Philippine Updates

Lord's Day in Manila Area - Three Baptized

2012-01-29T02:53:00.001-06:00

The work for this trip is now history as we have just finished our last schedule and returned to the hotel this Lord’s Day. We left at 6:30am with brother Atoy Franco who took us to Kapitbahayan for their services that start at 7:30am. Lody Salunga then went on with Atoy to worship with the congregation meeting in the Makati area.

Chip spoke in the Bible study hour, preaching on “Blessings in Christ.” I followed with a study on “Defeating the Devil” for the second hour. After the preaching, we observed the Lord’s Supper and had the collection. The singing was excellent with several young men leading and doing excellent jobs as the whole congregation engaged in spirited worship through songs. At the close of the service, one young lady made known her desire to be baptized into Christ.

We had a very short time to visit with Jerry and Teresa Toreja. Teresa is a medical doctor and she is the daughter of the late Ben Cruz. Teresa was the one who helped advise me concerning the illness I had early in this trip. It was also good to speak for a short time with her mother and extend my personal sympathies over the passing of her dear husband, Ben, late last year. We had to hurry to make it to Muntinlupa for the afternoon schedule. So we got on our way quickly – still without coffee! While I know this does not rank up there with being beaten, stoned or shipwrecked, it classifies as “suffering” to Chip and me with our coffee-dependent bodies J.

Elias Cruz, one of Ben’s sons, along with Freddie Ong took us to Muntinlupa where we were to meet Atoy and Lordy for a 1pm schedule. On the way there, I received a text message from Kenneth Pastor, Willy’s brother, who was expecting us at 9am for their first service at the RDC facility in the prison. There was no way we could get there, but I told him we planned to be at the 1pm schedule. As it turned out, not only were we badly delayed getting there, but so were Atoy and Lordy. We also learned on the way that we could not be with Willy if we went to the medium security facility to preach there. With about 30 minutes of our time and my voice gone, we decided to let Lordy preach in the medium security prison as no translation would be needed with him. After a short greeting with Willy and Kathy, his wife, Lordy, Atoy and Kenneth left to do the preaching, while Chip and I stayed to visit longer with Willey and Kathy. It is a great encouragement for me to be with them each time as we shed tears of joy and sorrow and help build each other’s faith. I love and admire them both as they have endured this hardship with grace, dignity and great faith.

Willy is still waiting on word for the pardon or parole that could be coming any day. As most of you know, he was cleared of wrong-doing in a simple case of self-defense where a woman entered his house with a gun, stating the intent to kill. However, because the woman’s family is rich, they pursued charges against Willy and bought vengeance through a very corrupt system in this country. Willy’s case has been recommended as one of 16 to the Philippine President for a full and complete pardon. It could come at any day, but until then he continues to teach in the prison and bring many to Christ. I have forgotten how many hundreds have been baptized through his work. Please keep him and Kathy in your prayers. He is also in need of some monthly help as well as about $1300 for legal fees involved with his pardon. If you could be of any help, I will be glad to talk with you about it.

The Lord willing, tomorrow will be a day of rest and material preparation for my Wednesday class on study aids with the high school and junior high classes. Our flights home are scheduled to leave early Tuesday morning. Please keep us in your prayers as we travel home. Thank you again for helping to make this trip possible. I will not know for sure until I do the final math on the flight home, but it looks like I will return with a surplus of just under $200 for this trip which will be used to defray a deficit of over $700 in my account used for preaching in the Philippines.

Brotherly, Harry O.

P.S. Just got word that two men decided to be baptized after the session at the prison.

From Urdaneta to Manila

2012-01-28T08:23:00.000-06:00

We left San Fernando this morning for what was supposed to be a one-hour drive to Urdaneta. Over three hours later, we arrived at the building of the congregation in Urdaneta. The traffic was horrible throughout the trip as each town became a clogged mess with vehicles (motorized and non-motorized), parades, funeral processions, business activity, portions of the main highway used (at snail’s pace) as bus-turn-around zones and various slowing factors that were beyond belief. The people were waiting as they knew we were on our way. However, our time was shortened to be with them by these things.

I started by preaching on “Salvation & Cornelius” from Acts 10-11, showing that even morally good people were still sinners in need of hearing and obeying the full message of salvation found in the gospel of Christ. Chip followed with a short lesson on the need to “Grow in Christ.” Rody Gumpad summarized both of those lessons into the Ilocano dialect and added some words of exhortation and invitation. When the gospel was extended, no one responded to be baptized into Christ.

After a quick lunch, we left with Rody to get to the bus stop at a nearby shopping center in town. On the way there, we spotted an air conditioned bus headed to the right area (Pasay) and Rody pulled up beside it as the traffic stopped. We asked if he had three seats and he said “yes,” so we pulled in ahead of the bus at the stop. We had just gotten on when the bus took off and it was an adventure getting to our seats near the back as the bus accelerated, braked, bobbed and weaved. We took the only 3 seats remaining – all separated from each other. For those of you who have never had the pleasure of riding on a Philippine bus, you are the object of my envy as I write this report on board the bus. Imagine the smallest airline seat you have ever experienced and divide it in half. Now, subtract two-thirds of the leg room and add twice the turbulence of your worst flight. Put that together with the smell of pungent garlic and a fragrant locker room. Got it? Mix in 5 hours pressed against total strangers and you have our afternoon journey. All I can say is that I am very happy to now be in Manila!

We are scheduled to end the preaching portion of our work tomorrow with two more places to go – Kapitbahayan and the Mantinlupa. I will post a last report after we return Sunday night, the Lord willing.

Brotherly, Harry O.

Studies in Caba

2012-01-27T07:05:00.000-06:00

After a very late and grueling bus ride last night, we would have definitely liked more sleep than was possible this morning. However, the schedule today was very demanding, so we had to get started earlier. The studies today were held at the building of the brethren in Caba, La Union. It was about a 30-40 minute drive south of our hotel. Rody and Tessie Gumpad had arrived a little earlier than we got in last night, coming to help in the work to be done. Rody drove us to the meeting place and we got started a little after 9am. Some brethren from Baguio had made the trip over to hear the lessons. Several said that they would also be in Urdaneta tomorrow, the Lord willing.

Denver Domingo began the meeting with some words of welcome and introduction. Denver was a student in one of the preacher training programs in Tuguegarao. He is well educated and has a high level of ability for his age. Denver has stepped up to take a more active role during a very difficult time. He is a very good man who is badly in need of added support to have the necessary means to meet this added responsibility. Chip Foster started with a lesson on the “Conversion of the Ethiopian Eunuch.” Lordy Salunga summarized it in the dialect. I then preached on “Create in Me a Clean Heart” from Psalm 51. Lordy the summarized that lesson as well and, then, we had the lunch break.

In less than an hour, we started the afternoon portion of the lectures. Chip started the afternoon studies with a lesson on “Identifying the NT Church.” I then spoke on “Salvation & God’s Word, the Seed” from 1 Peter 1:17-25. Rody Gumpad gave the summary for the lessons and gave some further admonitions. An invitation was extended, but none responded to obey the Lord.

The most difficult part of the day took place outside the lectures. First, early in the day, we received word that one of the preachers from the province of Isabela had committed suicide. We are not yet sure of the circumstances, but we were understandably shocked and saddened. Second, another matter has caused a great deal of concern since I arrived in the Philippines. One of the men who has actively taught the gospel in this area has been found to be living a life of ungodliness while publicly presenting himself as a gospel preacher. He has done much damage to the church in this area and his hypocrisy has caused many to leave the church. His son has stepped up to expose the sin and has taken a greater load in teaching, but it has been very difficult on him and the church. After finishing the lectures, Rody and I talked with this man, his wife and the family. It was a difficult meeting and I frankly doubt that much good was done. Whatever the case, he has done so much harm to the cause of Christ, his family and the name of the congregation that it will take years to rebuild. At this point, he appears unwilling to repent. Please pray for him and especially for his family and the church in this place.

Tomorrow promises to be another difficult day with an early start needed to drive several hours to our morning schedule in Urdaneta. In the afternoon, Chip, Lordy and I will again travel by bus all of the way down to Manila. Please remember us in your prayers.

Brotherly, Harry O.

Last Day in Laoag

2012-01-26T10:19:00.000-06:00

This was our last day in the Laoag City area. Our studies for the day were at the building of the Laoag City congregation, in the middle of the town’s central section. Brother Mat Sibayan, Sr. started this congregation and continues to labor with them. Their building is a very good facility for teaching. Like several congregations in the Philippines, they separate the men and women on different sides of the auditorium during their regular worship. In their classes, men and women gather on the second and first level respectively. There is a third level for the young people’s classes as well having a place for baptizing.

The morning session was entirely taken up with a study on “How Did God Use Prophets to Speak His Word?” It was a careful examination of the doctrine of inspiration and its implications. The point was to reinforce why we can have absolute confidence in God’s word and why we cannot make any changes to its teaching. Mat Sibayan, Jr. translated for this study and my later lesson. We broke for the lunch hour a little after noon.

The afternoon session began with Chip preaching on “Things We Can Do.” Rex Bayaca again interpreted for Chip throughout the day. I followed with a lesson on “Salvation & Saul” showing that Saul was not saved at the ways often claimed by denominational preachers, but at the point of baptism as he was cleansed by Christ’s blood. Chip gave the last lesson on “As a Child” which was a lesson of exhortation to Christians urging growth and service. An invitation was extended, but there were no visible responses as almost all of the people present were already Christians -- mostly preachers and their wives.

After eating supper, we were taken by Mat Sr. and Mat Jr. to the bus station where we caught a 7pm bus towards our next destination – the San Fernando / La Union area. Five, uncomfortable hours later, we have just arrived at our destination where I can send this report. Since we must get going in about 6 hours, I will close for now. God bless.

Brotherly, Harry O.

Preaching in Pagudpud - Nine Baptized

2012-01-25T04:35:00.001-06:00

Today’s schedule took us to the far northwest portion of Luzon, the town of Pagudpud. We first went to the Subec congregation on the north side of Pagudpud. Abraham Aguete labors with that congregation in preaching. Their building is on the main highway, built at the base of a steep hill. Since I was there the last time, a landslide had destroyed the building and it was rebuilt with help we had delivered from individual brethren in the US. It was a relatively cool day since it was very cloudy, so it was more comfortable than a normal day in this area. There were about 150 or more gathered for our morning studies, including members of this congregation as well as other brethren and denominational visitors. A number of the people had come from far up in the mountains.

The first study was on “Holy Living in Christ” from 1 Peter 1:14-17. It dealt with the application of the principle of holiness to various aspects of our lives as Christians. Matt Sibayan, Jr. interpreted the lesson for me again on this occasion. Chip followed by preaching his lesson on the “Conversion of the Ethiopian Eunuch” from Acts 8. It was an examination of what he did in response to the message of Jesus. Rex Bayaca translated into the Ilocano dialect. Brother Aguete then made some follow-up comments, encouraged those who desired to obey the gospel and led a song. Six souls (5 young ladies and 1 young man) responded and confessed Christ. They were taken with us to the next place where they could be baptized.

After a lunch break, we traveled for a long time into the mountains for our next schedule at the Ayoyo congregation. I had never visited this group, but was glad to meet the members as well as several visitors. Again, even more people had come from further into the mountains to hear the preaching. Since it was a fairly primitive building, it was not conducive to using the computer and projector, so I reverted to chalkboard preaching. I must admit that it still feels more natural to me than using PowerPoint. I preached on “What Happened on Pentecost?” from Acts 2. It was a basic lesson on the example of conversion and an application of the principles to answer what one must do to be saved. At the end of the lesson, a man and woman came to obey the gospel. (I think they were a married couple and she was expecting another child.)

A third place was added to the schedule, so we went next to work with the Nagsurot Burgos congregation. Oscar Gumallaoi regularly preaches with this group that I had last visited about 10 years ago. Chip took the preaching duties at this appointment, giving a lesson on “Borrowed Time.” Gil Caindec did the interpreting for the lesson. Angel Pascua extended the invitation and led the song. One young lady came to be baptized into Christ.

It was a very long day, but very fruitful as well! The temperature was also better today than I have experienced in several years over here -- probably in the mid 80's. (Note the jacket on the man pictured from the second place.) I appreciate all of you that have made this work possible.

Brotherly, Harry O.

More from Ilocos

2012-01-24T04:49:00.000-06:00

We started the day by driving south from Laoag to Siniat. Our first schedule of the day was with the Katipunan congregation with whom Mat Sibayan, Sr. labors. The building is affixed to Mat’s house there. There had been a mistake and the announcements of the meeting did not get distributed, so the attendance was much less than anticipated. It was still a good number of interested people who showed great desire to serve the Lord. The singing was excellent and very spirited.

Chip preached first on the “Conversion of the Ethiopian” from Acts 8. Rex Bayaca interpreted for Chip. I followed with a study on “Create in Me a Clean Heart” from Psalm 51 and Mat Sibayan, Jr. translated for that message. There was excellent attention shown throughout both lessons. Mat Sr. extended the invitation and one young lady responded. After lunch, the brethren baptized her in the South China Sea less than a mile away – it was a beautiful scene in every way.

The afternoon schedule was with the Nueva Era congregation. Several congregations from the area met with these saints along with a number of visitors who were not Christians. The building was filled as was the yard in front of the building as well as the area all along the side of the building – about 160 to 170 people in total. The building itself is an attached addition to the house of Efren Ramos.

Efren works with this congregation and translated for us in both lessons preached there. I went first speaking on “Cornelius & Salvation” from Acts 10-11. Chip delivered a lesson on “Identifying the NT Church.” After the lessons, an invitation to obey the Lord was extended by Efren and his son, T.J., led the song of invitation. (Anothter son, Christian, also led singing earlier.) There were no visible responses on this occasion. After the studies, Efren and his wife asked all present to come into their house for refreshment before all traveled back to their homes. It was an enjoyable time to talk to them and others present about the work in their places. We were repeatedly asked to return in April of this year or next year to hold more classes during vacation time when more could be gathered and their young people.

Brotherly, Harry O.

Eleven Baptized in Ilocos Norte

2012-01-23T07:41:00.000-06:00

We started the day with an early breakfast so we could be on the road by 7:30am. Lordy Salunga had arrived late last night from Angeles City after about 10 hours of travel by bus. He will be with us as we travel the rest of the way to Manila. It was great to see Lordy again as he has become a very beloved brother and friend who has selflessly helped in the work of the Lord each time I have asked for his help.

Mat Sibayan, Sr., met us at the hotel and we traveled to Marcos for our first appointment with the Escoda congregation where brother Vic Domingo preaches. Their building is one of the largest in the Philippines and there were about 200 gathered for the studies. In this very rural setting, there are a very large number who have obeyed the Lord and there are several churches throughout the region. I began by preaching a lesson on “Grace, Faith & Obedience” showing that saving faith demands obedience as we meet the conditions to receive God’s grace. Roger Borja interpreted the lesson for me, sentence-by-sentence. Chip followed with a study on “Servants of the Lord” emphasizing the need for Christians to be workers in the cause of Christ. Antonietto Root did the translation for Chip’s sermon. After the lessons, brother Sibayan extended an invitation and eight came to be baptized into Christ. Redentor Nonato took the confessions of those eight.

We went to a nearby stream for the baptisms and another young lady, the daughter of one of the preachers, decided she also wanted to be baptized. They asked me to take her confession and I did so. The younger preachers went out into the stream with these nine and baptized them for the remission of sins. Throughout the morning, a number of the young preachers stepped in to help in all aspects of the work. Freddie Pascua did an excellent job in the song leading. It is good to see so many young men prepared and zealous to help in the work of the Lord. We were able to visit with many of them at lunch (held at the Domingo’s house) and then left for the next schedule.

The afternoon studies were held with the Bumitog congregation where Matt Sibayan, Jr. labors in preaching the word. Brethren from other congregations nearby also joined us for the studies. The small shelter built onto the side of a house was filled and overflowed even the area under the tarp across the front yard, going all of the way to the street. The brother who owns the site for the home and building led the singing and read Scripture from the dialect. I began by preaching on “The Salvation Authorized by Christ” stressing that we can be saved only through the gospel given by Christ. Chip preached on “Blessings in Christ” showing the promises are only received by those who are in Christ. Matt Jr. translated both of our lessons. After both lessons, an invitation was extended for those wanting to obey the gospel. Two young ladies responded to obey the Lord.

Both buildings for our studies today were “open air” – in view of fields, animals and the surroundings of nature. It was a typical, Philippine day with sweltering heat and humidity. There was not a padded seat to be found anywhere – and not even enough basic wooden benches or very small plastic chairs for everyone to sit down. Yet, these brethren patiently studied with us throughout the day and were thankful for the opportunity to do so. My Filipino brethren never cease to encourage me to reassess and increase my own faith and service to the Lord. It is a joy to be with them and I thank all of you for your help in making it possible for me to have a part in this work of preaching the word here in the Philippines!

Brotherly, Harry O.

Lord's Day in Tuguegarao

2012-01-22T07:37:00.000-06:00

Chip and I went to Rody and Tessie’s house before services this morning because Tessie wanted to fix us breakfast. It was great and got us off to a good start. Tessie is one of the most deeply caring, loving and hospitable people I have ever known. She spoils all of us who come over here and it is a special treat to be able to be with her and get the uplifting from her infectious smile!

Our Lord’s Day worship with the brethren in Tuguegarao started with a time for singing as we waited on everyone to arrive. (With the vast majority of the members dependent on public transportation via tricycles, time is often beyond their control.) Chip preached for the Bible study hour on “The John 3:16 Believer” showing the contract between a faith unto salvation and a “faith only” that fails to obey or continue in God’s will. The local brethren took charge of the Lord’s Supper observance and did an excellent job. I preached in the final hour on “Defeating the Devil” from 1 Peter 5.

After services and another good meal from Tessie, we drove towards Laoag City. We have decided that Rody needs his own NASCAR or Indy number. Over national highways about the size of our neighborhood streets, we bobbed, weaved, honked, turned on our ear and generally spent more time in fervent prayer as we made our way to Laoag in exceptionally good time. About an hour north of Laoag, Materno Sibayan, Sr., and his son, Matt Jr., met us and carried us the rest of the way here. We are now safe and sore at the hotel and getting ready for bed since we start early in the morning. Lordy Salunga is traveling this way by bus and is due to arrive about midnight. Please pray for his safety. We will have more to report tomorrow, the Lord willing.

Brotherly, Harry O.

Lectures in Tuguegarao - One Baptized

2012-01-21T03:00:00.000-06:00

The lectures in Tuguegarao today were held at the building of the Metro Tuguegarao congregation. So, we had an air conditioned venue today with only one, short period of brown-out for the full day. After having no electricity in the mountains and a full blackout in Tabuk yesterday, it was a welcomed change. The temperatures have been hot for the past few days and it was even hotter today. There were about 200 present for the lectures today.

In the morning session, Chip started with a lesson on “Blessings in Christ.” I followed with a study from Deuteronomy 5 – 11, “Moses’ Wilderness Lesson on Obedience,” showing the principles for how we learn obedience. Rody summarized each lesson in the dialect and extended an invitation at the close of the session. One 14-year-old boy came to be baptized into Christ for forgiveness of his sins.

After the lunch break, Chip preached “No Tears” giving a message of hope that we can have in Christ. The lectures concluded with my sermon on “Choose the Right Master” from Matthew 6. Rody summarized both lessons at the end and extended another invitation, but there were no visible results.

Tonight, we are preparing for Lord’s Day services here in Tuguegarao and packing for our trip to Laoag tomorrow afternoon. If I have an opportunity to file a report before we leave tomorrow, I will do so. If not, I will file a report late Sunday night after we get to Laoag, the Lord willing. Thanks again for your help and support as we continue in this effort.

Brotherly, Harry O.

Ten Baptized in Kalinga

2012-01-20T07:49:00.000-06:00

Chip and I stayed at a hotel in Tabuk last night since we had two more places scheduled there today. It was an interesting place. The first stop this morning was with the Burayucan church. The drive to get there is an hour drive up into the mountains of Kalinga. It is a journey back in time as nothing seems to have changed there for the last few hundred years. The views of rice fields and coffee plants dominated the landscape. There was no electricity. We met in a small shelter with only a metal roof and no walls. As we preached, chickens, dogs and other animals wondered through.

I spoke first on “What Is Repentance?” from 2 Corinthians 7:10-11. Chip then preached on Acts 2 and the conversion of the multitude there. Upon completion of each lesson, Rody summarized them, and then he gave a lesson on “The Glorious Church.” After that lesson, I spoke again on “What Is Baptism?” and then we offered an invitation. Four came to be baptized, but six ended up being baptized when they went to the river.

After finishing the morning studies in the mountains, we drove an hour back into Tabuk where we met with the Centro Tabuk congregation. Brother Efraim Etab, who used to preach there, passed away and his son, Kenneth, now preaches for the group. (Kenneth was one of the former students we had in the preacher training program in Tuguegarao.) Sister Etab, the widow of Efraim, has been a strong influence for the congregation to reject factional elements and take a strong stand for truth. Chip preached first at this place on “Philip & Samaria.” I followed with a short form of “What Is Written? What Is Your Reading of It?” examining the gospel teaching on salvation and the church. Rody gave a combined summary of both lessons at the end as well as extending an invitation. Four came to obey the gospel.

We are now back in Tuguegarao and trying to get prepared for a full day of lectures tomorrow at the building of the Metro Tuguegarao congregation. I will send this report out for now so that I can get to work on preparations for those studies. It promises to be a very late night! Thanks again for your prayers and encouragement in these efforts.

Brotherly, Harry O.

Four Baptized in Tabuk

2012-01-19T05:12:00.000-06:00

Chip and I began our day very tired, but ready to get started for the lectures in Tabuk. It is normally a drive of about 2 to 3 hours from Tuguegarao over very mountainous and rough roads to get to Tabuk, a city in the Kalinga province. Just before we went into the mountains, we met several vans filled with preachers (about 15-20) from throughout Cagayan province who were also coming to attend the lectures in Tabuk. When we arrived at the venue, we had a crowd of about 120 who were gathered to study with us.

Since we were running very late due to travel delays from numerous wash-outs in the road, we had time for only one speaker. I started with a lesson on “Salvation, the Word & the Seed” dealing with the fact that salvation comes by the message of the gospel. With those introductory points, I presented a study on “How God Used Prophets to Speak His Word” emphasizing the fact that God controlled the very words used by the prophets so that God gave us exactly what He wanted us to know through the gospel. We then had the lunch break.

The afternoon session began with Chip giving a lesson on the “Conversion of the Ethiopian Eunuch” in Acts 8. I followed with “Salvation & Saul,” a study examining when Saul was saved and contrasting what the Scripture teaches with various popular doctrines of men. Chip then led a brief study of the New Testament church. At that point, Ben Vistro extended the invitation for those who desired to obey the gospel. Four souls responded to obey the Lord in baptism for the remission of sins.

As the last study for the day, the brethren in the area around Tabuk asked that I preach on the subject of “Unity.” Due to the division caused by some factious individuals in the area, there has been reproach brought on the cause of Christ. These individuals have made it more difficult to spread the gospel by their claims to be members of the “church of Christ,” but displaying attitudes and actions totally contrary to Christ. I preached on “Factors of a United Work,” noting the need for a common opposition, a common work and a common change of action as essential elements of developing a growing unity. Two of these individuals came to the venue, but refused to come hear the lessons (being held on the 2^nd floor) unless we would cease the lectures, come down to personally invite them up and publicly present them before the audience. I did not even hear about their demands until after the lectures. Those present to study God’s word were a true encouragement as they were so eager to hear and learn!

It was a good day of studies. Ben Vistro, who preaches in Tabuk, along with brother Sagrado were the ones mainly responsible for arranging these studies in Kalinga. This day of studies in a venue that serves as a business training center was very useful in reaching outsiders with an introduction to the true gospel. The Lord willing, we will continue the work in this area tomorrow at a different venue.

Brotherly, Harry O.

Report & Address of Charges

2012-01-18T09:38:00.000-06:00

Chip and I had an early breakfast with Jonathan and Jack this morning to discuss future plans on work that needs to be done in the Visayas. Due to emergency situations that have arisen over the past several trips, we have not been able to press into areas we had planned to go. Several invitations from denominational and institutional groups have gone unanswered for over a year in some cases. With the success in Tacloban and Manny’s zeal to continue reaching others in the city, we also need to visit this part of Leyte again as soon as possible. Truly, the field is white unto harvest!

We left the hotel about 8:30am for a 10am flight from Tacloban to Manila. Our landing in Manila was delayed by air traffic congestion in the area, but we had plenty of time to make our connecting flight at 2pm to Tuguegarao. We arrived safely about 3pm and were met at the airport by many of the brethren in this area. We then went to our hotel and got settled in before leaving for the 6pm Wednesday evening service with the Metro Tuguegarao congregation.

Rody Gumpad led the singing for the service and they asked me to bring a lesson. We discussed 2 Timothy 1:3-7 on “A Heritage of Faith to a Life of Faith.” It was a blessing to be with all of the Gumpad family as well as the other brethren of the congregation. It was an uplifting time as we joined hearts in worship to our God.

After the service, we ate at the best restaurant in the Philippines – Tessie’s Kitchen!!! As usual, it was fantastic and we enjoyed every bite! After supper, we went back to our hotel where we both needed to do some work in preparation for the Bible lectures that start tomorrow in Tabuk City, Kalinga. It will be a little more than a 2-hour drive and we will be there Thursday and Friday, the Lord willing.

One of the other things I needed to do tonight was check up on a disturbing report, publicly posted on my Facebook page by a young Filipino. I have received word by post and calls that many others have seen the charges made and I think it is best to address them briefly. The young man made three main charges:

He claimed that we used a human institution to fund the benevolent help delivered last week in Cagayan de Oro and Iligan City. The truth is that 100% of the funds were given by churches and individuals specified for that purpose and no human institution provided any of those funds.

He was upset that food and other provisions were distributed rather than us just giving him and others money. Why he only wanted money is between him and God, but it is clear that the “bounty” Paul delivered in benevolent aid is a term that is inclusive of more than just monetary currency.

He was upset that he and the preacher working with him to spread this criticism were not giving a leading role in planning and distribution of the relief. The fact that I did not have sufficient confidence in either of them to entrust them with such a task has been confirmed in my mind by their actions. These men used a radio program intended for preaching the gospel to spread their criticisms and charges to an audience of non-Christians. Frankly, their actions disgust me beyond expression.

Please let me assure you that most Filipino brethren to the benevolent help given do NOT share these two men’s attitude! In fact, no one else that I have been able to contact has reacted with anything remotely similar in attitude or content to these two men. Without exception, every brother or sister I have spoken with or heard from has expressed their deepest gratitude and joy at the gracious and loving help from American brethren. To the person, they are absolutely embarrassed by these two individuals who have acted with such unbelievable lack of thanks and total disregard for the facts. They want American brethren to know that these two men do NOT speak for them! Please do not take the actions of these two men as being even remotely representative of the brethren who were helped in this effort. It is not! Every other brother or sister who has been helped in this relief that I have communicated with in any form has profusely expressed their thanks to their loving brethren in the US and have shown great happiness for the provisions they have received.

Thank you again for your continuing prayers and help as we are involved in this effort. Without your joining with us in support and encouragement, we could not carry on this work. Please

continue to ask the Lord to open doors of opportunity for the spread of His word and for us to speak it as we ought. May God bless and keep you all by His tender mercy and grace.

Brotherly, Harry O.

Nine Baptized in Tacloban

2012-01-17T05:44:00.000-06:00

There were 73 people gathered for the lectures today – more than were present yesterday. They were again very attentive and studied seriously with us in each lesson.

Chip started the lectures for today with a lesson on “The Silence of the Scripture” showing that the silence of God does not authorize us to act, but it is God’s revealed word that authorizes us to act. I followed with a study on “Who Is a Christian?” We considered the three passages where the word “Christian” is found in the NT and saw the characteristics of those who were Christians in NT times, as well as seeing the contrasting characteristics of those who were not Christians. Jonathan then presented “Does Man Have the Right to His Own Religious Belief & Practice?” The point was to show that we have no right as granted by God to our own beliefs and practices, but must submit to the belief and practice that He commands in His word. After that, we had the lunch break.

After lunch, Chip brought another sermon on “Borrowed Time,” noting that we have no assurance of more time in our lives, but we need to obey God now. An element of humor was added when Chip ended his lesson and went outside to take care of his sinus trouble. One problem, he forgot to turn the wireless microphone off J. I followed with a study that began by considering the relation of “Faith, Grace & Obedience” to re-emphasize the fact that all of these, not just one or two, are involved in the salvation given by God. After covering those points, I transitioned into a short form of a study on “Counting the Cost.” Jonathan gave some closing words of exhortation about “People Who Thought They Were Saved – But Were Lost.”

With these principles set before the audience, an invitation was extended for those who desired to obey the gospel of our Lord. No one came to obey the gospel at that time, but I still believed there was a great opportunity that has opened here in Tacloban. So, I started to answer questions. One concerned whether a woman may be a “pastor” or “leader” of the church. After establishing the fact that pastors, bishops and elders were all the same in the NT and were required to meet the qualifications of 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1, they readily accepted the point.

As I finished that question, several made known their desire to obey the gospel, so Jonathan asked anyone who wanted to obey the gospel to come forward and confess their faith. Nine souls made that decision and came to be baptized into Christ. Needless to say, we rejoiced greatly even as we are sure the angels rejoiced! After the lectures, we also learned that another one was probably going to be baptized when they went to the seashore.

Regarding our non-lecture life, last night was another interesting experience here in the Philippines. It seems that some of the roosters from Tuguegarao have been imported to Tacloban. As those of you reading these reports for several years know, our first hotel in Tuguegarao was next to a field where the fighting cocks were being raised. There we were introduced to Filipino roosters that have some confusion regarding the identification of dawn because they crow all night long! Last night, they were cock-a-doodle-doing constantly – until dawn, when they suddenly went silent. However, these time-challenged roosters were not the only disturbance last night. It seems that every dog in our part of town decided to bark all night as well. It is entirely possible that their howling was the result of the off-key wailing of the constant karaoke “singers” just down the street. (The theory among the bar-goers seems to be that they become better singers the longer they drink. However, having witnessed the testing of that theory, I would like to assure them that it is utterly false.) In addition, a band with loud bass drums made a night of their banging and squawking as well. To top it off, a pig that was being prepared for the main place in a feast was loudly protesting its place in the festivities, squealing like you would not believe! The cacophony of sounds going on last night was not exactly conducive to sleep. This is life in the Philippines! Oh, for my nice, quiet, peaceful place in the Oklahoma countryside!!!

Brotherly, Harry O.

First Day in Tacloban

2012-01-16T05:49:00.000-06:00

This morning, we began the two-day lectures in Tacloban on the island of Leyte. The venue that Jonathan secured was a function room at a hotel on the outskirts of town close to the home of brother Manny who was baptized from the work done here last Fall. Manny has been very zealous in seeking to share the gospel since his conversion, having taught his family and others. We have returned to help Manny spread that saving gospel to those whom he has been working to reach and teach. There were 46 registered in the starting attendance during the morning session. By the noon break, there were 63 registered adults in attendance.

Jack Jaco led us in a song to begin the morning session. After a prayer, I began with an introduction to the purpose of the lectures and then discussed the relation of “Salvation and the Word (the Seed)” dealing with the need to return to the simple message of the gospel as the only source for the salvation given by God through Christ. We then considered “How God Used Prophets to Speak His Word.” Chip Foster followed with a lesson on “What Church Shall I Join?” This brought us to the lunch break where we sought the help of our Filipino brethren to assess whether the morning lessons were understood and what lessons we needed to cover in the afternoon session.

Again, we sung a few songs in praise to God as we started the afternoon session and then began our Bible studies. I gave the lesson on “Salvation & Saul” that shows the point at which Saul was saved from his sins – when he was baptized in water for the remission of sins. Chip followed with a lesson on “I Resolve,” showing the need for godly living once one becomes a child of God. Jonathan then presented a lesson in the dialect dealing with fundamental points about the NT church. After that, I preached a short lesson on “Confusing the Issue” showing how the lawyer in Luke 10 tried to divert attention from the clarity of truth by attempting to confuse the requirement of loving his neighbor. We then made application of the same principle seen in man’s attempt to confuse the issue regarding morality, the true church and the plan of salvation. To avoid being diverted from the truth, we need to remain focused on the same thing Jesus stated – “What is written in the law? How do you read it?” The purpose was to reinforce the facts regarding the clarity of God’s word to answer our search for truth if we simply accept its teaching without change.

The afternoon session ended with a question/answer period. We had questions on what constitutes acceptable baptism, what saved a Christian must do when he/she sins, the place of women in the NT church and a few others. The audience seemed very attentive, carefully considering each lesson. We hope and pray for good results as the word of God works on the hearts of those present. Please keep these people in your prayers that they may open their hearts to the Lord and obey His will.

Chip and I continue to battle some health issues. Chip’s cold is hanging on, but he continues to do an excellent job in preaching the word. I am feeling much better, though the effects of antibiotics are somewhat unpleasant. We appreciate your continued prayers for us as well.

Brotherly, Harry O.

Benevolence in Cagayan de Oro (Fri, Jan 13)

2012-01-14T03:58:00.000-06:00

On Friday, I was again unable to join in the distribution efforts for that day in Cagayan de Oro. After a morning visit to the ER at a local hospital for IV fluids and medication, the doctor instructed me to rest and start the oral antibiotics as soon as possible. Again, Chip Foster went with the Filipino brethren to oversee the benevolent distribution in this area. Chip's report of the day follows:

On Friday we stayed in Cayagan De Oro traveling to to churches. The first church we went to was the San Simon church of Christ. It was about a 30 minute drive from the central city. There the members were waiting for us and Jun began the distribution. I find it hard to describe the look on their faces and their sense of relief as they receive needed essentials; 48 bags of rice and groceries. Here there were four families that lost their homes in the floods and 14 had their homes flooded. Again Jonathan and Jun were well organized and the distribution went well.

The members here were very grateful for the assistance. I feel privileged to have witnessed this knowing that the glory goes to God as Christians saw the need of brothers and sisters and responded overwhelmingly.

Due to the time schedule we had to leave immediately after and return to Cagayan to go to the Camaman-an church of Christ. Jun preachers at both of these congregations each Sunday. His home church is at Camaman-an and in the afternoon he travels to San Simon to preach.

At Camaman-an the members themselves were instrumental in putting together the grocery bags that were distributed to the many churches.

At Camaman-an 60 bags of rice were distributed. The grocery bags that were also distributed were not available because of an unforeseen need in Iligan. there are funds remaining that will be used to supply this need to those in Camaman-an. Only one house here was flooded. Again the brethren here were grateful for the outpouring of love and support.

Brethren rest assured that the entirety of the funds sent here have been used for the brethren in such great need. Jonathan Carino was left with funds that will go toward rebuilding homes that were lost. At the last count some 25 homes were lost and the rebuilding cost is about $500. This will supply only the basics; a corrugated tin roof, four posts for support, and concrete for the slab. The rest of the building will be up to the individuals. Some may building with cinder blocks and others with a wood type of wall. Again please know that your support and benevolence has been used according to your wishes and as according to God's plan. There are some funds that were set aside for any church building that needed construction and the only one so far is in Mandulog.

The remainder of the supplies were left at Iligan and Edgar Samodal will disperse it to the remaining churches around Iligan; Kabangahan church of Christ, Tominobo church of Christ, Hanginan church of Christ, Ladi church of Christ, and Malandog church of Christ.

The need for many of our brethren will be great for a long time as many must wait for the trees that were washed to grow again and begin to produce the fruit that is harvested and sold. Please keep these brethren in your prayers as it is so very hard to imagine the hardships they are under.

Report for Iligan City (Thurs, Jan 12)

2012-01-14T03:08:00.000-06:00

Due to my illness starting Thursday morning, I was not able to go for the distributions on that day, but was taken to a hotel in town where I stayed until time to go back to Cagayan de Oro. Chip Foster accompanied Jonathan Carino, Edgar Samadal and Jhun Carpentero in the work for that day. Below is Chip's report for the activities of the day:

The past two days have been very trying but very rewarding. Yesterday we traveled to Iligan to the Santiago church of Christ. Jun drove us in the rented van and showed us some of the places that were flooded along the way. I have never personally witnessed the aftermath of any natural disaster so I have few words to truly describe what I have seen.

Bro. Jonathan Carino has been instrumental in organizing the relief efforts and along with Jun Cip and Edgar Samodal and others the relief and aid has gone to the right places and provided necessities to those who desperately need it. The supplies that were to be distributed were sent to the Santiago church in Iligan and then dispersed to the various congregations from there. Simple things like a wok pan and a blanket to toothpaste and rice have been purchased with the funds sent by so many Christians. To those of you who sent aid it has been well spent and has provided those who have both lost little and much comfort.

The first church we went to yesterday was the church of Christ in Mandulog. this church is outside of Iligan in the mountain area. To me it is a jungle. The variety of vegetation is without scale. We drove on a rock infested mud road to get to the congregation. The land is beautiful. When we arrived at the place where the church meets the members were all gathered waiting for us. they had walked through the jungle some for great distances. The new church building was under under construction and this is where the members gathered. The previous building was destroyed by the flood along with the preachers house.

I witnessed the distribution of 51alotments of 25 kilogram bags of rice and small grocery bags filled with necessities. There were also 4 in Mandulog who belongings were washed away and they received others items such as blanket, mosquito net, silverware, plates and glasses, etc.

As I was being told of the flood I had to walk away from the brethren because the tears were to great for me to hold back. I cannot convey to you how desperate the situation is nor can I convey to you the strength of character exhibited by the brethren here. While I am heartbroken at the loss I am so encouraged by faith shown.

After the distribution was completed I was taken to the sight of the church building and preachers house. Nothing remains of these two buildings except for the concrete slab. There was a pile of debris that contained the remnants. The water of the flood was, I am estimating, at least 20 feet deep, probably more.

We went back to Iligan to witness the distribution for the Santiago church of Christ. Here there were 43 bags of rice and groceries distributed. This number also included some members from Buruun. Here there was only 1 washed out home.

Edgar Samodal showed me around the building. The water came rushing through flooding them at about 4-5 feet deep. There were piles of Bibles, songbooks, and classroom material scattered about. The electronic equipment was also destroyed. Again i cannot say enough about the resolve and strength of the brethren here.

Arrived Cagayan de Oro

2012-01-11T18:43:00.000-06:00

We left Manila about 2pm on a flight to Cagayan de Oro. Jhun Carpentero met us at the airport and took us on a short tour of a small part of the destruction in this city. Of the 89 “baranguys” (similar to what we would call “precincts”) in this city, 23 had significant damage from the December 16^th floods. The destruction was horrible! One area we saw near a river had over 500 houses built on both sides. None are left there! During the flood, the water was flowing more than 20 feet over the bridge from which we looked down to survey the devastation. I took a picture of the cliff just upstream to show how high the water was and the washout of mud, trees and other debris that made the flood more destructive to all in its path.

At another place on the river, over 5000 are still listed as “missing” from just the section shown in my picture on the blog. One of the people still missing is the little daughter of the woman pictured. The woman is one of our sisters in Christ who lives in this place. Her daughter was to turn 6 on Thursday (Jan. 12). There remains little doubt she has perished and will not see another birthday in this world. As Jhun talked with the woman, she showed us the light pole with a black tie around it at the top. That marks the level the water reached during the flood. At one point in the flood, fifty people were clinging to the top of a mango tree to avoid being swept away. The sister we met was thankful for the food provided through funds sent ahead by brethren in the US and was appreciative of the more substantial supplies that will be made available in the next two days as we pay for the supplies so they can be released. She was standing in the line for supplies being handed out by the government. We saw a few carrying those supplies for that day – it was about the size of a WalMart plastic sack only half full that was given to each family. Jhun told us today was good because many days, the government had no food at all to hand out.

The destruction was obvious all around town. In one of the main areas, water was chest high running through streets, houses and businesses. Fires from burning debris were everywhere. The damage near the rivers was comparable to what I have seen in the wake of an F5 tornado – total destruction. The destruction from the lesser level of flood-water plus the typhoon winds was significant where cement structures were standing, though gutted within and roofing material blown away. Please remember that what I am seeing now is after massive amounts of ongoing cleanup have already taken place. It continued at a steady pace as we viewed the scenes.

As I said, we only had a brief time to see some of the destruction near our path to the hotel. No doubt, we will see more over the next few days. My heart is already broken from what we have seen. Please pray for these people – especially our brothers and sisters in Christ, but also for the terrible suffering so many people here are enduring daily!

I am sorry this report is coming much later than I normally send it out. As I was preparing it last night, I feel asleep from being so exhausted and decided to get up early this morning (Thursday here) in order to send it out. The Lord willing, I will continue reports on the relief tomorrow. Thank you for your help in this effort and your concern for our Filipino brethren!

Brotherly, Harry O.

Philippine Trip & Devastating Floods

2011-12-20T18:30:00.001-06:00

With the funds received today, I have reached the goal needed for the evangelistic efforts in this trip to the Philippine. I appreciate more than words can express the generosity of each one. Chip Foster and I would appreciate your prayers during our trip from January 8-31, 2012. By the way, Chip is still some short of the amount he needs for the trip.

As many of you know, a typhoon hit the northern coast of Mindanao last Friday night about midnight. The severity of the storm was not expected, so residents had no warning. To this point, about 1000 dead have been found with the totals expected to increase. The cities of Cagayan de Oro and Iligan were especially hard hit. These cities are also home to many of our brethren. The late Cipriano Carpentero labored in Cagayan de Oro for many years and his son, Jhun, continues that very fruitful work. Edgar Samadal is a faithful gospel preacher in Iligan City who has also done much effective work throughout the area. In addition to those brethren, numerous other faithful brethren live in the area including a number of preachers recently converted out of premillennial and instrumental churches.

The letters and reports I have gotten to this point are heart wrenching with the degree of devastation detailed. Food and water are in very short supply. Basic medicines are not available to the average person. With the infected flood waters, disease is starting to affect many with dysentery. Many have lost all or most of their clothing and household items. Both the news accounts and the firsthand reports I am receiving suggest a critical situation. Beyond these immediate needs for survival, many homes and church buildings of brethren have been swept away or badly damaged. Rebuilding will be a long process.

If you know of churches or individuals who would like to help with benevolence towards these brethren, please ask them to consider this great need. Chip Foster and I have agreed to change our schedule to go immediately to the affected area upon our arrival in the Philippines. We would be glad to convey help to the brethren there if you would like us to serve as messengers to that purpose. The brethren in that area have requested that we come to help with benevolent distribution in order to attest to an honest and fair use of the funds. With the history of honesty and faithfulness I have seen from the brethren in that area, I would expect them to be fully transparent in meeting this need and providing an account of the funds. Chip and I will work with them to assure the same and provide a record of the dispersal of funds to all who help.

If a church wants to help, this can be done in several ways. First, if you would contact me, I would be glad to give you contact information to send the funds directly to faithful brethren who can help in that distribution. Second, if you would prefer to use Chip Foster or me as messengers to deliver those funds, please send the funds to us as soon as possible with a notation for “benevolence to Filipino brethren” and we will see to the distribution of those funds and send a report on the distribution upon our return.

If an individual wants to help in this effort, the same ways as above can also be used. In addition, if you want to give $500 or more to this effort and receive a tax deduction, a tax exempt organization set up by Ron Halbrook has agreed to receive funds for this need and send them to the Philippines where Chip and I will help see to the distribution of those funds as well. Individuals wanting to take advantage of this tax-deductible opportunity for benevolence, church buildings and similar needs can write checks payable to “Help A Neighbor” and send them to 3505 Horse Run Ct., Shepherdsville, KY 40165-6954. Also, please make a notation with the check as to the purpose you are sending (like “benevolence for Dec. 2011 storm,” “rebuild church buildings,” etc.). Donors receive financial reports (2 Cor. 8:21).

Thank you for your consideration of these needs. May God bless your efforts in His service.

Brotherly,

Harry Osborne
303 S. Czech Hall Rd.
Tuttle, OK 73089
harryrosborne@live.com

Chip Foster
307 N. Elm
Tolar, TX 76476
txchipper@windstream.net

Travel & Prison Work - 3 Baptized at Prison

2011-09-21T06:43:00.009-05:00

Tuesday was a travel day that ended very restfully. After settling all expenses for the trip to that point with John and Jack in the morning, I took a taxi to the airport in Cebu. There was a great deal on walking up and down steps in the airport, a long hike on the tarmac to the plane, and a steep climb up Filipino-size steps to the airplane. With my back and hip already giving me a great deal of trouble, it was a challenge. When I got to Manila, it would only figure that we arrived at the gate on the far end away from baggage claims. By the time I got to the hotel, I took a shower and crashed in the afternoon, sleeping for about 12 or 13 hours until the morning!

Kenneth Pastor was unable to get permission for a full day schedule at the prison since there is a new administrator. We had an afternoon session that was held in the Catholic chapel again, just like last time. They would not allow my camera, so I have posted on the blog a few old pictures from last time there. A few minutes after we got started, we had a brown-out and never regained electricity. I preached from 1 Peter 1 on “The Message, Means & Meaning of Salvation.” (For those in OKC, it will be the sermon for the third hour next Sunday, the Lord willing.) Willie translated the sermon into Tagalog for the audience. Lordy Salunga came at my invitation as well so that he could preach in Tagalog. His lesson was also on first principles regarding the plan of salvation. At the invitation, three made known their decision to be baptized into Christ.

After the meeting, I was able to convey the message to Willie regarding the commitment of some dear friends in the Fort Worth area that agreed to help him. He was relieved beyond expression because the one who had been supporting him had suddenly stopped 3 months ago and has not been in contact. Since the sister is of advanced age, Willie and his wife, Kathy, are very concerned about this sister’s well-being as well as the hardships they have experienced due to a lack of funds.

Just to let you know what kind of man Willie is, I thought you might like to know something I saw. Willie was off to the side talking with a man from the medium security prison who had no shoes. Willie quietly took off his shoes and socks, giving it to the man privately without ever saying a word. I saw it, however, and was talking to the guard and told him what happened. The guard smiled and said that is the way Willie is, always helping others by giving to them. No, giving is not a duty just of the greatly blessed, but is result of a heart that is ready to share whatever it has – little or much. My life has been forever changed by many examples of faith and service seen by numerous Filipino brethren. Yes, there are a few bad apples, but they are far outnumbered by the many dedicated and faithful servants of God!

One quick note, Kenneth Pastor works as an engineer here in the Philippines as well as working in the prisons. Kenneth’s salary is modest, but able to take care of his family. However, the costs associated with the prison work are beyond his ability to absorb. From what I can see of costs, about $100 per month should meet those costs at this time. If you are able to help, please let me know.

Tomorrow is my last full day in the Philippines, the Lord willing. I plan to use it getting ready for Sunday services at home and resting before my flight back home on Friday. Please keep the Lord’s work over here and my travels in your prayers.

Brotherly, Harry O.

Two Baptized in Lapu-lapu

2011-09-19T04:37:00.006-05:00

Monday’s schedule was in Lapu-lapu, a district in the metropolitan area of Cebu City. Brother Pablo Espinoza preaches in that place and continues to do a good work as he has for many years. They meet in a very basic building at the edge of the sea. Nevin and Judy Cox provided the funds to build the initial building. Due to growth over the past few years, they have enlarged it some and continue to keep it up very well. The meeting house and the dwellings in the neighboring area are all built up on coral rocks. At high tide, the sea rises to cover every low area and only the built up places and walkways are passable. The aroma of the seaside is ever present.

Due to my voice being very weak and my increasing back pain, as well as the traffic situation in that area, we decided it would be good to “abbreviate” the schedule for today. (I put that in quotes because I doubt that many in the US would consider meeting for over 2 hours before lunch and about 3 hours after lunch an “abbreviated” schedule!) We had about 40 to 50 present for the studies today and many were not very skilled in English, so we decided to have a detailed summary after each lesson I preached. I first preached on “What Makes a Religious Practice Right or Wrong?” Mario Rubio, from Dumaguete, gave the summary of that lesson. After the lunch break, I preach on “Narrow-Minded Truth in a Broad-Minded World” from Matthew 7:13-14. Fred Ogario gave the summary for that study.

At the end of the day, an invitation was extended to encourage any who wanted to obey the gospel to do so. Roy Matta, who had led the singing all day, also gave the invitation. One young man and one young lady responded to confess Christ and be baptized into Him. We are thankful for their decision and pray others will soon follow.

In June of this year, Pablo’s son had an accident. His head was badly injured and a large portion of his skull on the right side was removed – due to swelling as I understand it. That portion of the skull has been implanted in his abdomen until it can be re-implanted to his head. As in all cases here, the doctors will not do the surgery until payment is secured. The cost will be about $800. If anyone is able to help towards this amount, please let me know and I will help you in getting the funds sent to meet this need.

Tomorrow, the Lord willing, I will fly to Manila and will have no schedule of preaching due to the travel. On Wednesday, I am scheduled to preach at the prison with Willie Pastor. I will not be writing a report tomorrow, but will make my next report on Wednesday if the Lord wills. Thank you again for your support and prayers.

Brotherly, Harry O.

Lord's Day in Cebu

2011-09-18T04:16:00.006-05:00

It was a very good Lord’s Day in Cebu! We had about 45 to 50 for our worship this morning with the church that meets in central Cebu. John’s son, Christopher John, led the singing and Sam directed our minds in the Lord’s Supper. Both did an excellent job and the congregation was enthusiastic in worship as well. In the first hour, I preached on “Be Not Weary” from Galatians 6:7-9, a lesson of exhortation to continued faithfulness. In the class hour, we studied on 2 Corinthians 5:14-15 noting what “The Love of Christ Constrains Us” to do.

After lunch, several brethren from other congregations joined us for an afternoon study. When this trip was first planned, we had intended to use Sunday afternoon as a time for a training class for the men of the congregation. However, it was changed to a time for all of the area brethren to study on topics specifically for Christians. So, the first lesson was on “Being Perfectly Joined Together” from 1 Corinthians 1:10-13. The second lesson was on “Foundations of the Family,” a basic lesson on the kind of love needed in the home and the actions that such love will produce. The lessons seem to have been well received.

It is always a joy to be with the brethren in the Cebu area. They are a great encouragement to me and have become very close to me through the years. I guess I have spent more time with them and the church in Tuguegarao than any other places in the Philippines and I have grown to love them all very much. The Lord willing, we will continue the work in this area tomorrow as we work with Pablo Espinoza at Lapu-lapu.

Thanks again for your help in this effort. I need to correct one thing from yesterday. There were 2 baptisms (a man and wife) not the 3 reported here in Cebu. The one I thought was obeying the gospel decided she was not ready yet. We hope and pray that she soon will be.

Brotherly, Harry O.

Three Baptized in Cebu

2011-09-17T05:55:00.007-05:00

Friday was a travel day providing some much needed rest. We slept a little later and ate breakfast before packing up to leave Ormoc. Lordy started the day with news that a problem had arisen at home and he needed to return for some studies with brethren in Angeles City. We all boarded the SuperCat at about 1:45pm for the two hour trip across to Cebu. When we arrived, Nanette was there to pick us up. When I got to the hotel, I headed for the Starbucks in the mall near the hotel and had a healthy dose of pure joy! Everything was going great until my air conditioning broke in the middle of the night – an especially troubling development over here.

We started the lectures this morning a little after 9am with some singing in the dialect. The venue is the rented room in downtown Cebu where the congregation assembles with whom John works. There were about 90 to 100 people present, including brethren from the area churches and non-Christian who had been invited. I brought the first lesson on “What Makes a Religious Practice Right or Wrong?” It dealt with fundamentals on authority and the cessation of the OT law. Jack Jaco followed with a lesson on “New Testament Baptism” that was delivered in the Cebuano (Visayan) dialect. The final study for the morning session was “They Say & Do Not” dealing with claims made by denominations and how those claims conflict with the truth. Sam Robinson and I had a good chance to talk during the lunch break. (He will be coming back to San Antonio and OKC later this year.)

The afternoon session began with my lesson on “Cornelius & Salvation” from Acts 10 and 11. It was a long lesson because I combined it with another lesson I preach on the “Plan of Salvation.” Jonathan Carino then preached on “The New Testament Church” in the dialect. I completed the studies for the day with a sermon on “Almost Persuaded” dealing with Bible cases of people almost saved, but lost. Jun Apatan extended the invitation, but no one responded. However, before we left two had decided to be baptized and I understand a third also made the same decision. It was a good day and the meeting continues tomorrow!

We also found out today that four more have been baptized in Dumaguete as a result of our lectures there! Thank you again for helping to make this work possible through your sacrifices and prayers. May God be glorified in all that we do! Please continue the prayers.

Brotherly, Harry O.

Two Baptized in Ormoc

2011-09-15T05:28:00.007-05:00

We had a much shorter travel to our venue today since it was only a few hundred yards from our hotel. We were able to start earlier as well, so we had more time for teaching than in previous days. The crowd of 70 was again comprised mostly of common people who did not understand English well. Over the past several years, we designed lectures to reach denominational preachers who were able to understand English well, so there was no need for translation or summary into the dialect. While those lectures were very effective, we believe they have served their purpose for this time and we are designing our present lectures for the common people who are invited by members of the church. So, Jonathan Carino needed to summarize each lesson into the dialect.

I again started with the lesson on “Salvation, the Gospel & the Seed” from 1 Peter 1:21-25 followed by the study of “How God Used the Prophets to Speak His Will.” As Jonathan was summarizing both lessons, one man among a group of attendees began to interrupt John and challenge his statements. He came from the “Instrumental Church of Christ” which is also premillennial. These men had been associated with Cyrus Gesulga, formerly the leading preacher among premillennial churches of Christ in the Philippines who recently renounced that doctrine and began working with faithful brethren. So, I inserted a lesson on “The Distinction between the Covenants.” Jonathan summarized that sermon also before we took the lunch.

The afternoon studies began with the sermon on “Salvation & Saul,” dealing with issues about the plan of salvation. We showed that Saul was not saved at the point of faith only, repentance & prayer, a personal appearance of Jesus or a miracle. Rather, the Bible clearly shows Paul was saved at the point of baptism because it is in baptism that we contact the saving blood of Christ. John again gave a detailed summary of the lesson into the dialect. We then considered a lesson on “Identifying the New Testament Church.” The preachers from the instrumental group became very uncomfortable when I dealt with the worship of the church and even more so when John covered the points in the dialect. One of them was trying to argue the point, but John dealt with him very well and the crowd could see the point. In the end, this man helped the crowd recognize the truth as it was apparent in contrast to his error.

The last lesson covered was a very short version of “Counting the Cost.” Jonathan summarized the main points and extended the invitation of Christ. Two young men came to obey the Lord, being baptized for the remission of sins. Since we were very hurried at the end of the service, I did not get to find out the background of those baptized, but I understand they are both from Ormoc.

We had no time left for a long question/answer session, but offered to answer any questions for a short time. The main two men from the instrumental group asked for time to discuss the use of instruments in worship. We did not have that time today, but offered to discuss further at a future time. Though their attitude had not appeared good early in the day, they seemed to manifest a good attitude at the end and we are trying to arrange a time for more study in the future with about 12 or more preachers from this group. I promised that I would make every effort to be there for such a study. Please keep this opportunity in your prayers.

Brother Wilfredo (Willie) Pelino is the local preacher here in Ormoc and has done much to help in this effort as well as other studies. He is a faithful man who has shown years of service to the Lord and dependability in his work. For several years, the church in Centerville, Texas supported Willie. Brother Richard King and other brethren there at that time kept in contact with me about the men they were helping and the work being done in the Philippines. When brother King and some other brethren who knew of the work being done here were no longer present in Centerville, they decided to use their funds in other directions. This has left Willie and several other very deserving Filipino preachers in great need as that was their only support. Willie has taken a teaching job to provide support for his family, but it will take 6 months before he receives his first salary for that job! (Yes, things are done very different here in the Philippines where the number of available workers far exceeds the available jobs!) In the meantime, he is in great need. His talents are needed in the kingdom and he will continue to preach the gospel even without any support, but he could do so with less distraction if he were able to receive some support again.

Thank you again for following the work that is being done in this effort. May the Lord bless each of you as you strive to follow Him and spread His truth to souls in desperate need of salvation!

Brotherly, Harry O.

Lectures in Baybay - No Responses

2011-09-14T05:36:00.006-05:00

Today’s venue was about an hour and a half south of Ormoc at Baybay in a building owned by the provincial government. It is built as a lecture hall with the audience seated in stepped up level about the speaker. It had air conditioning that tried to overcome the heat from outside and the fact that doors were rarely closed after being opened. Over 70 were present for the studies of the day – about 20 more than anticipated. They were very attentive, but were limited in understanding of English, so we had to summarize each of the lessons into the dialect.

I again started with the study on “The Word of the Gospel, the Seed & Salvation” from 1 Peter 1:22-25. We emphasized the need for turning to the right seed (the gospel) if we want to produce the right product (salvation in Christ). Without break, I then went into the lesson “How Did God Used the Prophets to Speak His Will?” Jonathan Carino then summarized the lesson into the dialect before we broke for lunch.

The first lesson of the afternoon session was “Salvation & Saul.” This study was chosen because it deals in detail with the issues relating to the plan of salvation and it is the most familiar lesson on that subject to the Filipino brethren traveling with me. Jonathan Carino has interpreted that lesson for me numerous times. Since I crowd was largely limited in understanding English, John needed to give a detailed summary of the lesson. It is always interesting for me to notice the faces of the crowd because it is soon apparent whether they understand what I am saying. More than half of this audience seemed not to understand the majority of what I said. However, when John taught the material in the dialect, their faces lighted up with understanding and they responded when he asked questions and called on them to give a conclusion.

The next lecture was on “Identifying the Church in the New Testament” based on 1 Cor. 1:1-2. We studied the meaning and use of the term “church” in the NT. We then showed identifying characteristics by which one may recognize a local congregation with whom they may rightly work in service to Christ with fellow Christians. John again summarized the lesson in detail for the audience.

The last lesson was on “Counting the Cost” from Luke 14. John also summarized that lecture into the dialect and then extended the invitation for those who were ready to obey the gospel. There were no visible responses to the gospel from these lectures. I believe this is the second or third time I have preached in Baybay and there have been no visible responses in any of those efforts. This place and Tacloban have both been particularly hard to penetrate with the gospel, but we keep trying!

The internet connection at our hotel continues to be a problem. While here in Leyte, we are trying to go to a place that has an internet connection on our way back to the hotel so I can file my report while the other guys eat supper. That means my reports are more hurried than normal, so please excuse my typos and other mistakes. Thanks again for your help in every way and please keep us in your prayers.

Brotherly, Harry O.

Lectures in Tacloban

2011-09-13T04:20:00.008-05:00

Our venue today was in the city of Tacloban, famous as the place for the American forces landing under the command of General Douglas MacArthur in WWII. We met in the upstairs function room of a Cindy’s café. It was somewhat air conditioned and served as a good spot with very little disruption present. The members of the small congregation at Tacloban had invited their friends and acquaintances to listen for the day. A little over 50 were assembled to listen to the gospel presented.

The morning session was taken by me introducing the studies with a lesson on “The Word of the Gospel, the Seed & Salvation” from 1 Peter 1:22-25 followed by a sermon on “How God Used the Prophets to Speak His Will.” The second lesson covered the same basic points as my lesson on “Inspiration of the Scripture,” but was arranged differently by taking the order from the points made in 2 Peter 2:12-21. We then took a break for lunch.

The afternoon session began with a lesson on “Salvation & Saul” and was followed by a lesson from Jonathan Carino on “The Church in the New Testament.” I followed with the final lesson on “Grace, Faith & Obedience” then went immediately into another on “Counting the Cost.” Jonathan closed out the day’s study with an appeal for those who understood the lessons and saw the need to obey that they come and do so. Before he even started the song (“Have You Counted the Cost”), one man started towards the front who had been listening very carefully and confessed Christ. After making his confession, he asked to address the crowd and called upon all to make the same decision and related his great joy in obeying the Lord.

After this one obeyed Christ, we had a time for a short question/answer session. One was a denominational lady who asked about denominational baptism and whether one receiving it in the past would need to be “baptized again.” We discussed the Bible teaching on what constitutes true baptism in the name of Christ and hope she will soon obey. One man from a holiness group asked a question clearly aimed at advancing the oneness position regarding God, professing there is only one person that possesses the divine nature. After we answered that question, he jumped to some of his views on what human regulations should be imposed to insure holiness. This was easily answered by noting what the Bible teaches regarding true holiness.

Again, we are thankful to each of you who have shown your concern for this work. Please keep us in your prayers.

Brotherly, Harry O.

Lord's Day in Pagadian Area

2011-09-11T09:10:00.011-05:00

After preaching for over 35 years and working in the Philippines for 10 years, it is not often that I have a new experience, but I had one today. This was the first time I had ever preached in five different churches on the same Lord’s Day. It was a long, but fruitful day in the Pagadian area!

The first service of the day was at 9am with the Guipos congregation where brother Leo Armada preaches. I spoke to a full house for about an hour and a half on “Being Perfectly Joined Together” from 1 Corinthians 1:10-13. James Armada extended the invitation following the lesson and 9 came to confess Christ. Before they went to baptize the group, another asked to confess Christ and be baptized for remission of sins. So, they took the 10 to the spillway where all were baptized. We passed on as they went down to the river because we had to get to the next place.

We had a lengthy drive to the next appointment at noon with the Pulacan church where Ernie Colliado preaches. We had a good number assembled for that meeting as well and I preached on “The Life of Joseph.” No invitation was extended, but the brethren were thankful for the visit and seemed to be encouraged.

We were delayed a little reaching the scheduled 2pm meeting with the Manga congregation where Leo and James Armada labor together. The building sets fairly high above the road just in front of it, so there is a rather steep climb up a number of uneven steps in order to reach the meeting place. I preached on “Avoiding an Evil Heart of Unbelief” which included some points for non-Christians, but centered on exhortation for Christians to grow in faith. At the end of the service, brother James Armada again extended the invitation with further instruction towards non-Christians and 3 came to obey the gospel. James took those to be baptized while we went on to the next place to set up.

Our next schedule was with the Danlugan congregation where James Armada preaches. He was a little delayed due to the baptisms at the previous place, so we were well behind the scheduled 4pm time in getting started. Again, a good number was present, mostly members of the church, so I preached a lesson on “Where Is Your Treasure?” from Matthew 6. No invitation was extended at the conclusion of that service.

Our last scheduled meeting was at the Hilltop church where Gadiel Candallo preaches. We arrived a little late, but found only the preacher and one other member there. It seems a large rain had come about 2 hours before the service which prevented most from coming. However, there were 10 of us traveling together plus the entire Armada family that joined us as well as several other brethren from the area. I preached on the “Foundation of the Family” from 1 Peter 3. We had a good study with excellent interest shown. I finished preaching at 9pm – twelve hours after I began at 9am. In all, it was a very tiring, but fruitful day.

The Lord willing, tomorrow is a travel day with no preaching scheduled. My voice can use the break! We are to drive from Pagadian to Ozamis, fly from Ozamis to Cebu and take the fastcraft boat from Cebu to Ormoc on the island of Leyte. Please keep us in your prayers for safe travel.

Brotherly, Harry O.

Saturday at Maraya

2011-09-10T08:01:00.007-05:00

Saturday was to be spent in Margosatubig, Zambuanga del Sur by our original plan. We designed these lectures for a series on the Sermon on the Mount as an announcement of the new law, not a correction of misunderstandings of the old covenant. The people in this area asked that I give a day to teaching on this subject and I agreed to do so many months ago. The place had been determined because it was the place of Ernesto Canon who is the leading disciple of Jim Puterbaugh and Wallace Little in spreading their “One Covenant Doctrine” in this area. However, the brethren who hold to the truth wanted to benefit from the studies, but would be prohibited by cost if we held the studies in Margosatubig.

Just before I left home, it was decided to change the venue to the building of the Maraya church in the village of Vincenzo Sagun where Junie Gocela preaches. I did not know how that could work since the last time I had been to their building, it was very small. I had forgotten they received funds to extend it, so I was surprised to see a metal-roofed building that was very modest in style, but able to hold over 100 people. This group was the original congregation that started in this area and it was very small. They now have 80 to 90 a week, but there have been 9 or 10 other churches started in that area. Junie and Carlos Sanguan have both done excellent work in the area for a number of years. Carlos was receiving support from a brother in the US, but it was cut off without notice after he opposed the error of Ernesto Canon, Jim Puterbaugh and Wallace Little. Carlos continues to labor in the kingdom and find work to help his family survive. They are in great poverty, but they are still diligent in service of the Lord’s cause.

The morning session was taken entirely with my lesson on the

introduction to the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 4 and the beginning of that sermon in Matthew 5. After lunch, I presented a lesson on the “Relation of the Covenants” based on a sermon presented by Stan Cox that I thought was very well organized in laying out the basic distinctions between the old and new covenants. Jack Jaco then spoke on “Why We Preach the Cross” which was given in the Cebuano dialect. I finished the time for the afternoon session with a lesson on Matthew 7. The lessons were very well received and it seemed to help the people more fully understand the problems with the “One Covenant Doctrine.” There were about 175 in attendance with people sitting outside the doors and windows where they could see and hear.

Getting to and back from the venue was the most difficult part of the day. After traveling a little over an hour on the highway, we then got on the road into the mountains toward the building. The “highway” is about the size of a neighborhood street in the US with no shoulder at all. The road up into the mountains was so rough and torn up, it is impossible to adequately describe it. The pictures on the blog do not show the fact that some rocks are big enough and rise to a height that they can destroy an oil pan or other car parts. That is exactly what happened to Brother Armada’s truck in front of us. The ride was absolutely bone-jarring! I dreaded this day’s journey because I knew what the road was like by going before, but I think it got worse! Needless to say, my back is giving me a bit of difficulty at this point, so I hope it will be better after a good night’s rest.

We finished the day by eating at Ramon and Leah Carino’s house. It was the first time I had seen the home they moved into after leaving the previous one. It was good to be with them again.

Thanks again for following our efforts. The Lord willing, I will be preaching at 5 different churches tomorrow with the first service starting at 9am and the last one beginning at 7pm. It should be a very full day.

Brotherly, Harry O.

3 Baptized in Aloran

2011-09-09T08:45:00.008-05:00

Our Friday was a very long day! It began at midnight as we set sail on the ship from Dumaguete to Cebu. After waiting on the ticket checker to come by, I finally fell asleep about 1am. We were scheduled to arrive in Cebu at 6am, but I started to hear an announcement at 4:20am. By a little before 5am, we were already docked. Jonathan’s wife and son picked us up and took us to their house where we had some coffee and dropped off several bags. We then went to the airport and flew to Ozamis where we also arrived early. After eating lunch, we started on our way to the meeting place of the church in Aloran.

I will discuss the trip in a moment, but the meeting with the church in Aloran was very uplifting! When we arrived, Diosdado Tual (the preacher) greeted us outside and brought us into the very basic building with a tin roof and half-walled sides made of concrete block. It was hot and the humidity was high, but all were happy to be there to hear the gospel. To my great surprise, among those present was Cyrus Gesulga, formerly the leading preacher among premillennial churches of Christ in the Philippines who recently renounced that doctrine and began working with faithful brethren as a result of studies with Ron Halbrook and Jonathan Carino. I did not think I would be able to meet him on this trip, but it was a joy to be with him and talk for a long period after the meeting.

Since it was after 2:30pm when we arrived at Aloran, we only had time for one sermon. I preached on “Who Is a Christian?” The lesson covered basic points on the plan of salvation, the identity of the church and several points on common errors of denominationalism. Brother James Armada with whom I have worked on previous trips gave a summary of the sermon in the native dialect of Cebuano and did his usual, excellent job. When the invitation was extended, three people (one married couple and an older woman) came to confess their faith in Christ and be baptized for the remission of sins.

Though I thought Aloran was to be on the outskirts of Ozamis, I found out it was the dreaded “30 minutes” away. In the Philippines, when you are told it is “30 minutes” away, it actually means at least one hour and possibly two. In this case, it was over an hour away and in the opposite direction of the place we needed to go for our hotel tonight. The roads were rough and congested with the full assortment of wheeled vehicles found in the Philippines from animal to pedal to motor driven. It never ceases to amaze me how all these vehicles travel on the same road at the same time – most of them without lights after dark! As we traveled towards Pagadian at night, the road was among the roughest that I have ever been on and it was raining the whole time. It was a jarring trip. I am looking forward to the sleep tonight!

Thanks again for your prayers and encouragement in our efforts.

Brotherly, Harry O.

One Baptized in Dumaguete

2011-09-08T07:29:00.008-05:00

We began the lectures this morning after about an hour delay – a common occurrence we sometimes call “Filipino time.” There were 71 registered guests not counting children or those of us doing the teaching. Mario Rubio had made the arrangements for the lectures. He is a good man trying to serve the Lord with his wife and 7 children. Mario was baptized in 2007 after hearing the truth presented by Ramon Carino and other faithful brethren. Mario, as a denominational preacher, had been discouraged from hearing the truth earlier by the ungodly life and error of Zennon Nodado and others who called themselves “gospel preachers,” but were only out for the money they could receive from American brethren. Having already seen such hypocrisy from Zennon and other firsthand, it was easy for me to see how Mario would not want to be a part of such. I am thankful to God that Mario’s truly searching heart came in contact with faithful men who could help him truly obey the Lord.

The morning session began with introductory remarks by Mario and Jack Jaco leading the assembly in several songs. I followed with a lesson on “The Inspiration of Scripture” followed by another on “Salvation & Saul.” Jonathan Carino then began his lesson on “Grace, Faith & Obedience” which he finished after lunch. I had the next lesson on “Identifying the New Testament Church.” Since time was running short at that point, we decided to have a final lesson on “Counting the Cost” to show those that may want to obey the gospel that there will be costs associated with that decision (loss of family, persecution, material costs, etc.). Jonathan then extended to invitation and led the invitation song, “Have You Counted the Cost,” which was sung in the native dialect. One older woman responded to obey the gospel and was baptized into Christ. She had been a very active member of a Pentecostal Church in this city.

The remainder of the time was spent in a question/answer session. Two men tried to dominate the time by raising objections. The first sought to confuse the issue of inspiration. Though he would never come out to show where he was headed, his objections were easily answered by reviewing what the Bible teaches on the subject – that God chose the very words used in the Scripture. The second man was a Primitive Baptist preacher who believed and affirmed full-blown Calvinism – that God chose certain individuals to be saved and chose others to be lost before they were ever created and that there was nothing either group could do to change that arbitrary decision of God. He began by attacking the essentiality of water baptism in the remission of sins, but soon went into other subjects when his error was exposed by simple, Bible verses. His anger and ridicule of the truth and those who taught it became apparent to all of the audience that saw he was only presenting his own thoughts while we were answering by showing what the Bible says. His rejection of the Bible teaching simply made that truth more obvious to the audience. In the end, I think several more will obey the gospel in time as they are seeing the truth more and more clearly.

Thanks again to those who have encouraged and supported this effort in so many ways. We ask your continued prays as we travel towards Ozamis tomorrow. The Lord willing, we will sail by ship tonight from Dumaguete to Cebu City. In the morning, we are scheduled to arrive at 6am in Cebu then go immediately to the airport where we will catch a flight to Ozamis on the island of Mindanao. A half day of lectures has been arranged there for tomorrow. We would appreciate your prayers for our safe travel.

Brotherly, Harry O.

Safe Arrival in Dumaguette

2011-09-07T06:10:00.005-05:00

This trip began for me on Sunday afternoon with the flight from Oklahoma City to Atlanta. After spending the night in Atlanta, I caught a flight on Monday to Tokyo Narita and then connected with another flight to Manila where I arrived at 10pm Tuesday, local time. After a very long wait on baggage, I got to the hotel a little after midnight. Today’s flight to Dumaguette got me to the place where we will begin the lectures tomorrow.

Mario Rubio does local work in this area. He met me at the airport together with Jonathan Carino and Jack Jaco. We discussed the topics to cover tomorrow and other arrangements for the lectures. Mario went out to get copies made of the lessons to be covered since this help in the understanding initially and to facilitate further study. Jonathan, Jack and I ate supper at the hotel and I am posting this report from there. After several very turbulent flights and a restless night, I look forward to turning in early tonight and getting some rest before the real work starts.

Thanks for your support in every way. I will try to keep all updated with the work as it progresses each day. Please keep us and the work in your prayers.

Brotherly, Harry O.

Help Needed in Philippine Work

2011-06-06T09:19:00.002-05:00

For the last ten years, I have been going to the Philippines in an effort to spread the gospel and help Filipino brethren in their efforts of evangelism and edification. As new doors of opportunity continue to open and work done earlier needs to be built up, I believe there is a continuing need for those who are very familiar with the work to continue in this very fruitful field. The Lord willing, I plan to make my second trip of the year in August and September of this year. Please consider the work planned for this trip.

During my last trip in February and March with Chip Foster, several brethren from other areas traveled some distance to hear the lessons and ask us to help in the work they are doing. Most of this trip is planned in response to those requests. In several past trips, I have visited Dumaguete City on the southern part of Negros, but the efforts there have never flourished as they have on other parts of that island. Brother Mario Rubio requested that I come with several Filipino brethren to help preach in the area where he labors. I am impressed with Mario’s sincerity and ability, and I believe this opportunity may be very fruitful.

To the south of Negros is the large island of Mindanao where we plan efforts in Cagayan de Oro and Pagadian City. Much work has been done previously in both of these places, but there is a continuing need to edify the brethren. My dear friend, the late Cipriano (“Cip”) Carpentero, labored effectively in Cagayan de Oro for years. His son, Jhun, is now preaching in his father’s place and has requested me and several Filipino brethren to help in his efforts. Contact has been made with a preacher in a premillennial “Church of Christ” who is open to further study. This man has seen much digression in those churches due to various institutional and social gospel influences. I plan studies with that preacher privately as well as efforts to edify and strengthen the brethren. Brother Ramon Carino has done a great work in the Pagadian area and has asked me to return there several times. I am planning for my time there to include one Lord’s Day so that I can meet with as many area churches as possible and encourage their continued work of faith.

In recent years, I have given special emphasis to the work in the Visayas and especially on Cebu. By several measures, Cebu City is the most modern and rapidly advancing city in the Philippines. Many foreign companies are flocking to establish businesses there and the population is rapidly increasing. Several churches have been established in and around Cebu City and on other parts of the island. My plan is to preach at two or three of those congregations as well as having a class with the men on more effective reading of the Scripture.

The island of Leyte has also been a part of our efforts in several past trips, but I have not visited there lately. Toward the end of my last trip, I received word of very destructive landslides that affected many brethren there. Fortunately, I had some extra funds from individuals to use as I thought best, so it was put toward those needs. The brethren were very thankful for the help extended and again requested that I return to help edify the congregations on that island.

The last area of work being planned is on the main northern island of Luzon. Lordy Salunga and I plan to fly from Cebu to Angeles City where we will have a day-and-a-half given to lectures for preachers in the area to cover material on early Church History and the beginning departure towards Catholicism. After that, I plan to give a day in Manila working with Willey Otey Pastor and the very large work being done in the prisons there. The Lord willing, brethren Atoy Franco and Kenneth Pastor will accompany us and we will be allowed into both the Medium and Maximum Security sections as well as the Evaluation Section to preach. Good relations with the prison guards have developed giving us the opportunity to preach the gospel to them as well.

During my recent trips, ten to twelve Filipino brethren have accompanied me at various times to help in the work and become familiar with those who would need follow-up teaching. Though I understand it is expensive to take this number of men along (paying expenses for lodging, food and transportation), that is the most effective and economical way for the work to be done in the long run. These efforts must foster teamwork if they are to bear lasting results. Our Filipino brethren do not have the means to open the new doors of opportunity that we can help to open. American brethren do not have the ability to provide sufficient follow-up teaching to bring lasting results in this work. But as we labor together, doing what each can do in planting and watering, God is giving the increase. Brethren, please understand that I know you are also an essential partner in this work as you provide the financial support, prayers and encouragement that make this work possible.

Since I will be the only American on this trip, I estimate that it will cost about $9000. Since my last trip had no excess to help towards this effort, I will need to raise that entire sum. As usual, the 84^th Street church here in Oklahoma City will again provide $2500 towards the amount needed. That leaves a balance of $6500 needed for this effort. If you or the church where you are is able to help meet the needs for this trip, I would be very grateful.

While in the Philippines, I try to keep those who have an interest in the work informed about how the funds are being used and the work that is being done. Daily reports on the work are sent out to my e-mail list whenever possible and a daily posting with pictures is available on this blog. If you do not want to receive the updates, please let me know and I will leave your name off. Every effort is made to keep people involved and informed about the progress and challenges faced in our efforts. If you receive this notice from someone else, but would like to receive the updates, please send me a post (harryrosborne@live.com) requesting the "Philippine Updates" and I will gladly add your name for all future trips. If possible, please pass this request along to others you think may be interested in this work. Thank you again for your kind consideration of this request. Your prayers for this effort would be greatly appreciated. May the Lord bless you as you strive to serve Him.

Brotherly,

Harry Osborne

More on the Prison Visit

2011-03-18T11:52:00.006-05:00

On March 11, I was able to visit Willey Otey Pastor in the prison facility where he is being held. The charges against him would not even be possible in the US as it was a clear case of self-defense against an armed person entering into his home with the clear intent to harm the family. Willey did the only he could do and was initially cleared. However, when political considerations and the power of political interests entered into the matter, Willey was unjustly imprisoned. Despite the injustice of the situation, Willey has not focused on the wrong done to him, but on his obligation to spread the gospel where he is. I wanted to write an additional report about his work now that I have received pictures of the visit that were cleared by the prison officials. Willey’s brother, Kenneth who is serving as the main coordinator of the prison work, was allowed a camera to take limited pictures during our visit.

We met in the Catholic chapel at the prison facility because they have opened their chapel to the brethren for services without precondition. They were denied use of the “Protestant chapel” by the Protestant chaplain because of Willey and Kenneth’s teaching of truth regarding the church and the plan of salvation. Before being allowed the indoor facility, Willey was teaching under some trees in the compound, regardless of weather.

To this point, there are 30 baptized believers gathering in the Maximum Security section of the prison and another 30 that have just begun meeting in the Medium Security section. Willey is meeting with brethren in a small section of the prison that serves to evaluate incoming inmates before they are permanently housed in one of the main sections of varying security levels. About 15 or so baptized brethren were meeting with Willey at the time of our visit in that evaluation section. Please understand that these men in all three sections have been converted to Christ as a result of Willey’s working with them as they have come through the intake section where incoming inmates stay for about 15 days. (Willey has been assigned to this section permanently with a job of helping in the medical section.)

When I asked Willey what he intends to do after his release, his answer was immediate: “I feel a responsibility to stay and help in this new work!” It is very possible that Willey may be released within the next few months and then there will be a need for some help in support to make his continued work possible in that area. At least for some time, Willey will need to maintain his place in the province where his family can live and where he will spend time working with the church there as well. However, Willey will need some additional help for traveling funds between Manila and his home province as well as funds to live while in Manila. As I can well attest, Manila is much more expensive to live in than are the provinces well removed from Manila. If you would like to have fellowship with Willey in this work, please let me know and I will put you in contact through Willey’s wife or Kenneth Pastor.

Please remember Willey and his family in your prayers daily! There are no words to express what pictures would clearly show if I was allowed to show them regarding his conditions. Yet, Willey’s attitude is very good and his concentration is on the work of the Lord that needs to be done as he is openly thankful for his living circumstances which could have been far worse in one of the permanent sections of the prison. He and his family have my greatest admiration and respect as they go through their trials. Please join me in praying daily that God will deliver them all very soon from this difficult and dangerous time!

Brotherly, Harry O.

Last Day (Hopefully) in Manila

2011-03-13T08:42:00.006-05:00

My Sunday was not nearly as busy as I anticipated. Instead of preaching at two congregations, I only preached at one. My voice is still not back to full strength, so it is probably best that arrangements could not be made at multiple places. Most congregations in the area meet at 7am or 8am. It is hard to get to those very distant ones at an early hour. The congregations closest to here are the congregation at the prison where Willey Pastor is and the congregation very near that where Elijah Sikat and Atoy Franco labor. Since permission could not be obtained on short notice to preach at the prison, I worship with the other congregation.

The Southville 3 church meets in the home of Lucio Centeno and his family in Muntinlupe City. The home is in the middle of a densely populated section that seems very migratory. Just feet from their meeting place are open air markets for meats, fish, fruits and other things. The streets are very narrow with each dwelling sharing a wall with those on either side as well as being very close to the ones behind. While preaching, a number of people outside stopped to hear because of it being a foreigner. I preached in the same place several years ago and noticed the same thing. The home is a simple concrete block structure measuring no more than 10 feet by 12 feet. We had 14 meeting there today. Three were visitors who have not obeyed the gospel, but had been invited by Lucio to come for the service. I preached on “Who Can Call God ‘Father’?” from 1 Peter 1:17-25. It was an extended first principles lesson because Elijah had to translate sentence-for-sentence into Tagalog since the audience did not speak English. The brethren said they believe the visitors understood the lesson and a door was opened to further teach. They asked if I could come back for a meeting of two or three days to help evangelize that community by preaching at the public government area.

For lunch, I took Elijah and Atoy out to a KFC at a mall on the way back. We talked some about the work that had been done in the area since I had last been there and of their plans for future work. Atoy reminded me of the funds provided for song books when I last came there. I had forgotten about it, but the song books they had printed were very good. Both Elijah and Atoy are very diligent and zealous in the Lord’s work. It is a joy to work with them. After returning to the hotel, I worked on future sermons to put in PowerPoint that I have used over here when I only had a blackboard with which to illustrate.

I was able to go online to Delta and check-in for the flight tomorrow. That was encouraging as it shows their plans are still for the flight to go as scheduled. Please pray that the flight will be allowed to go as planned. The unexpected extension has been both expensive and exasperating. I am very ready to be home! Thanks again for all who have helped make this effort possible.

Brotherly, Harry O.

A Memorable Day

2011-03-11T09:11:00.004-06:00

This day will go down as extremely memorable in numerous ways! It had times of encouragement, joy, sadness, love, tenderness, shock, concern, disappointment and resignation. As I write this report, I am continuing to remember Chip in my prayers as he travels back to the US.

Lordy Salunga came to meet me at the hotel about 7:30am. Jhun Batista was not able to join him because of a change in schedule. Atoy Franco and Elijah Sikat came shortly after that time and we took off for the prison to visit Willey Pastor. We arrived to the prison to meet several others that would join us including Willey’s wife, two brothers and a sister. When we got to the chapel we were allowed to use, Willey was leading about 30 to 40 inmates in singing. I preached for about 45 minutes with Willey doing sentence-for-sentence translation. I preached from the book of Philippians on “Things That Cannot Be Imprisoned,” a lesson of encouragement for the Christians there and appeal to non-Christians of the benefits for those in Christ. Since more teaching about the NT church and the gospel plan of salvation could be done by one preaching in Tagalog, I asked Lordy to preach for the remaining hour. At the end of the service, Willey extended an invitation and two were baptized! Those two will be added to the 70+ brethren meeting in three facilities within that prison complex.

After the service, I had about 30 minutes to talk with Willey and see his living conditions. By the standards of prisons in the Philippines, his living area is extremely good. By the standards most of us would apply, his living condition is extremely harsh and worse than any prison I have seen in the US. He sleeps in a cubbyhole that looks like a very small, short closet. Willey showed it to me with great joy openly expressing his thankfulness for such good accommodations. I have given myself a stiff rebuke for my failure to be thankful for far more.

After dropping Elijah and Lordy to catch their transportation back home, Atoy and I went across Metro Manila to visit Ben Cruz. When we drove up, Ben was sitting at the door waiting for us. His condition appeared much better than I had expected. He was able to stand and could speak with a clear voice that could be easily understood. Ben is having to undergo kidney dialysis every 6 hours and must go to the hospital for a treatment and evaluation once a week. The cost is about $400 each week. Ben has been a great worker for the Lord and continues to teach and encourage, but he is a very humble man who wants no praise. We were able to openly express our love and appreciation for one another as well as stating our common hope of being together forever in heaven. It was an emotional time of both sadness and joy.

As Atoy was taking me back to the hotel, Lordy sent a text telling me about the 8.9 earthquake in Japan. I immediately became concerned about Chip Foster who was due to take off from Tokyo very near the time that the quake hit. I immediately tried to call Chip, but could not get his cell phone. Delta’s website stated that the flight was in the air headed to the US, so I felt relieved. Later, I found out through Lynda Foster that Chip had not made it out, but was stuck on the plane for 5 hours before his flight was cleared to leave. Please remember him as he flies towards the US.

After hearing that Tokyo Narita Airport was closed, I became concerned about my own flight due to fly through Narita tomorrow. To make a long story short, I am stuck here in Manila for two days and am scheduled on a flight from here to Detroit on Monday morning. Though I wish I could see my family sooner, I am grateful that I got the last seat available for Monday and do not have to wait another day. Now, I am faced with something that has never happened to me in ten years of work in the Philippines – two days with no scheduled work at all! Guess it will be a shock to some local congregation when I show up unannounced for Sunday services.

Brotherly, Harry O.

Day 4 - Tuguegarao Lectures End

2011-03-10T05:59:00.009-06:00

The last day of our lectures started a little earlier than before due to the shortage of time. Chip preached on “Assurance in God: Knowing That He Will Keep His Promise.” I then gave the last lesson in the series on the family, “Bible Homes: Good & Bad.” Our attendance was still very good, though a few had to return to their homes last night. The building was still almost full today and the interest was excellent. Rody closed the lectures with some additional words of admonition and encouragement.

After the lectures, we had the standard practice among brethren over here following lectures. They call it “Remembrance.” It means that everyone wants to take a photo (at least two) with their families, those from their village, those from the same province and so on. It usually takes a long while and we try to allow time for it. However, we went beyond the time and were hurrying to eat, settle expenses and get on the road. While we hurried to the airport, it was not needed in the end because the plane was delayed – another normal occurrence in planes going to and from Tuguegarao.

As I look back on this lectureship with preachers throughout this area, I am especially encouraged to see the good that I have personally seen accomplished in this area. There is a wealth of young, dedicated and very capable men preaching the gospel throughout this part of the Philippines. At my request, all who attended the Preacher Training Programs (PTP) came to take a picture together. From the first group in 2003 to the latest group in 2010, they have gone throughout the northern half of Luzon establishing new churches, converting lost souls and spreading the seed of the kingdom far and wide. To those of you that have help in making those efforts possible, your gifts and prayers have borne fruit beyond anything I could have imagined! Yes, there have been a few that have gone astray. But the strength, zeal and commitment of the vast majority gives my heart joy beyond expression!

One of the preachers in a remote area of Tabuk brought his son who has a severe deformity of a cleft palate. It makes daily life difficult, especially in the remote areas. The problem can be corrected by surgery, making possible a normal life. Though we did not have the benevolent funds to finance this operation, I wanted to let you all know of the need in case you want to help meet it. I have a signed statement from the doctor saying the cost for the operation is $1,070. My estimate is that $1200 would probably take care of the operation and medicine. If you can help meet that need, you can send funds to me or Rody Gumpad and we will arrange for the surgery to be done and paid for.

We are now in Manila, very thankful again that the plane flew and we did not have to take the bus! Chip and I ate at the Mall of Asia and then said our goodbyes. The Lord willing, he leaves early in the morning for the flight back to the US and I will go with Atoy Franco to visit Wiley Otey Pastor in the prison, then on to see Ben Cruz. Lordy Salunga and Jhun Batista are planning to join Atoy and me as well. When tomorrow’s work is finished, my schedule for this trip will be complete and I will post my last report. Thank you again for your prayers and please keep them going for Chip’s safe travel.

Brotherly, Harry O.

Day 3 - Lectures in Tuguegarao

2011-03-09T06:44:00.005-06:00

Chip and I started the morning with the breakfast of champions – coffee and doughnuts! We enjoyed our time talking and getting ready for the day ahead as we have each morning. It has been a true joy to be with him throughout the trip. He has done an excellent job and I appreciate even more his loving heart shown towards this work. Today was his birthday and he thought he slipped it by us all. But I gathered all the Gumpad family after supper and we sang “Happy Birthday” to him.

The third day of the lectures was again well attended and there was very good interest shown by the audience. Rody was preaching when we arrived, continuing his “Survey of Old Testament History.” Chip preached next on “Godly Repentance.” I had the final lesson of the morning on “Teaching & Learning Spirituality in the Home” as the fifth lesson in the family series.

The afternoon session began with Rody teaching the survey class. Chip then brought a study on “Bearing Fruit.” I was given some extra time to preach on “Godly Homes & Godly Living in Christ” dealing with topics on moral issues: intoxicants, modest dress, dancing, sexual immorality, etc. We made specific application and noted how immorality from all of these realms will destroy the home as God intended it to be. Afterwards, Rody gave some extensive admonitions in the dialect.

Following the afternoon session, we had only a short break before we had the mid-week service at the Metro Tuguegarao congregation. Several men led songs, then Robert Rances directed the service. Chip was asked to bring a short lesson which he took from Psalm 116. After the service, we ate and returned to the hotel to work on tomorrow’s lessons and get packed. We check out before going to the lectures tomorrow, preach one lesson each in the morning, and then get to the airport for the flight to Manila. The Lord willing, I will post my next report from the hotel in Manila.

Brotherly, Harry O.

Day 2 - Lectures in Tuguegarao

2011-03-08T06:27:00.004-06:00

The second day of our lectures went very well with growing interest and a greater number. Rody began by continuing his series on a “Survey of the Old Testament” and the historical setting. Chip was next to teach on “The Courage of Josiah.” I finished the time with the third lesson of the family series on “Roles of Husbands & Wives.”

The afternoon session began with Rody again speaking on a “Survey of the Old Testament.” Chip’s sermon was on “I Never Knew You” from Matthew 7:21-23. He showed how we can avoid this terrible end. I took a longer period in the afternoon to combine two lessons. The first was on “Roles of Parents, Children & Grandparents.” After concluding that study, we went immediately into “Attitudes for Godly Families.” Rody then gave some emphasis on the teachings in the dialect to clarify and expound on some points so that the audience would understand more fully. I think we are striking a chord that is helping, challenging and encouraging the brethren here. It has been well worth the effort! We ended after 5pm and many of the people left for their homes on the tricycles, jeepneys and other means for long journeys that they will repeat tomorrow.

After supper, we again offered time for a question/answer period. There were many questions tonight on a great variety of subjects. We went well past the allotted time, but answered all questions asked. Rody continued to teach and follow-up on today’s lessons in the dialect after we returned to the hotel.

The weather has been unbelievably pleasant this trip. Only two days in Cebu would be considered “hot” and neither of those was really hot by Philippine standards. Today in Tuguegarao, it is the coolest I have ever felt here! I have delayed writing about the good temperature to this point for fear that I might jinx our good fortune. It is hard to believe this is really Tuguegarao went I am not sweating under 100+ degree heat with 90+% humidity! As we left the building tonight, I would guess that the temperature was around 72 degrees. Sweet!

Thanks again for your concern, prayers and support.

Brotherly, Harry O.

Day 1 - Lectures in Tuguegarao

2011-03-07T06:07:00.004-06:00

The Lectures at Metro Tuguegarao got off to a good start today. Rody began the lectures with an 8:30 to 9:30am class on the distinction between the covenants. Chip followed with a lesson on “Characteristics of Jesus” that we should also emulate. I then began my series on the family with “Love: The Foundation to the Family.” When this lectureship was first planned, I had hoped than John Isaac Edwards would be able to be a part of it. At that time, Rody and some of the brethren had asked that John deal with “The Work of the Preacher” while I taught on the “Godly Homes” and Chip be left free to give lessons to edify and encourage the brethren as he saw the need. We miss John not being able to come on the trip and hope that he can come in the future. We had over 100 preachers here today from throughout the northern half of Luzon. Those coming the farthest probably had a drive of 12 to 14 hours one way.

The afternoon session was begun with brother Materno (Mat) Sibayan taking the first hour from 1:30 to 2:30pm. It was great to see Mat and his son, Matt Jr., here from the Laoag City area. When Rody asked Mat to speak, Mat agreed and spoke to the crowd in the dialect giving some excellent teaching. Chip then spoke on “The Conversion of Cornelius.” I finished the afternoon time giving the second part of the family series on “Love & Discipline.”

After supper, we only had 2 questions for the question/answer session, so we answered them and gave the rest of the time to Rody for teaching that he missed when letting Mat take his afternoon slot. We came back to the hotel and are getting ready for tomorrow’s work.

As I sat listening and was up speaking today, I could not help but think about the crowd assembled as a demonstration of the work accomplished in this area since I first came to the area 10 years ago. Rody told us he had committed to have a preacher training effort at his home every year. (Some years, he had two instead of just one.) In the early years, the young men came for a month to have classes that began at 7am and continued until about 9pm with only lunch and supper breaks. After that, they had 3 to 4 hours of study to get ready for the next day. In more recent years, finances have forced the program to be cut back to a little over two weeks. These men developed a fire to preach the gospel and have done so throughout the area. They also built a spirit of teamwork, love and respect that has drawn them together in the work of the Lord. At supper, I leaned over to Rody and said, “Your dream has come true.” In fact, I think it has progressed beyond what he had dreamed. I wish all of you who have helped in these efforts could see the fruit you have helped to bear! Without you, it could not have been done! Thank you so much more than words can express for the good and the growth you have been instrumental in making possible.

Brotherly, Harry O.

Work Starts in Tuguegarao

2011-03-06T07:51:00.010-06:00

My last report was on Friday when we left Cebu intending to travel to Tuguegarao, but our flight was canceled, causing us an unexpected stay in Manila. On Saturday, Chip and I went to the airport again to catch an 8:45am flight to Tuguegarao. Upon arrival at the gate, we found it delayed until 9:30am. Then, 9:30 became 10:00, 10:00 became 11:00, 11:00 became noon and we were told they would delay no longer than 1pm without canceling the flight for the day. Fortunately, they called for boarding near 1pm and we were very relieved. Had the flight been canceled again, we would have had no choice but to take a 16-hour, overnight bus from Manila to Tuguegarao. I have done it before and it was sheer misery!

When we arrived in Tuguegarao, Rody and Jun Gumpad were there to meet us. We loaded our luggage and headed immediately to Ilagan. I told Chip to put on his seatbelt and start praying. When Rody took off, Chip understood what I meant. (He said Lynda would have had a heart attack within minutes!) With Jehu Rody driving his chariot furiously, we made it to Ilagan in time for me to preach before the one day meeting ended. A good crowd was present that had heard several of our Filipino brethren preach throughout the day. I spoke on the fact that the seed of the gospel makes Christians and how that contrasts with what the old law made. Several were there who have been troubled and deluded by the “One Eternal Covenant” doctrine of several American non-institutional brethren and several American institutional preachers who work with them. We had a good but brief study and I hope that we will have more opportunities for detailed studies in the future. I have offered to debate the issue if any of those teaching the error have the courage to defend it.

After concluding the lectures in Ilagan, we went next door to Edgar’s house and talked for a little about the work. We then got on the road to return to Tuguegarao for supper at the Gumpad’s house. Tessie did a wonderful job cooking as usual. When we finished supper we went to the hotel, checked in and got settled for the time we will be here. I think I finally got to bed about midnight after studying a while on what I would preach the next day. Needless to say, we enjoyed the sleep, though it was not quite long enough.

The Lord’s Day worship at Metro Tuguegarao started at 8:45 with Chip taking the Bible class hour. He taught on “Speaking Plainly.” I followed in the next hour with a sermon on “The Life of Joseph.” We had a good number present and it was very good to see all of the very familiar faces. This is now the tenth year that I have been coming to Tuguegarao at least once a year.

Following another great lunch, Chip went with Jun Gumpad to Margaurig while I went with Rody and Jay to Managbag. I preached on “The Life of Sanctification” from 1 Thessalonians 4:1-7. Rody followed my lesson with a summary in the dialect. There were no responses to the gospel today, though there were individual in both places stating their growing thoughts of obeying the gospel.

Upon getting back, we went to the hotel then back to the Gumpad home for supper. Rody and Tessie have probably been the objects of as much malicious gossip as anyone, yet they continue to live with grace, dignity and faith beyond my ability to express. Their family is a testimony to who they really are and what they are really like. As I sat looking at them show their love to their children and grandchildren, it was obvious that their children and grandchildren both love and respect them. The lives of Rody and Tessie are not easy as they shoulder the burden of great care for the churches throughout this area, but I admire their work in both the church and in their family. I am thankful to count them as dear friends, loved family and co-workers in the kingdom of Christ. I feel the same towards John, Lordy and Jack with whom we worked earlier. May the Lord increase their tribe!

As I finish this report, I know that my brethren in the US are just about to start you worship. While I love the brethren and work taking place here in the Philippines, I miss being with you all and am looking forward to worshipping with you next Lord’s Day. Thank you again for your prayers, support, notes and every act of kindness that makes doing this work so much easier! God bless!

Brotherly, Harry O.

Travel Day

2011-03-04T06:43:00.004-06:00

Today was planned as a travel day with no preaching schedule. I was up a little before 5am to finish packing and get breakfast before leaving the hotel at 6:30am. John, Jack and Lordy took us to the Cebu airport where we caught the flight from Cebu to Manila. After a two hour layover, we were to be one a connecting flight from Manila to Tuguegarao. However, after first delaying the flight, it was finally canceled and we had to rebook for tomorrow morning.

After checking into our rooms in a hotel near the airport here in Manila, Chip and I both got some rest in the afternoon before going to eat supper in a mall nearby. We have needed a little rest, so the afternoon nap was very much enjoyed! We have also been mostly silent today as both of our voices were very raspy and throats sore from heavy use.

Since I have no report on results of the preaching, I wanted to pass on some news to brethren who may be helping to support Filipino preachers. When I first started coming to the Philippines about 10 years ago, the exchange rate was fairly constant with 50 to 55 Philippine pesos for one US dollar. The exchange rate on this trip has ranged between 43.40 to 42.80 pesos to the dollar. That amounts to a 20% decrease in buying power just from the exchange rate. The majority of that change in rate has occurred over the last 2 or 3 years. In that same period, prices in the Philippines have increased sharply. Please keep this in mind as you make determination about levels of support when you might have the ability to adjust that level.

Brotherly, Harry O.

Last Day in Cebu

2011-03-03T09:31:00.004-06:00

Since we have come to Cebu, the Philippine heat has returned with all of its effects. Yesterday, I maintained my strength fairly well, but today it has really drained me. I am so thankful that Chip Foster is with me on this trip and is sharing the preaching responsibility. I do not think my voice or body could take an all-day schedule like I had in the last trip. Chip has done an excellent job in presenting plain and scriptural lessons in all of these efforts.

The last day of these lectures in Cebu City started even later than they did yesterday due to heavy traffic and other problems. After some singing led by Jack Jaco, we began about an hour behind schedule. I preached on “Salvation & the Seed, God’s Word” followed by “The Inspiration of the Scripture.” Chip then spoke on a topic I did not get to hear since I had to go out of the venue for a while.

After lunch, Roy Matta and Jun Apatan led us in singing at several points to provide Chip and I a little break as both of us were losing our voices. I gave the first lesson on “Who Is a Christian?” Chip went next with a sermon on “What Should We Look for in a Church?” I gave the last lecture on “New Testament Baptism” and then had a short question/answer period. Jonathan Carino then extended the invitation, but none came to obey the gospel. One Catholic man seems very close to obedience and told John that he will be come to services on Sunday. Several others seem to be very near the kingdom as well.

After the lectures, we had supper with an American brother (Sam) originally from Oklahoma City who now lives in Cebu. It was great to see him again and have the opportunity to visit. After supper, Chip and I met with Jonathan, Lordy and Jack to settle all expenses for the trip and the preparations made for it. We then discussed plans for future trips and what should have priority. It was a good discussion, but it went very late.

Since we must be on the road to the airport at 6:30am, I will close this report and start packing, then get to bed. The Lord willing, my next report will be from Tuguegarao. My God bless you all as you serve Him.

Brotherly, Harry O.

Lectures Begin in Cebu

2011-03-02T04:15:00.006-06:00

It is a bright and beautiful day in Cebu! We began the lectures in the Diplomat’s Hotel this morning a little later than expected because the venue was not prepared by the management. It is a Filipino-style hotel in the heart of downtown Cebu, so it is very accessible, but leaves somewhat to be desired in service. The brethren here all helped to do the work setting up the venue, so we were able to get things done quickly.

These lectures are intended to focus more on edifying and strengthening the brethren in this area, rather than focusing on denominational preachers or people. The brethren here have especially asked that we help in topic to strengthen them in daily living, reaching those outside of Christ and maturing in doctrine. I started with a lesson on “The Life of Joseph: Characteristics of a Faithful Life.” It discussed our need for faithfully teaching the word of God, moral purity, forgiveness over revenge, accepting God’s providence and looking to God’s promise. Chip followed that sermon with one on “Characteristics of Jesus.”

After lunch, I presented an extended study on the error of “Premillennialism.” We had first planned this study for some men from premillennial groups calling themselves “churches of Christ” that are being supported by premillennial “churches of Christ” in the United States. They were unable to make the travel for these studies, but several of the members here in Cebu asked that the lessons be given so that they could learn more on the subject and be prepared to teach their friends who believe this error. The study is one I normally do over two days in our preacher training programs, but we went straight through the material for today’s study. It took about two hours and the audience stayed attentive, especially those who had not heard teaching on the subject before. Chip followed with a sermon urging personal responsibility (what is often called “taking ownership” in the business world) in various aspects of duty. It was a very good lesson with clear and specific application made to our lives.

Following Chip’s lesson, we had a little time left for a question/answer session. The members were encouraged to write down any questions to clarify the lessons given throughout the day or to clarify another Bible topic.

There are several churches in the Cebu area. Jonathan Carino works with one that meets in the central business district of Cebu City. Roy Matta works with one in Mandaue City. Fred Ogario labors with the brethren in Talisay City. Jun Apatan preaches for the congregation on South Road in Cebu City. Pablo Espinoza labors with the church in Lapu-lapu City. Gil Suico has worked very hard to start a congregation in Bogo City at the north end on the metropolitan area. Brethren from all but one of these groups were present today and it was a good opportunity for them to get together and encourage one another as well as learning more of God’s truth.

After having something to eat for supper, we will get to work on several lessons that have been requested by the audience. Please keep us in your prayers as we continue these efforts tomorrow, the Lord willing.

Brotherly, Harry O.

One Baptized in Bacolod

2011-03-01T07:58:00.007-06:00

This was another rainy day in Bacolod as we concluded the lectures in this city. John, Lordy, Chip and I met for breakfast to discuss the plans for the day. We had several logistic problems as this was our last day in Bacolod. Since the laundry was running behind in completion and we needed to have it before packing the bags to send by air freight, we had to change our schedule from what was planned the previous day.

There were about 86 present for the lectures today. Jonathan Carino took the first lesson for the morning and taught on the distinction between the covenants. Chip followed with a lesson on “Repentance.” I came in near the end of Chip’s lesson and followed it with a study on “Grace, Faith and Obedience.” We then had the lunch break which was shortened so we could get more teaching done earlier. This was necessary because our flight was made earlier by 30 minutes.

In the afternoon, I preached on “Counting the Cost” so that all considering obedience would give full thought to the consequences that obeying would have on their lives. Jack Jaco followed by extending the invitation of the Lord to obey the gospel. One man came forward to confess Christ and be baptized for the remission of sins. Others are clearly thinking about it and we pray they will have time granted to them to do so before it is too late. [Note: The man at the far left of this picture is the one who obeyed the gospel today.]

We concluded our time with a question/answer period of about one hour. Questions dealing with a wide number of subjects were considered. There were two more questions on the Baptist’s favorite criminal – the thief on the cross. Several dealt with the essentiality of baptism for salvation. Several more came from a man with the United Pentecostals who maintain there is only one person in the Godhead. His questions were answered to the point that the whole audience understood the Bible’s teaching that there are three distinct persons of divine nature and they told him to be quiet if he could not understand. We also had questions on the development of the “canon of Scripture,” the role of women in the church, the use of the term “pastor,” and several other subjects.

When we went to pay for the venue, I was not pleased with the management’s failure to properly deal with our problem from the previous day. They were informed that we would be looking for other facilities to house future lectures. I thought we were fairly secure on costs this trip because we secured contracts for the cost of the venues to be the same as they were on my trip last August. However, the value of the dollar has declined to the Philippine peso by almost 20% which has made the cost in terms of dollars to be increased significantly. Chip and I are watching our costs very carefully and cutting in every way possible. Our Filipino brethren are helping to minimize costs as well.

We made it to the airport with just enough time to check in and board if the flight had been on time. However, it was delayed and the plane has still not arrived as I write this report in the airport. At this point, it will be at least one hour late. We hope it will not be much delayed because we will not get to eat until we arrive in Cebu. The flight from Bacolod to Cebu is very short – about 30 minutes or less.

As I finish this last paragraph, we have made it safely to Cebu where we start new lectures in the morning, the Lord willing. Thanks again for you prayers and concern for this work.

Brotherly, Harry O.

First Day of Bacolod Lectures

2011-02-28T06:14:00.005-06:00

It started as another rainy day here in Bacolod. Jonathan Carino and Lordy Salunga joined Chip and me for breakfast at about 7:30am. We always treasure our time talking about spiritual things and enjoying each other’s company. It is a time to recharge our batteries and get ready for the day.

The venue for the lectures is the same as when I came here late last summer, The Business Inn, in downtown Bacolod. We hoped to get started at 9am, but the rain delayed the arrival of most people. We final got started about 9:45am. I began with a lesson on “Salvation & the Seed, the Gospel of Christ.” We decided to go with the same approach as used in Ilo-Ilo and it seemed to work well here too. I followed that introduction with the lesson on “The Inspiration of Scripture.” Chip the gave a lesson on “Holy Living.” It was a good study that emphasized the strict moral teaching of the gospel. I followed with a lesson on “The Need for & Source of Divine Authority.”

After lunch, we began with Chip preaching on the “Conversion of Cornelius.” I followed that with a lesson on “Who Is a Christian?” stressing that the gospel (without addition or subtraction) will produce only Christians – members of the same body of Christ we read about in the New Testament. Chip followed with a study on “Identifying the NT Church.” I then preached on “Characteristics of NT Baptism” followed by a 45-minute questions/answer session. Questions ranged from the subject of our old friend (the thief on the cross) to the kingdom and rapture to baptism to the duration of miracles. In other words, it was a wide-ranging field of questions, but all seem to have come from those really seeking for truth, not just argumentative.

During the afternoon session, a band was setting up their stage directly behind a thin partition to the speaker’s right for a function tonight. When the band cranked up during the second lesson for each of us, Chip and I had to yell over the microphone to be heard. Though we had agreed that no such disturbance was to be present, the management did not put a stop to it. After the lectures were over, I informed the management that I was very unhappy with their actions and that I would expect an adjustment in the financial settlement because they failed to meet our contract. Since we have used this venue repeatedly over the past few years, I think they know we will not be coming back if they fail to offer sufficient compensation. Frankly, I feel like demanding an extra amount for having to endure the ear-assaulting, off-key-caterwauling from that group. They had two towers of speakers that would have provided all sound needed in Central Park! If there are any music teachers reading this, I know where your talents are needed!

The Lord willing, we will conclude the lectures here in Bacolod tomorrow and fly to Cebu in the evening. I will try to get my report together during the trip and post it when we arrive in Cebu. Thanks again for your support and prayers.

Brotherly, Harry O.

Lord's Day in Bacolod

2011-02-27T05:27:00.004-06:00

Greetings from Bacolod City on a very rainy Lord’s Day! Chip and I went separate ways today as we preached in different areas. Chip went to the north with Jack Jaco and Lordy Salunga as they preached in Victorias City, Escalante and another place. Jack lives in Victorias City, so Chip will get to meet Jack’s family. They are all very dear to me!

This morning, I went with Jonathan and Shem to the YMCA nearby where two congregations were meeting together. One was the congregation where Jun Abbas preached before his death a few years ago. The other congregation is coming out of institutionalism and has asked Shem and Jack each to preach there one Sunday a month. Several of members of that congregation knew Cora Vlk who was a dear sister in Florida that was a member of the congregation before she married and immigrated to the US. Cora passed away from pancreatic cancer several years ago, but I always remember her fondly when I come to Bacolod. During the worship service, I preached on “Factors of a United Work.” Since the lesson makes some applications to the sinful and fruitless practices of the social gospel and general benevolence, it was especially appreciated by these brethren.

In the afternoon, we went on the far south side of Bacolod. There we met with Shem and the brethren with whom he works in a building attached to his place. The building is very new and was paid for by a Korean couple. They put no strings attached to the building, but only wanted to provide a place of worship that would be regularly used for that purpose. It is very nice and well lighted, but still needs some chairs to be fully completed. I was asked to preach a lesson that addressed the need for all to be involved in reaching out to the lost in evangelism. I preached on “The Love of Christ Constrains Us” from 2 Corinthians 5. None responded to the invitation, but several non-Christians attended and are getting close to that decision.

After returning home, I went to a nearby mall where I could get some items that we need. Now, it is time to get to work on the lectures for tomorrow and the next day. Please pray that they will go well.

Brotherly, Harry O.

Saturday in Silay City

2011-02-26T02:50:00.006-06:00

When everyone arose this morning, they seemed to be much better than they had been in their seasick-condition last night. Though some dizziness remained, they felt much improved and ready to go for the day’s activity. After breakfast, we got on our way for Silay City. Our transportation was provided by the van that picked us up at the airport in Bacolod.

When we arrived at the venue in Silay City (a Women & Youth Center), the people assembled were already singing as they awaited our arrival. I began by preaching a lesson on “Salvation & God’s Word, the Incorruptible Seed.” I added a section of brief explanation about the need for and source of authority from God. Chip Foster followed that with a lesson on “The Conversion of Cornelius.” Jack Jaco translated for all lessons through the day into the Ilongo dialect. The audience seemed very attentive and seeking.

After lunch, I began with a lesson on “The Salvation of Saul (Paul).” As I asked questions during the lesson, the group responded by giving the correct answers, showing they understood the things being preached. Chip followed with a lesson on “Identifying the New Testament Church.” I then preached on “Counting the Cost” before Jack Jaco extended the invitation. None responded to that invitation seeking to be baptized, though we were asked to come back and teach more at another time.

There were 96 present for the lectures today. The venue was in the upper floor of the center with windows on three sides of the room. It did not have air conditioning, but the temperature was very moderate. I am very happy to report that it has not been very hot to this point on the trip. We hope this pattern continues.

Thank you again for your continued support and prayers. I have appreciated the kind responses received and they have been very encouraging.

Brotherly, Harry O.

Six Baptized in Ilo-Ilo

2011-02-25T05:10:00.006-06:00

Lordy Salunga and Jonathan Carino joined Chip and me for breakfast this morning so we could discuss some more about today’s work. We then went to the Fastcraft and boarded it for the trip to Ilo-Ilo. The seas were much rougher this morning. Both Lordy and John were a little queasy from the motion during the ride, but quickly recovered once we stepped ashore.

The lectures today started a little later than yesterday. We had an attendance of 76 today. Chip began this morning with a lesson on the “Conversion of Cornelius.” I followed with a study on “Who Is a Christian?” which examined each NT passage using the word “Christian” and also dealt at length with the conversion of Saul. Since we had a little time left for the morning session, I covered a shortened version of “Counting the Cost” that discussed the fact that obeying the gospel would come with costs that each one must be willing to bear. We then broke for lunch.

Since several asked that we extend an invitation because they were already convinced of the need to obey the Lord in baptism, Lordy extended the invitation of Christ and three responded. After John took their confessions, some of the brethren went to arrange for a place to baptize the three. I continued teaching while that was being arranged by teaching a lesson on “How Do We Start a Local Congregation Following the NT Pattern?” When that lesson was completed, we had a question/answer period to close out our time at the venue. Numerous questions centering on the necessity of water baptism were discussed. One denominational preacher started out being very antagonistic to its essential nature. However, after trying numerous routes to escape its necessity, we ended the session with him and two others wanting to be baptized. So, a total of six were being baptized while we had to leave for the Fastcraft and get back to Bacolod.

The six of us involved in carrying on this effort were together on the Fastcraft for the ride which was a real experience. This was definitely one of the top 2 or 3 roughest rides I have ever seen. Shortly after leaving harbor in Ilo-Ilo, the rocking and rolling began and it did not end until about 2 minutes before docking in Bacolod. Most of the people on board were getting sick and the crew was busy passing out the “comfort bags.” Everyone in our group except me had some level of discomfort from varying degrees of seasickness. Poor Chip was turning as green as the shirt he wore and I am not sure he will ever forgive me for dragging him into that experience. Upon arrival in Bacolod, he went to his room.

After sending this report, I must go out to pick up a few items needed at the store. If Chip feels like eating a little later, we can eat here at the hotel and then I must get busy with work preparing for tomorrow’s effort in Silay City.

We are thankful to the Lord for His harvest as we saw the power of the gospel in changing hearts and minds to humble themselves before His truth. To God be all of the glory!

Brotherly, Harry O.

Lectures Start in Ilo-Ilo

2011-02-24T07:04:00.008-06:00

Our day started early as we began our first day of teaching on this trip. After talking with Jonathan Carino and Jack Jaco yesterday about the crowd expected for the lectures, we decided to start the lectures with another approach emphasizing that God’s word is the “seed” through which we come to salvation. By the time we had discussed things and took care of some logistics for preparation, it was about 10pm when I got back to my hotel room. Though I tried to do some work on the beginning lesson, I was so tired that I gave up and went to sleep. I awoke at 4am this morning and worked until time to shower and get to breakfast. After eating, we left the hotel about 6:45am.

Our commute from Bacolod to Ilo-Ilo took about 90 minutes on the Fastcraft. I worked on the new lesson for the entire trip while Jonathan Carino and Lordy Salunga became more acquainted with Chip Foster. The sea was not overly rough this time, so the trip was rather pleasant.

Upon arrival in Ilo-Ilo, we were taken by a taxi to the venue for the lectures. The function room was very good with a clear sound system and well laid out space for teaching purposes. Jack Jaco and Roy Matta had come over on an earlier Fastcraft to set up the venue and they did an excellent job. Shortly after our arrival at about 9am, we started with some singing led by Jack Jaco. I then gave a starting lesson on “Salvation & God’s Word, the Seed” followed by a lesson on “The Inspiration of Scripture.” Chip Forster followed with an excellent lesson on “Who Will Be Saved.” Jonathan Carino took the remaining time before lunch to do a fundamental lesson on “What Is the Church?”

After the lunch break, I began with a condensed and compiled lesson on “How to Establish Divine Authority.” Chip Foster then followed with a lesson on “Worldliness Versus Godly Living.” I followed with an abbreviated version of “Grace, Faith and Obedience” before we had a question and answer session to close the day’s lectures. We had questions on the church, the thief on the cross, suicide, the relationship of baptism and circumcision, and one dealing with whether people are created by God as righteous or sinners. The interest of the audience was excellent throughout the lectures and the question/answer period.

There were 79 people who attended today’s lectures. Not only were they were very attentive to the lessons, but they were reading the passages cited and taking notes. We were very pleased with the reaction. Several seem to be seriously considering the need to obey the gospel. We look forward to continuing our studies with them in the morning, the Lord willing.

We again boarded the Fastcraft at 5pm for the hour and a half trip back to Bacolod. This commute was also fairly smooth and uneventful. Once back in Bacolod, we went to Max’s - a chicken restaurant chain in the Philippines. (The background music was from a Filipino group singing “Rhinestone Cowboy,” “Hotel California,” and other familiar songs with a little different accent.) Our suppers are spent discussing what we think needs to be addressed in the next day’s work and planning on the order of those lessons that would allow for maximum effect in reaching the audience with the truth. We got back to the hotel where Chip and I discussed with Jack some details about work to be done on Saturday and Sunday. At about 9pm, I was able to start working on the lessons to be given tomorrow.

As a closing note, I had something happen yesterday that has never happened to me in our travels over here. I took Chip’s big bag along with my big bag to ship as air freight in order to avoid the high cost of excess baggage weight on our flight to Bacolod. As typical, everything took longer than seemed possible as the system is not known for great efficiency. However, when I took the bags to the X-ray check, that is when I met with the new experience. The girl that took my forms to sign for clearance of the bags came out with a serious look on her face. She cleared the belt of other items to be scanned and brought Chip’s bag back out. It was then put back into the X-ray machine and several security officers and management personnel went into the booth to see the X-ray pictures. The girl came back out with one of the officers and asked me to unlock the bag so they could look inside. It seems the bag had a padlock on it and Chip did not give me the key. I asked if there was a problem and they informed me that the X-ray showed an image of what appeared to be a gun! The eyes of everyone were now on this American with a suspicious bag as they proceeded to do 4 or 5 more X-rays from different angles before finally clearing it! Upon seeing Chip, I told him that he was taking his own bag for shipping next time. My new name for Chip is now “Pistol Pete.”

Thank you so much for showing your interest in the work being done and praying for our efforts here. Please continue to pray that God’s word might have free course into the hearts of those who seek it.

Brotherly, Harry O.

Unexpected Start

2011-02-21T10:45:00.002-06:00

My trip was not scheduled to start until today, but weather caused a change of plans. As I was packed on Sunday afternoon, Delta called to say our flight to Minneapolis had been canceled and we would be delayed until Tuesday. Of course, this would have thrown the whole schedule off, so I got on the phone to see if I could get out Sunday afternoon instead. The agent was very kind and got me seats on a flight from OKC to Salt Lake City, Utah and then on to Seattle, Washington. (I had about 1 hour and 20 minutes to finish packing and get to the airport!) I have stayed overnight here in Seattle and will fly out this afternoon to Tokyo Narita where I will meet up with Chip Foster, the Lord willing. Please keep us in your prayers.

Preaching Trip to the Philippines

2010-12-29T15:39:00.001-06:00

Scheduled: February 21 – March 12, 2011

In recent years, much time and effort have been invested in trying to reach denominational preachers with two or three days of lectures in various places. The power of the gospel has been clearly seen as many denominational preachers have obeyed the gospel as a result of such efforts. Despite being told that they will suffer the loss of their financial support from their denomination without any promise or prospect of future support for preaching the gospel, many have obeyed and sought to spread the gospel, enduring enormous hardships. Their self-sacrificial work has been a large factor in causing the continued and rapid spread of the gospel across that country.

With this great blessing, a great challenge has also been presented -- the need to ground those in the truth who have recently come out of denominationalism, training them to teach others (2 Tim. 2:2). For them to effectively preach the whole counsel of God as commanded, they must have some false concepts of the denominations fully purged from their thinking and a firm foundation of Bible doctrine must be laid down. Failure to do so will limit their effectiveness in spreading the true gospel and increase the likelihood of their apostasy. The Bible pattern shows those converted in the first century were revisited in order to confirm their souls (Acts 14:21-22).

The Lord willing, I plan to return to the Philippines for this trip to help in efforts of both types. Chip Foster, of Grandbury, TX, and John Isaac Edwards, of Ellettsville, IN are planning to work with me on the trip. The first part of the trip will be to hold lectures with denominational preachers and conduct special classes on the issue of Premillennialism. These efforts will be undertaken on the islands of Panay, Negros and Cebu. Jonathan Carino, Jack Jaco and Lordy Salunga will be working with us during these efforts. The second part of the trip will focus on classes for preachers in the city of Tuguegarao. The students who have attended other classes in years past have open doors through their preaching, rapidly spreading the gospel throughout northern Luzon. This effort will be open to preachers in the area to help with more extensive teaching on a variety of subjects. Rody Gumpad will be working with John, Chip and me in this effort.

On my last day in Manila, I hope to visit with Otey Pastor and preach to those in the prison where he continues to endure imprisonment from unjust charges. He like Joseph, Paul and other faithful men of old has turned this curse into a blessing for the cause of Christ by reaching numerous inmates and guards with the gospel. We hope an opportunity may be available to teach them more on this occasion.

My estimate for total expenses for my part of this trip is $9900. Previous trips have left me with a debt of $490 that I hope to recover, at least in part, if any excess funds are left from this trip. Any help you might be able to provide towards this effort would be greatly appreciated. If you know of others who might be able to help, please give them a copy of this letter. There is no way I could be involved in this work without the generosity of churches and individuals interested in this work. I am very thankful for the help of each one in past trips.

While in the Philippines, I provide daily reports on the work done to those interested. Daily reports state how the funds are being used and update the progress of the work. Those reports are available by a daily e-mail post as well as my blog (http://harryosborne.blogspot.com) which has the report together with pictures. If you wish to receive the e-mail form of the report without the pictures, please write a post with “Philippine Updates” in the subject line to harryrosborne@live.com and I will include you for those daily updates. Every effort is made to keep people involved and informed about the progress and challenges of these endeavors. Again, please pass this request to others whom you think may be interested in this work. Thank you again for your kind consideration of this request. Your prayers for our efforts would be greatly appreciated.

Several have asked about my health situation after I had to cancel my last trip. After the last trip, my immune system showed some problems and the doctors believed that I had two types of cancer. However, the biopsies done showed no cancer and my immune system has recovered to the point that my doctors have cleared me for this trip. I will have some restrictions, but they will not hamper the work. I appreciate all of the prayers on my behalf. To the Lord be all of the honor and glory.

Brotherly,
Harry Osborne
303 S. Czech Hall Rd.
Tuttle, OK 73089
405-381-9055 (Home phone)

Last Day at Talisay

2010-09-02T06:54:00.006-05:00

This was the last day for my schedule of preaching here in the Philippines. We traveled to Talisay where Fred Ogario had arranged for our venue at a Jolibee in the Gaisano Mall. We were upstairs in a very comfortable room with the best air conditioning I have ever experienced in the Philippines. While I was comfortable, the Filipinos had on coats and wraps. There was only one problem, from my point of view, and that was the proximity and volume of an arcade just across the hall – complete with karaoke from people convinced they were stars, but sadly lacking in musical ability.

The crowd for our studies was over 80% people that we had never seen before. The vast majority was Catholic, but we also had three Baptist preachers and one Pentecostal preacher. We only had the morning for the studies, so the brethren asked that I preach on “The Inspiration of the Scripture” and then “Salvation & Saul.” We had about 30 minutes for an open forum and dealt with questions on baptism: it necessity and what constitutes acceptable baptism. The preachers in attendance were visibly shaken by the material covered. The sound preachers in the Cebu area circulated among them and arranged further studies. The numerous Catholic visitors were mainly acquaintances of Fred Ogario. They seemed very interested and Fred is following up with them. Since we did not think we had enough time to thoroughly study with those present, no invitation was extended.

After the lectures, Jonathan and Jack took me back to the hotel where I finished packing and checked out. Our trip through Cebu to the airport was hair-raising as usual, but my fervent prayers were answered and we had no disaster. I am now in the hotel in Manila where I will stay Friday and then depart early Saturday morning, the Lord willing. Thanks to all of you for making this effort possible. It has been very fruitful and has opened many new doors of opportunity.

Meeting in Mandaue

2010-09-01T05:08:00.007-05:00

The last full day schedule for this trip is now over. We left a little after 8am to go to Mandaue, a district of Cebu City, to work with brother Roy Matta. Roy is a former Baptist preacher who has grown tremendously since I first met him. The first time he invited us to preach where he was laboring as a Baptist preacher, he took out a guitar to sing a solo in worship. He now uses his excellent voice to praise God acceptably without the addition of an instrument to the worship. Roy is extremely zealous in reaching the lost all around him, even at great personal sacrifice.

By request, I again preached on “The Inspiration of the Scripture” and “Salvation & Saul” during the morning session. A Baptist preacher walked out very troubled during the second lesson. It had rained in the morning and the sun came out full force at about 10am. By the time the morning session was over, it was as hot as I have ever felt anywhere. To give you a hint of just how hot it was, even the Filipinos were sweating heavily and fanning themselves. They commented on how hot it was! Brethren, when it is hot for the Filipinos, it is really hot!

After lunch, I preached on “Identifying the New Testament Church.” At the end of that lesson, one of the sisters in the congregation almost fainted from the heat. I asked Roy if we needed to end early and he said, “Yes, after question and answer.” That session was lively with a very broad range of questions which lasted for over an hour. By the end of that hour, I was totally drained as were others and we stopped to offer an invitation. Though none responded to the invitation, it was the first time these visitors had heard the gospel message. It usually takes several times of them hearing before they obey. We pray God will grant them time to obey.

It was also great to see Sam Robinson today. Sam is an American who has retired over here in Cebu City. He sends greetings back to brethren in San Antonio, TX and Oklahoma City.

I tried to upload video here, but it failed to process. If possible, I will upload 2 videos on FaceBook for those who would like to see more singing. Tonight, I must pack and get to sleep early as we must get an early start in Talisay because we must end at noon. After the lectures in Talisay, I will fly to Manila, the Lord willing, and file the next report from there.

One Baptized in Bogo

2010-08-31T06:27:00.009-05:00

We had an early start again this morning in order to travel to Bogo, at the north end of Cebu Island. There are some beautiful views of brilliant blue seas and lush mountains along the way, again in the midst of terrible poverty. The trip is supposed to take about 2 hours, but took us almost 3 hours this morning. Traffic was very heavy going through Cebu City and there were several delays along the way due to construction. The road is also very rough requiring very slow speeds for the vast majority of the way. Instead of having time to spare before the start of the lectures, we had to start immediately on arrival.

Gil (pronounce like “hill”) Suico is the one preaching at Bogo. He worked hard to invite numerous visitors and about 65 were present for the studies. Our studies were in the church building which is joined to Gil's house. It is a concrete block structure with numerous gaps and a tin roof. I started out by preaching on “the Inspiration of the Scripture” I had not gotten more than 5 minutes into the lesson when a driving rain hit. The rain on the tin roof with no insulation made a very loud noise which was impossible to speak over, even with a microphone and sound system. So, I stopped for several minutes and we sang two songs while we waited for the rain to pass. After finishing that lesson, I went immediately to a shortened form of “The Salvation of Cornelius” which I knew could be completed before we needed to break for lunch.

After lunch, I preached on “Salvation & Saul.” Since several of the visitors were from Evangelical groups, I took extra time delivering and adding more explanation of the points made. All through the lesson, I emphasized how clear the Bible makes it that Paul was saved by the blood of Christ at the point of water baptism. In order to reinforce that point on the clarity of God’s word, I decided to give a sermon on “Confusing the Issue: The Lawyer’s Problem” from Luke 10. The lawyer asked Jesus, “What shall I do to inherit eternal salvation?” Jesus responded, “What is written in the law? What is your reading of it?” The lawyer gave the right answer which Jesus acknowledged, but the lawyer sought to evade his guilt by confusing the issue. Jesus simple returned to the simplicity of God’s will and showed that all could make proper application of it. We then applied the same principle to read plain teach from God’s word on morality the church, doctrine and other areas where human ideas differ from God’s plain truth.

After the lessons, we had a question and answer session which was very lively. The first question concerned the thief on the cross. Other questions dealt with why all men are not saved if Christ’s blood was given for all men, why women could not preach, and several other topics. We dealt with each question by referring to the Scriptures that answered the query. When the questions ended, Jun Apatan extended the invitation. The lady who had asked about the thief on the cross came to be baptized after seeing the Bible teaching and its application. We praise God again for the power of His truth!

The ride back home was typical Philippine road trip over 2 hours – long periods of fear punctuated with moments of sheer terror. The Lord willing, the lectures tomorrow will be in the Cebu City area.

Six Baptized in Mambaling

2010-08-30T05:53:00.004-05:00

Our schedule for today was in the Mambaling district of Cebu City with the Southside church where Jun Apatan labors. Several other brethren that preach in the Cebu City area were also there and it was good to see all of them. If an exact count of the attendance was taken, I was not told, but my estimate is that 50 to 60 were present. Most were in a small room that was “air conditioned” while a small group remained outside to hear the messages by a sound system. Even though the air conditioner could not keep up with the number present within the small space, it did cut the heat and I am thankful for that fact, because I had to do all of the preaching on this very hot day.

In the morning, I preached about 3 hours giving two lessons: “The Inspiration of God” and “Salvation & Saul.” After the lunch break, I preached for another 3 hours on “Identifying the NT Church” and “Grace, Faith & Obedience.” Immediately after the last lesson, we had a question and answer session. The only one wanting to ask questions was a young man who preaches in a Pentecostal Church. His main point was to ask if we had historical documents that would prove that the local church in Mambaling could trace its origin back to the original church in the New Testament. I noted that the power was in the seed according to God’s word, and that when we abided simply with the seed of the word, it would produce the same result as it did in NT times. After he continued to exist on some historical document, I asked him if I could produce an historical document, how could he have confidence in that document since it would depend on the word of man. We then talked about the fact that our faith must be in God’s word, not the words of man. The rest of the audience was very satisfied that the message was very clear.

When Jun Apatan extended the invitation of the Lord, six came to be baptized: a man and his wife, a boy about twelve years old, and three young ladies ranging from mid-teens to about 20 years of age. It was a very good day and we are thankful to God for the power of His word!

For those interested, I will try to upload a video of the singing in Cebuano on my FaceBook page.

Lord's Day at Toledo City

2010-08-29T05:39:00.009-05:00

After traveling half a day and resting for the remainder of Saturday, we had an early start today. I woke up early to get some breakfast and be ready to go at 7am. The travel time to Toledo City is usually about 2 ½ hours. This morning, it took only 2 hours. The first part of the journey was over a very smooth road on a new highway. However, once we started up in the mountains, the smooth road was history. Cebu has a very mountainous interior which makes for very winding roads. The scenery was a mixture an incredible beauty from nature and unbelievable poverty in human dwellings. It is hard for westerners to understand how the common people can live here. I saw no one walking a dog, but several walking goats and caraboa.

Once we arrived at the meeting place of the church, it was great to see Nathan and Diane Cajigas as well as their family. They are both hard workers in the kingdom of our Lord and very dedicated to Hid cause. The whole family was very busy preparing for the services. We started a little early with singing and then I presented a study on “The God of All Comfort” for the Bible study hour. During the assembly, I preached on “Holy Living in Christ.” Each lesson was about an hour in length and Jonathan Carino summarized the lesson for those not as familiar with English.

After lunch, we began our afternoon study with a lesson on “Grace, Faith & Works” with Jonathan given the interpretation, sentence-for-sentence. Though almost all of the 200 or more in attendance were already Christians, we had a few Baptist visitors and took the opportunity to teach them as well as further strengthening the saints. With the metal roof and the intense sun fully out, the temperature during the afternoon session was our hottest day yet. The lesson with translation was a little over two hours and I was totally drained by the time we finished. This was the only time in preaching over here that I have become so dehydrated that my legs started burning and cramping to the point I thought they would give way. However, when I sat down and drank some Gatorade, I recovered quickly.

The meeting house in Toledo City is very good, by Filipino standards. It is spacious and well built and has been improved each time I have come. Yet, it lacks any of the comforts we would take for granted as Americans. The pews are simple wood slats. Only the front pews have a board at the back. All others are single wooden boards. The chairs towards the back are very light plastic chairs which would collapse under the weight of anyone even approaching 200 lbs. At the back, a number sit on plastic coke bottle cases set on end. Even in such arrangements, they are thrilled to listen to teaching from God’s word all day long.

The drive back was over the same winding roads, but there was a heavy rain that made in more interesting. I continually marvel that travel is completed safely with the driving conditions in the Philippines. This afternoon, I watched for a few moments and then decided to close my eyes and sleep – it is less terrifying that way! We arrived back safely after a little over 2 hours of travel. The Lord willing, we begin tomorrow with a schedule here in Cebu City with Jun Apatan.

2010-08-27T05:07:00.006-05:00

Things got off to an interesting start this morning as I awoke to find we had no water pressure in the hotel. Hoping the water pressure would return shortly, I went to eat breakfast. A television crew came up just as I was seated and they interviewed what apparently was a high government official. (Soldiers in camouflage fatigues were everywhere, fully armed with machine guns.) Needless to say, I tarried no longer than absolutely necessary to eat my breakfast. Upon return to my room, I found that the water pressure had increased to a small trickle, so, for the second straight morning, I “showered” under a very slim stream of cold water.

The lectures started promptly at 9am with singing. I gave the first lecture after the singing and spoke on “Identifying the NT Church.” Jonathan Carino followed with a short lesson on “The Establishment of the Church.” Both of those lessons addressed points to show the difference between the church Jesus built and the denominations of man. I then preached on “Salvation and Saul.” As noted previously, that lesson deals with the plan of salvation and refutes the doctrine of salvation by faith only.

After lunch, I started by teaching a lesson entitled “Grace, Faith & Works” to show how all fit together in our salvation. The basic point is that God’s grace saves the one who responds in faith to obey all conditions given by God. After that, I immediately followed with a lesson on “Counting the Cost.” We then had a question and answer session with numerous questions, the bulk of which concerned whether one must be “re-baptized” if previously baptized into a denomination. The questioners seemed open and seeking. It is obvious that several were deeply affected by the truth heard.

An invitation was extended at the end of the lectures, but none responded to be baptized. Several told me they were taking outlines to consider studying, but stated that they were close to making the decision to obey. One man that attended was from an institutional Church of Christ here in the Philippines. He was very impressed with the truth he heard and its clarity in opposition to denominationalism. He also understood the teaching on the organization of the NT church. His comment in leaving was that he had never heard on preach before who truly depended only on what the Bible teaches. Several of our Filipino brethren have agreed to study with him as he is very seriously thinking of leaving institutionalism to work with the faithful congregation here.

It is interesting to me that blackouts have hit us several times every day, but they have never hit during a sermon that was using the projector! They are recurring repeatedly at night and this has given me much trouble in posting to the blog and sending out reports. Once I was unable to send any reports out because of it. Please check the blog for the earliest report, complete with pictures.

The Lord willing, we fly to Cebu tomorrow and begin work on that island on Sunday.

Lectures Begin in Zamboanga

2010-08-26T04:31:00.009-05:00

The lectures in Zamboanga City began today at about 9am with 80-85 in attendance. I introduced the studies and their purpose then presented a lesson on “The Inspiration of the Scripture.” After that lesson, we sang one song, and then I had another lesson on “Holy Living in Christ.” Since Ron has now returned home, I must take almost all of the teaching myself with only brief breaks. So, I had about 3 hours of teaching during the morning session.

In the afternoon, I began with the first part of my material on “The Authority of Christ.” The first part of that material went for over an hour and a half dealing with the need for authority, the source of authority, and the difference between specific and generic authority. We stressed that Christ’s authority is established by the teaching of the gospel. So, if we rightly understand how the gospel was taught and how we are to understand it, we will correctly see how Christ authorizes us to act.

After the first less, my voice badly needed a rest, so Jack Jaco gave a lesson on “Rightly Dividing the Word of Truth.” He dealt with the different dispensations and covenants found in God’s word. It was a very simple lesson easily understood by the audience regarding how God’s regulation of man has changed in various times. He concluded by showing the need for us to focus on the gospel as the means through which we are taught about God’s will for us today.

For the final lesson of the day, I covered my remaining material on “The Authority of Christ.” This part of the material shows that all teaching is done by direct precept or command, approved example and/or necessary implication. The lesson closed by making some application of these facts and showing that we may rightly understand God’s will through His truth. After that lesson, we had a question and answer period until the time for our venue ended.

Our audience is very attentive and seems very ready to learn. However, it is different in composition to that in previous days. As I understand it, about two thirds of the people are faithful brethren from Zamboanga or the Pagadian area. Of course, these brethren are very supportive, but the 30-35 non-Christians in attendance are the main focus of these lectures. This is the first opportunity most of them have had to hear the gospel, so we hope and pray their hearts will be open to it. The Lord willing, we begin our studies again tomorrow morning at 9am.