Wednesday, July 31, 2019

Letter to our Friends - July 30, 2019

Dear Friends:

Greetings from Owensboro, Kentucky.

We hope and pray that you were spiritually uplifted this week.

Five Doctrines Which Makes the Owensboro Church of Jesus Christ differ from Pentecostal churches of God

1) The Ultimate Plan of God: Truly expressed in four main doctrines: the weekly Sabbath (which is Saturday) – Exodus 31:13-17. And, the annual holy days (Leviticus 23) – which truly pictures that awesome Plan of God through seven steps and three annual seasons. Beginning with Passover – picturing the selfless sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who died to pay the ultimate penalty for mankind’s sins. Followed by the Days of Unleavened Bread, which truly pictures Christ In You! The Day of Pentecost, picturing a relatively “small flock” of God’s chosen begotten children – full of God’s Spirit - called out of this world and its politics in this age of man’s rule.

And then in the autumn – the Feast of Trumpets, picturing the blowing of the seven trumpets and ultimately the blowing of the SEVENTH TRUMPET, the resurrection of the saints, and the subsequent return to earth of God the Father and Jesus Christ – the ‘last trump.’ The Day of Atonement follows nine days later, picturing truly and prophetically the Day of the LORD! And, the seven-day Feast of Tabernacles picturing the Millennial fall “harvest” of physical human beings and the glorious Millennial Rule of Jesus Christ as King of kings and Lord of lords over the whole of the earth! And the last holy day, called the Last Great Day, pictures the time immediately following the Millennium when every human being who has ever lived (not having a chance for salvation in this age) will indeed be resurrected to physical life and offered their chance to live God’s Way of life – on a fully rebuilt and restored earth.

Now friends, sadly, in place of Almighty God’s Ultimate Plan, mankind, in general, have forgotten and replaced God’s holy Sabbath with Sunday. And mankind has replaced God’s holy-day seasonal cycle with “hallow days,” replete with their pagan origins.

Friends, the holy Sabbath was given to mankind – the seventh-day; Saturday – at the very time of creation (Genesis 2:2-3; Exodus 20:8-11); however it also pictures the awesome future – the 1,000 years of “rest in Christ” after this age of man’s rule. It was also given by God as a sign to identify His people (Exodus 31).

The Day of the Sun – or rather Sunday – has no spiritual meaning. And, contrary to very popular assumption, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ was resurrected on a Saturday afternoon. And Sunday worship masks this great truth and confuses the understanding of God’s Ultimate Plan of salvation.

This world’s annual holidays, which are kept by Protestant churches of God, portray absolutely no plan of salvation!

The Mass of Christ (Christmas) is – at best – a materialistic “birthday party” celebrated on a wrong day; and – at worst – a carry-over from pagan Sun worship which was originally practiced at the time of the winter solstice.

Ishtar (Easter), is the other major “Christian” holiday, which incorrectly tries to picture Christ’s resurrection – on the wrong day of the week! With its pagan symbols of fertility (eggs, cross-buns, ham, bunny rabbits, etc.)!

And let’s not forget – St. Valentine’s Day. A remnant of Roman satanic revelry and debauchery. Halloween!? - picturing more of the worship of Satan the devil and his demons than Almighty God and Jesus Christ!

2) The Destiny of Man. To truly become God! Indeed the religious elite of Jesus Christ’s physical life – the Pharisees – thought it blasphemy that Jesus would call Himself the very living “Son of God.” At least they truly recognized the seriousness of this truth! Yet today, the expression of “Son of God” either expresses any kind of religious person or it connotes the false doctrine of ‘angels coming down to Mount Hermon and mating with the daughters of men.’ (cf. Genesis 6:1-2). The true meaning of the words “Son of God” has become lost to the majority. Notice these plain Scriptures of our great God:
“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons [and might I add daughters] of God. … The Spirit [itself] bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs – heirs of God [God the Father] and joint-heirs with Christ [Jesus the Christ] …” – Romans 8:14-17.
“Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God! … Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be [our future profession], but we know that when He is revealed [when Jesus Christ returns], we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is [a spiritual Being].” – 1 John 3:1, 2. 
God – the very One who we know now as Jesus Christ – Himself stated, “’ You are gods; And all of you are children of the Most High.” – Psalm 82:6; see also John 10:34-36.

Recall, the great Elohim (GOD) said, “’ Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; …’” – Genesis 1:26. Friends, this “image” is literally the “brightness of His glory, and the express image of His person” – Hebrews 1:3. The first two chapters of Hebrews alone makes this awesome doctrine crystal clear! Man is born a little lower than the angels to gain Godly character for a higher “born again” potential higher than angels – at the God level. “For in that He put all in subjection under him … But now we do not yet see all things put under him. But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels, for the suffering of death crowned with glory and honor, … in bringing many sons [and daughters] to glory, …” – Hebrews 2:8-10.

And, let’s not forget the false doctrine and difficult to understand and put into words - not found in the Bible - concept of the “Trinity.” (Be sure to watch Minister Michael C. Garrett’s short explanation of the Trinity in The Truth Concerning the Trinity Explained). Now, while the sole “proof text” is 1 John 5:7, proper biblical research reveals this verse was added by copyists who forged this spurious verse as late as the 8th century AD.

The “Trinity” is not a biblical term, nor is it a biblical doctrine. It was a contrived conspiracy of Satan the devil – using his ministers – “church fathers” in the Middle Ages – to teach mankind that his true destiny is impossible to achieve. The false teaching of the “Trinity” closes the Godhead to mankind. GOD is a Family – a growing Family with more sons and daughters begotten every age – every generation. The GOD Family is not closed to just three members. It is open to every man and woman whom God the Father will call – cf. John 6:44. GOD is now two members – God the Father and God the Son. The Holy Spirit is merely the awesome nature – the very mind of God – which impregnates the mind of the chosen and begotten sons and daughters who are destined to become “born” God’s. (Be sure to watch Minister Michael C. Garrett’s short explanation of the Holy Spirit in What does it mean to be 'baptized with the Holy Spirit'? along with reading and studying the article Proving the Truth!).

3) The Destiny of the “Saved.” The rulership of the E A R T H! Recall – “’ Blessed are the meek, For they shall inherit the earth.’” – Matthew 5:5.

Very few professing Christians truly believe the very plain words of Jesus Christ! Yet, the entire Bible is filled with rulership of the planet Earth as a reward of the saved.

In the Book of Revelation the words cannot be any more clearer – “’ And [He will make] us kings and priests to our God; And we shall reign on the earth.’” What the Protestant churches of God do with these passages in their Bible is beyond me! Do they mark them out with a black felt tip marker!?

Friends, from Genesis to Revelation, the hope for true Christians is a reward of earthly rulership – co-heirs with Christ – beginning at the beginning of the Millennium!

Your Bible nowhere promises the false doctrine of ‘going off to Heaven’ as a reward of the saved! (Again, be sure to read Minister Garrett’s amazing article Proving the Truth!). Yet, sadly, multiple millions of professing Christians assume this is the “reward.” And the Scripture used most often by those who profess this false doctrine is actually a greater proof text for an earthly “reward.” Our Lord and Savior said, “’ In My Father’s house are many mansions [many dwelling places] … I go to prepare a place for you.’” – John 14:2. Certainly, if this was the only verse, then Heaven might be suspected of being the “place” prepared. However, let us read the following verse – “’ And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am [see Zechariah 14:4], there you may be also.’” Now, when He said that, He was speaking on the Earth (‘that where I am’).

Even if a so-called Christian could go to the upper Heavenly realm, would he/she want to be there!? On the way up to Heaven, he/she would theoretically pass God the Father and Jesus Christ coming here!
“Now I saw a new heaven and a new earth [the holy city of New Jerusalem], … Then I, John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem coming down out of heaven [the atmosphere] from God, … ‘Behold, the tabernacle [the dwelling place] of God [Greek word - Theos; GOD THE FATHER] is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. …’” – Revelation 21:1, 2, 3.
Including, of course, His holy angels – cf. Matthew 25:31. And, along with the resurrected saints – cf. Jude 1:14-15.

4) The Destiny of the “Unsaved.” The misinformed and false doctrine of ‘going to Hell’ for the “unsaved” from professing Christianity which the greater majority of Protestant churches of God teaches and continues to perpetuate – the teaching of being “damned for all time” and tortured in a burning hellfire. Almighty God and Jesus Christ are neither cruel nor wishy-washy. They are merciful and love – 1 John 4:8. They are firm – cf. Galatians 6:7. Our great GOD will give the billions of people who have ever lived and died during the last nearly 6,000 years (including the antediluvian people) a first chance to understand.

The Apostle John describes this time – “Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat on it, … And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God, and Books were opened [the Holy Bible]. And another Book was opened, which is the Book of Life. …” – Revelation 20:11, 12. This is called the “Great White Throne Judgment” and is further described by Prophet Ezekiel in Ezekiel 37.

5) The Very Nature of Man. The doctrine unique to God’s Church – the Body of Christ – is the very nature of man. Your Bible is quite clear about the spiritual and the physical makeup of man; yet, organized religions worldwide have instead adopted Satan the devil’s first lie to Eve concerning the immortality of the soul (Genesis 3:4), or pagan dualism, or the trappings of spiritualism, or ESP, or the occult.

Friends, the following are crystal clear words from Almighty God and Jesus Christ:
“For what happens to the sons of men also happens to animals; one thing befalls them: as one dies, so dies the other. Surely, they all have one breath; man has no advantage over animals, for all is vanity. All go to one place: all are from the dust, and all return to dust.” – Ecclesiastes 3:19-20.
“For the living know that they will die; But the dead know nothing, … for there is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going.” – Ecclesiastes 9:5, 10b.
“…’ For dust you are, And to dust you shall return.’” – Genesis 3:19b.
“But there is a spirit in man, …” – Job 32:8.
The human spirit enters the human embryo at conception. The spirit is like the “hard drive on a computer” – it stores information. The spirit essence is NOT an immortal soul or an eternal spirit. The spirit in man is NOT the man. It is something in the man. The spirit in man was transmitted from Adam! Spirit comes from the father from a sperm cell– from Adam all down through all humanity.
“For what man knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so no one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God.” – 1 Corinthians 2:11.
The very nature of man, then, is entirely physical, with a separate “spirit in man” added at conception and taken away at death.
“Then the dust will return to the earth as it was, And the spirit will return to God who gave it” – Ecclesiastes 12:7.
The very words “immortal soul” are nowhere to be found in your Bible!

(Again, be sure to read Minister Michael C. Garrett’s informative article Proving the Truth!).

From Deacon Trevor

Dear Brother, please be sure to congratulate our newest Bishop and Minister Guy L. for me. I have been waiting for the day that Father God and Jesus Christ would appoint more speakers to send out the Good News of the soon-coming kingdom from heaven. Also to take a little weight off of our dear Brother Michael's shoulders. M.C.G. has been working for decades and dare I say for half a century sharing the Gospel, which is the New Covenant, and the soon-coming Kingdom from heaven. The only Truth in this current retched world and MCG is the finest teacher of scripture I have had the pleasure of hearing!

I pray that Guy Lamar be guided by our Eternal God and Jesus Christ and that his family may be blessed with grace and mercies from God the Father and Jesus Christ. Amen!

I want to thank all the Brethren for the prayers sent up for my momma's full recovery from her recent fall that broke her hip and wrist (right arm right leg). …

From my Heart,
Trevor Paull Koonce

Prayer Request

Minister Guy LaMar’s brother David. He’s back in the ER - blood pressure as high as the sky.

World News Items

As mentioned in last week’s letter, German Defense Minister Ursula von der Leyen was elected as the European Union Commission President and indeed called for European military unity (See: ‘Von der Leyen elected EU Commission head after MEPs vote’). Her replacement in Germany called for more military spending (See: ‘New German defense minister backs higher military spending’). Europe appears to be in the process of building the “great army” Bible prophecy speaks of! – cf. Daniel 11:25.

Also this week in the United Kingdom, the former mayor of London Boris Johnson, was selected as Prime Minister (See: ‘Boris Johnson to Be Britain's Next Prime Minister’). Speaking before the Parliament, he laid out his goal for Brexit (See: ‘Boris Johnson: Premiership will be the start of a golden age’). While the UK may have increased its prosperity, in the end-times the United States of America and the United Kingdom will no longer be players. They will not be substantial - will have been reduced basically to nothingness – cf. Daniel 8:24-25.

And in regards to the United States of America – political leaders in Washington, D.C. made another deal that will increase the total debt of the USA (See: ‘What to watch today: Earnings galore, debt ceiling deal struck, and Britain’s new prime minister’). God’s living word shows that this will continue to lead to her destruction - cf. Habakkuk 2:6-8; Daniel 11:39. The US National Debt is currently $ 22,547,313,786,884!

Also, consider that a major cost of disobeying Almighty God’s admonitions on sexual immorality is sexual diseases – cf. Leviticus 26:14-16; Deuteronomy 28:22. In my state of Florida, Hepatitis A outbreak tops 1,000 cases for 2019. Also, Europe has noted a major increase of syphilis – particularly among homosexuals (See: ‘Europe faces ‘looming syphilis epidemic’ thanks to dating apps and reduced fear of HIV’). God’s moral laws protect against many of society’s grave diseases.

Suggested Sabbath Service

Here is this week’s suggested Sabbath service:

● 2-3 hymns. (a free printable “Old Time Gospel” hymn site is The Old Time Gospel).
● Opening prayer.
● Sermonette (if you choose). The one suggested is Proving the Truth. (An accompanying article – Proving the Truth! – is recommended).
● Announcements (if any) and one hymn.
Sermon. The one suggested is Mercy and Empathy – Part V by Michael C. Garrett. (Many more sermons are available at http://www.owensborochurchofjesuschrist.com/).
● Final hymn.
● Closing prayer.

IN CASE YOU HAVE NOT RECEIVED A ‘LETTER TO OUR FRIENDS’ FOR ANY WEEK, REMEMBER WE HAVE MANY SERMON MESSAGES ON THE Owensboro Church of Jesus Christ website. Also, there are audio sermons on our Soundcloud Radio channel.

Concluding Comments

Minister Michael C. Garrett wrote:
“Who is our leader!? Jesus Christ! Who is the leader of the Church!? Jesus Christ! … we here in Owensboro have rededicated ourselves to a work that will go out through a website, through DVDs and CDs, hopefully sometime in the future we hope to have a radio broadcast. We’re going to do the work of Jesus Christ with all of the energy He gives us as long as we have breath. And we are here now in Owensboro, Kentucky, calling this organization the Owensboro Church of Jesus Christ.
So, what’s in a name!? Everything is in a name! It’s not in the name of Moses. It’s certainly not acquired in the name of Armstrong! But everything we’ve ever wanted and that we ever desire, everything that is good and lasting and proper and perfect comes through the name and the office and the personality and the efforts of JESUS CHRIST!
We here in Owensboro are attempting to initiate this work to serve Jesus Christ and to feed His sheep. Our goal and our mission and our purpose – and this will be marked on everything we ever put out – is to follow the admonition of Jesus Christ when He states in the Book of John, “’ Feed My sheep!’” We welcome all who wish to join us in our efforts, and we will appreciate your participation, your prayers, and if possible your monetary and financial assistance, because we are a small group, but we have big plans.
In deep gratitude and love, in Jesus' name,


As a reminder, and as I had posted on last week's letter - Minister Guy, his family, and many other members and friends will be in Owensboro, Kentucky August 10th, 2019 for Sabbath services at the Logsdon Community Center – 2400 Friendship Dr. I hope you will come and join us on that date – if that be possible. Contact Minister Michael C. Garrett at garrett158@roadrunner.com for additional information.

Wednesday, July 24, 2019

Letter to our Friends - July 23, 2019


Dear Friends:

Greetings from Owensboro, Kentucky. Another busy and exciting week.

We have been continuing to ‘feed’ the sheep of Jesus Christ and to proclaim the glorious Message of the soon-coming Kingdom of God!

Owensboro Trip

Minister Guy, his family, and many other members and friends will be in Owensboro, Kentucky August 10th, 2019 for Sabbath services at the Logsdon Community Center – 2400 Friendship Dr. I hope you will come and join us on that date – if that be possible. Contact Minister Michael C. Garrett at garrett158@roadrunner.com for additional information.

A New Work In Progress

Our vision and our mission statement have always been to ‘feed’ the sheep of Jesus Christ and the potential sheep of Jesus Christ! To teach the Word of God, the Truth of God and the Plan of God! And as Minister Guy LaMar recently prophetically stated concerning this ministry – “This is the start of a new Work in Christ for this time in the world history! Could this be the setup for the end-time messengers to begin that Work!?”

I am happy to announce a great leap forward for this Work of God! We have begun building a new and awesome webpage for this work – and Guy’s son Chris will be helping in that! We will also be working on printing many of our manuscripts and putting them in booklet form. There are many avenues that we will be taking in growing this great Work! We have plans on continuing to build this ministry in Florida, northwest Alabama, and Tennessee - with two fellowship groups – a morning group for Alabama and an afternoon group for Tennessee, along with a fellowship group in Florida - along the Nature Coast!

Friends, we will continue to obey Jesus Christ’s great command in Matthew 28:19-20 in different regions of the United States to help fulfill Romans 11:25.

It is friends and brethren in Christ like you who give me personally my greatest inspiration and encouragement for my part in the Master’s work! I thank God for you, and for continually loyally helping this ministry in these trying days, through much discouragement, handicaps, tests of faith that we are called upon to constantly face. My heart has long ached for this wonderful and blessed opportunity to be called to serve. We are told in Ephesians 6, verses 10 and 13 to BE STRONG in the power of God's might — to put on God's whole armor, that we may stand against the wiles of the devil. Let us continue to turn to the New Covenant promises that God has given us and to claim them: ‘Trust in the Eternal and do right, be loyal to Him within His land; make the Eternal your delight and He will give you all your heart’s desire. LEAVE ALL TO HIM, RELY ON HIM, AND HE WILL SEE TO IT; He will bring your innocence to light, and make the justice of your CAUSE clear as noonday. LEAVE IT TO THE ETERNAL AND BE PATIENT!" (Psalm 37:3-7).

Godtube

We are utilizing Godtube essentially as a backup in the event YouTube one day shuts down our ability to share sermons there.


We currently have 183 upload views with 21 sermons available. Here is a link: o’borochurchofjesuschrist.

World News Items

There’s been a report that human-trafficking has become even more lucrative for criminals (See: ‘Human Trafficking Outpaces Drugs, Guns As World's Fastest Growing Criminal Industry’). God’s living Word – the Bible – shows us that during the end-time trauma until at least the time of the fall of Babylon (the final European beast power) human-trafficking will occur (cf. Revelation 18:1-3).

In European Union politics, United Kingdom’s Nigel Farage has warned against voting to make German Defense Minister Ursula von der Leyen the next EU Commission President. Despite his dire WARNING – she won. Ursula von der Leyen has a history of supporting the idea of a united European military – a supporter of the EU military program known as the Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) (See: ‘Von der Leyen elected EU Commission head after MEPs vote’ along with ‘Candidate for top EU job touts gender equality ahead of vote’). While Mrs. von der Leyen is not the final ‘beast’ political leader, her election is another step closer to what will ultimately lead to a final United States of Europe which will submit to him – Revelation 17:12-13. Her taxation comments suggest that she may very well play a prophetic role (See: ‘Von der Leyen takes aim at U.S. tech giants' low tax bill in Europe’). Recall Daniel 11:20, if it is not gender-specific, but we will see. It is worth noting that both she and the government of France have proposed taxing large US-dominated digital teach firms within the last few weeks (See: ‘France passes law taxing internet giants’ along with ‘FACE OFF Donald Trump threatens new trade war with France over Macron’s tax raid on Facebook and Google’).

Suggested Sabbath Service

Here is a suggested Sabbath service for this week:

● 2-3 hymns. (another free printable “Old Time Gospel” hymn site is The Old Time Gospel).
● Opening prayer.
● Sermonette (if you choose). The one suggested is In Hope of Eternal Life p7.
● Announcements (if any) and one hymn.
● Sermon. The one suggested is Mark of the Beast by Michael C. Garrett. (Many more sermons are available at http://www.owensborochurchofjesuschrist.com/).
● Final hymn.
● Closing prayer.

IN CASE YOU HAVE NOT RECEIVED A ‘LETTER TO OUR FRIENDS’ FOR ANY WEEK, REMEMBER WE HAVE MANY SERMON MESSAGES ON THE Owensboro Church of Jesus Christ website. Also, there are audio sermons on our Soundcloud Radio channel.

Concluding Comments

Minister Michael C. Garrett wrote:

“And today in my notes, let’s turn to Romans 5 … Verse 20 – “Moreover the law entered that the offense might abound.” – now, which law is he talking about!? Is he talking about the Ten Commandments!? I don’t think so. Sometimes in Paul’s writing’s he’s talking about the Old Testament law, meaning the laws surrounding the Jewish religion, the temple, the sacrifices, the ceremonial washing’s and all the little doodads that they did back in the Old Covenant. And I think he’s referring to the Old Covenant here. Sometimes Paul talks about the New Covenant – many times. In fact, just while we’re talking about that, turn to Romans 7:12 – “Therefore the Law is holy, and the commandment holy and just and good.” I believe he’s talking about the Ten Commandments right there. Because he even used the word commandment. And there are some people who – and it’s really hard to explain this one – there’s a group, there’s a mindset, there’s a movement, in some Protestant churches to bend over backward to try to tell their people that “the law is done away.” Now quite frankly, just to be honest, the origins of that type of statement comes from the fact that there are people going to church on Sunday – and they do it because the people before them did it, their mother, father, grandfather, grandmother. And they’re troubled because if they’re honest with the Bible, the day of church – I like to call it Church day – is what we call here in the Western culture Saturday. The seventh day of the week. Now, there are people, there are religious groups that keep Saturday as their church day - Seventh Day Adventists, there were some seventh-day Baptist’s, and other outfits. So they were honest enough with the Word of God that they looked in there and say, “Hey folks! Sunday’s not church day!” The weekly church day. But then church “officialdom” came in and made them change to Sunday. But Sunday is not the official church day. It’s the seventh-day, which we call Saturday. So, if you say that the Ten Commandments are in effect, all of a sudden, you’re looking at the FOURTH COMMANDMENT – “’ Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.’” And, that means ‘remember the seventh-day of the week.’ Now, what do you do!? How do you get yourself around that!? So, there are people – and I’ve heard of them, … “There’s no place in the New Testament, that requires the keeping of the Ten Commandments.” Well, O’ my! There’s a whole bunch of places, and here’s one of them. It’s just as plain as can be, the Apostle Paul – which in all of the personalities of the Bible, and when you think about the Old Testament prophet’s and you think about the disciple’s, and think about John the Baptist, and the various writers of the Bible. In my opinion, and it’s just my opinion, the Apostle Paul is 2nd in the hierarchy of importance, or significance, below Jesus Christ! Paul wrote the majority of what we now call the New Testament. And he wrote that under the inspiration, guidance, and direction of God’s Spirit and of Jesus Christ – Jesus Christ’s mind. Paul knows what he’s talking about! Paul is an authority! And here he says it, “Therefore the Law is holy, and the commandment holy and just and good.” But like I said earlier, sometimes when Paul uses the word “law,” he’s talking about the Old Covenant or the law of the Levites and the temple people. And sometimes when he uses the word “law,” he’s talking about the Ten Commandments and the New Covenant. And you have to have enough wisdom and discretion to know which is which!”


(Christ In You (Unleavened Bread) 2017 Day 4).

In deep gratitude and love, in Jesus' name,




Be sure to read this three-part series - The Biblical Prophecy Series

Tuesday, July 16, 2019

Letter to our Friends - July 16, 2019

Dear Friends:

Greetings again from Owensboro, Kentucky.

We are seeing an ever-increasing degree of ‘natural’ disasters in the US and worldwide! Earthquakes and disasters were indeed something that Jesus WARNED about.
“ … ‘And there will be earthquakes in various places, and there will be famines and TROUBLES. These are the beginnings of sorrows.’” – Mark 13:8; NKJV – unless otherwise noted.
We could very well be at the prophetic point as all the earthquakes and other terrible and devastating problems that have occurred this year alone could be considered “troubles. … the beginnings of sorrows.”

Now, not all earthquakes are a sign and a warning of God’s punishment, yet, geologists are warning that a major earthquake is overdue! And God, too, has been WARNING:
“And there were noises and thunderings and lightnings; and there was a GREAT EARTHQUAKE, such a mighty and great earthquake as had not occurred since men were on the earth. 19) Now the great city was divided into three parts, and the cities of the nations fell. And great Babylon was remembered before God, to give her the cup of the wine of the fierceness of His wrath. 20) Then every island fled away, and the mountains were not found” – Revelation 16:18-20.
Until that major earthquake comes which will be so ‘mighty and great as had not occurred since men were on the earth’ – the earthquakes, the tsunamis, the devastating hurricanes, the tornadoes, the ever-increasing radiation should serve as a wake-up call that this is the ‘beginning of sorrows.’ The time to repent is now:
“’ Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent, 31) Because He has appointed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by the Man [Jesus Christ] whom He has ordained. He has given assurance of this to all by raising Him from the dead’” – Acts 17:30-31.
As Minister Michael C. Garrett stated concerning the innumerable atrocities which are being committed worldwide – which can include the ever-increasing ‘sorrows’ or ‘birth pains’:
It makes you think about the country we live in and where we are and where we’re going. It made me think about a passage which I have read many times in my life – 2 Timothy 3 – “But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come.
These last days are ‘perilous times’ and repentance nationally and on a personal level is needed now.

Owensboro Ordination

It is glorious news of the recent ordination of Guy LaMar as a minister in God’s Church! I am very happy to announce this as Mr. LaMar is extremely dedicated to Almighty God and Jesus Christ and is already doing a great job. He will continue to bring a wealth of experience and background to his office, and we are very pleased to have him “on board” here at Headquarters in Owensboro. Congratulations, Mr. LaMar!



Owensboro Trip – reminder

Minister Guy LaMar, myself, and others, will be in Owensboro, Kentucky on August 10th, 2019 for Sabbath services at the Logsdon Community Center – 2400 Friendship Dr. We would love to see you there, be sure to contact Minister Michael C. Garrett at garrett158@roadrunner.com for additional information.

After services, we will be discussing how the ministry might build congregations in different regions of the southern US.

Also, with combined feelings of thanksgiving, joy, and humility, I am happy to announce that Minister Garrett would like to ordain me into the great Work of Almighty God and Jesus Christ!

Statcounter

Here are some stats from our blog page - https://www.owensborocojc.com. Thank you, dear friends, in Cambodia for your continued support as well as all our friends worldwide. We understand that a great many friends around the world rarely get live Sabbath services. At this time, we offer our Suggested Sabbath Service.



World News Items

Iran has announced that is has breached another aspect of its nuclear deal (See: ‘Iran ignores Trump's warning, breaks another nuclear deal limit on uranium enrichment’). Iran’s leaders are interested in creating chaos in hopes that a mystical figure known as the Twelfth Imam will rise up and essentially make the world Muslim. Now, while that will not happen, Iran may very well create greater chaos. Including one day very possibly striking hard at Jerusalem per Isaiah 22:6-9. Is what’s happening now to prelude that!?

In the United States of America, the Trump Administration has suggested that it wants to make trade with India even more difficult. The European Union is working to improve its trade with India as well as many other nations (See: ‘Trump Hints At New Trade War With India’). Bible prophecy shows us that a final European ‘beast power’ will come to dominate trade for a short time (cf. Revelation 18) after the US has fallen (cf. Daniel 11:39).

Also, speaking of trade – 55 African nations agreed to a trade deal, that if implemented, would possibly improve the economies of nations in Africa (See: ‘Africa Launches Free Trade Pact’).

Suggested Sabbath Service

Here is this week’s suggested Sabbath service.

● 2-3 hymns. (another free printable “Old Time Gospel” hymn site is The Old Time Gospel).
● Opening prayer.
● Sermonette (if you choose). The one suggested is Truth Vs. Fiction.
● Announcements (if any) and one hymn.
● Sermon. The one suggested is The Ordination Of An Elder by Michael C. Garrett. (Many more
   sermons are available at http://www.owensborochurchofjesuschrist.com/).
● Final hymn.
● Closing prayer.

IN CASE YOU HAVE NOT RECEIVED A ‘LETTER TO OUR FRIENDS’ FOR ANY WEEK, REMEMBER WE HAVE MANY SERMON MESSAGES ON THE Owensboro Church of Jesus Christ website. Also, there are audio sermons on our Soundcloud Radio channel.

Concluding Comments

Minister Michael C. Garrett wrote the following:
How many of you can say – and think about this – “I now have with me, in the latter part of my life, friends which I had since my youth!”? How many can honestly say, “I have had this core group of friends, and we’ve never left one another!”? I’m sure some people can. And, wonderful for you. But for most of us, we change to a new job, we forget old friends.
Maybe we call them a few times, then with time, we forget who they are. And then we go and form a new group of friends. And so in the course of your life, you may have several groupings of what one-time were friends. And so it was with the Worldwide Church of God. People who said they were friends, brothers, and sisters in Christ. Because of all of the politics and the animosities and the jealousies, especially among the so-called church leaders, people forget that one-time these were my friends. And then, they seemingly don’t care at all. But the Word of God says in verse 10 of Romans 12, “Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, …” I wish that happened more.
Verse 16 – “Be of the same mind toward one another.” – He DIDN’T say – IF you’re part of the ABC church, you do that within yourself, and IF you’re part of the XYZ church, you do that within yourself, and if you’re in the MNOP church. No, IF you have entered into the baptismal pool and IF Jesus Christ declared you to be a future member of the Family of GOD, then EVERY ONE OF THESE IS YOUR BROTHER AND YOUR SISTER!
Friends, let us always strive to live as a real Christian.

In deep gratitude and love, in Jesus' name,




Wednesday, July 10, 2019

Letter to our Friends - July 9, 2019

Dear Friends:

Greetings again from Owensboro, Kentucky.

Last Thursday many - in the United States of America – observed her official Declaration of Independence. It was 243 years ago that the USA received her independence from the kingdom of Great Britain. Since that time, although the economy of the USA has held up, a great many things have grown steadily worse. In this 21st century, the USA has less freedom of speech and less freedom of religion. And instead of the bulk of the government doing the most direct of this censoring, the greater majority comes from the news media and big tech internet companies. So much more than our founding fathers would have ever imagined in 1776!

Including the sad fact that our government cannot now seem to define a male vs. female is also a shameful development which our founding fathers would not accept nor understand.

Now, with that being said, the OCOJC is still going through the ‘open door’s which Almighty God and Jesus Christ continue to bless us with – despite ever greater persecutions via social media. Like Facebook banning any sharing of our posted sermons or articles. We do have many other platforms, such as Godtube, Flipboard, and of course - https://www.owensborocojc.com. Indeed, friends, the time is getting closer when the ‘famine of the Word’ (Amos 8:11-12) will be here!

Facebook Persecution


I received an email from Brother Don Everly via Deacon Trevor which said:
Matthew 24:10 Then shall many be OFFENDED, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another. 12 And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold.
We will be hated for "HIS" Jesus Christ namesake. These Facebook, Google, YouTube Heathens can kiss my ….  
Trevor Koonce sent this to me I tried to send it out on our Church Facebook & my own Facebook and was told People on Facebook found this and all other listings from The Owensboro Church of Jesus Christ Offensive.
While a growing number of people may believe that Facebook and other social media sites need to crack down on what they call “fake news,” the reality is that internet censorship is a real threat as to how that’s interpreted – and is leading to inappropriate censorship. This censorship issue on social media is so serious that we in the Owensboro Church of Jesus Christ decided, because of the incident with YouTube, to begin posting on an alternative to YouTube – called Godtube.

Owensboro Trip

Brother Guy, myself, and others, will be in Owensboro, Kentucky on August 10th, 2019 for Sabbath services at the Logsdon Community Center – 2400 Friendship Dr. We would love to see you there, be sure to contact Minister Michael C. Garrett at garrett158@roadrunner.com for additional information.
After services, we will be discussing how the ministry might build congregations in different regions of the southern US.

Also, with combined feelings of thanksgiving, joy, and humility, I am happy to announce that Minister Garrett would like to ordain me into the great Work of Almighty God and Jesus Christ!

the Laying On of Hands Ceremony

Indeed, whenever a man is ordained into the greater service in God’s Work hands are laid upon him. The ordination ceremony in which God’s ministers and deacons lay their hands on those being ordained, and ask Almighty God and Jesus Christ – the very Head of this Church – to continue to work in their lives.

Now, does this Church ceremony have a meaning? Certainly!

The Apostle Paul tells us:
“… let us go on to perfection, not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God, 2) of the doctrine of baptisms, of laying on of hands, of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment” - Hebrews 6:1-2.
In order to “go on to perfection,” we must understand these foundational principles. We must understand why the doctrine of the LAYING ON OF HANDS is listed by Paul as one of the greatest MOST BASIC PRINCIPLES of the Christian life!

In every case in which the laying on of hands was administered it has set apart someone for a special purpose. A good example is found in Acts 8:9-25.

Philip had been recently ordained a Deacon in God’s Church, but did not have authority to set apart converts – according to God – and to administer the laying on of hands – verses 12-13. However, at his preaching, some of the Samaritans did believe the Good News of Almighty God’s coming Kingdom. And, Philip baptized those who believed. Church Headquarters in Jerusalem dispatched Peter and John to Samaria to administer the laying on of hands. As yet none of the Samaritan believers had received the Spirit of God (Acts 8:14-16).

And when Peter and John laid their hands on those who were repentant, they received immediately God’s glorious gift of His Spirit!

Now, in ordination – the laying on of hands is used. But why!? Notice this ceremony is symbolic of God’s divine Government:
“And the LORD said to Moses: ‘Take Joshua the son of Nun with you, a man in whom is the Spirit, and LAY YOUR HAND ON HIM.” – Numbers 27:18.
And in verses 19-21, we see that Joshua’s ordination as the leader of the “congregation of the children of Israel” set him apart from the people and carried with it a charge – a great responsibility to lead and to guide the people of God.

And, by the laying on of hands DEACONS WERE ORDAINED to carry out physical responsibilities in the New Testament Church of God. Such as serving of tables and caring for widows – Acts 6:1, 2, 6. These were specific duties assigned to Deacons to maintain order in the New Testament Church. So, Deacons are set apart from regular members of the congregation to carry out physical aspects of the Church of God – and so was ordained by the laying on of hands!

Ordination is the conferring of certain added responsibilities upon someone who has proven his trustworthiness. And, it is preparatory in doing a job and the handling of responsibility, never as a reward for work already done. With ordination comes authority, yet, that authority does not come from men – it is charged by Almighty God and Jesus Christ, the confirming of the laying on of hands!

Paul warns Timothy:
“Do not lay hands on anyone hastily, nor share in other people’s sins; …” – I Timothy 5:22.
Indeed, Jesus Christ – the Head of the Church – will not give any responsibility to a man until he has learned to rightly handle the duties he already has.

So, ordination by the laying on of hands is God’s Way of setting apart and conferring the grave responsibility and authority to a human servant who has learned how to serve faithfully, boldly, yet with humility under the authority of Jesus Christ.

The laying on of hands is one of the most basic foundational doctrines of the Church of God. It shows us that Jesus Christ is the LIVING HEAD OF THIS CHURCH!

By this ceremony we submit ourselves to Jesus Christ – our Elder Brother, our Great High Priest – as “a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service” – Romans 12:1. We also show this world, as Paul continued, “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”

Friends, through His human servants, Christ Jesus is adding SPIRIT-FILLED MEMBERS to His BODY by baptism and the laying on of hands. Through His human servants, He QUALIFIES more men for a grave responsibility of service in this growing Work!

Jesus Christ is indeed leading the way – let us all be following where He leads!

World News Items:

The United States presidential campaign is in full swing with two Democratic party debates last week (See: ‘Winners and losers from the 1st 2020 Democratic debate’ and also ‘In Japan, Trump's tweet war on Democrats rages unabated’). I am of the belief that whoever wins, Republican, Democrat or any other party in 2020, will lead to the beginning of the end the calm before the storm – prophetically speaking. Friends we are getting ever closer to the end-time trauma. And whoever is the next US President will – most likely unwittingly – take steps that will lead to our Lord God’s prophesied ‘great tribulation’ – Matthew 24:21-22. Indeed, we all should be praying for God’s Kingdom to come soon – Matthew 6:10.

In California, two great earthquakes shook Southern portions of the state (See: ‘Two Big Earthquakes Shook Rural Southern California. What Would Have Happened If They Hit a Major City?’). And a swarm of aftershocks has been following (See: ‘A 6.4-magnitude earthquake shook California. Now comes the ‘swarm’ of aftershocks'). Our Lord God indeed prophesied for this end-time: “’ For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be earthquakes in various places … These are the beginnings of sorrows.’” – Matthew 24:8.

Contrary to some in the news media and the political arena which has stated that “Trump has defeated ISIS” the Islamic State is continuing to issue threats against the United Kingdom and the United States – with some thinking they were going to strike on the 4th (See: ‘YOU WILL BURN’ Sick ISIS supporters threaten to bomb London and New York and attack a plane in chilling terror posters’). Well, whether or not this truly is from people claiming to be supporters of that perverted religion, more terrorism will strike the USA and her Anglo-Saxon descended allies – cf. Leviticus 26:14-17; Deuteronomy 32:25; Ezekiel 21:12.

On the 1st of this month, the Trump Administration proposed more tariffs against Europe, and Wednesday of last week United Kingdom members of the European Parliament turned their backs when the EU Anthem was being played (See: ‘European Parliament opens amid protest and discord’ as well as ‘US threatens EU with $4 billion worth of additional tariffs’). Indeed, the Europeans are becoming ever increasingly upset with the United Kingdom and the United States (See: ‘Iran nuclear deal: INSTEX now operational’). Consistent with biblical prophecies, what God’s servants have been warning related to trade and the UK’s and the US’s future relationship with Europe is coming to pass.

Also, in the EU Parliament, several top positions became available. German Defense Minister Ursula von der Leyen was proposed as the next European Commission President to replace Jean-Claude Juncker (See: ‘EU Leaders Break Deadlock, Naming Two Women to Fill Top Spots’). CNN has reported, “One of Leyen's only publicly-known European policies is her support of a European army, something Macron badly wants to lead the charge on.” She is also known for advocating a military that can function independently of the United States of America. Indeed, a United Europe is prophesied to have “a great army” – cf. Daniel 11:13. Of course, this will occur whether or not Ursula von der Leyen becomes the next European Commission President (of course some oppose her nomination in Europe).

A great many world events are continuing to be aligned with properly understood biblical end-time prophecies.

Suggested Sabbath Service

Here is a suggested Sabbath service for this week.

● 2-3 hymns. (another free printable “Old Time Gospel” hymn site is The Old Time Gospel).
● Opening prayer.
● Sermonette (if you choose). The one suggested is God’s Children Are of the Light!
● Announcements (if any) and one hymn.
● Sermon. The one suggested is Few Are Chosen by Michael C. Garrett. (Many more sermons are
   available at http://www.owensborochurchofjesuschrist.com/).
● Final hymn.
● Closing prayer.

IN CASE YOU HAVE NOT RECEIVED A ‘LETTER TO OUR FRIENDS’ FOR ANY WEEK, REMEMBER WE HAVE MANY SERMON MESSAGES ON THE Owensboro Church of Jesus Christ website. Also, there are audio sermons on our Soundcloud Radio channel.

Concluding Comments

Minister Michael C. Garrett wrote the following:

Matthew chapter 6, He gave another treasure of a little gem. He said, “’ For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.’” You can ask yourself that question. I can say, “OK, Michael C. what do you treasure!?” Because that’s really where my heart is. Or, if you’re evaluating somebody that you meet, what is their treasure!? If it’s like that guy who just can’t wait to get to the bar, you pretty well know what his treasure is. He worships at the altar of his alcohol. Or, his drug addiction. Whatever it is. All the different things you could get into. You can find out where a human heart is – and if you meet a church person, you just wanna know, can I trust this person!? How sincere are they!? Just ask yourself the question: What is their treasure!? 
If they spend all of their time talking about their new car, their new house, their new this, their new physical whatever it is, you pretty well have a clue that their heart is not tuned in to the things of God. It just speaks for itself. “’ For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.’” …
And then Jesus had something to say over in Luke 6 – which is a powerful statement! I guess if we would all apply this to our lives, how much better off we would be. Luke chapter 6, verse 36 – “’ Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful. 37) Judge not, and you shall not be judged.’” – O’ my! If we as an organization could simply put that into effect and have it at the root of our spiritual DNA, what a much finer and more powerful organization we would be in the service of Jesus Christ! And yet that often is not the way things go. He says, “’ Condemn not, and you shall not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.’” – and what’s the counterpart of that!? If you don’t forgive, you won’t be forgiven! If you hold that grudge, that sense of vengeance in your heart, you are far from doing the will of God and it will cripple your heart and it will poison your heart and it will calcify your heart. And for those people who always want to point fingers – you’ve always been around them – they can’t wait to tell you the latest story about some piece of bad news on somebody else. It’s the old saying, that if you find somebody pointing their finger at somebody, three fingers are always pointing back. 
In deep gratitude and love, in Jesus' name,


Tuesday, July 2, 2019

Letter to our Friends - July 2, 2019

Dear Friends:

Greetings again from Owensboro, Kentucky.

We continue to proclaim the good news of the Kingdom of God around the world, as well as to ‘feed’ the Body of Christ!

Feast of Trumpets

Friends, the next holy days are the Feast of Trumpets (from sunset September 29th through sunset September 30th this year), also the Day of Atonement (from sunset October 8th through sunset October 9th of this year), and the Feast of Tabernacles and the Last Great Day (from sunset October 13th through sunset October 21st this year).

Deacon Trevor Koonce may be giving a sermonette this Feast of Tabernacles. We greatly look forward to this! If you are in the United States and are able and wish to attend with us, please email Mr. Michael C. Garrett. His email address remains garrett158@roadrunner.com.

The New Testament indeed mentions the ‘blowing of trumpets’ when prophetic matters of judgment are involved.

Our Lord and Savior taught:
’ Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven [the sky], and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. 31) And He will send His angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they will gather His elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other [in other words, from all around the world].’”– Matthew 24:30-31; NKJV and hereafter.
The Apostle Paul taught similarly:
“For the Lord, Himself will descend from heaven [the sky] with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet [the SEVENTH TRUMPET] of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. 17) Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord.” – 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17.
So both our Lord and Paul taught that the saints of God would be gathered together when the SEVENTH TRUMPET sound goes forth! And that Jesus would return with a trumpet blast! The last trumpet – THE SEVENTH TRUMPET!
“Behold, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep [not all die], but we shall all be changed – 52) in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, AT THE LAST TRUMPET. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.” – 1 Corinthians 15:51-52.
So, because this is indeed referring to THE LAST TRUMPET, the Bible does not support the concept of a “rapture,” as many evangelicals teach and believe in.

Now, although his writings are not a part of God’s inspired Words – the Bible – Polycarp, who was a disciple of the Apostle John, indeed looked forward to the fulfillment of this prophesied trumpet blast when he wrote:
“Therefore, prepare yourselves for the race and serve the Lord in fear and truth like people who have forsaken the useless, empty talk and the errors of the multitude and believed in the One who raised up our Lord Jesus Christ from the dead and gave him glory and a throne at his right hand.
All things in heaven and on earth are subject to him. Every spirit serves Him. He comes as the Judge of the living and the dead. God will require justice for His blood from those who do not believe in Him.
But the One who raised Christ from the dead will raise us also, if we do His will, walk in His commandments, love what He loved, and keep ourselves from all unrighteousness, greed, love of money, evil speaking, and lies.”
(Polycarp. The Epistle of Polycarp to the Philippians. Vol. II. The Ante-Nicene Fathers).
 This ‘last trumpet’ in 1st Corinthians is the SEVENTH TRUMPET of Revelation 11:15:
“Then the seventh angel sounded: And there were loud voices in heaven [the sky], saying, ‘The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever!’” – Revelation 11:15.

The Book of Revelation reveals a whole series of events which will accompany the blowing of trumpets –called the ‘seven angels who had the seven trumpets.’ Now, these angels blowing these seven trumpets are in order, however, the Book of Revelation is not in chronological order.

Minister Michael C. Garrett wrote:
What I’m about to say to you has never been taught – was never – in the Churches of God, be it Worldwide, United, Philadelphia, or Intercontinental, or International, or Global, or Living, this concept which I am about to tell you. Most likely if you have a background and history with the remnants of the Worldwide Church of God you have NEVER heard this before. The Day of Atonement is prophetically linked with an event which the Bible calls the Day of the Lord. You were taught as doctrine, and many of you still believe, … but the official teaching of the Worldwide Church of God was that there were the SEVEN SEALS, and then the SEVEN TRUMPETS, and then the SEVEN LAST PLAGUES, and THEN JESUS CHRIST would return. … Not an accurate rendition according to the Word of God! … Remember – SEVEN SEALS, SEVEN TRUMPETS – THE SEVENTH TRUMP IS THE RESURRECTION TRUMPET! …
The WRATH OF GOD (the Day of the Lord) is prophetically linked with the Day of Atonement. The single most prophesied event in the Bible – bar none. Not even the Return of Jesus Christ is prophesied as much as the Day of the Lord is prophesied. The Fall Holy Days picture, in a prophetic sense, some of the major events, major stages, major progressions of the end-times. The SEVEN SEALS of the Book of Revelation are the symbolic, prophetically, of the early ‘troubles’ which will befall this world, and in particular, the House of Judah and the House of Israel. And the FIRST SIX of the SEVEN TRUMPETS are a progression of those ‘troubles.’ And the SEVENTH TRUMP of the seven trump’s is indeed, directly related to the concept of the resurrection of the saint’s. The blowing of the SEVENTH TRUMP! And following that, in the Book of Revelation – Chapters 15 & 16 – you read about the SEVEN LAST PLAGUES.”

Let us read of that progression of ‘troubles’:
 “So the seven angels who had the seven trumpets prepared themselves to sound. 7) The first angel sounded: And hail and fire followed, mingled with blood, and they were thrown to the earth. And a third of the trees were burned up, and all green grass was burned up. 8) Then the second angel sounded: And something like a great mountain burning with fire was thrown into the sea [the Mediterranean Sea], and a third of the sea became blood. 9) And a third of the living creatures in the sea died, and a third of the ships were destroyed. 10) Then the third angel sounded: And a great star fell from heaven [from the sky or rather space], burning like a torch, and it fell on a third of the rivers and on the springs of water. 11) The name of the star is Wormwood [meaning bitter]. A third of the waters became [bitter], and many men dies from the water, because it was made bitter. 12) The fourth angel sounded: And a third of the sun was struck, and a third of the moon, and a third of the stars, so that a third of them were darkened. A third of the day did not shine, and likewise the night. … 9:1 - Then the fifth angel sounded: And I saw a star fallen from heaven [the sky] to the earth [Satan and his demons are about to be thrown into the bottomless pit just before the return of Jesus Christ! cf. Rev. 20:1-2]. To him was given the key to the bottomless pit, 2) And he opened the bottomless pit, and smoke arose out of the pit like the smoke of a great furnace. So the sun and the air were darkened because of the smoke of the pit. … 13) Then the sixth angel sounded: And I heard a voice from the four horns of the golden altar, which is before God, 14) saying to the sixth angel who had the trumpet, ‘Release the four angels who are bound at the great river Euphrates.’” – Revelation 8:6-12; 9:1-2, 13-14.

And, of course, the SEVENTH TRUMP of the seven trump’s is indeed, directly related to the concept of the resurrection of the saint’s.

Flipboard


The Owensboro Church of Jesus Christ is determined to go through whatever doors Almighty God and Jesus Christ continue to open (Revelation 3:7-13), and indeed, Flipboard is another one of those doors.


Friends, we utilize Flipboard to assemble the OCOJC sermons and articles onto a single platform, where readers can keep up to date with the latest content and browse through various biblical subjects. The web-based Flipboard presents a very clean and uncluttered very attractive design and easy to read, a selective screen with wide images. Mobile apps display a magazine-style layout, with easy flip page feature akin to an eBook.

We currently have 7 magazines on specific topics. Sermons and articles in relation to Biblical prophecy are in one magazine, and Letter’s to our Friends in another.

Cambodia


Thank you so very much, dear friends, in Cambodia! We’ve had over 241 visits since May 12th from Cambodia to our blog site - https://www.owensborocojc.com. In a country where over 97% of the population practices Theravada Buddhism, this indeed is the great and awesome Work of Almighty God and Jesus Christ!

Friends, we ask that you pray for God’s people in Cambodia, that He protects them there as a mother eagle that rouses her chicks and hovers over her young, spreading His mighty wings to keeping them safe – especially His begotten daughters!

World News Items


There has been even more rhetoric related to matters between the United States of America and Iran (See: ‘Trump Imposes New Iran Sanctions, Targeting its Supreme Leader’). US President Donald Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner, has been in the Middle East trying to put together an economic plan that the Trump Administration hopes will lead to a peace plan between the Israelites, the Palestinians, the Jordanians, and Egyptians (See: ‘Kushner faces battle to sell economic plan for Palestinians at peace conference’). While the Palestinians are in opposition to the Trump Administration, will they eventually accept a peace plan in that region which is consistent with Daniel 9:27. Yet, do not expect this to happen anytime soon.

In Germany, Chancellor Angela Merkel is seen shaking again as she met Germany’s Frank-Walter Steinmeier (See: ‘Germany’s Angela Merkel is seen shaking for second time in month’). As CNN’s Matthew Qvortrup noted, “Such incidents would be newsworthy on any day. What makes the matter even more alarming is that Merkel suffered a similar episode of the shakes when she met the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky earlier this month. … That the most powerful female politician in democratic history is unwell at a time of crisis is a cause for concern. And her ailment could not come at a worse time. If she is indeed ill, Germany, and hence the rest of Europe, is facing a crisis at a very inopportune moment. … Merkel's potential illness might lead to a more stable government” (See: ‘Angela Merkel's shaking could be start of a new beginning for Germany’). Recall in the last ‘Letter to our Friends’ I had stated, “according to Bible prophecy, Europe will once again reorganize.” Will her illness (whatever it may be) quicken the rise of the final “beast” power!?

Also in Europe, there are grave concerns concerning Italy’s financial situation which poses an ‘existential crisis’ for the Eurozone (See: ‘Europe Won’t Admit the Mini-BOTs Are Coming’). Will some type of financial crisis trigger the rise of the final ‘beast’ power – a reorganized Europe – which is spoken of in Revelation 17:12-13!?

In the United Kingdom, the leading candidate for Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, had some type of domestic incident which has blown up in the news (See: ‘Unruly' Private Life Disrupts Boris Johnson’s Bid to Lead Britain’). Now, IF Boris Johnson does indeed become the next PM of the UK, AND he is able to keep his word – the UK will be out of the EU by November 1, 2019! Now, the EU does not care for Boris Johnson, and if he becomes prime minister, that will just be another thing in a long list of things which Europe will negatively remember after BREXIT.

In the Vatican City State, Jorge Mario Bergoglio (aka Pope Francis), spoke about the “Church” being leaven in every age (See: ‘General Audience: Pope: In Every Age, the Church Is Called to Be Leaven’). Now, he indeed contradicts the Apostle Paul when he says, ‘the Church is called to be leaven.’ Recall what our Eldest Brother and Savior WARNED – Luke 12:1-2! True Christians have kept UNLEAVENED BREAD for Passover, and they have kept the Days of Unleavened Bread. So, in every age, the true Church of God is not called to be leaven. Christians are to strive to be spiritually unleavened (1 Corinthians 5:7), and Jesus Christ is the unleavened Bread of sincerity and truth! (1 Corinthians 5:8). Now, since the Church of Rome uses an unleavened eucharistic host and the Eastern Orthodox along with with many Protestants use leavened bread in their eucharistic ceremonies, his statement could be but another indicator that he is preparing the Mother church along with her protesting daughters in evermore ecumenical compromises. What is to happen, ultimately, to the Church of Rome with a decade or so, is not what the leader of that Mother organization wants – cf. Revelation 17:16-18.

Suggested Sabbath Service


Here is a suggested Sabbath service for this week.

● 2-3 hymns. (another free printable “Old Time Gospel” hymn site is The Old Time Gospel).
● Opening prayer.
● Sermonette (if you choose). The one suggested is The Unleavened Bread Of Sincerity And Truth.
● Announcements (if any) and one hymn.
● Sermon. The one suggested is Christ In You (Unleavened Bread – Day 5) – 2017 by Michael C.
   Garrett. (Many more sermons are available at http://www.owensborochurchofjesuschrist.com/.
● Final hymn.
● Closing prayer.

IN CASE YOU HAVE NOT RECEIVED A ‘LETTER TO OUR FRIENDS’ FOR ANY WEEK, REMEMBER WE HAVE MANY SERMON MESSAGES ON THE Owensboro Church of Jesus Christ website. Also, there are audio sermons on our Soundcloud Radio channel.

Concluding Comments


Again, Minister Michael C. Garrett wrote:
“2nd Timothy chapter 2, verse 7 – “Consider what I say, and may the Lord give you understanding in all things.” – here’s Paul wanting us to have understanding on this. Verse 8 – “Remember that Jesus Christ, of the seed of David, was raised from the dead according to [as we have spoken], 9) for which I suffer trouble as an evildoer, even to the point of chains; but the Word of God is not chained. 10) Therefore I endure all things for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.” Verse 11 – “This is a faithful saying: For if we died with Him, We shall also live with Him. 12) If we endure, We shall also reign with Him.” – but sadly enough, “if we deny Him, He also will deny us.”
2nd Timothy chapter 1, verse 6 – Paul said, ‘Timothy, “Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands. 7) For God has not given us a spirit of fear, …”– remember, Paul’s comment about most people spend their entire lives in the bondage of the fear of death!? That is not to be our fear! But He has given us instead a spirit “of power and of love and of a sound mind.” – and a part of that soundness comes from the fact that we know that when our eyes close for the last time, our heart stops beating, and our lungs stop – we know that we will live again! Because the power of Jesus Christ will make it so!
Verse 8 – “Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me His prisoner, but share with me in the sufferings for the gospel according to the power of God, 9) who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, …” – the calling He has given us is to be eternal members of His eternal Family! “not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before [the world] began.”
But it will soon be obvious – Verse 10 – “…by the appearing of our Savior Jesus Christ, who has abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through [this Message] …” We are not an immortal soul, but someday, through the gift of God, we will be immortal!"
(The Confusion About Death!).           
In deep gratitude and love, in Jesus' name,



https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwFd99BM0EXyAdM7MWtKcjw