyang susundin at pakikinggan.
-FILIPI NO SECTION- AUGUST 2012 GOD'S MESSAGE 37
Page 39 of 44
Dapat niyang sangguniin ang katotohanan na siyang
makapagtuturo kung paano magkaroon ng tunay na
kalayaan. Napakalinaw ng pahayag ng Biblia na ang
mga pinalaya ng ating Panginoong Jesucristo ang siyang
tunay na malaya (Juan 8:36, Magandang Balita Biblia). At
ito ay pinatotohanan ng mga apostol na mababasa sa
Gawa 13:39 na ganito ang isinasaad: "Sa pamamagitan
niya pinata taw ad at nagiging malay a sa lahat ng ito
ang sinumang sumampalataya sa kanya" (Biblia ng
Sambayanang Pilipino).
Ngunit hindi sapat na ang gawin lamang ng tao
ay sumampalataya. Ang kapatawaran ng kasalanan na
magpapalaya sa tao sa parusang walang hanggan ay
makakamtan sa pamamagitan ng pagkabuhos ng dugo at
maliban dito'y walang kapatawaran: "At ayon sa kautusan,
ay halos masasabi kong lahat ng mga bagay ay nililinis ng
dugo, at maliban na sa pagkabuhos ng dugo ay walang
kapatawaran" (Heb. 9:22). Ang tinubos ng mahalagang
dugo ng ating Panginoong Jesucristo ay walang iba kundi
ang Iglesia Ni Cristo: "Ingatan ninyo kung gayon ang inyong
mga sarili at ang buong kawan na rito'y hinirang kayo ng
Espiritu Santo na mga katiwala, upang pakanin ang iglesia
ni Cristo na binili niya ng kaniyang dugo" (Gawa 20:28,
isinalin mula sa Lamsa Translation).
Kung gayon, walang tunay na malay a sa
sangkatauhan maliban sa mga taong tinubos ng dugo ng
ating Panginoong Jesucristo 0 sa mga kaanib sa Iglesia Ni
Cristo. Tanging sa Iglesia lamang makakamtan ang tunay
at dakilang kalayaan.
Ang ikapananatiling malaya
Ang magpaalipin sa katuwiran 0 kalooban ng Diyos
ay hindi isang kaapihan 0 kalugihan. Sa halip, ito ang
ikababanal ng tao at ikapagkakaroon niya ng buhay na
W'alang hanggan (RoIna 6:22, 19, NPV) . At upang Inaingutun
ang dakilang kalayaan na ipinangako, ganito ang bilin ng
mga apostol: "Para sa kalayaan ay pinalaya tayo ni Cristo;
kaya't magpakatatag kayo at huwag pasakop na muli sa
pamatok ng pagkaalipin" (Gal. 5:1, Ang Bagong Ang Biblia).
Ang tinutukoy na "pamatok ng pagkaalipin" ay ang gawa
ng laman 0 kasalanan (Gal. 5:19-21).
Ang pinaghaharian ng kaisipan ng laman ay patungo
sa kamatayan at sila'y hindi kalulugdan l)g Diyos
samantalang ang nasa kapayapaan naman ay nagtataglay
ng kaisipan ng Espiritu at siyang tinatahanan ng Espiritu
ng Diyos at ni Cristo: "Sapagka't ang mga ayon sa laman ay
nangagsisitalima sa mga bagay ng laman; datapuwa't ang
mga ayon sa Espiritu ay sa mga bagay ng.Espiritu. Sapagka' t
ang kaisipan ng laman ay kamatayan; datapuwa't ang
kaisipan ng Espiritu ay buhay at kapayapaan. Sapagka't
ang kaisipan ng laman ay pakikipagalit laban sa Dios;
sapagka't hindi napasasaklaw sa kautusan ng Dios, ni hindi
nga maaari: At ang nangasa laman ay hindi makalulugod
sa Dios. Datapuwa't kayo'y wala sa laman kundi nasa sa
Espiritu, kung gayo'y tumitira sa inyo ang Espiritu ng
Dios. Datapuwa't kung ang sinoma'y walang Espiritu ni
Cristo, siya'y hindi sa kaniya" (Roma 8:5-9). Tiniyak din
ni Apostol Pablo na kung saan naroroon ang Espiritu ng
Panginoon, doon ay may kalayaan (II Cor. 3:17).
Kaya, kung hangad ng tao ang mapayapa, masagana,
at malayang pamumuhay na walang anumang bagabag
o kapighatian, napakahalagang masumpungan siya
sa pagsunod. Ganito ang patotoo ng isang lingkod ng
Diyos: "Ako nama'y mamumuhay nang payapa at malaya,
Yamang ako sa utos mo' y sumusunod namang kusa" (Awit
119:45, MB).
Isang dakilang kalayaan ang tatamuhin ng tao kung
susunod lamang siya sa lahat ng kalooban ng Diyos sa
paraang pumaloob siya sa tunay na Iglesia, ang Iglesia
Ni Cristo. Sa ganito, anuman ang mangyari sa mundo
ay magkakaroon siya ng tunay na kalayaan mula sa
pagkaalipin sa ka::;alanan at malay a ding maisasagawa niya
ang paglilingkod na taglay ang pag-asa sa pagmamana ng
mga pangako ng Diyos. 0
38 AUGUST 2012' GOD'S MESSAGE of ILlPI NO SECTION 0
Page 40 of 44
SECCION ESPANOLA
L
A LIBERTAD ES una cosa que el hombre ate sora
tanto. Sin ella, el hombre se siente infeliz y
descontenta. Sin ella, el se sumerge en el hoyo
de tristeza y desesperaci6n. Esto Ie da el impulso
para levantarse y ponerse en camino de una ardiente
busqueda de la libertad.
Sin embargo, a pesar de movimientos y
campanas para lograr la libertad, el hombre
permanece a ser esclavo. No es libre. El todavia
esta en condici6n de servidumbre. Sin 10 saber
y en tender el, esta sufriendo de una clase de
esclavitud que resultara catastr6fica en el final.
LQue es 10 que esclaviza al hombre? LQUe es 10 que
se ha apoderado del hombre que ni balas ni votaciones
pueden liberarlo de sus garras? L C6mo puede ser
liberado el hombre de este tip a de esclavitud?
EI hombre esta bajo de su encanto
LQue es 10 que esclaviza totalmente la humanidad?
Nuestro Senor Jesucristo declara, asi: " ... De cierto, de
cierto as digo que todo aquel que hace pecado, esc1a-
va es del pecado" On. 8:34, Version Reina- Valera 1960).
El pecado es el que esc1aviza al hombre. LQue
demuestra aun mas que el pecado tiene un embrague
fuerte encina del hombre? Ap6stol Pablo dice: "No
me comprendo. Deseo hacer 10 que es correcto pero
no 10 hago. En lugar de ella, hago precisamente 10
que odio .... Asi, no 10 hago yo, sino el pecado que
vive en mi. Se que no hay nada bueno en mi, a sea,
en la carne, porque quiero hacer el bien y no 10 hago.
No hago el bien que quiero, pero hag a siempre las
casas malas que no qui era hacer" (Rom. 7:15, 17-19,
Versi6n Nueva Vida).
El pecado, par 10 tanto, es el mayor enemigo de
la humanidad. El hombre debe ser puesto en libertad
de su mortal agarre. LPor que? LCual es la terrible
repercusi6n del pecado? Escribe el Ap6stol Pablo en
Romanos 6:23, as!: "Porque la paga del pecado es la
muerte ... " (Ibid.).
La muerte es la consecuencia inevitable de los
pecados del hombre. Nunca puede huir ni ocultar
esto: sera tenido responsable para su maldad. LQUe
muerte es el castigo final par pecados del hombre? Es
la segunda muerte en el lago de fuego (Apoc. 20:14)
Page 41 of 44
S610 en la
Iglesia De Cristo
puede alcanzar y disfrutar
el hombre de una
verdadera libertad
-la libertad verdadera de la maldicion de la ley.
donde el pecador sera atormentado
con fuego y azufre por siempre jamas
(Apoc. 14:10-11).
La voluntad de Dios para que
sera salvo el hombre
(Cual es la voluntad de Dios que 1
quiere que todas las personas deben
saber para ser salvos del castigo? En 1
Timoteo 2:3-4, se establece claramente:
"Esto es bueno y agradable aDios
nuestro Salvador: 1 quiere que todos
los hombres sean salvos del castigo
del pecado y que llegen a conocer la
verdad" (VNV).
Es el deseo de Dios que todos los
hombres seran salvos. 1 no quiere que
ellos sean condenados. (Pero como
pueden ellos conseguir la salvacion
que Dios quiere que ellos saborean?
Es viniendo a conocer la verdad.
El hombre debe saber la verdad
ace rca de su salvacion. (Por que es
importante para el hombre saber la
verdad? EnJuan 8:32, Nuestro Senor
Jesucristo dice: "Ustedes sabran la
verdad, y la verdad los hara libres"
(Ibid.).
Nuestro Senor Jesucristo mismo
habfa dado la instruccion en cuanto
a como el hombre debe ser liberado.
La verdad librara al hombre de la
esclavitud del pecado. (Que es la
40 A UGUST 2012' GOD' S MESSAGE
verdad que pondra al hombre libre?
Nuestro Senor Jesucristo explica:
"Santiffcalos en la verdad; tu palabra
es la verdad" (In. 17:17, Nueva Version
Internacional).
La palabra de Dios es la verdad
que establecera al hombre libre. Son las
palabras de Dios que debe ser aceptado
y crefdo por el hombre, por 10 que el
puede aprender los mandamientos
de Dios que Ie llevara finalmente a la
salvaci6n. El hombre debe buscar las
ordenanzas de Dios; el debe perseguir
el conocimiento sobre la palabra de
Dios, de modo que sera liberado del
pecado y del castigo en el dia del Juicio.
Las mentiras en vez de la
verdad de Dios
En vez de bus car la verdad de
Dios, (que ha seguido el hombre?
El Apostol Pablo explica: "Llegara
el tiempo en el que la gente no
querra escuchar la verdad. Buscaran
maestros que les ensenen s610 10
que quieran ofr. No escucharan la
verdad, sino que prestaran oidos a
historias hechas por hombres" (2
Tim. 4:3-4, VNV).
En vez de escuchar la palabra de
Dios, la gente se dirige a los mitos y
las ficciones . Las personas quieren
escuchar s610 a las ensenanzas que son
SPANlSH SECTI ON
gratificantes y agradables a sus ofdos.
Ellos se han alejado de la verdad de
Dios y han aceptado ensenanzas por
hombres hechas en su lugar. (Por
que cayeron en este abismo del error?
(Que les llev6 a rechazar la verdad de
Dios en favor de mentiras y errores?
La Biblia Santa ex plica ademas: "Y
se te acercan en masa, y se sientan
delante de ti y escuchan tus palabras,
pero luego no las practican. Me
halagan de labios para afuera, pero
despues solo buscan las ganancias
injustas" (Ez. 33:31, NVI).
Prefieren escuchar instrucciones
provocados por el hombre, porque
estan tras su beneficio personal. Ellos
ya no escuchan sonidas doctrinas
bfblicas. Sus ofdos quieren escuchar
solo aquellas doctrinas que satisfacen
sus deseos personales y ajustan su estilo
de vida. Estan dispuestos a seguir las
ensenanzas bfblicas, s610 si estas no van
en contra de sus creencias personales,
tradicion cultural 0 costumbres.
(Es verdad que las personas hoy
son religiosas y dedicadas en servir
aDios? El constante crecimiento
y la proliferaci6n de diversos
movimientos religiosos en todo el
mundo son pruebas elocuentes de su
voluntad de servir al Creador.
(Pero cual es falso con el mayor
numero de las religiones de hoy? (Que
hace la mayorfa de ellos ser inutiles en
la mira de Dios? Escribe el Apostol
Pablo: "Puedo declarar en favor de
ell os que muestran celo por Dios, perc>
su celo no se basa en el conocimiento.
No conociendo la justicia que proviene
de Dios, y procurando establecer la
suya propia, no se sometieron a la
justicia de Dios" (Rom. 10:2-3, Ibid.).
La Sagrada Biblia senala
explicitamente que el hombre es
celoso y lIe no de entusiasmo por Dios.
Pero debido a su ignorancia de la
Page 42 of 44
justicia de Dios, el ha creado su pro pia
norma-su propia rectitud como
los medios de salvacion. El hombre
no ha obedecido 0 no se so mete a la
voluntad de Dios que haria su servicio
aceptable y digno.
La justicia de Dios que
el hombre desprecia
L CuM es la justicia de Dios que
librara. el hombre de la esclavitud
del pecado y la condenaci6n eterna
pero que muchas personas se
rehusan a aceptar y creer? LQue es
esta justicia que liberara al hombre
de la esclavitud del pecado y la
condenacion? En Hebreos 9:22 la
Biblia dice: "De hecho, la ley exige
que casi todo sea purificado con
sangre, pues sin derramamiento de
sangre no hay perdon" (Ibid.).
"Sin derramamiento de sangre/'
el hombre no sera liberado del pecado
y de su culpabilidad. lCuya sangre
fue derramada para que el hombre
pudiera ser liberado del pecado, y
por 10 tanto, ser salvado? Ap6stol
Pablo explica en mas detalle: "Si
esto es asi, !cuanto mas la sangre de
Cristo, quien por medio del Espiritu
eterno se ofrecio sin mancha aDios,
purificara nuestra conciencia de las
obras que conducen a la muerte, a
fin de que sirvamos al Dios viviente!"
(Heb. 9:14, Ibid.).
La sangre de nuestro Sefior
Jesucristo fue derramada por el hombre
para ser liberado de los pecados y de su
castigo. A traves de la preciosa sangre
de nuestro Sefior Jesucristo, el hombre
obtendra el derecho "a servir al Dios
vivo." Esta es la justicia de Dios que
muchas personas se rehusan a aceptar-
que el hombre debe ser com prada por
la sangre de Cristo para obtener la
salvaci6n; esta es la justicia que Dios
quiere la gente conocer y comprender.
Los redimidos del Senor
Pero, Lcual fue redimido por la sangre
del Sefior? L Quien se beneficia de la
sangre derramada de nuestro Sefior?
Apostol Pablo revela, asi: "Por 10
tanto tomen cuidado de ustedes y de
todo el rebafio sobre el cual el Espiritu
Santo los ha puesto por vigias para
alimentar la iglesia de Cristo la cual
el ha comprado con su sangre." (Hch.
20:28, traducido de Lamsa Translation) .
La Iglesia De Cristo se beneficia
de la sangre derramada por nuestro
Sefior Jesucristo. Esta es la Iglesia que
fue redimida 0 comprada por la sangre
preciosa de Cristo. S610 en la Iglesia De
Cristo, por 10 tanto, puede alcanzar y
disfrutar el hombre de una verdadera
libertad-la libertad verdadera de la
maldicion de la ley. Por medio de
la Iglesia De Cristo, el servicio del
hombre a Dios sera aceptada y Ie va
a disfrutar los beneficios como uno de
los hijos de Dios.
Aquellos que estan en la Iglesia De
Cristo son los que verdaderamente son
libres. Ellos han obtenido la libertad
verdadera, ni por las balas ni por las
papeletas de votaci6n, sino a traves
de la fuerza redentora de la sangre de
Cristo. Esta es la justicia de Dios que
muchas personas se rehusan a creer.
Para que el hombre se beneficia
de la sangre del Sefior, Lque ordena
el Sefior Jesucristo que el hombre
haga? LQue quiere 1 que el hombre
sepa y lleve a cabo para que el
sera incluido entre aquellos que
seran salvados? El Salvador mismo
declara: "Yo soy la puerta; cualquier
persona que entra en el redil a
traves de mi estara salvo ... " (In. 10:
9, traducido de Revised English Bible) .
Jesus orden a al hombre a entrar
"al redil" 0 al rebafio para ser salvo.
El rebafio que se refiere es la Iglesia
De Cristo, que fue comprada por la
sangre del Sefior Jesus. Asociaci6n
en la Iglesia De Cristo es la volunt ad
de Dios y de nuestro Sefior Jesucristo.
Dios quiere que el hombre deber ser
liberado del pecado y su consecuencia
mortal. Por 10 tanto, el hombre debe
ser en la Iglesia De Cristo para que el
disfrute la libertad que Dios quiere
que el posee. ~
(A translation of the article "Man must
be set free" by Emiliano C. Magtuto Jr.
published in Pasugo, March 1996)
Por medio de la
Iglesia De Cristo,
el servicio del hombre aDios
sera aceptada y Ie va a disfmtar
los beneficios como uno de
los hijos de Dios.
-SPAN ISH SECTION - AUGUST 2 012 . GOD'S MESSAGE 41
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