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JANUARY 2001 - "LCC, CCC, LOJ, GT, CT, CA, NO MSG - JUST HS AND JC"
EDITORIAL - "I'M LATE, I'M LATE !!!"
You could be forgiven for thinking that I got right into the Bible Code if you were to judge by the title of this month's report! But these are simply abbreviations of some of the ministries and states that I visited during the month. But in our time-oriented western world, everything has to be short and abbreviated anyway! These are the days of instant everything, from major world events expected 'live' in our lounge rooms, to even microwave ministries and abbreviated time-outs when they fail.
But there are many cultures that are more event-conscious than time-conscious! When I ministered on the Pacific island of Fiji, I discovered that they have church on Sunday - not the equivalent of a one-hour dry-cleaning service like in many Western churches - in by ten out by eleven! And sometimes you think that even if Jesus was going to come back at five minutes past eleven, people would still leave right on the hour! No, in Fiji they have church on Sunday - all day Sunday. People come and go, they worship, pray, eat and sleep all day long. To them the event is the focus rather than the time-frame.
Jesus was a master at balancing both event and time-consciousness. He knew how to address the tyranny of the urgent and He knew when He had to withdraw and get with the Father. He also knew that most of His time had to go into those whom He had chosen to carry on His legacy and everything else had to stand in line.
Is the world beginning to revolve faster? Is the availability of time becoming rarer? Of course not! Everyone has the same amount of time, whether they be president or housewife - it has always been how we use it that determines our success or failure.
God expects us to be good stewards of our time as much as He expects us to take proper care of everything else He gives us.
Sometimes time forces us to go through the drive-through, but just don't live on it! Nothing beats a good home-cooked meal! It may take much more time to prepare but when it is shared by loved ones, it gladdens the soul and can become an event where relationships can be strengthened.
Don't let the tyranny of the urgent rob you of time to build relationships.
FEEDBACK
"Dear Brother Beacham,
I've enjoyed and appreciated all your E-mails to me over the months....many, many thanks. It's also a great reminder to pray for you, too! Please.....DO NOT FALL ON THE ICE THIS YEAR IN SNOWY AMERICA!!!!
ROSE MARY PEASLEE, JACKSON, NEW JERSEY."
"Hi Jeff, I love getting you e-mails. It sounds like God has really been favoring you guys over there… I like the idea of Aussies shaking the States for God!
NED AND ROS DAVIES, SYDNEY AUSTRALIA."
"Hi Jeff, Thanks so much for your newsy emails. I enjoy getting them & hearing about all the good things the Lord is doing for you & through your ministry. God bless! PETER BARR. SENIOR PASTOR, LIVING WATERS CHRISTIAN CENTRE, SUNSHINE COAST, AUSTRALIA"
"Dear Jeff and Heather, It is so good to continually receive your ministry updates and to read of the things God is doing in and through you, we rarely reply but want you to know we read your emails and they are always so encouraging... We pray that God continues to bless you, anoint you and use you, much love always,
BRENTON AND SHARON WIESE, BORDERTOWN, SA AUSTRALIA."
"Thanks Jeff for your always inspiring newsletters - maybe you will even get the call to this part of the world some time!
PETER AND PAULINE BARNES, GOOD NEWS CHURCH, BUCURESTI ROMANIA."
"Dear Jeff and Family, It is wonderful to hear from you every month and to hear that you are doing good. I pray God's blessings for you, and hope to hear from you soon!!
REBECCA GRISHAM- FT.WAYNE, INDIANA'
HEALING TESTIMONY
Dear Jeff,
…Hope to see you at WORD OF LIFE (DOVER NJ) soon. Hope all is well with you & yours. God is so good. By the way, I had told you about a cyst on my ovary that I believed the Lord healed me of at one of your services at our Church, well He did indeed because I went a couple of weeks ago for another ultrasound and indeed the
cyst is gone. God Bless You & Your Family & Your Ministry!!! Love,
CAROL & HEIDI BABCOCK
SUN 7TH - WED 10TH - LIFESPRING CITY CHURCH, TRENTON NJ.
"We had a powerful time during your visit. The presence of the Lord has remained very strong since… and in fact has been increasing… Many were challenged to go
closer and go deeper. We received a much needed evangelistic thrust in our congregation and are believing God for souls. Some were filled with the Holy Spirit and many were touched by God.
TOM HARDIMAN, SENIOR PASTOR
FRID 12TH - HOUSE OF DAVID RADIO SHOW AND MEETING.
EAGLES WINGS MINISTRIES hosts the HOUSE OF DAVID RADIO SHOW on NEW YORK'S premier Christian radio station WWDJ every Friday night, followed by a regional night of worship and the word called "THE HOUSE OF DAVID" which is hosted by various churches in the North Jersey area. I have been a guest on the radio show and a speaker at the HOD meetings on several occasions and it was great to be with them again. Up to 30 churches were represented at the service.
SAT 13TH AND SUN 14TH - LEADERSHIP SEMINAR AND SUNDAY SERVICE AT 'LOVE OF JESUS CHURCH', NORTH BERGEN NJ.
PASTORS MICKEY AND TANYA FUENTES are well known and respected ministers in the Northeast. They have just recently purchased a large facility in NORTH BERGIN NJ, for their church. They have offered about a third of this building to be the new base for EAGLES WINGS MINISTRIES which will soon relocate its base to here from BUFFALO NY. I had the pleasure of ministering in a leadership seminar and a Sunday service for Mickey and Tanya, who also have a strong vision for missions to CUBA. We hope to partner with them in this vision in the future.
SUN 14TH - 5PM - GOSPEL TABERNACLE AG, NORTH BERGEN NJ.
PASTOR JOE AND MARIA SANTOS' church has almost become a second home to me. I have ministered there several times in the last few months. Following is a testimony from one of their young people:
"Dear Pastor Jeff Beacham,
I enjoy your updates very much. It is uplifting to hear the testimonies of others being touched by God. I know that there is a major blessing coming every time you come to visit Gospel Tabernacle.
I know you had asked for my mother's testimony of healing. A couple of months ago, she was suffering from mass migraine headaches and they would hinder her from worshipping at church and praying at home. She had gone to the doctor and was given a prescription for her migraines. She attended one of the healing services that were held in Gospel Tabernacle. She responded to your altar call and was completely healed of her migraine headaches!!!! She never had to fill that prescription and has not gotten one since!!!! The lord is just awesome and mighty and worthy to be praised!!!
Thanks once again for your update and for ministering to my heart this past Sunday. Goodbye and God bless you & the entire Beacham family!!!
Sincerely, MONICA GUERRERO
SUN 21ST - GRACE OUTREACH FELLOWSHIP, NORWALK CT.
PASTOR PETER WESTFIELD asked me to minister in this introductory meeting to a crusade at his church the first week of February (see report next month).
THURS 25TH - WED 3IST - WEST COAST WORSHIP CENTER, SAN DIEGO CALIFORNIA
I first met PASTOR JERRY BARNARD seven years ago when I arranged ministry for him when he visited AUSTRALIA. Jerry was one of the pioneering hosts on TBN and still makes regular appearances on their programs. We have remained good friends over the years and recently he and his son Steve, who is now the senior pastor of the church the Jerry pioneered, invited me out to SAN DIEGO to minister in a week of revival meetings which went fantastic.
San Diego is one of the most beautiful cities in the United States. The beautiful harbor and beaches reminded me of Sydney and made me homesick.
We will be partnering more with West Coast Worship Center in the future.
RESOURCES FOR YOU
1) THE DIGITAL WORD
"The Digital Word is a place for sharing information about how Bible study might be done in the twenty-first century - combining timeless strategies of exegesis and modern technology of Bible study software."
http://www.digitalword.org
2) WHAT IS GOD DOING AROUND THE WORLD?
Keep in touch with events: Daily: Mission Network News (online or by email) http://www.gospelcom.net/mnn
Weekly: FridayFax by email - send a message to: fridayfax@dawneurope.net
with subject; subscribe English
Monthly: OM's Newbytes - send a blank email to: newsbytes-subscribe@egroups.com
3) ORDER VIDEOS AND AUDIOS SECURELY ONLINE.
You can also NOW order some of our latest tapes and videos ONLINE at: http://store.drawnear.org/firepower
We hope you will seriously consider joining with us in this great adventure with God.
Heather and I bless you in Jesus' wonderful name
Much love
JEFF BEACHAM
Pastor / Evangelist
FIREPOWER MINISTRIES INTERNATIONAL
JEFF BEACHAM'S MINISTRY ITINERARY AT: http://www.firepowerint.com
QUOTE OF THE MONTH:
"The Center of God's will is the Promised Land of the soul - it flows with the milk of ease, and the honey of accomplishment. But to get there, the Jordan of disobedience must be crossed and the squatter of self-will utterly dispossessed!" (God's Thoughts - January 15 2001)
FEBRUARY 2001 - "… MY OWN TWO FEET!" TESTIMONIES, FMI IN CHARISMA AND IDEA EXCHANGE.
Hello! I hope God is blessing you at this time. It's a privilege to be in touch with you again.
We had a great response to our new "EDITORIAL" feature in last month's report and I hope you find this month's as encouraging. Make sure you read all of our report. It is packed with many wonderful testimonies, feedback, a direct link to the CHARISMA website and their recent article on our ministry, and a new section at the end called "GOD THOUGHTS". We are interested in you too, so let us know how you are doing. I hope you enjoy the report!
PLEASE NOTE: We can no longer be reached us at: firepowerministries@ibm.net
OUR NEW EMAIL ADDRESS IS: firepowerministries@attglobal.net
PLEASE ADJUST YOUR RECORDS ACCORDINGLY.
EDITORIAL - "STANDING ON MY OWN TWO FEET!"
MIXED BLESSINGS
Many years ago, I found myself in a situation where a leader I had been leaning on was not there to lean on when I was going through a time of considerable persecution. As an itinerant minister, spending half of my life away from home, I had always taken encouragement from Mark 10: 29-30, which assured me that there are a "hundredfold" earthly as well as eternal rewards for those that left lands and family for the Gospel's sake. But I hadn't paid much attention to those two little words that were tacked onto the end; "…with persecutions!" I was about to learn that you cannot rise any higher than your tolerance for persecution!
WHAT GOES UP MUST COME DOWN.
Have you ever noticed that discouragement is everywhere -you don't need to go searching - it finds you or can be found with little effort! It's like the Law of Gravity - things naturally fall DOWN, not UP! All life can be defined as an effort to overcome gravity. You know you're alive if you can get UP out of bed in the morning, but sometimes it takes a real effort, or is that just me? Encouragement needs to be worked at; it too takes effort, but everyone needs it sooner or later.
FLY OR DIE
Toddlers need to be encouraged and assisted by their parents to take their first few unsteady steps; eagles evict their young from the nest which gives the young fledgling instant 'encouragement' to fly - of die!
So there I was, in another country and in dire straits, my confidant was not there, and I couldn't get through to him! It was then that I realized I had to take a leaf out of King David's book and "encourage myself in the Lord." There's never a time when a pastor can afford to stop encouraging his leaders, but he can only do this if he has learnt to stand on his own feet first, which obviously speaks of spiritual maturity.
RELATIONAL DEPOSITS
Unity in the church depends on good relationships based upon maturity. I have always made it one of my priorities to build relationships with people I consider to be stronger than me spiritually so that when times of crisis come (and they will, sooner or later) I can draw from their strength. We all have to lean on one another from time to time, but relationships are like bank accounts; I can only make a withdrawal if I have made a deposit!
MOM AND POP ARISE
One of the greatest needs in the Body of Christ today, is for spiritual 'fathers' and ;mothers' to be moved by passion to rise to the challenge of encouraging 'sons' and 'daughters' in the faith to eventually be able to stand on their own two feet. #
FEEDBACK
" Hi Jeff. Thank you for the news letter - very encouraging. We give praise to God for all He is doing throughout the world at this time. Your ministry is a blessing, thank you. God bless you, Heather, and your children, love,
BOB & CHRIS JACKSON, BUCKS, ENGLAND.
" Dear Jeff and team,
Many thanks and God bless. Your messages are really wonderful and I hope you'll keep
them coming! BETSY ROWE
" Dear Jeff and Heather
It is just great and inspiring to see, and read of people like yourselves who are OUT
THERE DOING GOOD GOD STUFF. I want to Encourage you and your ministry team.
JUST PLUG IN TO GOD. HE will give you the CREATIVE IDEAS...HIS Will be done...May
God RICHLY Bless you with Godly wisdom, strength and understanding.
KATHY MAHER. BENDIGO, AUSTRALIA.
" Thanks for the [reports]. Glad you are there in the US. As I go into the US from time to time I see that we are losing at the moment but revival is just around the corner with men like you who will keep pressing on for the Lord. Love,
PASTOR JOHN MCGOVERN, HONG KONG.
" Pastor Jeff,
Thank you for your e-mails. Thank you for your faithfulness to The Lord's call. You
recent message about time management came at a time in my life that I needed it
most. We all need to be better stewards of all of the gifts from our Wonderful Heavenly
Father. May He continue to bless you in all that you do. In His Love,
PATTY CHILLEMI, TOMS RIVER, NJ
SUN 4TH - WED 7TH GRACE OUTREACH FELLOWSHIP, NORWALK CONNECTICUT
"Grace Outreach Fellowship was greatly impacted by the ministry of Jeff Beacham. In the four days of meetings numerous people were challenged and encouraged in their walk with Christ. Every night the altar was filled with people responding to his invitations. Many shared with me personally how they were touched and healed when Jeff anointed them with oil and prayed with them. Others he called out personally for prayer as directed by the Holy Spirit, every time accurately speaking by revelation into their lives. We knew that people were being stirred up for God when on the second night in spite of a snow storm that should have caused us to cancel, we had a great turn out and a powerful meeting.
As pastor, the greatest part of the four days for me were the times we had to talk privately. I appreciate Jeff's heart, he shared his wisdom and depth of experience with me and my senior leaders. This was of great value and help to us. We look forward to more opportunities to have him back in our church. Thank you Jeff. Sincerely,
PETER M. WESTFIELD, PASTOR, GRACE OUTREACH FELLOWSHIP."
SAT 10TH & SUN 11TH - MORNINGSTAR FELLOWSHIP, BECHTELSVILLE, PA
We had a great weekend with PASTOR STEVE DEFREIN and his church. There was a Saturday night regional Revival meeting which saw many churches represented. God's Spirit moved very powerfully on a full altar-call. The Sunday service was equally strong when I preached on "AMERICA ON THE BRINK!"
SUN 18TH - WED 20TH - VICTORY CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP, TROOPER PA
"Dear Jeff,
I sincerely appreciated the time we had together. I really believe that in the long run, your personal contribution to my life and ministry will have the greatest impact from your ministry here. God has truly gifted you in the area of encouraging leaders and helping to focus vision.
Our church as a whole was very blessed by your ministry. It was exciting to see our members touched and stirred to go after God's best. I was also excited to see some of the people who came from other denominations, hungry for the supernatural touch of God on their lives. They were not disappointed! God's power was present to heal and to save. Of course, one of the highlights of the meetings was when the grandmother of one of our members received Christ just days before her 90th birthday!
Thank you for your obedience to the call of God to leave Australia in order to come stir up revival on the East Coast of the U.S. I really expect that you are going to see what you came to see--and more! In His love,
ED CRENSHAW, Senior Pastor."
FRID 23RD - HOUSE OF HOPE BIBLE CHURCH, JAMESBURG, NJ
PASTOR KATHY BICHSEL and her church were celebrating their third anniversary this weekend and it was a joy to minister with them again. Following is a testimony from a visiting pastor that night who was dry and desperate to hear from God:
"Dear Jeff, It was so good to see you and Heather last week in Jamesburg. As always your message was a blessing and I am sure the church leaders were exhorted to move to a new level. I especially want to thank you for praying for me, and I am trying to grow "thicker skin" on the outside and still keep my heart soft ["To be in the ministry, you have to be like a chocolate; hard on the outside, but soft in the middle!"]. That one sentence will stick with me a long time. Thanks for your candor and honesty. It blesses me!!! Forever grateful."
(Name withheld)
SUN 25TH - LIVING WATER FULL GOSPEL CHURCH, NEWARK NJ.
PASTOR FRANK DUPREE asked us to minister for an introductory Sunday for a whole crusade we will do for him in July. I taught on healing and the prophetic gift.
FMI FEATURED IN MARCH EDITION OF CHARISMA MAGAZINE
Many thanks to LEE GRADY, the editor of CHARISMA MAGAZINE for his interest in our ministry for this story and to PETER JOHNSON for writing it.
You can follow this link directly to the online version:
http://www.charismamag.com/issues/articledisplay.pl?d=cm30123&MonthID=cm301
MON 26TH - TUES 27TH - "IDEA EXCHANGE", TAMPA FLORIDA
I attended this great event at CARPENTER'S HOME CHURCH, Tampa FL and was able to have a great time of candid sharing and fellowship with host Pastor KARL STRADER and many others including my friend JERRY BARNARD, BOB WEINER, J. DON GEORGE, MIKE EVANS and BUD WILLIAMS. Mutual edification and encouragement were the fruit.
RESOURCES
DRIVERS
Good places to start if you need a printer or scanner driver, or want more information on the manufacturers: http://www.driverzone.com http://www.driverguide.com/
CHEAP GRAPHICS
Corbis.com carry many millions of quality photographic images of almost every possible subject. Although some are only available at high agency fees, many others are available to download at only US$3 each when used on a non-commercial website, or in any non-profit print publication which is not sold: http://www.corbis.com
Heather and I bless you in Jesus' wonderful name and look forward to being in touch with you again next month.
Much love
JEFF BEACHAM
Pastor / Evangelist
FIREPOWER MINISTRIES INTERNATIONAL
JEFF BEACHAM'S MINISTRY ITINERARY AT: http://www.firepowerint.com
GOD'S THOUGHTS
"It's man's higher nature to seek out a friend,
It's man's lower nature to find an enemy,
It's God's nature to find the lost!" (January 21 2001)
AUSTRALIAN CHRISTIAN CHURCHES, GREAT TESTIMONIES, "…TO THE CHURCH OF PHILADELPHIA WRITE…"
Hi! We serve an excellent God and I hope that you can say all is excellent for you too
right now. It's great to be in touch with you again.
We had a great response to the "EDITORIAL" in last month's report. I hope you find this month's just as challenging. Make sure that you get to read all of our report. It's packed with many wonderful testimonies, feedback, a new link to the MOVERGUIDE in the resource section, and another great "GOD THOUGHT" at the end.
We are very interested in you too, so send us any good news that you may have that could be good for our next report. Read and enjoy!
EDITORIAL - "STRENGTH FOR TODAY - BRIGHT HOPE FOR TOMORROW"
Sixty thousand Australian soldiers left their homeland between 1914 and 1918 to fight a war half a world away in Europe. This relatively low-tech conflict was mainly fought in the trenches as men spent months living in near squalor keeping their heads low for fear of having them blown off!
Unlike the "video-game" precision of modern warfare, with its remoteness and impersonal destruction, these men relied on each other for their very lives. The nature of trench warfare was that you depended on the man on either side of you for your life, like links in a chain depending on each other for their strength. And so they became "mates" - not in the American sense of "spouse", but like a best friend who you entrust your life to and vice versa.
Returning home, this egalitarian bonding became interwoven into the fledgling Australian culture. But it runs much deeper than the popular greeting of "G'Day Mate!" It fostered an idea that; "…we're all in this together", whether it was the trenches of Europe or life in general; the former with Germany as the enemy, the latter was "us against the world!" This sense of commonality was further enhanced by several other Australian terms of endearment such as "The Aussie Battler" and "Digger" (e.g. digger of trenches), which along with "mate" were both derived from the trenches.
Unity comes relatively easy in a culture that tends to direct competition more outward than inward, (Politicians have known for centuries that there's nothing like a good old war every now and then to stifle rebellion and to unite the people). Recently this ease expressed itself when several Pentecostal / charismatic movements, churches and ministries all came together under the one banner of "AUSTRALIAN CHRISTIAN CHURCHES". This alliance, which was just a year or two in the making and a testimony to good leadership, immediately made this group one of the largest Christian organizations in Australia and a real "voice" impacting the community.
In my recent article "Internetworking" (see: www.firepowerint.com/archivelist.htm) I said: "If the world has been confused about the message of the Church, then it is because we have presented it with a cacophony of voices and messages that would rival the confusion of Babel. If we are to ever impact our communities, we must speak with one voice! We need to build bridges between emerging networks, cementing them together in a true apostolic style that is recognized and accepted primarily through function and servant leadership, not merely by attaching a label. I believe this is the next step along the road to re-awakening in America"
This will give greater strength for today and a brighter hope for tomorrow! #
FEEDBACK
" Thank you very much Jeff for your courage. I thank God for people like you who work day and night to see success in the Body of Christ… Thanks be to GOD! ALBANOS GATIRA, BALTIMORE, MD
" Dear Jeff,
You and your ministry are such an encouragement to me as I grow in these new ways of the Lord! … I have been praying for your ministry, that you will impact this NORTHEASTERN part of the UNITED STATES greatly in the name of our wonderful God!! Dear man, consider if you will coming to CLEVELAND! We have had great words spoken over us here on the Lake Erie shore by MIKE BICKLE, GRAHAM COOKE and LOU ENGLE to name a few. God is about to release a great harvest in this area and we are working double time to open a 24/7 house of prayer to cover the area with prayer and fasting for a full release of His Holy Spirit on all peoples here. We are an incredible melting pot of nationalities, races and cultures all in one wide metropolis area ripe for harvest. God Bless you and all you and your wife do! Thank you for obeying JESUS and coming to our land to help move God from our heads into our hearts and out into the land!!! In Him, LAURA WILLIAMS.
" Dear Jeff
Thanks for your encouraging news report. It comes at a time when we were feeling a little discouraged. The church here (KAZAKHSTAN) faces increasing pressures as certain religious and political leaders try to implement laws which will limit religious activities to only Islamic and the Orthodox faiths. It is a blatant defiance of their constitution so the church is praying and fasting today for a turn around of the law. Hundreds of pastors are meeting monthly praying for revival… There is great unity among the brethren here which is marvelous to see. They can only expect to see the hand of God move for them. So you can see there is much we have to be discouraged about but God has told us this week not to fear but to have faith, and that comes before a miracle. Love you and think of you wonderful guys often as I hope you do us. In his harvest. (Names withheld).
FRID 2ND - SUN 4TH CHRISTIAN FAMILY FELLOWSHIP INT. LONG ISLAND NY.
I ministered for my friend PASTOR DENNIS BAMBINO at his church on Long Island for a Friday night, Saturday pastor's meeting and his Sunday morning service. Following are two testimonies:
"Dear Jeff
I was really encouraged by the word you gave at FARMINGDALE, LONG ISLAND two weeks ago… Please pray that God would give me a heart for the lost. Thanks!
SIMON HART"
"Dear Jeff, Thank you for the uplifting e-mails. You, your family and your ministry are in our prayers often. Thank you for your message at CHRISTIAN FAMILY FELLOWSHIP. The tapes are also a great blessing… I pray that your ministry is richly blessed and that many of the lost come to CHRIST through you. I also pray that many of us already in the Lord will lead more victorious lives in Christ by absorbing the message you share with us according to His word. THOMAS RILEY"
SUN 18TH - WED 21ST - THE PHILADELPHIA CHURCH, OAKRIDGE NJ
"Dear Jeff,
Just wanted to let you know of some of the beneficial results of your being here. First and probably most notably, the church was challenged to move into fresh areas of ministry and stretched in it's approach toward the things of God. We were delighted to see a number of people making either a first-time personal commitment to Christ or being renewed and challenged in their walk with the Lord.
I believe the young people were particularly blessed by your ministry. I know that many of them felt honored and encouraged as you called them to the altar and had the church lay hands on them and pray for them.
One woman has reported that God healed her during the meetings. She has been afflicted by Bell's Palsy or some such ailment a number of times and was beginning to feel it's approach but after coming to the meetings and being prayed for, the affliction left and has not returned. Others reported that the Lord had met them in a fresh way and ministered specifically to their needs, both emotionally and spiritually.
We (Lorraine and I and the elder board) very much appreciated the wise sensitivity you brought to the church family as well as the deference you showed in ministering here. You won the hearts of many and we feel that we have found a new friend and partner in the Lord's work.
I particularly enjoyed spending time together with you and sifting through the many facets and fragments of vision that have been planted here throughout the years by the Spirit of the Lord. It's kind of like examining and fitting puzzle-pieces together and sometimes you wonder if you even know what it is that you are looking for. Subjectivity just seems to get in the way. So it was a blessing to have your help and the benefit of your perspective in the process.
Thanks! We look forward to spending more time together working with you again.
In the love of Jesus, STEVE WOLOSIN, PASTOR, THE PHILADELPHIA CHURCH."
SUN 25TH - GOSPEL FELLOWSHIP, PLAINBORO NJ
PASTOR MARGARET CLARKE and her church just outside of Princeton, New Jersey have become great friends to me personally and to our ministry. It was a pleasure to be back with them again for another great Sunday. She remarked that the messages spoke right into the heart of the church and addressed some vital needs.
RESOURCES
Click on Movieguide for reviews by Dr. Ted Baehr, an award-winning producer, writer, director, radio personality, and scholar. With all of his accomplishments, he remains focused on one task - to help redeem the values of the media while educating audiences on how to use discernment in selecting their entertainment.
DRIVERS
Good places to start if you need a printer or scanner driver, or want more information on the manufacturers:
http://www.driverzone.com http://www.driverguide.com/
CHEAP GRAPHICS
Corbis.com carry many millions of quality photographic images of almost every possible subject. Although some are only available at high agency fees, many others are available to download at only US$3 each when used on a non-commercial website, or in any non-profit print publication which is not sold: http://www.corbis.com
Heather and I bless you in Jesus' wonderful name and look forward to being in touch with you again next month.
Much love
JEFF BEACHAM
Pastor / Evangelist
FIREPOWER MINISTRIES INTERNATIONAL
JEFF BEACHAM'S MINISTRY ITINERARY AT: http://www.firepowerint.com
GOD THOUGHTS
If Life is a 'trial', then we begin 'guilty as sin' until we are proven innocent; sentenced to death the day we are born! Life offers a chance to take a free pardon. But many, thinking; 'if it costs nothing, it means nothing', miss their opportunity while others fail to answer when it knocks. Yes, it may be free to you; but it cost Him everything! Your guilt or innocence will be determined not by what you know, but by Who you know! (April 5, 2001)
AN ENDURING FOUNDATION, HOPE AND HEALING, NEW YORK CITY COUNCIL HONORS CITY COVENANT COALITION
"WHATSOEVER THINGS ARE OF GOOD REPORT THINK ON THESE THINGS" PHILIPPIANS 4:8
Hello. I really appreciate the opportunity to be in touch with you every month.
We had a great response to our "EDITORIAL" in last month's report (see "FEEDBACK" below). I hope you find this month's just as challenging. Make sure that you get to read all of our report. It's packed with many wonderful testimonies, feedback, new tips in the resource section, and another great "GOD THOUGHT" at the end.
We are very interested in you too, so send us any good report that you may have that could be good for our next report. Read and enjoy!
EDITORIAL - "RESTING ON AN ENDURING FOUNDATION"
One of my earliest memories from growing up in a small rural city in New Zealand, is the magnificent gothic church that my grandparents, parents, myself and my brothers all attended from birth. This tall wooden structure, with its towering spire, was a real landmark. It stood in the center of the town, and in the center of all of our lives. At noon every day, its bell would ring sending a unifying sound over the whole city and it could be seen from just about everywhere.
When I was five or six, I remember my grandmother, who was a very devout woman, making the one block walk every day to the church, often dragging me along with her by my earlobe. During my teen years and into my twenties, attending church was not on my agenda. But even after I moved to Australia in the mid-seventies, thinking of home always included thoughts of that church and the way it had affected my life. It was part of my foundation. Several years ago, vandals set the church on fire and it burnt to the ground. In one night, the foundation of thousands of families, multiplied memories, countless weddings and funerals, was gone! Just like that! Even now I am saddened when I realize that the only place it continues to exist is in the memories of those who were touched by it.
After committing my life to Christ, all of my kids were raised from birth in our church in Australia; Sydney Christian Life Centre (a.k.a. The Hillsong Church). This was an integral part of their foundation. But when we moved to America two years ago, the founder of that church retired and it received a much needed renovation. However, these changes were not received well by our kids because it meant that their foundation was being affected. Even if they could go back to Australia everything would be different.
Change is a part of life, and a sign of life is change. The more alive something is, the more it will be changing. Humans are naturally averse to change, because we base our security on stability. But even the most enduring "sign-posts" of our lives can suddenly disappear overnight when we least expect it.
The only affective way to handle any change that life may bring, is to rest on the only unchanging "Rock" that is "the same today, yesterday and forever". This is the anchor that keeps us steady through every storm. If our feet are firmly planted on Him, then the whole world could be falling down around you but you would still have His peace. Change that comes not from God, will always bring anxiety, worry and concern with it. But any change that does come from God, may not always be comfortable, but it will always be accompanied with that unmistakable peace that only He can give. "The world can't give it - and the world can't take it away!" That's how you know it is from God.
Let Him be your enduring and unchanging foundation today! #
FEEDBACK
" Hi Jeff, greetings to you all on the east coast. Thanks for the updates its great to hear the good report of the Lord. Keep at it, you are doing a great work, glory! LLOYD DEAN.
" Jeff, thanks so much for the editorial, "STANDING ON MY OWN TWO FEET" (FMI Report February 2001). It is a timely word from the Lord. As strange as it sounds, it is good to know that others have struggled with discouragement - I thought it was just me. It is especially good to hear it from you, as I look up to you very much. I need to know what is real in a Christian's life, otherwise in following those I look up to, I may end up chasing an unrealistic dream - a dream whose standards I can never live up to. Thanks for your prayers and love and support Jeff. PHILIP CALODOUKAS, SYDNEY AUSTRALIA.
" Dear Jeff,
Your comments about the effects of pulling together to make an impact on our world
are appreciated! (FMI Report March 2001 Editorial: "STRENGTH FOR TODAY - BRIGHT
HOPE FOR TOMORROW"). Splinter groups and efforts may or may not accomplish much,
but it's a sure thing that when Christian believers unite their efforts on behalf of
common causes, things change. Keep up the good work! May God's best blessings be
manifested in your life TODAY!
DR. JAMES R. PICKENS, PRESIDENT, TRINITY EVANGELICAL SEMINARY OF FLORIDA.
EMPOWERING TESTIMONY
"Dear Jeff:
I wanted to send you this testimony of what happened after I left your meeting at TOM HARDIMAN'S church (LIFESPRING CITY CHURCH, TRENTON NJ) in January.
You prayed for me that God would bless me ten-fold for all the good I have done for other people… I was so blessed and empowered that I left the meeting sailing. On the way home [my husband] Morris and I listened to our messages and found out that my Uncle Tony had suddenly become ill that afternoon and was rushed to the hospital. He was in a coma and things looked like they were coming to an end for him. The family was bracing for a funeral. I looked at the clock and said it is just 11.45pm, let's go down to the hospital and pray for Uncle Tony. We went to his bed side in intensive care… and we prayed for God's mercy and a miracle for him as we knew he was not ready to meet his Maker. As we laid hands on him and prayed I felt his body start to shake. And God began bringing life back to him.
By the morning his doctors and nurses no longer had a corpse on their hands and his fever went down from over 104 to 100. My uncle's recovery became the talk of the hospital. For the next 3 weeks my uncle struggled for his life. He had a second stroke a couple of days later, but was able to communicate with his family and get right with God. He saw God's mercy in not having a sudden death and had time to prepare and to let go of long held bitterness. His entire family was so grateful for those 3 extra weeks of time and life they had. So, brother, Amen, keep filled with the dynamic power of the Holy Spirit, and keep praying and imparting God's blessing. Love, PASTOR LARAINE BENDER, TRENTON NJ."
SUN 1ST - FULL GOSPEL WORSHIP CENTER, PHILADELPHIA, PA.
"Dear Mr. Beacham,
I want to thank you for your message you preached on Sunday, April 1 at The Worship Center. My family was truly blessed. They were powerful words the Lord gave you, and they will make a difference in our lives. May God bless you in all your work and family life.
CHERYL KULIKOWSKI, PHILADELPHIA PA"
"Dear Jeff, Heather and Team,
Carlos and I really enjoyed ourselves when you came to our church. Your teaching was so good. The Lord is using you in a mighty way and you are sharing with others. The Lord sees what you are doing and will surely bless you! We thank God for pastors and teachers of the Word because it helps us to grow. We appreciate your coming to our church and thanks so much for the e-mails. They are very uplifting and encouraging. God Bless you, Heather, your family and all who work with you! Love,
CARLOS AND BEATRICE JONES, PHILADELPHIA"
FRID 6TH & SUN 8TH RIVER OF LIFE FAMILY CHURCH, WARETOWN, NJ
I had the privilege of being the first guest minister at PASTORS AL AND CAROL PANDOLA'S new church building in two powerful services. This church is destined to be key ministry to the South Jersey area. The commitment of the people is a great example to all of us.
SUN.15TH - ABUNDANT LIFE ASSEMBLY, WASHINGTON TWP, TESTIMONY OF FAITH BANISHING FEAR!
"Dear Jeff,
In December last year at the ABUNDANT LIFE ASSEMBLY in WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP, you and PASTOR BILL FRITZKY prayed for me. I was to undergo a prostate operation (TURP) on December 28th. You said that you felt in your spirit that "God was going to take me through this" and that I would be alright. Here is what happened:
The Anesthesiologist decided he was not going to use general anesthesia, but that I should stay awake. I was talking with the surgeon during the operation and could follow the whole process on a color monitor. During the operation the surgeon asked if I would like to go home that same day, and I said yes. I was home that afternoon. I thank and praise God that the operation went as smooth and perfect as it could possibly have been expected, and that I could go home the same day. The healing took longer, but now my situation has improved tremendously, and I thank God for that also. God is truly wonderful, He is the Healer. I am writing this testimony to give God honor and glory.
FRED VAN ROESSEL, UPPER SADDLE RIVER NJ"
SUN 15TH - LOVE AND TRUTH CHRISTIAN CENTER, WASH. TWP NJ.
PASTOR BENJAMIN OH has a fantastic Korean church full of talented young people. I minister for him regularly with the added bonus of eating all the great Korean food afterwards.
THURS 19TH - SAT 21ST - NEW YORK CITY COUNCIL HONORS CITY COVENANT COALITION
I ministered with many of my colleagues at the CITY COVENANT COALITION inaugural
conference "MASTER STRATEGIES FOR THE NEW MILLENNIUM - BUILDING AND STRENGTHENING THE CITY CHURCH." Coalition founder, DR JOSEPH MATTERA reports:
"Based on all the feedback we received the conference was a huge success. To quote one pastor; 'I was astonished at the level of mature seasoned pastors and ministers who taught.' Many said it was the best conference they ever attended for practical urban strategies and teaching. Perhaps even more importantly; there was great opportunity for networking and many key relationships were enhanced! One of the highlights of our Friday night service was when "CCC" was presented with an official proclamation from assembly speaker PETER VALLONE and the CITY COUNCIL OF NEW YORK."
QQ
(Complete report to follow)
FRID 27TH - TUES MAY 1ST - CANISTEO VALLEY AG, CANISTEO NY
RESOURCES
Don't let the name put you off. This is a very comprehensive site covering all the latest movie releases from a contemporary Christian perspective.
http://www.hollywoodjesus.com/
PRINTER PROBLEMS
http://www.fixyourownprinter.com
SHORT FREE ONLINE COURSES ON DIGITAL CAMERA USE:
http://www.shortcourses.com
WANT AN ONLINE CALENDAR FOR A CHURCH SITE?
http://cgi.resourceindex.com/Programs_and_Scripts/Perl/Calendars
http://kalendus.sourceforge.net
Heather and I bless you in Jesus' wonderful name and look forward to being in touch with you again next month. Much love,
JEFF BEACHAM
Pastor / Evangelist, FIREPOWER MINISTRIES INTERNATIONAL
JEFF BEACHAM'S MINISTRY ITINERARY AT: www.firepowerint.com
GOD THOUGHTS
When a man dies he leaves behind all that he has and only takes what he is.
CONNECTIVITY, NAT. DAY OF PRAYER, NETWORK SUMMIT, HEALINGS, TEENS AND KIDS AT GAP (NOT THE CLOTHING STORE) "WHATSOEVER THINGS ARE OF GOOD REPORT THINK ON THESE THINGS" PHIL. 4:8
Hello and I hope all is well and you are being prospered by God at this time. There is some tremendous "FEEDBACK" this month, many powerful "TESTIMONIES" of healing and fantastic new "RESOURCES". We are very interested in you too, so send us any good report that you may have that could be good for next month's issue. And don't forget the GOD THOUGHTS section at the end.
EDITORIAL - "THE VALUE OF CONNECTIVITY "
In our paradoxical age, the axiom "more is better" has blurred the lines between quantity and quality, which are now often seen as the same. This idea has also crossed over into the area of human relationships.
The Communications Revolution has offered us unprecedented opportunities to stay in touch with each other, but the same revolution also allows us to be more isolated and invisible than ever before! The growing on-line community, whose members spend hours talking to each other only through computer screens, offers anonymity and just one dimension of connectivity, not enough in itself to build a healthy relationship. Young people look to the Internet to find answers, interaction and community. In the US, teens spend more time online than watching TV - who could have believed that ANYTHING could do that?
The quality of our lives is directly related to the quality of our relationships. God's word puts it this way; 'The righteous should choose his friends carefully, for the way of the wicked leads them astray." (Proverbs 12:26) and; "A man who has friends must himself be friendly, But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." (Proverbs 18:24).
The church in America is mostly about buildings and programs. Many decide where they will attend church by the attractiveness of the building and if the programs can cater for their kids from nursery to young adults, and their own quest for "how to" type instruction. We always tend to see Christianity though the filter of our own culture. America is a consumer-driven society; should we be surprised if some aspects of this have spilled over into the church? But the true church is not about buildings and programs (if all our churches burnt to the ground tonight, we could still have "church" in the parking lots tomorrow!) - it's about God and people! This speaks of relationships - both vertically and horizontally.
The American 'virtue' of independence can hinder the need to build healthy relationships in the Body of Christ, because we think we can do it all alone; we don't need anybody else. But God has been building a new "covering" for the church world-wide based solely upon 'relationship' and not heavy authoritarian or sectarian structures. The role of the leader is also changing from a religious representative and teacher to an approachable leader; from an organizational manager to a spiritual father, a role which is more relational than task orientated.
True Christianity is not religious but relational; a personal interaction between the Father, the Son, the Holy Ghost and people. Prayer is the connectivity that sets up the lines of communication between all of these. But that last part of Proverbs 18:24 says it all: "…there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." suggesting that the quality of eternal life ultimately depends on the relationship we have with God. If you want to make it to Heaven, it's not what you know but Who you know! #
FEEDBACK
" "Dear Jeff, Thanks so much for your friendship, help and concern for what the Lord is doing here at VICTORY CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP, PENNSYLVANIA. I really do appreciate the sense of partnership for the Kingdom…God has truly been moving here. Since early February, we have had salvations weekly, and we've also had a number of powerful physical healings, some associated with ministries of guest speakers (Beacham and Perez!), but many through God's people right here. We are certainly in a season of an open heaven. I hope all is well with you, your family, and your ministry… In His love, ED CRENSHAW, Senior Pastor."
"Dear Jeff, I have read with interest your report on the recent conference of the City Covenant Coalition in New York. Your reports are always lucid and inspiring! As planning proceeds for the next event I commend the inclusion of an emphasis on the biblical responsibility of the churches for the world harvest. The Acts 1:8 principle applied! In the joy of going, GEORGE FORBES," (Former head of AG World Missions in Australia)
"Hi Jeff, Always wonderful to get all the FMI Reports. Love hearing all the good news and all the great things God is doing with FMI each month. Keep them coming they are valued and appreciated. I have found your word very encouraging and enjoy the Feedback responses. The Resources very handy and enlightening. Loved the Hollywood Jesus. The regular communication with you is so connecting…Much love from OZ, ROSITA CONRAD, SYDNEY AUSTRALIA."
"Dear Pastor Jeff...I am really enjoying your great reports!! Keep up the great work!! What a blessing it is to be an integral part of this great move of God!!! And isn't it great that we "Kiwis" (New Zealanders) can be right in the middle of what God is doing!!!! Be richly blessed,
DR HOWARD RIDINGS. STRANG COMMUNICATIONS, FLORIDA."
FRID JULY 27 - TUES 1ST - CANISTEO VALLEY AG, CANISTEO NY
"Dear Jeff and Heather, It was so good having you here in Canisteo, Bro. Beacham. I know many were touched by God [with] healings as well as personally. I go to your web site once in a while to listen to you preach on the on-line videos. God has blessed you with a great way of spreading the Gospel. Russell and I continue to pray for your family as you're away from home ministering. God is changing people's lives and hearts. I pray for strength and encouragement for you. God Bless You!!! Love in Christ, TOKO AMELL, CANISTEO, NY."
"Hi Jeff, This is Jen. I'm 15 going on 16 and the time that you came to Caniesteo is the one time that I know that I will never forget. I could tell that God was moving in your life by the ministry and helping out with the youth. I just wanted to say thanx you for letting me see what God has set for my life. God bless y. JEN MIX, CANISTEO, NY."
WED 3RD - NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER - NEW JERSEY.
Along with many other key leaders, I had the privilege of speaking on the steps of the Capital building in TRENTON NJ as part of this year's NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER. We joined with another 20,000 prayer meetings across this country asking God to move in power in the nation. I also had an opportunity to personally pray with several key legislators over some pressing issues they would be dealing with in the State Legislature at that time.
SUN 6TH - MT. OLIVE BAPTIST CHURCH, GLASSBORO NJ
"I will tell you that the giving last week was very, very good [during your services]. Our church offering was one of the largest as well. Thank you so much for coming and ministering to us. I had a ball! Some testimonies follow. Thanks again, Your friend, RON TUCKER, SENIOR PASTOR,"
" MRS. NELLONS says: (She had an operation and the incision was slow to heal and not healing correctly. She went to the doctor after the meetings.) "My stomach has been healing with no more problems. There is just one small place left. I have no more pain or problems. I am scheduled to return to work on June 1st."
" T. WILBON says: (After the meetings she felt the literal presence of Jesus for the first time in her life. She had been asking the Lord when was this going to happen.) "On Thursday May 10, 2001 in the afternoon I prayed and felt the Lord standing outside my car window watching over me."
" T. BRIGHT says: (She has arthritis all over her entire body) "No pain in my whole body for three days. Praise God!"
" S. BRYANT says: (She was in a terrible auto accident several years ago with terrible pain in most of her body.) "During the evening Sunday service as Rev. Beacham prayed, the Lord took the pain out of my neck and spine."
" SISTER LATNEY says: "God has blessed me from last Sunday. My blood sugar has been on target all of this week. I'll be seeing the doctor in June to tell him that my diabetes has been healed. Praise God and thank you for coming to Mt. Olive.
MON 7th - WED 9TH - NETWORKING SUMMIT, VIRGINIA BEACH CHRISTIAN LIFE CENTER, VIRGINIA BEACH.
PASTOR STEVE KELLY was the Senior Associate Pastor at the Hillsong Church in Australia before he moved to the USA 2 ½ years ago to be the senior pastor at Virginia Beach Christian Life Center. Since then he has taken his church from an average attendance of 200 to 900. I joined him and many other leaders for his second annual Networking Summit. MICHAEL MURPHY, senior pastor at SHIRE CHRISTIAN CENTRE in Sydney Australia, was one of the guest speakers and all welcomed RUSSELL FRAGAR and his family who arrived from Australia to take up the position of worship pastors at VBCLC. Russell has written many of the most popular worship songs on the Hillsong albums.
SUN 13TH - CHRISTIAN LIFE CENTER - LAKEWOOD NJ.
We had a great service at PASTOR JOE KORN'S church for one service. He and his wife came to America from Czechoslovakia many years ago.
FRID 18TH - SUN 20TH - NEW BEGINNINGS CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP, BRICK NJ.
The "180 YOUTH CENTER" is a very affective ministry to teens operated by PASTOR JOE SORCE'S church. I spoke there on the Friday night. Many young people responded to the altar call including one unsaved young man who was amazed when he was overcome by the Holy Spirit. As a result he gave his heart to the Lord. On the Saturday 67 leaders attended a seminar where I spoke on leadership issues. The Sunday service was full of life as a very young congregation was led in worship by an excellent band. I challenged them with my message "America On The Brink". The response was tremendous.
SUN 27TH - SUN JUNE 3RD - THE CHURCH OF GRACE AND PEACE (GAP) , TOMS RIVER, NJ
I filled in for senior pastor WALT HEALY over two Sundays and a Wednesday night, while he and his family enjoyed a well earned vacation. My messages were: "PASSING ON THE BATON", "FATHERHOOD - VITAL OR VANQUISHED?" and a three-night series called "HEARING GOD'S VOICE"
"Jeff Beacham brought us a word in season during our time of family focus. Jeff ministered…to our teens and to our children. On Teen Day, his message spoke mightily to the hearts of teens and adults, calling for generational unity… All was received well, as the altar call saw four first time conversions…and many more making things right with God. Our Kid's Day and First Communion service was blessed of the Lord, as the altar filled again... One of the parents…made a personal decision to follow Christ along with several others. Many hearts were touched as children and parents received communion together... When Jeff asked one of the second graders in the class what communion meant to her, she reminded everyone of Jesus' blood shed for her sins. STEVEN MARTIN, YOUTH PASTOR, GAP."
"Dear Jeff-
My nephew, Christopher, was in church Sunday morning. Afterward he wanted only to read the Word, particularly the psalms. This fourteen year old young man "hates to read". Before coming to visit with me, Chris said that he was not sure he believed of God or Jesus, and that I was peculiar. After Sunday morning, he knows He is real and wants to "get right"…YVONNE DOVAL, TOMS RIVER, NJ."
RESOURCES
GORILLAFORCE provides some of the best Contemporary Christian Music on the Internet, as well as artist interviews, Christian chat rooms, games, movie and music reviews, e-cards and more! http://www.botcw.com/cgi-bin/se/jump.cgi?ID=12820
CHRISTIANET.COM
Christian Businesses and Jobs mall including art, clipart, church furniture, software, travel, books, bookstores, music, audio, camps, colleges, seminaries, ministries, midi, MP3, lyrics and gifts.
http://www.christianet.com/botcw.htm
VIRUS HOAX.
If you were caught by a virus hoax that told you to delete your Sulfnbk.exe file before 1 June, don't worry. Remember, email warnings about viruses are almost always hoaxes. The few genuine ones will be backed up by a site to refer to, dates of origination etc, and serious ones are usually featured in the national press. Check out current virus hoaxes at:
http://www.symantec.com/avcenter/hoax.html
http://www.vmyths.com
If you deleted your Sulfnbk.exe file as advised by the hoax, you can restore it by copying it from http://www.worldstart.com/Sulfnbk.exe to your C:\Windows\Command folder and that's all you need to do. You can also copy the file back from a friend's computer or your Windows CD.
We hope you will seriously consider joining with us in this great adventure with God.
Heather and I bless you in Jesus' wonderful name and look forward to being in touch with you again next month. Much love,
JEFF BEACHAM
PASTOR / EVANGELIST, FIREPOWER MINISTRIES INTERNATIONAL
CHECK JEFF BEACHAM'S MINISTRY ITINERARY AT: www.firepowerint.com
GOD THOUGHTS
If idealism is the luxury of youth then cynicism is the vice of age! As you grow older, never loose your desire to change the world but keep your feet firmly planted on the ground.
TRANSFORMATIONS TELLS OF 300 HEALED FROM AIDS, NEWARK, TRENTON AND WOODSTOCK - ANOTHER REVOLUTION NEEDED! "WHATSOEVER THINGS ARE OF GOOD REPORT THINK ON THESE THINGS" PHIL. 4:8
Welcome to this month's report which is packed with many encouraging things. You can catch up on all of our previous reports by going to our website at: www.firepowerint.com and clicking on "FMI MONTHLY REPORT". You can also read a message from my wife HEATHER and see some recent photos of the rest of my family by clicking on "ALL ABOUT US".
TELL A FRIEND? Forward this newsletter to an interested friend or editor now! You may need to explain that it is from you, and is not "spam" email! Use the 'send again' or 'redirect' function of your email program. (This is better to use than 'forward' which adds angle brackets > down the left-hand margin.) Send us any feedback or testimonies you may have. Enjoy the report!
EDITORIAL - "TRANSFORMATIONS TELLS OF 300 HEALED FROM AIDS"
INTRODUCTION
Many would have heard of the powerful impact of the "TRANSFORMATIONS" video that came out a couple of years ago. It documented the amazing affect on several cities around the world where the church was so impacted by REVIVAL AND UNITY that it broke out into the community and changed the city.
TRANSFORMERS
On June 1, the "TRANSFORMATIONS II" video had its premier in BROOKLYN NEW YORK at my friend, PASTOR MARCUS ROBERTS' beautiful new church building, CALVARY CATHEDRAL OF PRAISE. This church partnered with EAGLES WINGS MINISTRIES, CONCERTS OF PRAYER and the SENTINEL GROUP, the producers of "Transformations" 1 and 2, to organize this city-wide gathering. I was a co-sponsor, along with many other leaders and ministries mainly from New York City and New Jersey. This event ran in conjunction with "MARCH FOR JESUS" the same weekend.
DARKNESS TO LIGHT
GEORGE OTIS JR, executive producer of Transformations 2, had invited some of the people featured on the video to speak at the premier and also the "CITY-REACHERS" TRAINING SCHOOL held during the day. Among them were RUTH RUIBAL, BILLY ARNAQUQ and JACKSON SENYONGA. These leaders were from such places as the ARTIC, AFRICA, LATIN AMERICA, AND THE USA, and all spoke of the amazing transformations God had brought to their communities, changing them from darkness to light.
FROM HELL TO HEAVEN
PASTOR JACKSON SENYONGA, whose 20,000 member church in UGANDA is featured in the video, is just one example of the dramatic turn around that that whole nation has experienced since the horrific and genocidal days of former president IDI AMIN. Over the last several years, Uganda has been experiencing a great revival of Christianity. Recently the whole country, from the current president down, dedicated itself to the Lordship of Christ. As a result it is beginning to prosper to an unprecedented level. One pastor testified that over 300 people in his church, who were formally HIV positive, had now been given a clean bill of health with no trace of the disease! Several people proudly displayed their doctor's certificates declaring that they were now HIV negative.
TOUCHING HEAVEN, CHANGING EARTH.
ROBERT STEARNS of Eagles Wings Ministries and Co-Convenor of the Transformations Premier, led a powerful time of praise and worship with his musicians before and after the video screening. The night ended with his invitation to all the full-time ministers present to join him on the stage. A passionate entreaty was then offered to God to release an anointing for transformation for the greater New York City Area. Let it be Lord, let it Be!
For more information call 1800 519 4647 or go online to: www.sentinelgroup.org #
FEEDBACK
" "Thanks for the e-mails. They are really uplifting and challenging. I am blessed by your Ministry. The Lord richly bless you. IRENE WAFULA, JERSEY CITY NJ."
" "Dear Firepower and Jeff
Just wanted to let you know we are still keeping you in our prayers! SUSAN JONES"
" "Hi Pastor Jeff; … The website is awesome... Praise God... LILA DAVID, NORWALK CT."
COMING EVENTS OF NOTE…
" CITY COVENANT COALITION will hold it's next quarterly leadership meeting JULY 12, 10AM at BETHEL GOSPEL TABERNACLE 110-23 Guy Brewer Blvd. Jamaica, NY 11433 - CALL 718 436-0242
" TOMMIE ZITO MINISTRIES is having the "TELL THE WORLD 2001 - NEW JERSEY TENT CRUSADE" all of July in WALL TOWNSHIP, NEW JERSEY, on the property of FULL GOSPEL CHURCH, 2649 E. HURLEY POND ROAD, WALL, NJ 07719. For more information call: 732 689 2044
" EAGLES WINGS MINISTRIES will hold its next annual EAST COAST CONFERENCE in Wayne NJ, July 16 - 19. Join Robert Stearns, Larry Krieder, Mahesh and Bonnie Chavda, JoAnn McFatter, Leon Seymore, David Trementozzi, Sue Ten Eyck, Stephen Jenks, George Furlow, and thousands of other believers and ministry leaders from all over the world. Call 1 800 51 WINGS.
" THE CHURCH OF GRACE AND PEACE, TOMS RIVER NJ, WILL HOST TWO POWERFUL YOUTH EVENTS THIS SUMMER ON THE JERSEY SHORE:
1) THE REVOLUTION RALLY, JULY 20 - 21, will feature special guest DR MICHAEL BROWN, founder and president OF F.I.R.E. SCHOOL OF MINISTRY, PENSACOLA FLORIDA. Dr brown is committed to raising up an army of young radicals who will spark a spiritual and moral revolution in this land.
2) THE CROSS, AUGUST 3 - 4, a campus missions conference, with special guest FRED LYNCH, who is on staff with JOSH MCDOWELL MINISTRIES. this event will train young people to reach their schools for Christ.
FOR REGISTRATION CALL TOLL FREE: 1866 221 3621 X 201 OR AT: WWW.GRACEANDPEACE.ORG
SUN 10TH - SUN 17Th - GENERAL ASSEMBLY AND CHURCH OF THE FIRST BORN, NEWARK NJ.
"Dear Jeff,
The meetings went well, and this Sunday we had 12 people join the Church. Many lives were touched, and only eternity will tell the full story. Your Brother in Christ, PASTOR SAM GIRESI"
"Dear Jeff,
Having you over at the House of Mercy Mission in Newark New Jersey was the greatest blessing of all. I had been praying and fasting the week just before you started our revival meetings, I had been trusting God for new move in the spiritual realm for myself and for others in my church. God answered my prayer. I saw the move of God and also received a new touch for myself. The joy and the happiness on people's faces just blessed my heart. May the Lord bless you and prosper your ministry even more. Your Sister, ELIZABETH KHAGULA"
"Dear Pastor Jeff, I thank God who made it possible for us to meet. I was blessed by especially the two messages for the young people and that for the fatherhood. When you laid hands on us I felt as if there was a confirmation on where I have been desiring to serve. I've desired so much in my life to be used in the healing and teaching ministry. The other message on fatherhood lifted me up. I never really knew my father; he passed into glory a few months before my first birthday. I grew up with the longing of having somebody to call dad. I thank God for He has done more than my father would do. God bless your family and ministry. BENTA TILLY"
SUN 24TH - LIFESPRING CITY CHURCH, TRENTON NJ.
PASTOR TOM HARDIMAN is the Northeast representative for MORNINGSTAR MINISTRIES and senior pastor of LIFESPRING CITY CHURCH. He reports:
"Every genuine Christian leader has a strong desire to remain close to the heart of God and a hunger to 'hear what the Spirit of God is saying to the church'. This is the second time Jeff has ministered to our
congregation this year and in both of these visits it has been evident he has had the heart of the God for this region of our country. His messages have been motivating and challenging at the same time. It is our prayer for those in our region to receive Jeff Beacham as a man sent from God with a word for the church in the Northeast and in turn, receive the reward God has for our area.
TOM HARDIMAN, PASTOR LIFESPRING CITY CHURCH"
FRID 29TH - MON JULY 2 - CATSKILL MOUNTAIN CHRISTIAN CENTER, MARGARETVILLE, NY.
MARGARETVILLE NY, is just a few miles from WOODSTOCK, the location of the "BABY-BOOMER" generation's "family gathering" in the late Sixties. The concert, held on a farm not far from here, was an event that shaped the anti-establishment youth culture of the day. Many aspects of that "revolution" have now become mainstream in our culture! Visiting this sleepy little village today you can encounter many grandfather hippies who came in '68 and never left. It seems that this area is stuck in a nostalgic time-warp - It's time for another revolution!
"CATSKILL MOUNTAIN CHRISTIAN CENTER, MARGARETVILLE NY just hosted a Jeff Beacham crusade… I am very pleased to report that the event was fruitful on several levels:
First, and foremost was a wonderful impartation of passion and enthusiasm for the things of God, especially evangelism. This excitement flows powerfully and naturally as Beacham weaves humor, vivid illustrations, and cultural insight with timeless Gospel truth. On Sunday morning Jeff preached his message entitled "America on the Brink". This is a 'must hear' and one of the most pointed and challenging messages I've heard in a long time.
Second, is Beacham's dedication to and support of the local church. His nearly twenty years on the staff of a church shines through as he ministers with a keen sensitivity to local church relationships and dynamics. Also, he has a true five-fold vision of serving churches by being an equipping evangelist, not just winning souls himself but empowering every member of the church to win souls as well.
Third, was the good sense of having specific times to spend with leaders. Beacham, having been with Australia's Hillsong Church during their tremendous growth and success, is able to impart from an experiential perspective which many only speculate and dream about. Our leaders are re-fired, re-focused and re-filled with faith for our mission.
Fourth, is the American 'flavor-of-the-month' enigma. Right, now, Americans love "Aussies". From Crocodile Dundee to the Crocodile Hunter, Americans have a real infatuation with Australians. We promoted our event emphasizing Jeff as an Australian Evangelist and saw attendance that significantly surpassed our estimates. And Jeff Beacham does not disappoint! He has all the attitude and rowdy sense of humor we've come to love from those down-under.
Fifth is Beacham's excellent pre-crusade manual. This allowed us to strategically build vision and excitement in preparation for the event. We saw a number of people make serious first time decisions for Christ because of the planning material provided.
I really encourage other churches to take advantage of Jeff Beacham's ministry. It a refreshing impartation. PASTOR BOB ENGELHARDT."
RESOURCES
HELP: particularly on Microsoft programs: http://www.personal-computer-tutor.com
TIPS FOR REAL TECHIES: http://www.gettechtips.com
VISION FOR CHURCHES - CHURCH TASK FORCE seems to offer a needed vision to assist church leadership: http://www.church-task-force.org/
SCAMS: Christian organizations should be on guard against scams which usually originate in West Africa. They typically come in two forms (by email or letter): - someone claiming to be a widow of a former Nigeria or Sierra Leone government leader asks for help to get money out of the country - someone claims to be a Christian and in very Christian language feels led to give a large sum of money to the ministry concerned. In both cases, detailed banking information is requested. In conjunction with your organization's letter-head, on which you are requested to send the bank details, and using easily copied signatures thereon, considerable mischief can be done! If someone REALLY wanted to give money, there are plenty of ministries in Nigeria which need it desperately. Or they could send you a bank draft which does not need specific banking details! Disregard such requests totally.
We hope you will seriously consider joining with us in this great adventure with God.
Heather and I bless you in Jesus' wonderful name and look forward to being in touch with you again next month. Much love,
JEFF BEACHAM
PASTOR / EVANGELIST, FIREPOWER MINISTRIES INTERNATIONAL
CHECK JEFF BEACHAM'S MINISTRY ITINERARY AT: www.firepowerint.com
GOD THOUGHTS
Giving up will always look easier than standing up - and giving in will always seem more attractive than digging in!
BLAST FROM THE PAST, HEALED BY TISSUE, VISION OF JESUS, GOD VISITS THE JERSEY SHORE AND PHILADELPHIA! IS IT THE TIME FOR THE NORTHEAST?
"WHATSOEVER THINGS ARE OF GOOD REPORT…THINK ON THESE THINGS" PHIL. 4:8
Nearly all my ministry in July involved young people, thus the theme for this month's Editorial. We are also receiving many reports of new outpourings from all over the Northeast and seeing unprecedented moves of God in our own ministry, which leads us to ask; is this the beginning of the much prophesied Re-awakening? Time will tell! In the meantime we continue to pursue God vigorously. (To read up on the vision of "The Coming Wheel of Re-awakening" go to www.firepowerint.com click on "Prophecies"). Send us your feedback or testimonies and don't forget the latest "GOD THOUGHTS" at the end of this report
EDITORIAL - PASSING ON THE BATON!
A TALE OF THREE KINGS
In 1 KINGS 11 and 12 we read the story of three kings; David, Solomon and Rehoboam. David was a man of war and consequently was forbidden by God to build the temple. Solomon, his son, was a man of peace who reigned in Jerusalem for 40 years with no major war during that time. But he had over 1000 wives from all over the then known world who brought many foreign gods with them. God was not happy about that and told him; " '… Because you have done this… I will surely tear the kingdom away from you and give it to your servant (Jereboam). Nevertheless I will not do it in your days, for the sake of your father David; I will tear it out of the hand of your son. However I will not tear away the whole kingdom; I will give one tribe to your son for the sake of My servant David, and for the sake of Jerusalem which I have chosen...' (God had promised David that he would always have an heir on the throne of Israel). Then Solomon rested with his fathers, and was buried in the City of David his father. And Rehoboam his son reigned in his place." (1 Kings 11: 11-13, 43).
THE HAVES AND HAVE-NOTS
Jereboam the servant and Rehoboam the son represented a generation of "haves and have-nots" - one would have most of the kingdom and one would not! Rehoboam's rejection of the people's plea for a lighter load than what Solomon had demanded of them led to the disparaging cry; "What share have we in David? We have no INHERITANCE in the son of Jesse…" (1 Kings 12:16). There is a prophetic parallel between theses three kings and the three main generations of the last 75 years; the "Builders", the "Baby Boomers" and the "Millennials". The "Builders", born in the early part of last century, like David, were a generation of War, living through two "wars to end all wars"! The Baby Boomers were like Solomon; they would live in "peace", but when four "mop-toped" guys from Liverpool captured the youth culture of the sixties singing simple songs like "I Wanna Hold Your Hand", they opened the door for "foreign gods" to flood the West from the East. This was pivotal in causing a major social shift that would eventually rob the following generation of an inheritance, which like Jereboam and Rehoboam, would leave them as "haves and have-nots"!
A FAMINE OF HEARING!
"Behold, the days are coming," says the Lord GOD, "That I will send a famine on the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the LORD." (Amos 8:11). Nearly 50% of the world's 6 billion inhabitants are under 25 years old. A global youth culture is forming, and Christians MUST learn to adjust to it. Some are already claiming that the church must be completely re-invented. The "haves and have-nots" are the first un-churched generation in Western history. The promise of Proverbs 22:6 ("Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it.") does not apply to those who did not receive a baton! There is a lack of drawing power for salvation and a famine of "hearing" for our young people. But this has led to a hunger to hear the word of God. Young people want to hear the Truth and see the Power. If you can't tell them the Truth and show them the Power, they go for the counterfeits of drugs and the occult. It's not too late for true "fathers" to rise up with a genuine care and concern for the emerging leaders of tomorrow. The key for young and old to survive together on the spiritual battlefield is to love one other with a singleness of focus that brings unity. Not unity of skill level, nor strength, nor wisdom, but a unity borne out of a joint determination to succeed together to soundly defeat the enemy. #
FEEDBACK - AUSTRALIAN 'BLAST FROM THE PAST' AND NEWARK NJ.
" "Dear Jeff, Heather and Family, We read an article recently in a magazine [Charisma, March '01] saying how well your ministry was going. We were very excited to hear your amazing stories. We looked you up on [your website] and were thrilled to read Heather's letter on all your family news and what you were doing. It is almost six years since you ministered in Garden City Church at Ballarat [Australia] and blessed us all. Our middle daughter Melissa gave her life to Jesus under your ministry (she turns 13 this month). Our eldest daughter, Christi-Ann, 15, has great memories of your ministry at the Victoria State Kids Camp, and has her Bible with Jeff's signature in it still. She also remembers the ride back from camp on the boat with Jeff, and how he bought her a chocolate bar! Our only son Daniel ("D.L.Moody"),9, is doing well at school and basketball. The three kids all love the Lord and are filled with the spirit, for which we are thankful to God. May God's abundant blessings be yours. Much love, KEITH MOODY. ADELAIDE, SOUTH AUSTRALIA"
" "God bless you Pastor Jeff!
…Thank you for taking time to come to Newark and being an inspiration to us (see FMI Report June '01). Each time I think about you, I can't separate you from the core of your mission, and God's calendar for the Northeast [of the USA]. I can't forget the gigantic wheel moving into this section of the country, neither the four "P"s, [Prayer, Purpose, Passion, Power] nor the "teeth" at the edge of the wheel, coz I am a part of one. Thank you for lighting the fire, and for being bold and true to the call of Christ upon your life… May [the Lord] remember all your offerings (as you played catch with a tiny portion of them at the General Assembly church - I know they blessed somebody!), and regard with favor your sacrifice… Love and prayers, AGNES KHAKULA, NEWARK NJ"
SUN 8TH - WED 11TH - THE HARVEST CENTER - HEALED BY ANOINTED TISSUE!
PASTOR FRANK DUPREE sent this report of the wonderful time we had recently at THE HARVEST CENTER, NORTH ARLINGTON NJ.
"Jeff Beacham was our special guest for 5 services and we "touched heaven" in each one. There was a special work done during these meetings ~ Salvation ~ Renewal ~ Healings were abundant! I believe that 5 major things happened during this special HARVEST TIME:
1. Our members were equipped with practical teaching enabling us to win the lost for Jesus.
2. A greater understanding of "Fatherhood" was imparted. Both the Fatherhood of God and of Man were deposited in our hearts. This will have a great effect upon our homes and our church as we understand our role through understanding God the Father's role in our lives.
3. Our Youth were presented the "baton" of blessing and challenged to bring the Gospel to their generation. On the last night Jeff literally handed over the "baton" to the young people in the church. Everyone under 25 years of age came forward and received a "Father's Blessing" and the impartation of Grace to share the Gospel. The value of meetings like these cannot be underestimated. I saw in my heart a river that was flowing but not at full capacity. Jeff's ministry of the Word and Prayer, like the Apostles of old, dredged up the silt and debris from the bottom of the river and it is now flowing with power. We, The Harvest Center members are the river. We have been equipped and released and are now flowing in the Lord's purposes.
4. I spent time with Jeff each day. We enjoyed the fellowship and I especially appreciated receiving from Jeff's 20 years of seasoned full- time ministry as we talked about the purposes of God for The Harvest Center. Practical wisdom and visionary focus has been imparted to me and I am grateful to God for that.
5. Jeff and I also spoke about the Fivefold Network which I founded in January 2000. Being a man who works among countless Pastoral and Apostolic Networks in the Northeast, Jeff was able to bless me once again with vision and practical insight into the work and will of God. I am truly grateful for this HARVEST TIME. BISHOP FRANK DUPREE"
"Jeff, Here is an email from Kathy Mackie. She brought a friend for the first time and they took some of the tissues I was using to wipe the oil off the bottle and your hands with and gave them to someone for a healing... he was healed. Check it out! In Him, Bishop Frank"
"Hey Kat, some really great news. Kevin came back to work last night. He has been going to the therapist for the last 3 weeks and the doctor told him that it would take at least a year to get 50% movement in his hand. Well, as Kevin said, prayer works!! He already has 50% movement after only 3 weeks from the 2nd surgery. The doctor at University of Va. Medical School was shocked, none of his patients had ever recovered so fast. Kevin said he held up his hand and flexed it and told the doctor there was 5 churches saying prayers for him and it works, here is the proof. His fingers are out in the open with the palm still
bandaged, we tucked the tissue with the oil in the bandages so it wouldn't fall out. He said to tell everyone thank you very much for all your prayers. It means so much to him, especially since he is a stranger you have never met."
FRID 13TH - SUN 15TH, GLEN HEAD, NY - VISION SETS 13 YEAR OLD ON FIRE!
"Jeff's ministry was solid, substantial and sincere. Sunday's message was exegetically sound and filled with unction as Words of Knowledge permeated the message. The Holy Spirit further established the Word during a powerful "ministry time". The previous night, Jeff labored in ministry over some children. This testimony is from a mom in our fellowship whose 13 year old was deeply effected. 'Thank you for inquiring about (my son). He was very moved by the Spirit of God. While he was standing up front in church, he felt a little weak and wobbly. He also felt like his heart would burst through his chest. He had a vision of (Jesus) with his arms extended out to him, beckoning him to come. He couldn't stop talking about it for days afterward. He wanted me to tell everyone about his wonderful vision. I believe he really needed to feel the power of God in his life.' PASTOR DAVID HARWOOD, NEW COVENANT COMMUNITY"
THUR 19TH - "THE LIGHT ON THE HILL" YOUTH CONFERENCE, TRENTON, NJ
The NEW JERSEY FAMILY POLICY COUNCIL hosts an annual youth conference called "The Light On The Hill" with many outstanding young people, who come mainly from the Northeast area of the United States. NJFPC head LEN DEO had asked me to bring my "Passing On The Baton" message about handing on an inheritance to the next generation. Many of those attending will be future leaders in key positions.
FRID 20TH - THE TIMOTHY PROJECT YOUTH CONFERENCE BROOKLYN NY
This was my second year ministering to young people who came to New York City from all over the world for THE TIMOTHY PROJECT, hosted by VISION MINISTRIES INTERNATIONAL. I recommend this conference to everyone looking to be trained for Evangelism and Youth Leadership. Call (614) 751-0895.
SUN 22ND - FULL GOSPEL ASSEMBLY, BROOKHAVEN, PA
PASTOR LARRY WEED hosted us for two fantastic meetings where we saw many changed by the Spirit of God. Healings and dealings progressed the Work Of God in People's hearts.
WED 25TH - FRID 27TH - OUTPOURING HITS "TELL THE WORLD 2001" WALL NJ
A powerful outbreak of God's spirit has taken place at the "TELL THE WORLD 2001" - NEW JERSEY TENT CRUSADE! I ministered there for three nights at the end of July. TOMMIE ZITO MINISTRIES, sponsors of "Tell The World", reports: "God is shaking New Jersey! …Words just cannot describe this powerful move of God that we are experiencing. Tell the World 2001 is now in it's fourth week and revival has hit, however, not without opposition. Just when it seemed like the best thing to do was close the doors and go home, Almighty God had other plans. On Wednesday July 18th the cloud of glory fell, just as in 2 Chronicles 5, where even the ministers couldn't stand to minister. All nine gifts of the Holy Spirit, as recorded in 1 Corinthians 12, were seen. Through the night we experienced joy, dancing, running, silence, healing, prophesy, just to name a few. A woman with a deaf ear was miraculously healed! Those present, including pastors and evangelists who have been in the ministry for many years, said that they have never experienced anything like this. When the service finally closed at 1:30 A.M., we were all left speechless.
Since that night, God has continued to show up in powerful and diverse ways during each service, changing every person that walks through the doors. Each night, we wait in expectation, to see what God will do. Not only have we seen God move in our services, but we have taken His Gospel to the streets. As of 5:00 P.M. July 24th, we have seen 2004 souls come to Christ! Many have been healed and delivered in area neighborhoods and businesses, even police officers are coming to Christ! The harvest is ripe in New Jersey! The Lord is moving in mighty ways, so come and join us as we all experience a touch from God!! "
The meetings continue, Monday - Friday 7:30pm . Call 732 681 5335 for more information and directions.
SUN 29TH - VISITATION IN PHILADELPHIA PA
"From the time [Jeff] started to minister, there was a real sense of God speaking through a yielded vessel. His message was timely and relevant, speaking right where we are as a congregation. Many were ministered to, and there are testimonies about personal revelation as a result of his message. This was Jeff's first visit to Messiah Christian Fellowship, but certainly not His last. Jeff brings a power with his preaching that undergirds and confirms the local church in her efforts to "equip the saints for the work of the ministry." His "apostolic" influence was obvious.The anointing was tremendous in the evening service. Although Jeff had something else planned, He was sensitive to the Holy Spirit, and the power of God came into the house. We worshiped and waited on God for quite a while. Jeff then began to minister about filling our lamps, and God began to move on all that were there in a very special way. The ministry to my wife and I was so refreshing. There was a powerful awareness of the holiness of God. Pastor, I would recommend Jeff for ministry in your church. He is truly one that will promote the cause of Christ to the people that God has given to your local assembly. RICK SMAIL, PASTOR, MESSIAH CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP" (FOOTNOTE: The Sunday night meeting at MCF was perhaps the most tangible I have ever felt the Presence of God amongst us. We will never be the same.)
RESOURCES
" HELP SHAPE THE POPULAR CULTURE - The popular culture - movies, television shows, rock concerts and other forms of entertainment for mass audiences - is vitally important, because culture reflects what society values. Rather than avoiding popular culture because some of its content is offensive, Christians should participate in the culture, analyzing it, critiquing it and shaping it: http://liveit.crosswalk.com/ministry/ Ministries such as DAMARIS help equip Christians for evangelism by understanding the culture and trends in our societies: http://www.damaris.org
" FILM AND MYTH - Arguably the best fantasy/myth fiction story ever - "THE LORD OF THE RINGS" - is shaping up to be a top-class film: http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2001/120/41.0.html Expect a major resurgence of interest in the story by the end of the year. Now is the time to be working on web-pages that extract gospel parallels from this remarkable story.
We hope you will seriously consider joining with us in this great adventure with God.
Heather and I bless you in Jesus' wonderful name and look forward to being in touch with you again next month. Much love,
JEFF BEACHAM,
PASTOR / EVANGELIST, FIREPOWER MINISTRIES INTERNATIONAL
CHECK JEFF BEACHAM'S MINISTRY ITINERARY AT: www.firepowerint.com
GOD THOUGHTS
God's presence is a preview of Heaven, and all of it could come to your heart right now, but it would blow you to oblivion. The more your heart is yielded and softened, the more familiar you will be with the 'streets of gold'. Experiencing God's presence in this world means you're no stranger to the next!
"FATHERHOOD VITAL OR VANQUISHED?" - PHILADELPHIA, NEW JERSEY, THE BRONX, CONNECTICUT
AND HARRY POTTER?
"WHATSOEVER THINGS ARE OF GOOD REPORT…THINK ON THESE THINGS" PHIL. 4:8
It's my privilege to be in touch with you and my prayer that you're in the center of God's will for your life!
August was a great month for our ministry as we traveled to inner-urban PHILADELPHIA, PLAINSBORO NJ, THE BRONX NY, CONNECTICUT and had one week ministering at home in TOMS RIVER NJ (see reports below). There is also some great feedback from different places.
The theme of this month's report is FATHERHOOD (and fatherlessness). As you will read, God has been highlighting this in our ministry over the last few months. No other issue has as much potential to impact the future of our culture and the Church. READ ON!
Don't hesitate to let us know if you need prayer. If you have an encouraging testimony, send it to us TODAY! There is a link in our RESOURCES section to a very informative article about the up-coming HARRY POTTER Movie and don't forget the latest "GOD THOUGHTS" at the end. ENJOY THE REPORT # JB
EDITORIAL - "FATHERHOOD - VITAL OR VANQUISHED?"
INTRODUCTION
Last Mother's day in America, the total amount of money spent just on flowers alone was 5 billion dollars. Conversely, the total spent on all gifts for Father's Day was only 150 million dollars; a ratio of 33 to 1 (Source: CNN). This clearly demonstrates that one of the most endangered institutions in America today is Fatherhood. How did Fatherhood become so devalued and what are the consequences to our society?
"ALL IN THE FAMILY"
Over the last thirty years movies and Television have done more to shape popular culture than any other single factor. Counter-culture has now become mainstream. Traditional masculinity has been treated with suspicion and even hostility by the media. Those thirty-minute "sit-coms" portraying families have shown mothers and even kids as super-sharp and intelligent while fathers are portrayed as dummies. Consequently, after a generation of this "conditioning", our inherited understanding of fatherhood is under siege. Today, fathers are increasingly viewed as superfluous to family life: some extremists even maintaining that we are on the brink of an "Orwellian" society where test-tubes will substitute the male role in future reproduction.
THE "HAVES" AND THE "HAVE-NOTS"
As the offspring of the "baby-boomer" generation emerge as a large proportion of the population in the United States, the nation will soon be divided into two groups: the "Haves" and the "Have-nots". It is estimated that by the year 2010, these two will be about the same size, but they will be separate and unequal. They will work in the same economy, speak a common language, and will have experienced the same history, but they will live very different lives. One group will receive social, economical, educational and moral benefits which will not be available to the other. One will consist of those who grew up with the presence and provision of fathers; the other group will consist of those to whom this was denied!
LOSING THE IDEA OF FATHERHOOD
If this trend of fatherlessness continues is likely to change the shape of our society. In addition to losing fathers, we are loosing something much bigger with greater consequences: our idea of fatherhood. The most important absence our society must confront is not the absence of fathers but the absence of our belief in fathers.
"True Fatherhood is not some trendy fad with a shelf-life determined by the shifting sands of political correctness."
THE BUCK STOPS HERE!
The Church must take responsibility for any moral decline in society. We are called to be "salt and light" which is supposed to preserve and dispel the darkness. If traditional Fathering and families are in decline then the culture will quickly follow suit. The Church must rise to the challenge to promote a restoration of the institution of Fatherhood.
True Fatherhood is not some trendy fad with a shelf-life determined by the shifting sands of political correctness. It began in the Heart of God who created the universe as a Father. His fathering nature is imprinted on all of creation. Knowing God as our Father is the beginning of knowing where we came from, who we really are, our purpose, self-worth and our destination in life. If these questions are answered and accepted, then most of societies ills disappear.
Let us as the Body of Christ, focus our energies outward against the forces that would destroy the God-designed institutions of Fatherhood and Family. Let us not waste our energy on strife within the Body. Jesus said, "The Father has not left me alone, for I always do those things that please Him." (John 8:29). We will have no competition among ourselves if we are motivated by a simple desire to please our Father.
If we have found Jesus as the way, let us rejoice. But let's not be content to continue forever on the way without arriving at the destination: knowing God as Father. #
FEEDBACK
"Hi Jeff, I really appreciated your ministry at NEW COVENANT COMMUNITY, Long Island (see FMI REPORT JULY '01). I really appreciate your vision for the Northeast, and believe you have been strategically placed by God for such a time and place as this. I also appreciate your vision for the young people - Generation X. You seem to have good insight about them and real God-induced care for them. They certainly need such ministry! Thanks again and may God bless you and your family! Love in Him, PETER E. SAN MIGUEL, LONG ISLAND NY"
"Pastor Jeff, don't get tired of sending emails to me. Some times I don't have a computer of my own but God is able. Whenever I get chance to read them I enjoy them so much that my spiritual awakening continues to grow. God bless you brother. BEN KHAKULA, NEWARK NJ"
"Jeff - Thank you again for your faithfulness - I was so blessed by the article you wrote on Cindy Jacob's word over New Jersey (see www.firepowerint.com and click on "Prophecies"). Blessings, CHRISTINA OPOSA".
"Dear Jeff: Good article (FMI REPORT JULY '01 - EDITORIAL- "PASSING ON THE BATON!"). We are seeing the same phenomenon that you describe. Young people are the ones who are coming to Alpha, and they are uneducated and hungry for the truth. They do demand experience of God's power. They do not want head religion. This is why Alpha is a combination of Relational (make friends), Socratic (Interactive) and Experiential (We talk about it and then we do some of it). Hope that you are having a good summer and will get some rest. May God bless your spirit. ALI HANNA, HEAD OF ALPHA USA."
SUN 5TH - WED 8TH - FAITH ASSEMBLY OF GOD, PHILADELPHIA PA
RICHARD SMITH pastors an inner-urban mission in Philadelphia that reaches out mainly to the African American and Hispanic communities. We had three meetings there and we were glad to have had the opportunity to speak into the lives of many young people, who comprise a big proportion of this church.
Most of these young people have never been out of their own neighborhood. Crime, and particularly drugs such as crack cocaine, are rampant in this part of town. Often the only hope available to them is churches like this one, which have not always been made to feel welcome by local drug dealers etc. Teaching on Fatherhood can be risky in this area where there is a high level of fatherlessness, but I put all I could into promoting the benefits of knowing God as a Father who never fails. There was a tremendous response to every service and the hearts of many were encouraged and given added hope through the Word.
SUN 12TH - 10AM AND 6.30PM - GOSPEL FELLOWSHIP, PLAINBORO NJ
PASTOR MARGARET CLARKE sent this report: "Dear Jeff, It's always a pleasure to have you come visit us here at the Gospel Fellowship. The message you brought on the subject of Fatherhood encourages in the knowledge of our true Father's love towards us; the love of the Father for his Son, enduring and unchanging, now including us through his Son Christ Jesus…
We, particularly the men in the congregation, were refreshed to continue to be a blessing in the lives of the children who attend our weekly community outreach, so many of them lacking a father's blessing in their lives. Others may have two parents but the seduction of affluence leaves the children in the hands of caretakers all day. May the hearts of the fathers be turned to the children before the 'great and terrible Day of the Lord!' Love you Jeff, Margaret"
TUES 14TH -"WORLD REVIVAL CONVENTION 2001" THE BRONX NY
"Jeff Beacham was the guest speaker for the 3rd night of our convention August 12 - 18 which included delegates from several countries and other parts of the USA. God used him mightily to confirm the launching of the 'World Revival Movement' which was launched at Times Square, New York City. He spoke of his vision of the Wheel with many joints representing varied ministries across the North Eastern USA and other parts of the world playing their part in bringing revival to this 'catalytic' area for world revival…
His Sermon ("The Spare Bride") was sent by God as it provided a challenging picture of the state the Body of Christ should be in, especially in this explosive part of the world. As the special bride of Christ, the brethren were encouraged to dive in much prayer, rise up and storm the streets with their purpose of ministering the Gospel. Over 100 attendants flocked the altar answering the challenge to totally fulfil their call to be Christ's special bride. As a result of the great blessing from God through this man of God, Rev. Beacham was booked immediately to return to us shortly for an entire week of ministry. PUBLICATION DEPARTMENT. HARVEST ARMY CHURCH INTERNATIONAL"
WED 15TH, FRID 17TH, SUN 19TH - JESUS IS LORD FELLOWSHIP TOMS RIVER NJ
"I'd like to thank you once again for sharing your heart to our Leadership Team last August 15 (Wed.). Your message was so timely as we're in constant transition because of our portability. When you ministered that Friday during our inter-cell gathering, a family was there for the first time. When you made that altar call the man came forward to receive Jesus. The two young boys of course came to the altar during the symbolical passing of the baton. The wife was led to the Lord earlier. I'm so excited to tell you that they've been attending church and the kids are now in the youth cell. Praise God for the salvation of the entire family.
The message you preached that Sunday was so similar to a message I had preached just prior to your coming so I knew God spoke to you. Once again thank you for taking the time to minister to us. We love you and your family with the love of the Lord. Your Co- laborer in Christ, PASTOR NESTOR ARELLANO."
SUN 26TH - GRACE OUTREACH FELLOWSHIP, NORWALK CONNECTICUT
I would like to congratulate PASTOR MIKE KURTZMAN and his wife SHARON in their new pastorate at GRACE OUTREACH FELLOWSHIP. He served as Associate Pastor for many years and recently inherited this church from founding Pastor PETER WESTFIELD, who is relocating to Florida to begin a new ministry. We wish them both the very best for their future ministries.
Mike sent this report: "Every time Brother Jeff has ministered at Grace Outreach Fellowship, he has always had a timely prophetic word for this church body. Both services on August 26th were truly a message not only needed in our church, but I believe in the churches across America. Jeff ministered on "The Fatherhood of God" and the need for Godly fathering in this nation. If ever a word is needed in this day and hour it is definitely this one.
The evening service Jeff ministered on "The Tale of Three Kings" declaring the need for the current generation of leaders reaching the next generatio |
