CONTENTS

ÒAnd Knowledge Shall IncreaseÓ . .Page 1The Courage of Our ConvictionsÑ

Part Two . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 2WhatÕs New on the Web? . . . . . . .Page 5Working Together in

Preaching the Gospel . . . . . . .Page 6We Are All Leaders . . . . . . . . . . .Page 7United Youth Camps . . . . . . . . . .Page 8Around the World . . . . . . . . . . .Page 12Local Church Update . . . . . . . .Page 13Announcements . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 14Letters From Our Readers . . . . .Page 15Revisiting the Remnant Church of God

in Ghana . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 16

UNITED CHURCH OF GOD, an International Association

New Beginningsª

United Church of GodP.O. Box 661780

Arcadia, CA 91066-1780

(626) 294-0800(626) 294-0808 Fax

Vol. 4, No. 1MONDAY, JANUARY 12, 1998

ÒAnd Knowledge Shall IncreaseÓ

The next issue of NewBeginnings is scheduled to bepublished on Monday, February 9,1998.

by Robert Dick

All of us watch prophecy. We won-der about the times in which we live. Isthe end of the age soon, we ask?

One end time prophecy runs throughmy mind every time I travel to the air-port, or pick up a newspaper and read thelatest advance in information technology.ÒBut you, Daniel, shut up the words, andseal the book until the time of the end;many shall run to and fro, and knowledgeshall increaseÓ (Daniel 12:4).

Anyone who travels by air has tomarvel at the mass of people traveling toevery corner of the world every day ofthe week. Travel by air has lost its lus-terÑmissed flights, delayed flights,canceled flights, overbooked flightsÑitÕs a way of life. ÒMany shall run to andfro.Ó

What about knowledge? IBMannounced recently that it had developedtechnology that would allow the storageof the equivalent of over 1,200 average-length novels on one square inch of harddisk space. My sons entered the comput-er age less than 20 years ago with aCommodore 64 with 64K of memory.TodayÕs multimedia personal computersare sold with 32 megabytes of RAMÑ500 times as much memory. TodayÕshome computers, commonly advertisedin the local computer store flyer, cancome with information storage capaci-ties 100,000 times greater than the lowlyCommodore 64! ÒAnd knowledge shallincrease.Ó

DanielÕs words didnÕt comment onwhether this phenomenon was good orbad, only that it would be the state ofthings at the end time.

ManÕs Desire for Knowledge

Man seems to have been createdwith an indiscriminate desire to know,and then given the challenge by God ofchanneling that desire as one of the char-acter-building opportunities of life. Godplaced in the midst of the garden of Edena tree which would impart knowledgeÑgood and evil knowledge. You cannothelp but wonder if its placement in thegarden was to test man. After all, did notGod say, ÒOf every tree of the garden youmay freely eat; but of the tree of theknowledge of good and evil you shall noteat, for in the day that you eat of it youshall surely dieÓ (Genesis 2:16Ð17)?

Even a warning that eating of thetree would be fatal did not deter Eve, andlater Adam, from taking its fruit. Why?Well, as the supermarket tabloid says,ÒInquiring minds want to know.Ó ÒSowhen the woman saw that the tree wasgood for food [I cannot help but interjectthat she was surrounded by trees filledwith fruit that was Ôgood for foodÕ], thatit was pleasant to the eyes, and a treedesirable to make one wise, she took ofits fruit and ate. She also gave to her hus-band with her, and he ateÓ (Genesis 3:6emphasis mine). It is interesting to notethat God never said the tree would makeone wise, only that it was a tree of knowl-edge of good and evil. There is quite adifference.

Knowledge Not Equal to Wisdom

Solomon observed that an increaseof knowledge was synonymous with anincrease of sorrow (Ecclesiastes 1:18). Ican attest to that as can most of you.

(See ÒKNOWLEDGE,Ó page 11)

The Courage of OurConvictionsÑPart Two

by David Hulme

In the November 17, 1997, issue Iwrote about the courage of our convic-tions. Included was a letter written byan Anabaptist woman imprisoned inAntwerp as she awaited death by burn-ing for practicing baptism by immer-sion. She wrote a powerfully movingletter to her newborn child demonstrat-ing her great faith. I asked the questionwhether there could be any doubt thatshe had the courage of her convictions,and whether we have suffered anythingremotely similar forour convictions. Wethen looked at sever-al examples of menand women in theBible who alsodemonstrated thequality of courage,including Stephen,Abraham, Enoch,Peter, John, Daniel,and the heroes andheroines of Hebrews11.

The article con-cluded with PaulÕssummary statementfrom Philippians about the importanceof demonstrating the courage of ourconvictions: ÒOnly let your conduct beworthy of the gospel of Christ, so thatwhether I come and see you or amabsent, I may hear of your affairs, thatyou stand fast in one spirit, with onemind striving together for the faith ofthe gospel, and not in any way terrifiedby your adversaries, which is to them aproof of perdition, but to you of salva-tion, and that from God.

ÒFor to you it has been granted onbehalf of Christ, not only to believe inHim, but also to suffer for His sake,having the same conflict which you sawin me and now hear is in meÓ(Philippians 1:27Ð30). Since writingthat article based on a short sermon,

IÕve been asked to continue the theme.What follows is the result of some fur-ther study.

PaulÕs comments above emphasizethat suffering is part of the Christianlife. ItÕs a privilege that comes with theprivilege of being called now. And itdemands courage of us. The demonstra-tion of courage is something that wemust provide. ItÕs the outward evidenceof our belief and conviction. We shouldask for GodÕs help and direction inexpressing that courage. Courageousaction springs from the decisions wemake, in connection with God and Hisway of life. Expressing such courage isan opportunity to consolidate our rela-

tionship with ourFather.

An example thatoften comes to mindwhen courage ismentioned is that ofJoshua as he becamesuccessor to Mosesas leader of theChildren of Israel.JoshuaÕs exampleand GodÕs instruc-tions to him abouthaving courage res-onate through thepages of the Bible.LetÕs look in detail at

the record and see what it teaches.ÒThen Moses called Joshua and said tohim in the sight of all Israel, ÔBe strongand of good courage, for you must gowith this people to the land which theLORD has sworn to their fathers to givethem, and you shall cause them toinherit it. And the LORD, He is the onewho goes before you. He will be withyou, He will not leave you nor forsakeyou; do not fear nor be dismayed.Õ

ÒThen He inaugurated Joshua theson of Nun, and said, ÔBe strong and ofgood courage; for you shall bring thechildren of Israel into the land of whichI swore to them, and I will be withyouÕÓ (Deuteronomy 31:7Ð8, 23).

This exhortation from Moses wassoon repeated three times to Joshua by

Page New Beginnings Monday, January 12, 19982

New BeginningsJanuary 12, 1998 Vol. 4, No. 1

New Beginnings (ISSN 1088-8020) is published monthlyby the United Church of God, an InternationalAssociation, 444 E. Huntington Dr., Arcadia, CA 91006.© 1998 United Church of God, an InternationalAssociation. Printed in the U.S.A. All rights reserved.Reproduction in any form without written permission isprohibited. Periodicals Postage paid at Arcadia, California91006, and at additional mailing offices.

Managing editor: Peter W. Eddington

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Gary Antion, Robert Dick (chairman), Jim Franks, Roy Holladay, David Hulme, Victor Kubik,

Dennis Luker, Les McCullough, Burk McNair, Peter Nathan, Leon Walker, Donald Ward

President: David Hulme

Scriptural references are from the New King JamesVersion (© 1988 Thomas Nelson, Inc., Publishers) unlessotherwise noted.

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From the PresidentÉ

Joshua’s example andGod’s instructions to him

about having courageresonate through thepages of the Bible.

God. The first time that Joshua is com-manded to be courageous, the statementis supported by the fact that God haspromised the land to Israel: ÒBe strongand of good courage, for to this peopleyou shall divide as an inheritance theland which I swore to their fathers togive themÓ (Joshua 1:6). Joshua is ableto demonstrate courage, because Godhas made a promise.

The second instruction to havecourage is based on the strength andsupport that comes from obedience tothe law of God: ÒOnly be strong andvery courageous, that you may observeto do according to all the law whichMoses My servant commanded you; donot turn from it to the right hand or tothe left, that you may prosper whereveryou go. This Book of the Law shall notdepart from your mouth, but you shallmeditate in it day and night, that youmay observe to do according to all thatis written in it. For then you will makeyour way prosperous, and then you willhave good successÓ (Joshua 1: 7Ð8).

The Law would provide Joshuawith the surest of foundations. Hewould be able to act with confidence, ifhe would lead Israel according to theLaw of God. Joshua was to talk aboutthe Law, think about it and its applica-tion, and then act on it.

The third admonition to Joshuaabout courage referenced the proximityof God. Joshua was to be aware ofGodÕs close presence: ÒHave I not com-manded you? Be strong and of goodcourage; do not be afraid, nor be dis-mayed, for the LORD your God is withyou wherever you goÓ (Joshua 1:9).This is a repetition of something saidearlier: ÒNo man shall be able to standbefore you all the days of your life; as Iwas with Moses, so I will be with you.I will not leave you nor forsake youÓ(verse 5).

What can we learn from theseexamples that we can base our courageto act upon? They are: knowing GodÕspromises, knowing the Law of God andhaving confidence that God is alwaysthere to support His people.

Knowing GodÕs Promises

LetÕs look first at courage based onpromises. What are some of the promis-

es that we have? There are variouskinds of promises in the Bible. Someare very specific, others are broad andoverarching. For example: ÒHe who hasbegun a good work in you will com-plete it until the day of Jesus ChristÓ(Philippians 1:6). This is a broadpromise of continuous support through-out the Christian life. Then there is amore defined though still broad promiseof the future: ÒTherefore let that abidein you which you heard from the begin-ning. If what you heard from the begin-ning abides in you, you also will abidein the Son and in the Father. And this isthe promise that He has promised usÑeternal lifeÓ (1 John 2:24Ð25).

The promise of the future is stateda little differently by the apostle Peter:ÒGrace and peace be multiplied to you

in the knowledge of God and of Jesusour Lord, as His divine power has givento us all things that pertain to life andgodliness, through the knowledge ofHim who called us by glory and virtue,by which have been given to us exceed-ingly great and precious promises, thatthrough these you may be partakers ofthe divine nature, having escaped thecorruption that is in the world throughlustÓ (2 Peter 1:2Ð4). These overarchingpromises refer to GodÕs continuinghelp, the assurance of eternal life, andreceiving His very nature.

Then there are more specificpromises. HereÕs one that gets to thespecifics of the benefits of right fasting:ÒBut you, when you fast, anoint yourhead and wash your face, so that you donot appear to men to be fasting, but toyour Father who is in the secret place;

and your Father who sees in secret willreward you openlyÓ (Matthew6:17Ð18). ThereÕs the familiar promiseabout the physical things we need inlife: ÒTherefore do not worry, saying,ÔWhat shall we eat?Õ or ÔWhat shall wedrink?Õ or ÔWhat shall we wear?Õ Forafter all these things the Gentiles seek.For your heavenly Father knows thatyou need all these things. But seek firstthe kingdom of God and His righteous-ness, and all these things shall be addedto youÓ (Matthew 6:31Ð33).

King David recognized the truth ofthese promises centuries earlier, whenhe said, ÒI have been young, and nowam old; yet I have not seen the right-eous forsaken, nor his descendants beg-ging breadÓ (Psalm 37:25). One moreexample of the diversity of GodÕspromises is found in LukeÕs gospel:ÒGive, and it will be given to you: goodmeasure, pressed down, shaken togeth-er, and running over will be put intoyour bosom. For with the same measurethat you use, it will be measured back toyouÓ (Luke 6:38).

GodÕs promises are sure. They canbe relied upon. They give a basis forconfidence leading to courageousaction.

Being Knowledgeable About the Law of God

The second reason for Joshua tohave courage was his knowledge ofGodÕs Law. Joshua was to lead Israelin knowing and understanding theLaw. One way to accomplish this wasfor Joshua to write out the Law forthem. He did this in a ceremony afterthey entered the Promised Land: ÒAndthere, in the presence of the children ofIsrael, he wrote on the stones a copy ofthe law of Moses, which he had writ-ten. Then all Israel, with their eldersand officers and judges, stood oneither side of the ark before the priests,the Levites, who bore the ark of thecovenant of the LORD, the stranger aswell as he who was born among them.Half of them were in front of MountGerizim and half of them in front ofMount Ebal, as Moses the servant ofthe LORD had commanded before, thatthey should bless the people of Israel.

ÒAnd afterward he read all the

Monday, January 12, 1998 New Beginnings Page 3

God’s promises are sure.They can be relied upon.

They give a basis for confidence leading to courageous action.

Page New Beginnings Monday, January 12, 1998

words of the law, the blessings and thecursings, according to all that is writtenin the Book of the Law. There was nota word of all that Moses had com-manded which Joshua did not readbefore all the assembly of Israel, withthe women, the little ones, and thestrangers who were living amongthemÓ (Joshua 8:32Ð35).

In later years the kings of Israelwere to write out the Law for their ownunderstanding: ÒAlso it shall be, whenhe sits on the throne of his kingdom,that he shall write for himself a copy ofthis law in a book, from the one beforethe priests, the Levites. And it shall bewith him, and he shall read it all thedays of his life, that he may learn tofear the LORD his God and be careful toobserve all the words of this law andthese statutes, that his heart may not belifted above his brethren, that he maynot turn aside from the commandmentto the right hand or to the left, and thathe may prolong his days in his king-dom, he and his children in the midst ofIsraelÓ (Deuteronomy 17:18Ð20).

The counterpart to this today wasprophesied when God said throughJeremiah, ÒBut this is the covenant thatI will make with the house of Israelafter those days, says the LORD: I willput My law in their minds, and write iton their hearts; and I will be their God,and they shall be My peopleÓ(Jeremiah 31:33). The book ofHebrews confirms that this has hap-pened (see Hebrews 8:10, 10:16).

Put simply, we will be blessedwhen we follow the commandments ofGod. This knowledge gives us cause toact with courage on the basis of theLawÕs content. How well do we, as theNew Testament people of God, knowthe Law of God?

The importance of knowing theLaw is emphasized in the book ofJames: ÒSo rid yourselves of all vulgar-ity and obvious evil, and receive meek-ly the Word implanted in you that cansave your lives. DonÕt deceive your-selves by only hearing what the Wordsays, but do it! For whoever hears theWord but doesnÕt do what it says is likesomeone who looks at his face in a mir-ror, who looks at himself, goes awayand immediately forgets what he lookslike. But if a person looks closely into

the perfect Torah, which gives free-dom, and continues, becoming not aforgetful hearer but a doer of the workit requires, then he will be blessed inwhat he doesÓ (James 1:21Ð25 JewishNew Testament).

If you want a revealing look at theimpact of knowing the Law, the Psalmsprovide a wealth of information.DavidÕs appreciation for the Law andits benefits are clearly seen in Psalm119.

God Is There To Support His People

The third reason for Joshua to havecourage was that God was with him,close by, and would not abandon him.

It is the same for us: ÒLet your conductbe without covetousness; be contentwith such things as you have. For HeHimself has said, ÔI will never leaveyou nor forsake you.Õ [This latterphrase is taken directly from Joshua1:5.] So we may boldly say: ÔThe LORD

is my helper; I will not fear. What canman do to me?ÕÓ (Hebrews 13:5Ð6).

These three aspects of GodÕsinstruction to Joshua give depth to ourunderstanding of the basis for express-ing courage. There are other examplesin the Bible, and they too relate back toJoshuaÕs experience, and the messageGod gave him. For example, whenDavid was passing on the kingdom toSolomon, he gave instructions aboutbuilding the House of God. His wordsrecalled the instructions given toJoshua: ÒNow, my son, may the LORD

be with you; and may you prosper, and

build the house of the LORD your God,as He has said to you. Only may theLORD give you wisdom and under-standing, and give you charge concern-ing Israel, that you may keep the law ofthe LORD your God.

ÒThen you will prosper, if you takecare to fulfill the statutes and judg-ments with which the LORD chargedMoses concerning Israel. Be strong andof good courage; do not fear nor bedismayedÓ (1Chronicles 22:11Ð13).The phrase is the same, and in this casesimilarly connected with keeping theLaw of God.

Later in the days of KingHezekiah, the people of Judah wereencouraged to show courage in theface of their Assyrian enemies. AgainGodÕs words to Joshua were recalled:ÒThen he [Hezekiah] set military cap-tains over the people, gathered themtogether to him in the open square ofthe city gate, and gave them encour-agement, saying, ÔBe strong and coura-geous; do not be afraid nor dismayedbefore the king of Assyria, nor beforeall the multitude that is with him; forthere are more with us than with him.With him is an arm of flesh; but withus is the LORD our God, to help us andto fight our battles.Õ And the peoplewere strengthened by the words ofHezekiah king of JudahÓ (2 Chronicles32:6Ð8).

As God had commanded Joshua,so now Hezekiah used the same wordsto his officers, appealing for couragebased on the truth that God was presentwith them.

The reality of GodÕs unseen pres-ence had been powerfully displayed toone frightened man over a century ear-lier: ÒNow the king of Syria was mak-ing war against Israel; and he consultedwith his servants, saying, ÔMy campwill be in such and such a place.Õ Andthe man of God sent to the king ofIsrael, saying, ÔBeware that you do notpass this place, for the Syrians arecoming down there.Õ Then the king ofIsrael sent someone to the place ofwhich the man of God had told him.Thus he warned him, and he waswatchful there, not just once or twice.Therefore the heart of the king of Syriawas greatly troubled by this thing; andhe called his servants and said to them,

4

Put simply, we will beblessed when we followthe commandments ofGod. This knowledge

gives us cause to act withcourage on the basis of

the Law’s content.

Monday, January 12, 1998 New Beginnings Page

ÔWill you not show me which of us isfor the king of Israel?Õ

ÒAnd one of his servants said,ÔNone, my lord, O king; but Elisha, theprophet who is in Israel, tells the kingof Israel the words that you speak inyour bedroom.Õ So he said, ÔGo and seewhere he is, that I may send and gethim.Õ And it was told him, saying,ÔSurely he is in Dothan.Õ Therefore hesent horses andchariots and a greatarmy there, and theycame by night andsurrounded the city.And when the ser-vant of the man ofGod arose early andwent out, there wasan army, surround-ing the city withhorses and chariots.And his servant saidto him, ÔAlas, mymaster! What shallwe do?Õ So heanswered, ÔDo notfear, for those who are with us aremore than those who are with them.ÕAnd Elisha prayed, and said, ÔLORD, Ipray, open his eyes that he may see.ÕThen the LORD opened the eyes of theyoung man, and he saw. And behold,the mountain was full of horses andchariots of fire all around ElishaÓ (2Kings 6:8Ð17).

When we become afraid, and dis-mayed, could it be that we are forget-ting who we are, and therefore, who iswith us, close at hand? Do we forgetthat we have a unique close relation-ship to call on? ÒFor as many as are ledby the Spirit of God, these are sons ofGod. For you did not receive the spiritof bondage again to fear, but youreceived the Spirit of adoption bywhom we cry out, ÔAbba, FatherÕÓ(Romans 8:14Ð15). Fear and the privi-lege of calling God by a close familyname are at opposite ends of the spec-trum. The one precludes the other. TheSpirit of God confers boldness, notfear: ÒFor God has not given us a spir-it of fear, but of power and of love andof a sound mindÓ (2 Timothy 1:7).

David had to summon his couragebased on GodÕs presence and promises,when fear was present, and needed to

be cast out: ÒBe merciful to me, O God,for man would swallow me up; fightingall day he oppresses me. My enemieswould hound me all day, for there aremany who fight against me, O MostHigh. Whenever I am afraid, I will trustin You. In God (I will praise His word),in God I have put my trust; I will notfear. What can flesh do to me?Ó (Psalm56:1Ð4).

There are timesin everyoneÕs lifewhen scriptures likethese become muchmore than words onpaper. ItÕs then thatwe identify withDavidÕs timelesswords: ÒYea, thoughI walk through thevalley of the shadowof death, I will fearno evil; for You arewith meÓ (Psalm23:4); ÒWait on theLORD; be of goodcourage, and He

shall strengthen your heart; wait, I say,on the LORD!Ó (Psalm 27:14).

The Courage of Our Convictions

At the end of his long life, JoshuaÕsperspective had not changed on whatwas necessary in the IsraelitesÕapproach to God. What Joshua hadbeen told by God at the beginning ofhis leadership over Israel, he nowshared in his final words. Courage and

obedience to the law were the keys:ÒNow it came to pass, a long time afterthe LORD had given rest to Israel fromall their enemies round about, thatJoshua was old, advanced in age. AndJoshua called for all Israel, for theirelders, for their heads, for their judges,and for their officers, and said to them:ÔI am old, advanced in age. You haveseen all that the LORD your God hasdone to all these nations because ofyou, for the LORD your God is He whohas fought for you.

ÒÔSee, I have divided to you by lotthese nations that remain, to be an inher-itance for your tribes, from the Jordan,with all the nations that I have cut off, asfar as the Great Sea westward. And theLORD your God will expel them frombefore you and drive them out of yoursight. So you shall possess their land, asthe LORD your God promised you.Therefore be very courageous to keepand to do all that is written in the Bookof the Law of Moses, lest you turn asidefrom it to the right hand or to the leftÕÓ(Joshua 23:1Ð6).

Courage was necessary in the pos-session of the physical Promised Land.God had given the land to Israel, but itcould not be taken without exhibitingcourage in battle after battle.

The promised land that we seek isalso a gift that cannot be possessedwithout the courage of our convictions.Our actions can become more coura-geous by a study of the words Godspoke to Joshua as He encouraged himin his calling. NBNB

5

There are times in everyone’s life when

scriptures become muchmore than words on

paper. It’s then that weidentify with suchtimeless words as

David’s.

WhatÕs New on the Web?¥ January/February Good News:

http://www.ucg.org/html/literat.shtml

¥ December Spanish New Beginnings ÒNuevos ComienzosÓ:

http://www.ucg.org/html/espa_ol.shtml

¥ December 15 Council of Elders teleconference:

http://www.ucg.org/articles/ce971215.html

If you have any questions or comments, please contact:

webmaster@ucg.org

Page New Beginnings Monday, January 12, 19986

From the MinistryÉ

Working Together inPreaching the Gospel

by Roger Foster

In the November 1997 issue of NewBeginnings Mr. Leslie McCulloughurged us to recognize the tremendousimpact our personal example can have inpreaching the gospel. He appealed to usto be the brightest light in our neighbor-hoodÑto enthusiastically take to heartJesusÕ instruction to be the light of theworld.

But it is so easy to treat this admoni-tion lightly. Do you personally grasp itsimportance? Do you truly comprehendjust how vital your part in preaching thegospel really is?

The number one desire expressed bythe members of the Church at this time isto see more concrete evidence that God isworking through us as a bodyÑthat thegospel is effectively being preachedthrough our efforts. But unfortunately,we tend to become sidetracked by focus-ing almost entirely on what and how wemust preach before we adequately focuson the kind of vessels we must be to cred-ibly represent the gospel.

We all know the old saying: Whatyou do speaks so loud I canÕt hear whatyou say! Credibility is our first order ofbusiness. Our success locally and central-ly in preaching the gospel depends uponhow effectively we consolidate our per-sonal examples and efforts into a unifiedendeavor. The work of the Church ismerely the combined example and effortof many individuals.

God Working In Us

We are a young and developingwork. Our efforts are imperfect. Ourresources are small. Our knowledge con-cerning which programs God will abun-dantly bless and which ones will proveless productive in our present context isstill fragmentary. Any work that wedoÑindividually or collectivelyÑmust

have GodÕs blessing to be successful.Surely we all remember that Òunless theLORD builds the house, they labor in vainwho build itÓ (Psalm 127:1). God mustbe working in us and through us(Philippians 2:13).

To have GodÕs blessing we mustlove one another, honor one another andwork together in a manner that those whosee and hear us can say, That is the waypeople ought to treat one another.

This is no small thing. Paul said thatall knowledge, understanding and proph-esying (preaching) is worth nothing if wefail in love (1 Corinthians 13:2). AndJesus tells us, ÒBy this all will know thatyou are My disciples, if you have love forone anotherÓ (John 13:35). Conversely,being poor examples in exhibiting

respectful, loving behavior will destroyour credibility and render our preachingineffective.

James puts it this way: ÒWho iswise and understanding among you? Lethim show by good conduct that hisworks are done in the meekness of wis-dom. But if you have bitter envy andself-seeking in your hearts, do not boastand lie against the truth. This wisdomdoes not descend from above, but isearthly, sensual, demonic. For whereenvy and self-seeking exist, confusionand every evil thing are there. But thewisdom that is from above is first pure,then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield,full of mercy and good fruits, withoutpartiality and without hypocrisy. Now

the fruit of righteousness is sown inpeace by those who make peaceÓ (James3:13Ð18).

Who Will God Bless?

Some have asked: How can weknow that God will bless usÑand thework we do?

The answer really depends on us!God has called us, given us His HolySpirit and a wonderful opportunity towork together. But it is up to us to learnhow to pull together and work as a teamwith love, respect and honor for all. If wedo that, God will bless our efforts. Wepossess the knowledge. We know whatneeds to be preached. We just need con-tinuous, miraculous help from God to beeffective.

But if we become embroiled in con-flicts over how we are to work togetherand fail in being the light this world sodesperately needsÑfail in being a verydifferent body of people who truly reflectthe Spirit of God and the character ofChrist in the way we work together andrelate to all people in or out of theChurchÑthen God cannot and will notbless us.

Your Part Is Vital!

What is your part in preaching theGospel? First and foremost it is to be thevery best Christian that you can possiblybe. Your personal lifeÑyour zeal, yourrespect for others, your willingness tocooperate, your self-control, your heart-felt prayersÑis what God is really exam-ining. He blesses the work of His people,His servants. Your first responsibility isto be one of those fully committed ser-vants.

Please donÕt underestimate this vitaldimension of the work of God. TheChurch can never be stronger than theindividuals who make it a body. TheScriptures tell us, ÒThe LORD looks fromheaven; He sees all the sons of men.From the place of His dwelling He lookson all the inhabitants of the earth; Hefashions their hearts individually; He

It is up to us to learnhow to pull togetherand work as a team

with love, respect andhonor for all. If we do

that, God will bless our efforts.

Monday, January 12, 1998 New Beginnings Page

The following article is reprintedfrom the November/December 1997issue of New BeginningsÐAustralia.

We Are All Leaders

by Bill Eddington

The company I work for is themost valuable company on earth, mea-sured in terms of the total value of itsshares on the stock exchanges of theworld. It has significant presence intwenty-six major world trade cate-gories, with the objective of beingnumber one or number two in each. Ifthe company, after a reasonable periodof time and effort, is unable to reacheither of those positions and sees noprospect of doing so, then a decision ismade to withdraw and invest itsresources of finance and people intoanother business where it can be thebest.

The philosophy of striving to bethe best has driven the company frombeing a good company in the mid-eighties to its preeminent positiontoday, but the principal reason for itsrise has been leadership. The termÒmanagerÓ is not widely used in thecompany, the preferred term beingÒleader.Ó A team-based approach isused to come up with solutions to busi-ness challenges, and the leaders ofthose teams are not necessarily seniorpeople. An employee who comes upwith an idea considered worthy ofimplementation or further investiga-

tion will be the leader of the team cho-sen to work on the idea, and membersof the team may come from positionshierarchically higher or lower than theleader.

Our companyÕs use of the team-leader concept where leaders are cho-sen for initiative rather than seniorityhas produced obvious growth in manyindividuals and we have seen themmarked for greater responsibilities in

the future. After the project is finishedthe leader generally returns to his orher normal routine, but you can be surethe enthusiasm generated will inspirethat person to look for other opportuni-ties, either as a leader or team member.Such individuals have also left anexample for others to emulate.

Too often we look upon seniorityand leadership as being synonymous

but they are not. One can hold a seniorposition but still not be an effectiveleader. Conversely, one can be in aposition of little status but provideeffective leadership without any of thetrappings of power and influence.Timothy, a young, inexperienced min-ister, was instructed by the ApostlePaul, ÒLet no one despise your youth,but be an example to the believers inword, in conduct, in love, in spirit, infaith, in purity. Take heed to yourselfand to the doctrine. Continue in them,for in doing this you will save bothyourself and those who hear youÓ (1Timothy 4:12,16). One doesnÕt doubtthat Timothy followed that directionand led by example.

For many of us, the opportunity toexercise leadership by right of positionor seniority may never come but weeach do have the opportunity to leadby example in our families, in our con-gregations, in the work place and inthe community at large. As theemployee who leads by example isidentified by the boss as someone withpotential to take on more responsibili-ty, so God the Father and Jesus Christtake note of our example. We all desirethat They are well pleased with whatthey see in us and that They look for-ward to giving us more responsibilityin the age to come. NBNB

¥ Bill Eddington is an elder in theMelbourne East, Victoria, congrega-tion and serves on the AustralianNational Council.

7

considers all their worksÓ (Psalms33:13Ð15). The success of the UnitedChurch of God, an InternationalAssociation, in preaching the gospel willalways rest upon the foundation of indi-viduals who are united together throughJesus Christ (Romans 6:5; 12:5).

Our number one priority right now isto achieve that unity so God can use useffectively in His service. Paul tells us,ÒFor all the law is fulfilled in one word,even in this: ÔYou shall love your neigh-bor as yourself.Õ But if you bite anddevour one another, beware lest you beconsumed by one another! I say then:Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not ful-

fill the lust of the fleshÓ (Galatians5:14Ð16).

So we can see that a needed part inGodÕs work is our being a vessel thatGod can use as a light to those who hearthe Ògood newsÓ that we so much desireto proclaim. God will then abundantlybless our efforts in the manner He seesfit.

David expressed this principle sowell. ÒBlessed is the man who walks notin the counsel of the ungodly, nor standsin the path of sinners, nor sits in the seatof the scornful; but his delight is in thelaw of the LORD, and in His law he med-itates day and night. He shall be like a

tree planted by the rivers of water, thatbrings forth its fruit in its season, whoseleaf also shall not wither; and whateverhe does shall prosperÓ (Psalms 1:1Ð3).

Your personal example is vital to thesuccess of preaching the gospel! Are youdeeply committed to doing your partwith an abiding confidence that it willmake a difference in the way God bless-es the efforts of His people to finish Hiswork? NBNB

¥ Roger Foster is pastor of the CampVerde, Arizona, congregation of theUnited Church of God. He is also an edi-torial reviewer for our publications.

As the employee wholeads by example is

identified by the boss assomeone with potential

to take on more responsibility, so Godthe Father and Jesus

Christ take note of our example.

Page New Beginnings Monday, January 12, 19988

Challenger CampGrand Tetons National Park,

Wyoming

Dates: Campers arrive Wednesday, July 29and depart Friday, August 7. Staffarrive Monday, July 27.

Age Range: High school; freshman fall ofÕ98 to graduate spring of Õ98

Fees: Campers, $200; high school/gradu-ate workers, $25; regular adult staff,no charge.

Housing: Tent camping.Applications: Paul Luecke, Challenger

Camp, P.O. Box 7453, Bismarck, ND58507-7453; telephone (701) 255-0023; fax (701) 255-7239; e-mailPaul_Luecke@ucg.org

Description: The Teton Challenger Campis designed for teens who are of highschool age, have already had camp experi-ence, and want the challenge of a higherdegree of difficulty.

This camp is set in the majesticmountains of the Grand Tetons NationalPark, in northwest Wyoming(Yellowstone National Park adjoins on thenorth). This area is one of the most spec-tacular in the nation, drawing campers,hikers and photographers from around theworld.

The Challenger Camp is a completelyoutdoors experience. Sleeping is in tents,cooking and eating are outside, and dip-ping in a cold lake takes the place of someshowers. Note: Due to a number of fac-

tors, some of the activities shown belowcan change; but these activities are allplanned at this writing.

Activities include hiking in highmountains, rock climbing, rappelling, acanoe trip and white-water rafting. In lieuof rock climbing and the canoe trip, therewill be an optional three-day hike for 20campers who are interested and whoqualify.

Important! Because of the nature ofthis camp, anyone applying to this campmust be willing to get in good physicalcondition before camp, and follow allcamp rules without fail. Activities are athigh elevations, and physical conditioningand stamina is a must.

Acceptance is limited to 60 campers.Acceptance criteria will include: Age, abil-ity to bring required equipment, physicalcondition, parentsÕ involvement in thecamperÕs preparation, a personal state-ment, ministerÕs input, willingness to com-ply with all camp rules and a desire to give100 percent effort.

The Challenger Camp is not intendedto be ÒeasyÓ; it is not for those with a lowtolerance of endurance or of regimen. It isdesigned to forge qualities and skills ineach teen that are needed for leadershipdevelopment, relationships, and preparingfor the kingdom of God. It is intended to bea life-changing experience.

In addition to needing adult staff, wewill take applications for a few highschool/graduate workers. These jobs willbe in the area of food services and rockclimbing, and prior camp experience at the

Teton Challenger Camp is a prerequisite.Tuition will be $25 for high school/gradu-ate workers. There is no charge for regularadult staff. Arrival for staff is Monday, July27.

Final note: Anyone interested inapplying to the Challenger Camp shouldbegin looking into transportation optionsnow. Shuttle service will be provided fromthe Jackson Hole, Wyoming, airport andbus station. Plane fares tend to be expen-sive to this airport, but there are some bar-gains, so start watching for them early.Please, however, do not buy any ticketsuntil confirmation of acceptance.

Camp HeritageFarmington, Pennsylvania

Dates: All arrive Sunday, August 16 anddepart Sunday, August 23.

Age Range: Age 11 through senior in highschool.

Fees: Campers, $145; staff, $25.Housing: Two-person scout tents.Applications: Campers and staff may

obtain applications through the pastorsin the camp region. Additional formsare available from Darris McNeely, 20South Restin Rd., Greenwood, IN,46142-8498. Voice (317) 885-8548,fax (317) 885-8550, e-maildmcn@iquest.net, Web page,http://www.iquest.net/~ucg

Description: For the third summer,Heritage Reservation in the mountains of

United Youth CampsÉ

U.S. Summer Camp Applications Now Available

ItÕs time to apply for summer camp! Please notice that we have some new locations for your enjoyment! CampMcKenzie is near Eugene, Oregon, and is along the banks of the McKenzie River. Camp Woodmen is in Blountsville,Alabama, by the Warrior River. The other locations are favorites from previous years. Information for camps in Canada andthe United Kingdom will be provided in the February issue of New Beginnings.

To apply, first select the camp of your choice from the list below. Then write, call, fax or use the Internet to contact thecamp director for an application. All camps need older high school and college students as well as adults to help on staff.Serving at camp is an excellent way in which to help build the United Church of God. The impact is immediate and therewards are great. If you are interested in serving on staff, please contact the camp director for a staff application.

Please note: All applications must be returned by April 30, 1998. DonÕt delay. Ask for an application right away. NBNB

Monday, January 12, 1998 New Beginnings Page

southwest Pennsylvania will be the loca-tion for the United Youth Camp servingthe midwest and eastern United States.The Laurel Highlands provide a beautifulsetting and many recreational opportuni-ties. Heritage is a 1,200-acre Boy Scoutreservation containing three separatescout camps. This facility will providemany outdoor activities that will chal-lenge teens who want a full camp experi-ence within the church.

The dates for this yearÕs camp willbe August 16-23. Once again a full rangeof activities will be offered: swimming,canoeing, riflery, archery, tennis, soft-ball, volleyball and basketball. ChristianLiving classes will be held each day forall campers. New activities this year willinclude rock climbing, skeet shootingand a pentathlon challenge where allcamps will compete among themselvesin a series of events to develop team-work.

Campers will stay in two-personscout tents which are erected on woodenplatforms. Each tent has cots and mat-tresses. Fully equipped shower housesare near each campsite. Meals will beprovided in a modern dining hall.

Camp McKenzieEugene, Oregon

Dates: Campers arrive Sunday, July 12and depart Sunday, July 19. Staffarrive Friday, July 10.

Age Range: 5th grade (age 10) throughhigh school graduate (age 18), as offall 1998. High school workers mustbe age 16 or older.

Fees: Campers, $190; high school staff,$90; adult staff and head counselors,no charge.

Housing: Dormitories.Applications: Matthew Fenchel, Camp

McKenzie 1998, 25045 119th PlaceS.E., Kent, WA, 98031-6641.Telephone and fax: (253) 630-9606,e-mail Matthew_Fenchel@ucg.org

Description: We are thrilled to be able tooffer a new camp facility this year in thePacific Northwest: Camp McKenzie.This camp is barely two years old, whichmeans the facilities are brand new andperhaps the finest available in the region.The camp is located in a forested area in

the Cascade Mountains, along theMcKenzie River. Although the facilitiesare modern and comfortable, the ownershave taken great care to preserve thenature, beauty and rustic setting of thisareaÑtruly the best of both worlds!

Originally designed as a sports-camp (a.k.a. the U.S. BasketballAcademy), Camp McKenzie offers facil-ities for a full range of summer activities.There are six outdoor basketball courts(two of which will be enclosed), sandvolleyball courts, a ropes course, andareas for riflery and archery. White-waterrafting is nearby on the McKenzie River.Day and overnight hiking trails are just ashort distance from camp. By summer,sports fields (with two baseball diamondsand a soccer field) will be completed, aswill a covered swimming pool.Construction will also begin soon on afull gymnasium and ball courts. Duringfree time, badminton, ping-pong andhorseshoes may also be available.

The dorms are spacious, very com-fortable, with each having its own bath-room facilities. (By the way, the ownersare continuing to expand the camp, sothere should be no problem with spacefor years to come.)

The dining area is a large, modernfacility which is ideal for indoor activi-ties as well. Each day will once againbegin with Christian Living classes, andend with songs, stories and skits aroundthe campfire. We are planning a formalbanquet and a lively dance to concludecamp with an enjoyable Òlast hurrah.Ó

Of course, a successful camp experi-ence means more than enjoying greatfacilities. It means building great friend-ships with fellow campers, the staff andour Creator. Camp McKenzie will offerplenty of opportunitiesÑincluding freetimeÑto do just that. A successful campexperience also provides the means totake home lessons and principles for oneto have a successful life. The staff is ded-icated to making sure that camp is educa-tional and challenging, as well as being alot of fun.

In this regard, hardworking and car-ing staff workers are encouraged toapply. All staff members are asked to beavailable two full days early (July 10-11)for training and preparation.

Camp McKenzie offers the best ofthe Pacific Northwest: clear rivers, ever-

green forests, new facilities, challengingactivities and a dedicated, friendly staffwho promote GodÕs way of life. DonÕtmiss it!

Camp OakhurstCoarsegold, California

Dates: Campers arrive Sunday June 28and depart Sunday July 5. Staff sameas campers.

Age Range: 5th grade through 1998 highschool graduate.

Fees: Campers, $190; high school staff,$75; adult staff and counselors, nocharge.

Housing: Dorms and tent cabins.Applications: Bill Bradford, 3145

Kennedy St., Livermore, CA.94550-2129. Phone (510) 455-4829), fax (510) 371-1453, e-mailBill_Bradford@ucg.org

Description: Camp Oakhurst is locatedin central California on the western slopeof the Sierra Nevada Mountains atCoarsegold, forty miles north of Fresnoand about an hour south of YosemiteNational Park .

We feature activities such as thehigh ropes course, the climbing wall,mountain biking and a Yosemite hike.The Yosemite hike is a one-day hikefrom Glacier Point high above Yosemitevalley to the valley below where hikerswill see some of the most spectacularscenery in the country. We are planningother challenging outdoor activities asan alternate for those who have alreadygone on the Yosemite trip. Other activi-ties include swimming, capture the flag,basketball, softball, volleyball andcrafts.

Our goal is to help campers see aclearer vision of their calling and future,and establish the values that will assistthem to fulfill their purpose in life. Ourprogram is designed to challenge ourcampers, build unity, teamwork andmorale, and instill a sense of success andaccomplishment for the camper.

We are able to accommodate thephysically challenged in our activities.Please contact the camp director forinformation about physically challengedcampers.

Camp Oakhurst also features RVhookups and campground. Some parents

9

Page New Beginnings Monday, January 12, 1998

may want to arrive early to pick up theircampers and stay for the July 4 weekendand attend Sabbath services with us.

Pinecrest CampFredericktown, Missouri

Dates: All arrive Thursday, June 11 anddepart Thursday, June 18. Staff arriveWednesday, June 10.

Age Range: Age 11 through 18.Fees: Campers, $200; staff, $75; scholar-

ships available for college staff; dis-counts available for multiple familymembers (transportation not includedin prices).

Housing: Air-conditioned dormitorieswith ample showers and hot water.

Applications: Pinecrest Summer Campc/o Larry Greider, 408A ArrowheadDr., Troy, IL 62294-1913. Phone(618) 667-4722, fax (618) 667-4750,e-mail lwg73@aol.com

Description: For the third year, the lovelyPinecrest Camp, located in the rolling hillsand hardwood forests about 80 milessouth of St. Louis, Missouri, will host aUCG summer camp. This spacious 270-acre camp offers a large gymnasium,indoor heated pool, sand volleyball courts,rope course, softball and recreation fields,a six-acre lake for swimming, fishing andboating, a nature trail adjacent to MarkTwain National Forest and a full servicedining hall.

Highlights of the camp include anovernight river trip and lots of fellowshipwith teens from across the country.Proficiency awards will challenge thosewith ability and determination. Also, forthose hoping to serve on the UCGIA sum-mer camp staff, a special staff trainingclass is scheduled.

Last year the camp manager ofPinecrest complimented the UCG groupfor being the best group of young peoplehe had ever seen at a summer camp. ThisNazarene-owned camp is offered by invi-tation only to groups outside their denom-ination. The UCG was offered two yearsadvance bookings which is rarely offeredto an outside group (one staff member did-nÕt think this had ever been done before.)

There are approximately 225 spacesavailable for campers and staff. Staffworkers need a recommendation from

their pastor as well as have specializedtraining or experience. If you are interest-ed in attending and are at least 11 yearsold, send your applications in early. Therewill be staff orientation beginning onWednesday, June 10. Adults interested inserving on the staff should contact Mr.Greider. Send for a free brochure andapplication!

Victory CampAlvin, Texas

Dates: Campers arrive 4Ð6 p.m. SundayJune 7, and depart 10Ð11 a.m.Sunday, June 14. Staff arriveSaturday evening, June 6, depart10Ð11 a.m. Sunday, June 14 .

Age Range: 5th grade through 1998 highschool graduates.

Fees: Camper, $195; high school staff,$50; adult staff and counselors, nocharge.

Housing: New air-conditioned dorms.Applications: Ken Treybig, Victory

Camp, 107 Aberdeen Dr., Slidell,LA 70461-3916. Telephone (504)643-4437, fax (504) 847-1858, e-mail ken_treybig@ucg.org

Description: Last year was our first timeto use the new, first-class facilities atVictory Camp just south of Houston,Texas. This year we want to build on theoverwhelming success of last year. As wediscussed with last yearÕs campers, weÕvemoved the date up one month to helpreduce the effect of summer temperaturesa little. We also plan to rework our pro-gramming a bit this summer to better uti-lize the low- and high-ropes challengecourseÑone of last yearÕs favorite activi-ties that helps build teamwork and per-sonal confidence. Longer class times onthat activity should help campers experi-ence a greater number of elements in thehigh course.

The camp also offers a wide variety ofsports, education and fun activities such asbasketball, soccer, swimming in a Junior-Olympic-size swimming pool, go-carts, adouble water slide, softball, crafts, volley-ball, photography and more. InteractiveChristian Living classes will be held eachmorning for all campers and staff.

Staff openings are a bit limited, soadults and high school workers need to

be sure to send in their application earlyand note any special areas of proficiency.

Camp WoodmenBlountsville, Alabama

Dates: Campers arrive between 4Ð5 p.m.Sunday, June 28 and depart 10Ð11a.m. Sunday, July 5. Staff arriveSaturday evening June 27 and depart10Ð11 a.m. Sunday, July 5.

Age Range: 5th grade through 1998 highschool graduates.

Fees: Campers, $150; high school staff,$50; adult staff and counselors, nocharge.

Housing: Air-conditioned dorms.Applications: David Dobson, Camp

Woodmen, 208 Upland Dr.,Kingsport, TN 37663-2530.Telephone (423) 239-0501, fax(423) 239-0502, e-mailDavid_Dobson@ucg.org

Description: We are pleased toannounce the opening of a new locationto serve as a United Youth Camp in thesoutheast United States. Camp Woodmenis located in the hills of north Alabama,60 miles north of Birmingham and 50miles south of Huntsville. It is easilyaccessed via I-20, I-59 or I-65. TheBirmingham airport is within an hourÕsdrive. Transportation will be providedfrom the airport to the camp.

All buildings are fully air-condi-tioned. The camp is located on the LocustFork of the Warrior River where we planto offer a canoe trip. Camp Woodmenoffers a wide variety of challenging andfun activities. These include a 280-footwater slide, swimming pool, ropescourse, canoeing, fishing, JuniorOlympic riflery, Junior Olympic archery,softball, soccer, flag football, basketball,volleyball, crafts, nature and environ-ment studies, bonfire, hayride and skeetshooting for the older campers. ChristianLiving classes will be conducted eachmorning.

Campers can anticipate a well-struc-tured program that allows not only theopportunity to excel, but also to makelife long friendships.

Come and help us make your experi-ence at Camp Woodmen one you willcherish for a lifetime! NBNB

10

Monday, January 12, 1998 New Beginnings Page

Show me a man who has been in theslaughter of military battle who wouldnot delight in the erasure of that Òknowl-edgeÓ from his mind. I have learned andseen things in my years of pastoral coun-seling that I would much rather not know.At best they have added sorrow to mylife, just as Solomon predicted.

If you follow the course of manÕsexperience and GodÕs instruction, youwill find that knowledge comes in a poorthird place to two greater acquisitionsÑunderstanding and wisdom (Proverbs4:5,7; 16:16). All of us have seen some-one somewhere that seems to be a walk-ing encyclopedia, yet hasnÕt the commonsense necessary to live a balanced andproductive life, or the skills to get alongwith people. Raw academic knowledge,apart from understanding or wisdom, isof questionable value.

In studying the Bible I often go toGodÕs instruction to ancient Israel in theirforty year training period in the wilder-ness. Here God schooled a people whohad not been a people in how to becomea godly nation, representing Him honor-ably when they entered the land He wasto give them. GodÕs words to Israel dur-ing this time period are often foundation-al, expressing the spirit or intent of Hisinstruction to man.

Notice the words God inspiredMoses to speak to Israel in Deuteronomy4:5Ð6: ÒSurely I have taught you statutesand judgments, just as the LORD my Godcommanded me, that you should actaccording to them in the land which yougo to possess. Therefore be careful toobserve them; for this is your wisdomand your understanding in the sight of thepeoples who will hear all these statutes,and say, ÔSurely this great nation is awise and understanding people.ÕÓ Thelaw of God is our wisdom and under-standing. GodÕs law defines conducttoward God and man, thereby givinginstruction on how to use knowledgewisely.

David wrote in Psalm 111:10, ÒThefear of the LORD is the beginning of wis-dom; A good understanding have allthose who do His commandments.Ó Youwill notice its praise is not for those whoÒknowÓ (in the sense we use the termtoday) His commandments, but thosewho ÒdoÓ His commandments.

Knowing the way of God does notimpart wisdom; doing the way of Godimparts wisdom. This is so simple, yetso few grasp it!

What Is the Evidence of True Wisdom?

Knowledge is made evident by theoutpouring of information. Watch one ofthe television quiz shows following theevening news. Here you will see an end-less parade of men and women who haveknowledge, proven by their quickanswers to a wide range of questions.

How is wisdom made evident? We have seen it once by direct

statement (Psalm 111:10) and once byinference (Deuteronomy 4:5Ð6). Wesaw that doing the laws of God and liv-

ing His teachings is wisdom. Have youever considered that at times knowl-edge and wisdom actually war againsteach other? Sometimes a man orwoman can be so consumed with theirown pride in what they know that theybecome foolish. Paul spoke to this factin more that one of his letters (Romans1:21Ð22, I Corinthians 1:20Ð27,3:18Ð19).

Wisdom is manifest not only in thedoing of GodÕs ways, but in a spirit orattitude of mind. By the days of Paul, andprobably as a result of reading the wordsof men like Moses and Solomon, thosewho wished to appear righteous hadlearned how to ape godly wisdom. Paulspent the better part of his writing to thechurch at Corinth letting them know hewas not coming to them with this spirit offeigned wisdom.

The Wisdom of a Christian

The book of James contains one ofthe most profound descriptions of wis-dom seen in New Testament teaching. Itappears at the end of the chapter dealingwith the control of the tongue. Throughthe tongue we transmit knowledgeÑgood and evil, as has happened since thedays of our parents Adam and Eve. Jamesobserves, ÒWith it [the tongue] we blessour God and Father, and with it we cursemen, who have been made in the simili-tude of God. Out of the same mouth pro-ceed blessing and cursing. My brethren,these things ought not to be soÓ (James3:9Ð10).

Following his comments about thetongue, James describes true wisdom:ÒWho is wise and understanding amongyou? Let him show by good conduct thathis works are done in the meekness ofwisdomÓ (James 3:13). Notice that prac-tice, not knowledge, is still the true yard-stick of godly wisdom.

James contrasts this with the wis-dom of carnality, the antithesis of godlywisdom. This mock wisdom is identi-fied by its fruits also, but its fruits standin stark contrast to those of godly wis-dom. ÒBut if you have bitter envy andself-seeking in your hearts, do not boastand lie against the truth. This wisdomdoes not descend from above, but isearthly, sensual, demonicÓ (James3:14Ð15).

It is important in all of this toremember that the context of James 3 isrooted in Òknowledge.Ó The chapterbegins with a well known verse: ÒMybrethren, let not many of you becometeachers, knowing that we shall receivea stricter judgmentÓ (James 3:1). Thischapter is a treatise on imparting knowl-edgeÑteaching, talking. It proceedsfrom identifying the persons (those whowish to impart knowledge, i.e., teachers)to the action (the use of the tongue andthe uncontrollability of this dissemina-tor of knowledge). James then movesfrom those who impart knowledge, andthe vehicle by which they impart knowl-edge, to wisdom. His message is thatyou may be full of words which displayyour knowledge, but your manner andconduct will display whether you havetrue godly wisdom or just an imitation.

11

(See ÒKNOWLEDGE,Ó page 15)

ÒKNOWLEDGEÓ (Continued from page 1)

Wisdom is manifest not only in the doing of God’s ways, but in

a spirit or attitude of mind.

¥ The following communique was sentby Edmond Macaraeg to the home officeon December 30, 1997. He lives inDavao City, Philippines, with his wife,Lorna.

Update: Philippines

by Edmond D. Macaraeg

Here is a recent update on our areaof the Philippines. We now have sixsmall congregations in this part ofMindanao, having only started ouractivities for United in this area atPentecost. They are in the followingcities:

In Bunawan, Agusan del Sur, we hadour first meeting in November with 19people in attendance. A few other peoplewe visited later promised to start attending.

In Davao City, which started lastAugust, we also have 19 members, and itoccasionally goes well beyond that num-ber.

In Gen. Santos City, South Cotabato,we started with about 19 membersincluding some of us, but there are aboutthat same number in the area itself, withpotential for growth.

In Kiara, Don Carlos, Bukidnon, westarted with 16 members in Novemberwith great potential to increase veryrapidly.

In Malinao, Banisilan, NorthCotabato, we have four solid familieswith total attendance of about a dozen.

In Tagum, Davao del Norte, westarted with about 40 members includingsome of us from Davao City, but realisti-

cally, there are about 30 in the area,including children.

Early this month, we visited a formerÒno-manÕs-land-rebel-infested-areaÓ regionin the southeastern part of centralMindanao (at Telefas, Columbio, SouthCotabato), where we have one large family.They invited some friends and a relative toour meeting and we had about 30 in atten-dance. We started our journey to see themat 3 a.m. from Davao City, and includingbreakfast and gas stops plus picking up acouple of member families along the way,we arrived about 11 a.m. They were veryhappy to meet us. We had an informalBible study with a question and answer ses-sion, which helped to strengthen them andhopefully will bear fruit in the future.

Felipe Casing and I serve this area.We try to meet with these groups at leastonce a month, with some areas seeing ustwice a month.

In late November and earlyDecember we made a four-day tour toour other scattered members in the north-eastern part of Mindanao (Agusan delNorte, Agusan del Sur, and Surigao delSur). They also were very happy to meetwith us and have been strengthened spir-itually by the visit. Most of these mem-bers, while having been somewhatneglected until recently, have remainedsteadfast and faithful in the originalteachings.

In order to visit one large family, wedetoured 18 kilometers (11 miles) fromthe main, rough highway along the east-ern coast, westward inland into themountains. From there we hiked forabout another 3 kilometers (2 miles),since the road is not negotiable by ourordinary 4-wheel-drive vehicle. The fam-

ily were very happy to welcome us. Theywanted us to stay at least overnight formore talks and fellowship, but we hadother schedules to meet at that time. Wepromised to come back by April andspend more time with them.

Our plan is to move on to northernMindanao (Butuan City and Cagayan deOro City), and then to the western part(Zamboanga provinces) and reach out tomany of our brethren who have not yetembraced the ÒnewÓ teachings.

A few limiting factors at present arefinances to carry these visits out and ourtime for them, since each of us have toalso look out for the economic survivalof our respective families as we have noother source of income.

The members in our areas are most-ly very poor economically but rich infaith and in good attitude. Most of themhave barely enough for their large fami-lies. Very few are gainfully employed.Mr. Casing and I have voluntarily goneout of our way to shepherd all these pre-viously neglected flock of God. We arehappy that UCGIA has welcomed us andis supportive of us and it is into thisChurch where we are now directing thesepeople for spiritual nourishment.

For now, our main goal is to find allthese scattered sheep and bring them intothat fold which maintains that familiarvoice whom they recognizeÑthat samedoctrinal commitment in Christ whichthey also had at baptism. The next stepwill be to reach out to others whom Godwill also call and bring into this fold, andalso spiritually feed them.

We hope this gives you someupdates on developments in this part ofthe world. NBNB

Page New Beginnings Monday, January 12, 199812

Around The WorldÉ

Annual General Meetingof UCGÐUK

Approves New Board

Sunday, December 28, 1997, sawthe completion of the annual generalmeeting where nominations for a smallerBoard of Trustees were presented. The

following board members wereapproved:

Salaried elders; Messrs. Boraker,Delap (Chairman), Meakin andTattersall. Non-salaried elders; Messrs.Roberts and Sangha. Laity; Messrs.Betts, Brocklehurst and White.

This reduces the provisional boardfrom its starting point of 17 members in

1997 to the agreed number of ninebeginning in 1998. Former trusteesfrom the provisional board and/or oth-ers may be co-opted to serve on variouscommittees where need arises. The newboard benefits from the considerablework accomplished by the provisionalboard in 1997.

Dave Magowan

¥ The following excerpts are takenfrom a letter sent to David Hulme by G.Sumanth Kumar.

Church Aids Fire Victims in India

Dearly beloved and respected elderDavid Hulme,

Loving greetings to you. We areprayerfully receiving the video- andaudiotapes in good condition. Thankyou so much for them. We have allwatched the Feast Õ97 videotape on arented television. We thank each andevery one of those who worked onmaking the wonderful program.

We have distributed Rs. 8,000(eight thousand Indian rupees) to eachfamily affected by a summer fire. A total

of Rs. 1,28,000(one lakh andtwenty eight thou-sand rupees) hasbeen given to 16families. Also, wehave distributedbedspreads, sarees,meal plates, dinnerplates, water glass-es and rice to themwith the help of theremaining amount.

G. SumanthKumar

Monday, January 12, 1998 New Beginnings Page 13

Youth Weekend,Abingdon, UK

Fifty teens, singles and helpersgathered at Kingfisher Barn, Abingdon,for the Winter Weekend event, December27 to 29, 1997.

The Barn itself was big enough tohold services and indoor activities, andhad its own large and well equippedkitchen facility. Sleeping accommoda-

tion was also on-site with 10 small dormswith showers or bathrooms.

Activities included indoor games, avisit to the local leisure center for bad-minton, basketball, swimming and five-a-side soccer. On Sunday afternoon theparticipants split into teams to meet thedual challenges of the Great DonutCrisis and the Great Popcorn DisputeÑcould they, as representatives of theimaginary nations dependent on thesetwo staple foods, stop the world goingto war? Disaster was narrowly averted

and the weekend continued in peace. OnMonday morning a shopping trip tonearby Abingdon wrapped the weekendup.

Comments received indicate that theweekend was a much enjoyed successand we have provisionally booked thesame facility for the December 1998national holiday break. With the benefitof lessons learned from this past event,we will plan various improvements fornext time.

David Lloyd

Local Church UpdateÉ

India: 16 families who lost their homes and possessions in asummer fire (see July 14, 1997, New Beginnings pages 1 and15) receive help from funds donated by UCG members.

Monday, January 12, 1998 New Beginnings Page 15

in-law (mentioned above), two sons,David and Dean, and four grandchil-dren, James Scott, Timothy ScottSmith, Emily and Matthew Scott.

Mrs. Scott was baptized in 1961and Mr. Scott in 1964. On February 16,

1980, Mr. Scott was ordained a dea-con.

Obituary

Walton Leroy Bogle, 82, ofYuma, Arizona, died November 121997. Walton was a member of theUnited Church of God attending theYuma congregation. He was baptizedApril 8, 1988.

He is survived by his son Warren,who attends the Yuma United Churchof God congregation; daughters MabelRuth Foster, who attends the YumaUnited Church of God congregation,and Margaret Henthorn of Phoenix,Arizona.

Also surviving are l6 grandchil-dren and 23 great-grandchildren. Hewas preceded in death by his wife,Annabell Bogle and son James.

Graveside services were heldNovember 19, 1997.

Melvin and Shirley Scott

Comments from the InternetÒThank you for the literature. It is not

easy being a Christian in an Islamic coun-try, not to mention being in a foreigncountry. May the Lord continue to showerus with His blessings! Have a great day.Ó

Malaysia

ÒI want to share the great joy andhappiness that is in my heart becauseGod has put me in United. I just want togive you guys a big hug for the wonder-ful, fantastic, and magnificent work thatyou are doing via The Good News andNew Beginnings. To God be the glory!

ÒI want to give you this consolationbecause I know that many adversities areamidst. Even though I am only one here inPuerto Rico, I pledge my allegiance to thegreat work of God Almighty that is ever sopresent. We have the most wonderful call-ing on earth. I look forward in being a co-worker in this worldwide Work!Ó

Puerto Rico

ÒMy wife and I have been membersof the Worldwide Church of God foralmost ten years. We laid low during thebreakup period and have been thirsty forGodÕs Word for some time now.

ÒAfter reviewing your Web site, Isee that the beliefs that God called us tounderstand remain preserved in yourteachings. If you have anything that canhelp disoriented members of GodÕsChurch get back on track, I would great-ly appreciate it.Ó

Michigan

ÒThank you all for this first step inuniting GodÕs people. We pray for all ofyou to be able to know, understand and beable to administer GodÕs will for all of Hissheep. This is not an easy task that all ofyou have accepted from God. I just want-ed you to let you know there are a lot of uswho are trying to Ôhold up your hands,Õ asit were, for the good of the whole.Ó

Washington

The Good NewsÒI welcome the blessing of your reg-

ular and enlightened publication.ÒIt has only been during the last

few years I have chosen to learn aboutGod, thus coming to love Him bybeing obedient to His Word.

ÒYour Good News publication hasbeen a terrific guide for me and thosewith which I share my life. YourÒProfiles of FaithÓ as well as all ofyour cover themes have truly given meincentive to study His Word as myfaith increases.

ÒI keep all of your issues and usethem to also teach others during myincarceration.

ÒUpon my release, I shall seek outthe United Church of God.Ó

Ohio

EditorÕs Note: The letters in this sectionmay have been edited for length andclarity.

Letters From Our ReadersÉ

James saw certain fruits proving theexistence of godly wisdom. ÒBut thewisdom that is from above is first pure,then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield,full of mercy and good fruits, withoutpartiality and without hypocrisyÓ (James3:17). Interestingly, Paul saw many ofthese same fruits as proving theindwelling of the Holy Spirit (Galatians5:22Ð23).

It is interesting in an end time worldwhere men are running to and fro, andknowledge is expanding at an unbeliev-able rate, that the true godly wisdom asdescribed by patriarch and apostle is inpainfully short supply as evidenced bypractice and conduct.

James ended his comments on godlywisdom with the words of the last verse ofJames 3: ÒNow the fruit of righteousnessis sown in peace by those who makepeace.Ó May we demonstrate both godlywisdom and true knowledge by the con-duct of our lives. NBNB

ÒKNOWLEDGEÓ (Continued from page 11)

¥ This report was sent by DavidHulme just before press time.

Revisiting theRemnant Church of

God in GhanaAs was reported in the last mem-

ber letter, contact was establishedwith some of the leaders of theRemnant Church of God (7th Day) inGhana during the recent Feast ofTabernacles. On Sunday, January 4,Peter Nathan and I traveled to WestAfrica to continue the dialog with theministry of the Church as well as theirexecutive board. We were met onarrival in Accra by our minister, AlanTattersall, and four members of theUCGIA-Ghana congregation. Alanwas in the country as part of his visit-ing schedule. We got to bed after mid-night and left at eight oÕclock in themorning on the journey north toKumasi, a city about three hours byroad north west of Accra.

Ghana is a country with greatpotential. The people are unusuallywarm and friendly, and the country hasmade significant progress in recentyears under the leadership of PresidentRawlings. I had the opportunity towatch a parade and address by theleader during our stay and wasimpressed by his strength of purposeand conviction. He is not a man who isafraid to speak out as he leads hiscountry into the global economy.

Ghana has timber and gold to export tothe world, and is beginning to prosper.

When we arrived in Kumasi inAshante province, we rendezvoused atthe appointed place with our smilinghosts and were taken to the Universityof Science and TechnologyÕs UnityHall, where we held our meetings.Fourteen elders from the RemnantChurch of God participated in theafternoon session, during which weexplained the UCGIA, and its beliefs,with special reference to the HolyDays.

What exactly is the RemnantChurch of God? The man who hadoriginally written to us, AzariahMaxwell Coffie, explained that inAugust 1994, several branches of theChurch of God in Ghana were con-vinced that they should join together toovercome their differences. Out of sixor seven church groupings, four agreedto form a new organization. They con-sidered the name United Church ofGod, but preferred the RemnantChurch of God as more descriptive oftheir situation.

What do they believe and prac-tice? In our discussions I believe itwould be fair to say that Peter, Alanand I were pleasantly surprised by theagreement we found. Perhaps it shouldnot surprise us that their beliefsinclude baptism by immersion, the lay-ing on of hands, the ordination of dea-cons, deaconesses, and elders, a cor-rect understanding of the Òsoul,Ó thepreaching of the gospel, the authority

of the Bible, tithing, and care of theneedy in the Church.

One of the ministers told us thathe had completed the 52-lessonCorrespondence Course, and then the30-lesson course. Some of them havealready been observing the Holy Days,and the rest are now convinced that theyshould teach their brethren to do thesame. The contact over the years withthe writings of Herbert W. Armstrongcaused them to say that they have noproblems with any of our doctrines.Further they said that if we could showthem from the Bible where they were inerror, they would change their practices.

Apparently they had no contactwith the local WCG until recently.When they visited with a representa-tive, they discovered that the changesin that churchÕs doctrine precludedthem from seeking further contact.When they subsequently came acrossThe Good News they recognized thetruth and wanted to become associatedwith us. They told us that whether weaccept them immediately or not asmembers, they all consider themselvesas United Church of God! Their con-gregations are found throughoutGhana, with about 1,000 members intotal. Peter Nathan and Alan Tattersallremained in Ghana for a few moredays, and will no doubt update us lateron their activities. I continued on toSouth Africa where I am presently vis-iting the churches and examining thebudget needs in this part of the world.

David Hulme

Periodicals Postage paid at Arcadia, California,

and at additional mailing officesNew Beginnings