We had about the same number in attendance today as were
present yesterday. Day 2 of the lectures began with a lesson on “Who Is a
Christian?” – an examination of the three texts using the term and letting the
Scripture itself define it. Jonathan followed with a lesson on the “Identifying
Marks of the New Testament Church.” Each lesson went into some detail, so they
took all of the time until the lunch break. During the lunch break, it was
clear that some were ready to obey the gospel, but we wanted to give an
opportunity for them to consider a few more things.
After lunch, I started with a study of “Grace, Faith & Works” noting the part played by each in our salvation as well as the need for continued obedience following one’s initial salvation. Jonathan then presented a sermon on “The Seed Principle” showing the application of the fact that seed bears after its kind – even in spiritual matters. I closed with a lesson on “Counting the Cost” so that all would think soberly about the demands of following Christ if they decided to be baptized. Jonathan then extended the invitation of the Lord and 8 precious souls (7 women and 1 man) came to confess their faith and be baptized into Christ! It was touching to see the tears of joys that several shed because they had found the truth that would purify their souls (1 Pet. 1:22-25).
As the large group of people to be baptized packed into a
single van together with the others from the same place (family and friends),
we saw that there was no way we could fit in the vehicle. So, we said our
good-byes after taking several pictures as a “remembrance” of the occasion. We
then returned to the hotel, squished like sardines into a tricycle while they
went on their way with Nilo to baptize them. When Nilo came back to the hotel, we had even more good
news as 2 more men decided to be baptized when they were at the sea. So, a
total of ten ended up being baptized today!
Tomorrow will be my first day of rest from preaching since I
started on this trip. After 10 straight days of preaching all day long, my
voice, mind and body all need a rest. The Lord willing, we will fly to Cebu
tomorrow afternoon. Please remember us and our new brothers and sisters in your
prayers. Thank you again for your help and support in every way!
