DR HONG - SOUTH KOREA (17-21 OCT)

Dr Jung Shik Hong will be at VMI from 17-21 October. He is an apostle from South Korea. He oversees 300 HIM churches and ministries in Korea. He is also the Chancellor for Wagner Leadership Institute in Korea and the Korean HIM Regional Director. HIM stands for Harvest International Ministry. Dr Hong has been a catalyst in the revival and renewal of South Korea. He is a true worshipper, he keenly shares the experience of God's love. Visit www.vmi.co.za

THE GRACE OF GOD

The grace of God


The word “grace” cannot be limited to having one meaning only. The doctrine of grace needs a broad explanation for us to fully understand what it entails. The word “grace” in Greek is “charis”. An examination of the meaning of “charis” has led to the following explanation:

According to (Thayer, p.665), it refers to “that which affords joy, pleasure, delight, sweetness, charm, loveliness.” God’s spoken word is testimony to this explanation. People commented about the way Jesus spoke: “And all spoke well of him and marveled at the gracious words that were coming from his mouth. And they said: ‘Is this not Joseph’s son?”(Luke 4:22)(ESV)

In Paul’s admonition to those who are called by the name of the Lord, graciousness is also set as a standard: “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.”(Eph. 4:2) (ESV)

“Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.” Col. 4:6) (ESV)

“Charis” is used in the scripture to convey the idea of “goodwill, loving-kindness, favor”. Ephesians 2:4-9 conveys to us God’s kindness upon mankind which is given undeservedly:

“But, God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive with Christ – by grace you have been saved – and raised up with him and seated us with him in heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith. And it is not your doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” (ESV)

God’s favor towards us, leads us to those things that are best for our lives: “But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them, though it was not I, but the grace of God that is with me.”(1Cor. 15:10)(ESV)

Hence we have to use all we have for the glory of God.

“Charis” may also mean “the spiritual condition of one governed by the power of divine grace”.

Romans 5:2 “Through him we have also obtained access by faith into the grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God.” (ESV)

1 Peter 5:12 “By Silvanus, a faithful brother as I regard him, I have written briefly to you, exhorting and declaring that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it.” (ESV)

Lastly, “charis” could be interpreted to mean ‘thanks (for God’s benefits, favor, loving-kindness) through the way I interact with others whether they know or do not know Jesus as Lord and savior. Paul says to Timothy: “I thank God whom I serve, as did my ancestors, with a clear conscience as I remember you constantly in my prayers night and day.”(1Timothy 1:3)(ESV)

“Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in sufferings for the gospel by the power of God, who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began.”(1Timothy 1:8-9)(ESV)

Message

The grace of God can be likened to a season in your life. It is a season in which God extends his full mercy and favor to mankind. God brings alongside you, people who will reveal Him to you and your life so that you might receive redemption from your sin. Although we are indebted by sin, God extends His grace so that we might embrace redemption, by saying “Yes” to Jesus.

Practical application:

If you owe the bank or creditor money and you cannot pay, they might extend a short period of time to allow you more time to try and pay off without suffering any consequences in the form of interest or judgment. When you are not able to pay the debt within the “grace period” you will suffer the consequences.

With God it is different. His grace does not expire as long as we are alive. He gave his son so that we may be redeemed from our sin. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)(ESV)

Christ died and rose from the dead, so that we might have redemption from sin and enjoy eternal life. All who live after the resurrection of Christ are living in a season of Grace.

There are two conditions which govern this season of Grace:

1. A person’s lifetime. You do not know how long you are going to live. God’s will is that all men shall embrace his Grace and be saved.

2. The second coming of Christ. Waiting for Christ second coming will be too late, because then the Grace period would be over. There will be no extended time.

“The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.”(2 Peter 3:9)(ESV)

ICHURCH IMPACTING A CITY AND BEYOND

ICHURCH SERVICE – 12 AUGUST 2012, NU METRO, BOARDWALK, P.E.

The iChurch slogan, “A worship experience like no other.” couldn’t have been more spot on for iChurch-goer, Samuel Esan, a media professional and God-loving man. He came to South Africa searching for answers. He always knew that media was his domain, but still wanted to know why he was so passionately drawn to it. His visit to iChurch presented him with the answers. “I am not a religious person and having studied theology, I am so aware of God’s grace and giving us second chances in life. The concept behind the birth of iChurch is an answer to a sincere heart yearning. It is bridging the gap between my social and spiritual life,” remarked Samuel after the service. This is indeed where iChurch becomes relevant by reaching out to a people resident in cyberspace.

“This is an inspired, innovative style of worship. May God continue to bless this ministry” was one of the comments of the iChurch visitors. A young man from Newton Park had this to say: “The service was enjoyable and because of that I shall attend next week again.”

Trevor from Cape Town commented that it was his first experience with church on the big screen and was astounded by the level of service and the excellent presentation. iChurch seems to be appealing to its target group. It is truly a vision being established and boundaries being broken down.

The picture of a homeless man walking into a church service must have been seen countless times in films over the past few decades. In these times it is very rare indeed to see a homeless person entering a church on a Sunday morning, let alone an iChurch service. But on a cold and rainy Sunday morning this scene played out at an iChurch service at the Nu Metro cinema at the Boardwalk. A homeless man named, Piet, walked into a screening of iChurch and was moved by the message from Pastor Jerome Liberty. The worship music moved him to tears. He said that he came to Port Elizabeth 28 days ago from Pretoria, and that he lives on the streets. He found the professionalism and friendliness of the iChurch team to be very heartwarming and genuine. “As a homeless person, I know a fake smile and am used to being treated indifferently. I found the people of iChurch to be honest and very genuine,” said Piet as he enjoyed a cup of hot coffee served in the foyer.


THE MESSAGE

Matthew 6 verse13 states, “and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.” Pastor Jerome Liberty’s message on the topic of temptation struck a chord with many of the audience members. They found the preceding video clip entitled “The marshmallow test,” humorous and thought-provoking. In his opening message pastor Liberty said that, “I believe every born-again believer at some time in his life has been tempted by the devil.” He spoke about the dangers and pitfalls of being led into temptation. He encouraged everyone to be alert and recognize the landmines the enemy places on their path. He blessed the audience with a truth from Proverbs 27 verse 12 that says, “A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself, but the simple pass on, and are punished.” He said that his heart’s desire is that everyone keep their eyes on the prize of high calling, and not to ignore the alarms that God gave them through the Holy Spirit.


AUDIENCE RESPONSES

The freshness and innovativeness of iChurch was again the topic of discussion after the screening session. Audience members enjoyed coffee and livid conversations with ushers and members of the iChurch media team.

The comments from audience members were positive and encouraging. It seems that iChurch has indeed changed the perception of many on how the Word of God is being spread. “Church is really not about coming together in a building and praising God, but it is me being the church,” said Samuel from the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University.

“It is my second time at iChurch, and I love it,” said Lelethu. Andre from a business in the vicinity said he enjoyed the praise and worship session because he felt close to God. Olwethu Bomvama, who came with a friend, said that iChurch enhanced the one-on-one experience between her and God. Second-time visitor, Sammy, wished the iChurch team well and said. “May God continue to bless your Ministry for the great work you are doing.”


CONCLUSION

We at iChurch once again express our heartfelt appreciation for the support from all who came to listen to the Word of God presented in a fresh and innovative way through technology.

Blessings from the iChurch team

ICHURCH IS HERE!

ICHURCH LAUNCH – 5 AUGUST 2012, NU METRO, BOARDWALK, P.E.


“Imagine a church without the traditional walls, yet making God’s Word accessible by taking advantage of technology.”

Sunday, 5th August 2012 made this statement a reality. August is the month of diversity and iChurch’s launch couldn’t have come at a better time. The diversity of the audience was visible with teenagers, young men and women, and adults entering the cinema doors.

The first visitor arrived an hour before the official screening of iChurch. An air of excitement and anticipation was evident in the smiles of ushers and iChurch-goers. God desires a church as commissioned in Matthew 28:19 “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and of the Holy Spirit...” This is where iChurch becomes relevant by reaching out to a people resident in a new domain; the world of technology.



THE MESSAGE

Pastor Jerome Liberty delivered a message on counsel. He emphasized the safety one finds in a multitude of counselors. His teaching drew positive responses from the audience. They felt that the message was informative and empowering as well as humorous at times. Audience members were informed that a transcription of the message would be emailed to them.



AUDIENCE RESPONSE

The majority of the audience remarked that iChurch is a fresh and new way of doing church and that it is indeed interesting and something to get used to. Audience members were invited personally and through emails and our Facebook and Twitter pages. We had some people who walked in after seeing the marketing material displayed inside the foyer of the cinema. A young female tourist remarked that she never heard of church being presented in a cinema environment. She said that it is fresh and it caters for a new audience that the church seemed to have excluded for too long. Here are a few comments from audience members:

“It is my first time to attend church presented in a digital format. As a young person it suits me perfectly. I will definitely come again and bring some friends along.” – Clint Williams, Johannesburg.

“iChurch is relevant in a world of technology in the workplace and at home. Cinema is mostly associated with entertainment and even ungodliness. However, iChurch has just turned that perception on its head. I enjoyed it. The welcoming by ushers was heartwarming. I will visit again.” – Siphiwe Ramalwa, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, Port Elizabeth.

“Thank you for your e-mail and notes on Pastor Jerome's empowering message.

I would like to commend everybody involved with iChurch on an amazing concept - in-deed history in the making for our city! May God bless everybody on the team, and may the Nu Metro auditorium be filled to capacity in the coming weeks and months. I have already told so many people about Sunday's experience and will keep on doing so - and visit again as well!” - Estelle



SUMMARY

The visitors felt that the message was too short. Some said they were “hungry” for the word. It just shows you that there is a people out there who are hungry for God, but need to be reached out to in a different way. That way is iChurch!

We at iChurch would like to express our heartfelt appreciation to all who came to witness history being made. God’s word has just entered a domain and territory. We invite you to walk this road and spread the word of God to a new millennia generation.

We hope to meet you at iChurch every Sunday at 9am, Nu Metro (cinema 3), Boardwalk, Port Elizabeth.

iCHURCH - CHURCH ON THE BIG SCREEN

A vision of a church that has been burning in the hearts of a group of Christians in Port Elizabeth for the past two years is coming to a beachfront cinema soon. It is called iChurch and is launching at the Nu Metro cinema at the Boardwalk at 9am on Sunday, 5 August 2012.

Now let's answer the main question on everyone’s lips, what is iChurch. It is all about using technology to advance God’s kingdom and taking the Gospel worldwide. If you Google "iChurch" you get a variety of results ranging from an interactive platform for people to watch live services, to a few blogs talking about how the church is integrating technology into its outreach. iChurch is not an attempt to replace traditional church, but it is part of a move to take church outside of four walls and to make it accessible to an unchurched cyberspace generation that is most comfortable with socializing and accessing information via technology. iChurch is about departing from the conventional and “putting new wine in a new wineskin.” It is a relevant response to the Great Commission, preaching the Gospel in the language of new millennium media. It is a relevant worship experience like no other - using visuals and graphics and new millennium technology to communicate a timeless message of God’s unconditional love. The power of the message of his righteousness breaking out of the limitation of having church with four walls and two doors and two windows. The iChurch presentation includes high-impact worship music videos which are sub-titled so that the viewers can participate, and a preach that is recorded in a studio

iChurch team members will encourage viewers to join small groups which may lead them into more traditional church life. One of the groups that the iChurch team hope to reach are children who spend all day in the Boardwalk entertainment complex on Sundays while their parents gamble in the casino. The parents leave their children with enough money to watch all the shows and we have heard that some of them have seen the movies five or six times. Imagine if we can get into this domain.” iChurch has signed a lease for one of the three 180-seater Nu Metro cinemas at the Boardwalk. The Walmer Park Nu metro cinema is also earmarked for iChurch screenings. The team behind iChurch is open to running with it as God leads. Who knows, a time could come when iChurch will be showing at a cinema near you, wherever you are in South Africa.

God desires a borderless church as commissioned in Matthew 28:19 “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and of the Holy Spirit,”(ESV)

Psalm 67:1-2 proclaims: “May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face to shine upon us, that your ways may be known on earth, your saving power among all nations.

This is where iChurch becomes relevant:

v  In essence a response to “The Great Commission.”

v  Reaching out to the world for change in the spiritual climate.

v  Establishing a global presence with church that's not bound by walls.

v  Making church accessible by taking advantage of technology.

v  Departing from the conventional and “putting new wine in a new wineskin.”

v  Making church available in the social environment.

v  Reaching a city with the excellence of the Word.

v  Preaching the Gospel in the language of a new millennium media.

v  Using cinema to make known the Word in a city and beyond.

v  A new way of being and doing church.

v  Communicating the gospel socially and subjectively to a digital generation that they may ‘experience’ the truth.

MOROCCAN HIGH TEA 2012

Victory Ministries International held its third annual ladies high tea event on Saturday, 30 June 2012, at the New Worship Auditorium in Standford Road, Gelvan Park. The build-up to the event was incredible. There was much excitement over the past few weeks as young and old have been preparing for this special day.

Pastor Jerome Liberty shared some encouraging words with the ladies and told them to press on and be pioneers in their fields of gifting. This year’s theme was Moroccan inspired. An array of bejeweled colors, fabrics and Moroccan cuisine was on display. “It was a really good function. I learnt a lot from this high tea,” said one of the hostesses. "It just gets better with every year," said one of the guests. Some ladies said they experienced God through personal excellence and sharing of ideas at the high tea. Pastor Eunice’s aim was to take the ordinary woman to a place where she begins to experience the extra-ordinary as being ordinary. First prize winner, Natasha Geswint, described her experience as being an unforgettable one, and thanked her pastors for creating an opportunity for women to discover the creative gifts hidden within them. The ladies went to every length to prepare for this highly prestigious event. A high level of excellence was evident from the point of laying the table clothes, the pouring of a cup of tea, right up to the cleaning up process.

“Husbands also assisted with preparations and some were left with Moroccan headaches and pains,” one of the husbands remarked jokingly. Janice Liberty entertained the ladies with the sketch of an artist with her own struggles. The high tea was declared a rousing success and plans are already being made for the 2013 event.

MISSION POSSIBLE - YOUTH BASH (16 JUNE 2012)

Mission Possible: Youth Bash 2012

The weekend of 16 June 2012 saw hundreds of young people and adults from around Nelson Mandela Bay, descending on Victory Ministries International’s the New Worship Auditorium to celebrate its Mission Possible Youth Bash. Many came to build faith in Jesus Christ, strengthen testimonies, showcase their talents, and just to have fun with youth who share similar beliefs and standards. The theme of the bash, organised by Revolution United was “Our mission is possible for we are about our Father’s business.”

Family Day

Hundreds of families including young people, gathered together on one day, in one place to make a change that will last for generations. On the day there was a variety of stalls, selling anything from koeksisters to curry bunnies, tramezinnis to wors rolls and many more. The Victory family as well as many from around the city came to enjoy a time of fun and games, music and drama and good food. Some of the performances on the day stage were Legit for Christ, Revolution drama team, Transformers dance crew, Dejavu dance crew, DJ Stanza on the decks and the MC, Asekho.

Opening of Evening Event

The opening of the main event was something out of a Hollywood movie. Agent D and Agent W came onto stage with thunderous applause from the audience. Agent W, we have a mission for you. There is a revolution spreading through Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa. Agents, from the forces of darkness are trying to stop this movement and bring to an end, stopping it before it really even gets started. Your mission, if you choose to accept it, is to infiltrate this revolutionary organization and make sure that the movement spreads. Many say that this cannot be done, that young people and their families cannot be saved, that's why you're here. This Mission is Possible, God's speed."

The drama was a build up over a couple of weeks of performances done by the Mission Possible team, putting in hard work, a lot of very painful falls endured by Agent W and Agent D, to get it done. For the past five weeks, every Sunday evening a piece of the drama was done, allowing for it to have the feel of a TV series that builds up to the final episode. On the night of the bash, the team put all those “episodes” together to produce a 25-minute play of fight scenes, digital media, lights and lots of action. Their hard work paid off when the audience went into thunderous applause for jaw-dropping performances from the Enforcer, Agent W, Agent D and the Mission Possible team.

Music Event

We were privileged to have had the pleasure of talented local artists that participated at the evening event. Performances from artists such as Deena Jones, Loyiso Bala, Andre “Drizzy” Adams and his band, and VMI’s very own Revolution Worship Team, was of international standards, leading the people into a time of praise and worship.

Speaker

Miss Janice Liberty, daughter of Apostle Jerome Liberty, was the speaker for the evening, conveying  a message of salvation to everyone, focusing on decision-making and the message proclaiming that God has given us a choice, and that we can according to Deuteronomy 30:19, either choose “death or life, now choose life.”

FROM THE DESK OF JEROME LIBERTY

Anger may be justified or unjustified. God’s anger is always justified, based on principle and in His consistence of upholding truth. God’s wrath is against all unrighteousness.


“You are of purer eyes than to see evil and cannot look at wrong. . .” Habakkuk 1:13

However, man’s anger may only be proper if it is based on principle. We are commanded to abhor what is wicked.

“Let love be genuine.Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good.” Romans 12:9

Man’s anger is more often unjustified and uncontrolled. Unjustified anger has led many persons to greater sin.

“. . . but for Cain and his offering He had no regard. So Cain was very angry and his face fell.” Genesis 4:5

“And when they were in the field, Cain rose up against his brother Abel and killed him.”Genesis 4:8(b)

Anger is a message. Anger tells you that you are hurt. It is powerful and needs to be used with respect. In Ecclesiastes 7:9 we are alerted: “Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools." According to the Merriam-Webster online dictionary anger is a verb. It is defined as “to make angry” or “to become angry”. Proverbs 15:18 tells us that “a hot-tempered man stirs strife, but he who is slow to anger quits.” Anger forms part of the “fight or flight” brain response to a perceived threat or harm. But when it gets out of control and turns destructive, it can lead to problems. Problems in your personal relationships, at work and in the overall quality of your life. Always remember that he who angers you conquers you. Apply therefore wisdom and take heed of what James advises us in chapter 1:19 and 20: “Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.”

Fits of anger are classified along with other detestable works of the flesh, such as loose conduct, idolatry, practice of spiritism and drunken bouts. “But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies and things like these. I warn you as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5:18-23

Angry talk should be kept out of the congregation and we should follow God’s desire for the church. “I desire then that in every place the men should pray, lifting holy hands without anger or quarreling.” 1Timothy 2:8 (Anger/bitterness affects your prayer-life.)

Wisdom and patience are the keys to overcome anger. “A wise man feareth, and departeth from evil: but the fool rageth, and is confident. He that is soon angry dealeth foolishly: and a man of wicked devices is hated.” Proverbs 14:16, 17

“Whoever is slow to anger has great understanding, but he who has a hasty temper exalts folly.” Proverbs 14:29

If you allow anger and other negative feelings to crowd out positive feelings, you might find yourself swallowed up by your own bitterness or sense of injustice. But if you can forgive someone who angered you, you might both learn from the situation. It's unrealistic to expect everyone to behave exactly as you want at all times. Therefore “refrain from anger, and forsake wrath! Fret not yourself; it tends only to evil.”

People who have been treated hatefully become full of hate and can only give hate. People who have been criticized become filled with a critical spirit and can only give criticism. People who have been abused become bitter and angry and can only give abuse. It is wise to find solutions to anger. Instead of focusing on what made you mad, work on resolving the issue at hand. Remind yourself that anger won't fix anything, and might only make it worse. When people reject you, it’s very difficult for you to feel good about yourself. This plants a seed of anger in you. God said something like this,” you were cast out into the open field, and everybody loathed you (see Ezekiel 16:5).

“Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook offence.” Proverbs 19:11

“Know this my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.”James 1:19-20

While one may on occasion be angry and sometimes justifiably so, he should not let it become sin to him by harboring it or maintaining a provoked state. He should not let the sun set with him in such a condition, for he would thereby allow place for the Devil to take advantage of him.

“Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil.” Ephesians 4:26-27

“Know this, my beloved brothers: let everyone be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.” James 1:19-20

“Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offence.” Proverbs 19:11

“A fool gives vent to his spirit, but a wise man quietly holds it back.” Proverbs 29:11

The Bible counsels that we should watch our associations, not having companionship with anyone given to anger or fits of rage, thereby avoiding a snare for our souls. “Make no friendship with a man given to anger, nor go with a wrathful man, lest you learn his ways and entangle yourself in a snare.” Proverbs 22: 24-25

Anger has an adverse effect on our spiritual health and also produces profound effects on our physical organism. It can cause rise in blood pressure, arterial changes, respiratory trouble,, liver upsets, changes in secretion of gall and effects on the pancreas. Anger and rage as strong emotions, have been listed by physicians as contributing, aggravating or causing such ailments as asthma, eye afflictions, skin diseases, hives, ulcers and dental and digestive troubles. Anger also affects thinking processes so that one cannot think clearly. Not only is anger bad in a spiritual sense, but it also affects the physical body adversely.

A person should heed the Scriptures:

“Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools.” Ecclesiastes 7:9

Wise quotes are: If a small thing has the power to make you angry, does that not indicate something about your size? ~Sydney J. Harris

There is nothing more galling to angry people than the coolness of those on whom they wish to vent their spleen. ~Alexandre Dumas

Life is too short to hold a grudge, also too long.~Elizabeth Kenny

Dangers of anger:
“Refrain from anger, and forsake wrath! Fret not yourself; it tends only to evil.” Psalm 37:8

“A hot-tempered man stirs up strife, but he who is slow to anger quiets contention.”Proverbs 15:18

“A man of wrath stirs up strife, and one given to anger causes much transgression.”Proverbs 29:22

“For pressing milk produces curds, pressing the nose produces blood, and pressing anger produces strife” Proverbs 30:33

The best antidote for anger is to turn from it.

“A fool shows his annoyance at once, but a prudent man overlooks an insult.”Proverbs 12:16

“Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.”Proverbs 12:18

Wisdom is to speak sense in a hostile environment.

“A wise man fears the Lord and shuns evil, but a fool is hotheaded and reckless.” Proverbs 14:16

A fool is reckless, has no boundaries and no discipline.

A wise man will shun evil.

Why win a battle only to lose a war?

“A quick-tempered man does foolish things,and a crafty man is hated.” Proverbs 14:17

Every action/manifestation birthed from anger will produce foolishness. The speech that follows will always be a “memorable” speech.

“A patient man has great understanding, but a quick-tempered man displays folly.” Proverbs 14:29

A quick temper is a sign of immaturity; of inner hurts. When a fuse is blown it is a sign of a malfunction.

“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”Proverbs 15:1

Harsh words can act as a detonator or an igniter. Be very selective in what you say, how you say it and when you say it in a volatile situation.

Live in peace with all men.

Don’t allow anger to creep into your inner person. If no one else has compassion on you, remember that God does and that’s reason enough to be good to yourself.

Reach for the top, the bottom is overcrowded – Jerome Liberty

MESSAGE FROM JEROME & EUNICE LIBERTY

THE POWER OF THE SEED. . . “the sacred secret.”

 Every child of God has much reason to celebrate during this festive season.

From the beginning of the earth God promised a seed that would bruise the head of the serpent. He has also declared that the seed shall possess the gates of the enemy.

“All of our praise rises to the One who is strong enough to make you strong, exactly as preached in Jesus Christ, precisely as revealed in the mystery kept secret for so long but now an open book through the prophetic Scriptures. All the nations of the world can now know the truth and be brought into obedient belief, carrying out the orders of God, who got all this started, down to the very last letter.” Romans 16:25-26 [The Message]

God made a promise that the Son of man would defeat the enemy.

“And I will put enmity between you and the woman, And between your seed and her Seed; He shall bruise your head,” Genesis 3:15 (NKJV)

“Then the Angel of the Lord called to Abraham a second time out of heaven, and said: "By Myself I have sworn, says the Lord, because you have done this thing, and have not withheld your son, your only son--blessing I will bless you, and multiplying I will multiply your descendants as the stars of the heaven and as the sand which is on the seashore; and your descendants shall possess the gate of their enemies. In your seed all the nations of the earth shall be blessed, because you have obeyed My voice." Genesis 22: 15-18 (NKJV)

“But when the right time came, God sent his Son, born of a woman, subject to the law.”

Galatians 4:4 (NLT)

“Without question, this is the great mystery of our faith: Christ appeared in the flesh and was shown to be righteous by the Spirit. He was seen by angels and was announced to the nations. He was believed on in the world and was taken up into heaven.” 1Timothy 3:16 (NLT)

The birth of Christ is the beginning of the manifestation of God’s promise to man. Our joy is supposed to be so great that it overflows and we begin to share with others the good news. We have to plant the Seed in the hearts of those who have not accepted Jesus as Lord and Saviour so that they may be born again.

Since we have encountered God, our lives have changed and so should our Plans Change; as put by Paul, “I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.” If Christ lives in me, therefore His mandate is in me: that of fulfilling God’s purposes in the earth. What God had in mind was not much the birth of Jesus Christ, but the salvation of the world. Since we are redeemed through Christ our joy should be shared by seeking the salvation of the lost. [Every Christian’s assignment should be outward-focused.]

“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” Romans 12:2(NKJV)

Whenever we hear the word of God we are responsible and we must respond to the word of God. Jesus called the disciples whilst they were fishermen and they responded and followed after the promise to be made fishers of men.

Having responded to God’s word, we will have to Persevere in order to achieve what God has promised;
We get to know about God’s promises through the preaching and teaching of His word. Luke 2:25-38. God also encourages us through His Word. We have to be strong in the Lord and in the knowledge of Him.

As the announcement of Christ’s birth was upsetting to those who oppose God, so will we also be opposed by God’s enemies when we respond to God’s word and do His will. 

“When word of their inquiry got to Herod, he was terrified - and not Herod alone, but most of Jerusalem as well as Herod lost no time. He gathered all the high priests and religion scholars in the city together and asked, "Where is the Messiah supposed to be born?" They told him, "Bethlehem, Judah territory. The prophet Micah wrote it plainly: It's you, Bethlehem, in Judah's land, no longer bringing up the rear. From you will come the leader who will shepherd-rule my people, my Israel." Herod then arranged a secret meeting with the scholars from the East. Pretending to be as devout as they were, he got them to tell him exactly when the birth-announcement star appeared. Then he told them the prophecy about Bethlehem, and said, "Go find this child. Leave no stone unturned. As soon as you find him, send word and I'll join you at once in your worship." Instructed by the king, they set off. Then the star appeared again, the same star they had seen in the eastern skies. It led them on until it hovered over the place of the child. They could hardly contain themselves: They were in the right place! They had arrived at the right time! They entered the house and saw the child in the arms of Mary, his mother. Overcome, they kneeled and worshiped him. Then they opened their luggage and presented gifts: gold, frankincense, myrrh. In a dream, they were warned not to report back to Herod. So they worked out another route, left the territory without being seen, and returned to their own country.” Matthew 2:3-12(The Message)

“So take everything the Master has set out for you, well-made weapons of the best materials. And put them to use so you will be able to stand up to everything the Devil throws your way.”  Ephesians 6:11(ESV)

Our lives and characters are changed by the knowledge of God’s promises.   

“Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, "Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you, for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him."  And he rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed to Egypt and remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, "Out of Egypt I called my son."

Then Herod, when he saw that he had been tricked by the wise men, became furious, and he sent and killed all the male children in Bethlehem and in all that region who were two years old or under, according to the time that he had ascertained from the wise men. Then was fulfilled what was spoken by the prophet Jeremiah: "A voice was heard in Ramah, weeping and loud lamentation, Rachel weeping for her children; she refused to be comforted, because they are no more.

But when Herod died, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, saying, "Rise, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the child's life are dead." And he rose and took the child and his mother and went to the land of Israel. But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning over Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there, and being warned in a dream he withdrew to the district of Galilee. And he went and lived in a city called Nazareth, that what was spoken by the prophets might be fulfilled: "He shall be called a Nazarene."Matthew 2: 13-23(ESV)

“. . .  for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord. Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. Ephesians 5: 8-11(ESV)

Finally, we do not walk after the flesh, but after the Spirit. “For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.” Romans 8:2-4(KJV)

It is clear that the supernatural is a normal expectation of the Christian experience.  “For it is impossible, in the case of those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, and have shared in the Holy Spirit,  and have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the age to come,. . .” Hebrews 6:4-5 (ESV)

• Jesus Christ was conceived supernaturally;
• Angels, which are supernatural beings, appeared;
• A star appeared and showed the wise men the way to where Jesus was born;
• There was supernatural provision for the “homeless” baby as the wise men brought expensive gifts;
• The wise men received in a dream not to return along Herod’s way.
• Joseph received in a dream to flee with the child to Nazareth.

I pray that you will experience God in an unusual way this Christmas. May you give a lasting gift as much as you shall receive in this season of giving.

Prepare a good seed for entering 2012 and may the blessing of the Lord that maketh rich and comes with no sorrow, overtake you so that you prosper in the New Year!

Souls won by one.

Reach for the top, the bottom is overcrowded!

From:

Jerome and Eunice Liberty

YOUTH BASH ON 9 DEC 2011

1 DEC 2011 is Youth Bash Day at Victory Ministries International. VMI presents its Revolution Youth Bash. An array of music, arts, food, and much more will be on offer. This event is meant for the youth of the city of Port Elizabeth. It will be held in the parking lot of the Gelvandale Sports Field in Liebenberg Rd. The aim of the event is to impact the lives of the youth in the surrounding areas, by kicking off the festive season with a message of God and not of this world, and ministering into their lives the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Artist to the likes of Victory’s own Revolution dance team, Worship team and some of the local talent will showcase their talents. There will be amazing dance items, dramas, skits, songs and ministry that will literally send shivers down your spine. The sound and media will be of high quality as expected from a very talented team.

Victory Ministries has been working with the Schools of Port Elizabeth for the past 2 years and now has built a strong relationship with the learners of those schools through the Enough-is-Enough initiative. It brings home the message of the dangers of Drugs, Alcohol, Gangsterism, Murder and Rape to the kids growing up in communities that are at the heart of the violence in this city.

The areas surrounding the venue are Schauderville and Gelvandale and these are classified as two of the most notorious neighborhoods in Port Elizabeth. But that will not stop the youth from doing what needs to be done to get the message across.

The level of excitement that are seen and heard from the youth of the church is huge. It’s called “4 US by US” which means that the youth will be doing it for the youth of PE.

Revolution Youth bash…..not to be missed. This is the beginning of something great and Victory Ministries is planning to incorporate this event into their calendar on an annual basis.

9 December 2011, Gelvandale Sports Field, parking lot at 5pm. . . be there!

NEW PE MEGACHURCH COMES TO LIFE FOR NIGHT OF CELEBRATION

http://gatewaynews.co.za/2011/11/09/pe-megachurch-comes-to-life-for-night-of-celebration/

A huge church building that has been taking shape on a major Port Elizabeth intersection for the past year, came gloriously alive during a joyous thanksgiving celebration service on October 30.

The new 2 850 seat Victory Ministries International (VMI) church auditorium, which is under construction on the corner of Standford Road and the N2 — where the church founders held their first tent service in 2000 — was packed to capacity for the event.

Businessman and church leader Pastor Jerome Liberty, who started VMI with his wife Eunice in 2001, said yesterday that despite financial challenges he was confident that the new auditorium, which cost tens of millions of rands, would be completed early next year.

He said he believed that Port Elizabeth was hungry and desperate for more of God and that the new auditorium would contribute towards meeting that need by hosting major city-wide events.

When I left Port Elizabeth for Johannesburg in 1978 I always believed that my stay was a season for equipping and that I would one day return to serve the community with the Word of God. In 2000 I returned to Port Elizabeth with a mandate to break the curse of poverty and to change the spiritual climate over the city of Port Elizabeth,” said Liberty in a VMI press statement.

“Today the new Worship Auditorium towers as a “lighthouse” at the corner of the N2 and Stanford Road. At an intersection it has the position of a perfect meeting place. It will stand as a beacon that embodies the words from Matthew 16 verse 18 declaring: “… and the gates of hell shall not prevail.”

Members of the four VMI congregations — in Uitenhage, Schauderville, New Brighton and Cotswold — were among the crowd that gave thanks to God at the recent celebration service, which followed the theme of “…and the gates of hell shall not prevail.”

The VMI drama team performed a play following the theme accompanied by dramatic big screen video footage of the destruction of the VMI tent during a gale in June 2002. Other highlights included worship and dance and a message on Matthew 16.

“Months and months of preparation went into the realisation of this awesome day. It started with the sod-turning ceremony on 10 October 2010. Many Bibles were ‘planted’ on that day. A silver spade was specially acquired for the sod-turning,” said Liberty.

“It was a historic moment in the life of Victory Ministries International. I am forever grateful to all those who have diligently sown into the building project. It took much faith and diligence to embark on the project and to carry it through. With every progress to the building God’s glory has been revealed.”

THANKSGIVING CELEBRATION - 30 OCTOBER 2011

Thanksgiving Celebration Service - 30 October 2011

In 1978 Jerome Liberty left Port Elizabeth for Johannesburg and has always believed that his stay was a season for equipping. The sacrifices made by pastors Jerome and Eunice Liberty, founders of Victory Ministries International, were not in vain. He returned in 2000 with a mandate to break the curse of poverty and change the spiritual climate over the city of Port Elizabeth.

On Sunday evening, 30 October 2011, Victory Ministries International (VMI), held a “Thanksgiving Celebration Service” to celebrate God's goodness and the new Worship Auditorium being built on the site where the first tent service was held in 2000.

The theme of the evening was based on an excerpt taken from the book of Matthew 16 verse 18 which says: “… and the gates of hell shall not prevail.” In pastor Jerome Liberty’s words, “For surely God has helped us to build a tabernacle of worship and a level of excellence that will touch thousands of lives!”

The welcoming and introduction of the guests was officiated by Mbulelo Ngewu. The celebration service opened with a powerful song and dance performance by the VMI Praise and Worship team. They performed with a new level of excellence and had the crowd on their feet from the first praise song “My God is good O,” to the very last worship song. Worship team leader, Jeremy Liberty delivered an emotional rendition of “Mutsutsuyane ho”.

The VMI Drama team performed a play based on actual events. It depicted the destruction of the tent in June 2002. During the performance, a large video screen displayed actual video footage taken on the day of the tent destruction. There were images of a billboard and chairs being blown into the streets, and electrical pipes and cables being crushed and damaged by falling poles. In the midst of all the chaos, the Apostle's voice arose in triumph, singing: “Our God reigns. . .” In the play we see how it angers the enemy and he unleashed his demons to attack the children of God. The pastor’s character in the play is heard saying that it looks like the devil has the upper hand. However the devil’s victory was short-lived because God’s mighty voice rose: “Do not look around in fear. I will make you crush them. I will bring your sons and daughters from the ends of the earth to claim victory in my name.” The inspirational song “Upon this rock I will build my kingdom” started to play. The enemy and his demons started to flee in seven directions and the children of God rejoiced. Today the new Worship Auditorium will stand as a beacon that embodies the bold words from Matthew 16 verse 18 declaring: “… and the gates of hell shall not prevail.

The gifted Revolution dance team delivered a stunning opening dance performance that had the crowd responding spontaneously to the music of “Do you want a revolution?“ Other performers on the night were an Acapella group from Uitenhage and Jean-Mikyle Roos, a young man who penned the poignant “Genoeg is genoeg” rap song as part of the Enough is Enough campaign, which is a partnership between VMI and the South African Police Services. Jean performed his own song “I will build my church”.

Francois Simons introduced the visionary couple, Pastors Jerome and Eunice Liberty. Pastor Eunice gave praise and thanks to God for her husband and pastor, Jerome. She thanked God for the vision He gave him and for everything he has done for Victory Ministries International. Pastor Eunice remarked that it is biblical to give honour where honour is due. She thanked him for always listening to the call of the Lord. “Thank you for the labour in the Lord. I pray God will give you strength to run this race, and that every single prophecy spoken over you to be fulfilled. We pledge to pray for you so you may continue to produce, endure in the face of tribulation and that you will stand,” she prayed.

Pastor Jerome thanked those who has opened their hearts and committed themselves in an unselfish manner to the church. “I have a list with hundreds of names of people that I would like to thank. I also want to thank someone very special, my dad Graham Liberty.” Pastor Jerome then sang “Look for me for I will be there” in honour of his late dad. Pastor Jerome thanked his wife, children and family for their love and support.

He saluted Louis Louw, his trusted advisor on everything from engineering, architecture,  construction, and project management. He thanked business and all end-time financiers including Dr. Walter Henderson and his wife, Joycelyn from the Berean Family Worship Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Pastor Jerome acknowledged the support of Bishop Basil Tryon, Neville Goldman and Andre Roebert of the River church in East London. Pastors and businessmen were given an opportunity to sow a seed and thereafter the rest of the church sowed their seed.

A video depicting the history of the church from Restoration 2000 to the groundbreaking ceremony for the New Worship Auditorium was played to a roaring applause from the crowd. Another video with testimonies from Celestine Abrahams, Patricia Arnolds and Zimkita’s mom was played. Celestine was miraculously healed after a car accident. Pastor Jerome visited and prayed for her in hospital. Patricia was raped at a young age and blamed herself and ultimately became a drug addict. She attended a service in Uitenhage where Pastor Jerome was ministering. She remembered he said that only the blood of Jesus can cleanse you. She wanted that blood to cleanse and heal her. Today she is an integral part of the Enough is Enough campaign that visits schools and help children affected by drugs, alcoholism, gangsterism and crime. Zimkita’s mom was invited to church by her daughter. She was an alcoholic and started attending home cell gatherings in the township. Today she is a student at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University.

Pastor Jerome Liberty concluded the evening with his message: “The gates of hell shall not prevail.” Jesus had to ask his disciples, as individuals, what they believed about Him. In the book of Matthew 16 we read about Peter proclaiming Jesus as Messiah. Matthew 16 verse 13: “When Jesus went into the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” They replied, “Some say John the Baptist,^* others Elijah, still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter said in reply, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”

You will never know who you are unless or until you know who Christ is. After Peter’s confession Jesus said to him in reply (Matthew 16 verse 17-18), “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah. For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my heavenly Father. And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”