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- The
Resurrection And Its Relevance
- Undeniably, the most startling characteristic of the first Christian
preaching was its emphasis on the resurrection. The first preachers were
sure that Christ had risen, and sure, in consequence, that believers
would in due course rise also. This set them off from all the other
teachers of the ancient world. While there are alleged reports of
resurrections elsewhere, none of them is like that of Christ. Some
biblical commentators explain that these reports are "mostly
mythological tales connected with the change of the season and the
annual miracle of spring". Therefore, a biblical account is here
supplied; for as noted by The Apostle Paul, "And if Christ is not
risen, then our preaching is empty and your faith is also empty"
(ICor.15.14).
What Does the Old Testament Say Regarding the Resurrection?
The Old Testament (OT) says very little about the
resurrection. It is observed that "The men of the OT were very
practical men, concentrating on the task of living out the present life in
the service of God, and they had little time to spare for speculation about
the next." It also should be noted that they "lived on the other
side of Christ's resurrection, and it is this which gives the doctrine its
basis." At times they used "the idea of resurrection to express
the national hope of the rebirth of the nation" (e.g. Ezek. 37).
However, a prominent statement on the resurrection of the individual is
undoubtedly that in Daniel 12:2: "And many of those who sleep in the
dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame
and everlasting contempt."
Resurrection: A Significant Focus of the New Testament In
The New Testament, there are numerous examples of Christ resurrecting people
from the dead (the daughter of Jairus, the son of the widow of Nain, and
Lazarus). Nevertheless, the greatest example of resurrection is that of
Christ Himself. In John 10:17-18, He emphatically states, "I lay down
My life that I may take it again. No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down
of Myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it
again." In addition, Christ, in Mk. 8:31; 9:31; 10:34, spoke of His
death explaining that He would rise three days after He was crucified.
Unquestionably, He is Master of Life and death.
Regrettably, some refuted this fact and unfortunately,
others still deny its reality today, reasoning that "friends took the
body away," or that "foes took the body away." The notion of
friends taking away the body is more than difficult to maintain. All the
evidence shows that there was no thought of resurrection in the minds of the
disciples, and that they were men without hope on the evening of the first
Good Friday. Disappointed and discouraged were they, hiding away for fear of
the Jews. Moreover, Matthew tells us that a guard was set over the tomb, so
that they could not have stolen the body, even if they wanted to do so. Most
of all, as the book of Acts clearly tells us, it would seem unacceptable
that they would suffer for preaching the resurrection, knowing that they had
the body of Christ hidden.
It is equally difficult to maintain that his foes removed
the body. Why should they? There seems to be no conceivable motive. To have
moved the body would have been to start the very rumours of a resurrection
that the evidence shows they were so anxious to prevent. Also, the guard
over the tomb would have been just as big an obstacle to them as to the
friends of the Lord.
Resurrection Implications Against
this background, what are the implications for today's Christians? May I
suggest that first and foremost, the resurrection offers hope and salvation
to all who believe in Christ. Bill and Gloria captured this fact with words
of their inspired song: "Because He lives, I can face tomorrow, Because
He lives all fear is gone, and life is worth the living just because He
lives."
Additionally, the resurrection clearly calls for belief
in the true God. There is an unmistakable distinction between Jesus and
so-called gods. He is the true and only One possessing power to infuse man,
though dead, with life and life eternal. Isn't that good news?
The resurrection also calls for obedience to this God and
His authority, not to mention His word. Luke's account of the resurrection
clearly shows this in Christ's response to two discouraged disciples on the
road to Emmaus. He employed the scriptures regarding Himself to re-instill
hope. God's people must never stray from that very principle. More so is
this critical as many voices are surfacing, calling and contending for
rights and entitlements. However, for the child of God, it must be asked
"what does God say pertaining to same-sex marriages, alternative
lifestyles, gambling, extra-marital affairs, the use of alcohol or illegal
drugs? Whose report or account will the church accept?" The
resurrection clearly teaches that we stand on the authority of God's
declaration; and that is His word, and there can be no compromise. Jennie
Hussey, a life-long Quaker, captured this spirit with the words of her
well-known hymn: "King of my life, I crown Thee now-Thine shall the
glory be; lest I forget Thy thorn-crowned brow, lead me to Calvary." -
Dr. Leonard A. Johnson, President, Bahamas Conference of Seventh-day
Adventists
Colporteurs’ Day Every year
throughout the Inter-American Division we celebrate Colporteurs’ Day. Next
Sabbath, April 17, has been designated for this purpose, and a colorful
poster has been prepared for display in the churches. Since we will still be
under the Big Tent on that day, the posters will be sent to your church
after the crusade.
You will notice that Lebert McBean, our full-time
colporteur, is very visible at the tent. He is doing a great
work in displaying our message and health books at the back of the small
tent. Let us do all we can to support the Literature Ministry.
Twenty-eight Years Old Today! Today
is my birthday and I am 28 years! Yes, I know some of you are saying that
can’t be but believe it or not I am 28 years old and there are others with
grey hair, receding hair and no hair are also the same. Precisely 28 years
ago yours truly and numerous persons present today, were baptized at Fort
Montagua in one of the largest baptisms in the history of Bahamas Conference
of Seventh-day Adventists. It was April 10th, 1976, and a beautiful Sabbath
day like today. Pastor Leslie V. McMillan a former administrator of Bahamas
Conference was the evangelist; the name of the effort was The New Providence
Crusade for Christ and the venue was the eastern grounds of The R. M. Bailey
play field. The music was inspirational and the preaching was Bible based
employing the textual format moving hundreds to say "I can’t say no
to Jesus". Nearly three decade later the euphoria of those meetings
live on. It is impossible for me to forget my spiritual birth as it
signifies the commencement of my walk with my God. During those years not
once has God failed me! To the contrary His blessing has been "more
than wonderful" and "more than amazing".
Also, this day will be extra special for many of you
planning and contemplating baptism as it will also mark a spiritual
beginning or a significant step in your relationship with God here at The
Foot Prints of Jesus Crusade. Dear friends long shall you recall the
experience of this day and the preaching of Evangelist Glen Samuels an
exceptional pulpiteer and evangelist. I appeal to all who have not accepted
Jesus Christ as Saviour and Lord to take the ultimate leap of faith for it
is sure to be one that you will never regret. Added to the specialty of this
day is the fact that heaven is recording each decision-making name in glory.
I dare say that nothing here on earth equals the celebration taking place in
heaven today owing to the response of so many of you deciding to make Jesus
your Lord.
Unfortunately, my joy is punctuated with notes of sadness
over the unpleasant circumstance of Tony Baptiste’s death, one whom I
sought for on Sunday only to be told by his sister Mary Baptiste, that he
had gone to work. I left a business card with all intention of hearing from
him and visiting him during the week. That never materialized and will not
as Tony is dead. Though I called and visited his home I wished I had met
with him in person. Hence, I need not explain the aggressiveness with which
you are pursued by Bible workers. The reality is that we do not know when it
will be the last day for us. To delay may spell disaster. Why not make this
day, April 10th the beginning of a lasting relationship with God! Leonard A.
Johnson
Choir Practice for Children 5 to 12 Years Old Resumes April 17
The special children’s choir rehearsal schedule
for today and tomorrow at the Grant’s Town Church has been postponed.
Children’s choir rehearsal will resume next Sabbath at 4:30 p.m. - Dr.
Cheryl Rolle
Education Corner Evangeline
Gillette. Bartholomew Brasoban. Maizie Preddie. Vera Holmes. Audrey
Nembhard. Joy Hamilton. Grace McCalla. Wilton & Cereta McDonald. Mr.
& Mrs. Anton Francis. Do you recognize these names? Do these names
"ring a bell" to you? They would if you were a student of Bahamas
Academy back in the late 60s, early 70s. These were all former teachers of
Bahamas Academy!
What are your recollections and memories of the
"good old days" at Bahamas Academy? I was talking recently with a
pair of twins who were in school a year ahead of me, and they were recalling
how they fooled all their teachers because they were identical and the
teachers couldn't tell them apart (do you know who they are?). I talked with
another group of students and they recall how a certain principal could
never "sneak up on students" because they always heard him coming
(he wore a bunch of keys on his belt and they made lots of noise when he
walked). Do you know who that was? I'm sure each one of you has different
memories that can make you chuckle. Why don't you share some of these
memories with us by writing them down and passing them on to us (you will
see your story later on this year).
Bahamas Academy is celebrating its 90th anniversary this
year: 1914 - 2004. The theme chosen to highlight this year is:
"Trailblazers in Christian Education". We want to take the time
this year to document and highlight these "trailblazers" who gave
of their time and energy to make the school what it is today. Not only did
we have foreign teachers who blazed this trail, but many Bahamian teachers
who gave of their time and energy. Did you know these persons taught at
Bahamas Academy at one time or another: Kermit Harris-Smith, Antoinette
Miller, Daphne Seymour, Deon Cox, Danette McMillan, Donna and Marsha Stubbs,
Lionel Haven, Don and Colyn Major, Timothy Moore, Elvis and Charles Carey,
Alice McMillan (deceased), Shelly White, Miss Brooks, Melvin Lewis. And
there are many others.
Very soon we will officially launch our celebrations in
the media and outline the activities planned to celebrate this grand
occasion. Let me give you a "sneak preview": church services
(Bahamas Academy Weekend); features on Adventist Spotlight, Listen Up, and
Native Stew; newspaper supplement; basketball jamboree; cookout/picnic.
During the celebrations, we will also have commemorative items for sale
(e.g. caps, t-shirts, mugs, bumper stickers, handbags, etc.). To top off the
celebrations, we are planning a grand, gala, black-tie banquet in November.
The committee has been planning this banquet since last year and it promises
to be the best banquet you have ever attended! We hope ALL former students
and graduates of Bahamas Academy will be in attendance. We still need you to
register with our alumni department so that we can stay in touch with you.
Call Marion Bethel (393-8898) to register. Thank you.
Bahamas Academy Calendar Of Events:
!
April 19 - 23: Teachers'
Appreciation Week
!
April 26 - 30: Final
Exams for Grade 12
Lynn C. Smith, Principal
(ASI) Adventist Service Industries
There
will be an important meeting for ALL members and persons wishing to become
members on April 18th at 7:30 a.m. at the Conference Office. Plans
for this year’s convention this August in Tobago will be discussed. Plan to
make it a family vacation. Please be reminded to bring your dues. K. S.
Bryan
VBS Supplies
All children's ministries
leaders are reminded to place their orders for Vacation Bible School supplies
with the ABC as soon as possible. Also, if you did not receive your VBS
catalogue, you may visit the Conference office to pick one up. - Dr. Cheryl
Rolle, Children's Ministries Director
- Health Ministries Announcements
!Fun
Run/Walk. The first quarterly "BE HEALTHY, BE HAPPY" Fun Run will
take place on April 11, beginning at the Living Faith Church and ending at
Goodman’s Bay. Starting time is 6:00 a.m. Get your muscles in tone. Invite
a friend to join you, and wear your BHBH T-shirt. Breakfast will be served.
This is an excellent opportunity to invite your friends to fellowship with
us.
!
Healthy Living Seminar - May 9 - 30,
2004
The New Providence Community Center, Soldier Road will sponsor a Healthy
Living Seminar, May 9 - 30, 2004. Those who would like to participate in the
Cooking and Taste Testing Classes on Tuesdays will nee to register for a small
fee of $25.00. Early-bird special before May 3, will be $20.00. A Certificate
will also be awarded. Registration: Better Living -323-5473
Healthy Life Style 322-8314
Bahamas Conference 341-4021/2
Hydrotherapy Treatments/Weight Management
Persons
who have had natural treatments abroad and wish to continue or persons needing
treatment in nutrition counseling and Hydrotherapy can contact Bernadette
Rolle at 434-8211, 364-3959 or 325-6173.
Northern Bahamas Mission Holds Women’s Ministries Retreat
Beginning
Friday, April 9th more than 60 ladies from New Providence will join
in a weekend of spiritual retreat with women from various family islands and
the United States in Grand Bahama. Women’s Ministries Director Miriam
Knowles solicit on behalf of all your prayers.
Coming Soon, Pre-Mother’s Day Boat Cruise
All
are invited to begin to plan for the upcoming Pre-Mother’s Day boat
cruise sponsored by the Women’s Ministries Department of the Conference on
May 1, 2004. Watch the Logos for more on this event. -M. Knowles,
WM, Director
VBS Supplies
All children's
ministries leaders are reminded to place their orders for Vacation Bible
School supplies with the ABC as soon as possible. Also, if you did not receive
your VBS catalogue, you may visit the Conference office to pick one up. -Cheryl
Rolle, Children's Ministries Director
An Hour of Gospel Music at Mary Ingraham Home
The
ministry of music plays a pivotal role on Sabbath evenings at the Mary
Ingraham Home in ministering to the seniors and neighbors in the area.
Continuing today from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. is the Living Faith Church. The
ministry features next Saturday evening Maranatha Church.
All persons scheduled are requested to please contact Mr.
Admiral Forbes at the home at 341-0094/5 in advance if they are unable to keep
their appointments. - J. Admiral Forbes, Co-ordinator
Boyz II Men Part III
An
interactive session of Boys to Men- on the court. Yes! It’s on the
Basketball court at Hillview SDA Church Easter Weekend. Paging all Hillview
boys and men and inviting teams from around the Conference: Volleyball,
Thursday night, April 8th beginning at 7:15 Basketball Tournament
kicks off Friday, April 9, from 9:00 a.m. to noon. Playoffs, Sunday, April 11th.
Championship game, Monday, April 12th. Board Game tournament as
well. Registration, $5. For further details contact Bros. Lester Stuart and
Ray Jennings.
National Youth March
The first practice for the National Youth Parade was held
on Sunday past. The next practice will be on Sunday, April 18., same time and
place.
!
All Youth and
Pathfinder leaders and their assistants are requested to attend a general
Youth Council meeting at Berea Church on Monday, April 5, 2004, at 7:00 p.m.
Vegetarian Cooking Classes
Vegetarian
cooking classes will begin May 2, 2004. Persons interested may contact Marlene
McKinney at 364-0085
Uchee Pines Seminar
September 26
to October 3, 2004, Uchee Pines Seminar. You can’t afford to miss this trip.
Cal for more information at 364-0085. - M. McKinney
Living Faith Pathfinders’ Fun Day
The
Pathfinders of the Living Faith Church invite you to a Fun Day on Easter
Monday, April 12, 2004, at the church grounds on Old Trail Road. Fun, Food and
Fellowship will be available from 10:00 a.m until.
Educational Cookout
Betty Hunter
invites you to support a educational cookout in aid of her son, Carvel Hunter
on Monday, April 12, from noon to 6:00 p.m. at the Church of God Auditorium
grounds, Joe Farrington Road.
Sun sets today at
7:30 p.m. Sun sets next Sabbath
at 7:33 p.m.
