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.
