African Missions on Biblical Steroids

Birth of Christ the Lord

2011-12-20T21:03:00.000-08:00

YES and Zacherias, filled with the Holy Spirit, Jehovah Himself, said: a horn of salvation raised up, One declared by HIS holy prophets, since the world began! YES, that would be Jesus Messiah. And Luke said later in his letter to Theophilus concerning our Faith, which Faith is the One whom we surely believe, that Jesus the Christ and Lord is Savior to all people. YES, and Zacherias, father of John the Baptist, explained the result of our Faith; now look at this { = : () result will be that "we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might [be enabled] to serve HIM without fear in holiness and righteousness before HIM, all the days of our Life"!!!! Do not fall into the trap that because you or someone you told of Christ the Lord has LIFE eternal because of repeating some words or saying a 'sinners prayer'. The Life of Christ, Christ Himself will change us if we have HIM. By repentant obedient Faith we have 'days of our Life', His life in us. We will serve Him in HIS holiness and righteousness if He is our Life, our confession which means agreeing with Him unto His righteousness having received forgiveness of sin by His sacrifice and new birth by His favor and a new creature by His workmanship.

Now that is the Story of our celebration of Jesus Christ birth! That is why Pastor Jacob lays a foundation with his Children's ministry, the Only Foundation, Jesus Christ the Lord! Picture is practice with Jacob's ministry for children to present this very holiness and righteousness being born unto us the Savior (as told by Luke the Doctor) in drama to people of Nsongwe area of Mukuni Chiefdom. Glory in highest, the Lord Himself appeared in flesh by virgin birth to die in our place and give us Eternal Life, which Life is HIS life in us if we believe to the saving of our soul!

Blessed Christmas, Phil and Melody

Bible Conference

2011-12-04T22:57:00.000-08:00

Friday December 2, 2011: Here they come from Maluma Baptist arriving after an hour and 20 minute walk thru the bush. Laughing, happy, mostly youth and children...oh glory the whole choir has come! Let the rejoicing begin! ------ Morning Bible Session over and Eliot Kanyama, one of first to come to the early Gospel meetings that became Highway Baptist Church [now do not be disillusioned, this Church is in the bush, but they wanted to be known as a Highway to Heaven] said he wished to speak with me. Eliot has been off and on faithful with some failures of pride inspired by that Old Serpent, the Devil. ----- Eliot has been very humble for the last 7 months, the most faithful to work with Pastor Costa in the ministry of Jesu Kristo in the Sinamanjolo village area. We sat together and Eliot told me he was reading in Isaiah when the Lord asked who will go for ME! Eliot said the Lord moved his heart to be one to say "here I am, send me". ----- Eliot continued, "I prayed then told my wife what the Lord wanted from us...we prayed together and agreed that we would be serving the Lord where ever he sent us. Pastor Phil, we will go where they need the Gospel, even if it is far, not for benefit, but for the work of Jesu." ----- Now that is the reason Melody and I came to Africa, lead them to love Christ so when HE tells them "follow me" they will do just that! A glorious, rejoicing, Texas 'hallelukiiyippeeeiaaajah', and as Peter the fishing Apostle said of Jesus Christ, "glory and dominion for ever and ever, AMEN". ----- On Saturday night, Maria from Maluma, 20 year old girl, broke down weeping just after supper. She ran into the Church building and hid in a corner. I asked her what was wrong, she just continued to sob and weep. Pastor Costa and Eliot came to her and spoke with her. Pastor Costa then came to me and said she had a bad headache, then continued by saying he thought she was struggling with evil spirits. ----- We went inside and sat beside her, and Costa asked her if she had demonic spirits living in her and she said yes, they would cause her to be dancing the traditional vulgar suggestive dancing of witchcraft. [These dances are is sexually explicit with partial or full nudity when seen in witch doctor meetings of darkness honoring Satan. They are not only seen at witch doctor meetings, but also taught in all government schools by mandate, taught elementary students grade 1 and up, called cultural dances of the ancestors. They are dances of seduction. These same dances are seen here in Zambia in most churches by choirs and singing groups, with the voices claiming praise to God, but the body giving honor to the lust of the flesh exalting the love of the world. ] ----- After some questions, we found out she went to witch doctor meeting of ancestral worship, darkness of the Devil, and there while dancing, the demonic spirits came to inhabit her. ----- NOW, I realized the conviction of our standing against that same dancing demonstration of wicked and lewd behavior in the Church that very day brought realization and conviction to this precious child that she was 'walking in darkness while saying she had fellowship with the Father and with His followers'. Scripture says that person is a liar (see First John chapter One; First John was the theme of the Bible Conference). She realized she could not be a follower of Jesus and walk in darkness. [ One of the boys in the choir from Maluma, while they were singing and marching, broke out in the vulgar suggestive dance. Pastor Costa stood up immediately and Scripturally denounced that sort of behavior, PUBLICLY condemning the action firmly yet with kindness of godly admonition] ----- WELL glory, praise and honor the the Spirit of Jesus Christ, she said she did not want the evil spirits but wanted Jesus Christ to be Lord. I told her to just tell Jesus she was turning from her sin, and asking HIM to forgive her sins by dying for her and shedding HIS blood to wash away her sins. SHE COULD NOT call on Him, she choked and gasped every time she opened her mouth. When I asked her why, she said the demons were stopping her. I prayed and asked the Lord to deliver her from their power so she could call on HIM. HE did just that and she began confessing her sins and confessing HIM who shed HIS blood for her and told Jesus she was giving HIM her life to follow HIM! She looked at us and said,"they are gone, and my headache is gone!" Such is ministry here and I do love it so! Photos of Maria standing on your left, in white sleeveless blouse and Eliot with Pastor Costa who is in long sleeve blue shirt.

WHAT THE LORD HATH DONE

2011-11-02T22:37:00.000-07:00

At times, only about 18 hours a day, I feel useless! And so I am...but in our weakness the only wise God, Jesus Christ [1 Timothy 1:16-17, Jude verse 25]shows His mighty power. Attached is a video slide show of our earlier ministry in His loving favor allowing Melody and me to walk with Him by Him. Rejoice in His grace, mercy and truth!

Well, it was too large to attach with our internet. So here are some pictures of our ministry from the last 8 years. Just a glimpse. Phil

Follow Follow I Will Follow Jesus....

2011-10-21T03:50:00.000-07:00

...anywhere, every where, I will follow on, everywhere HE leads me I will follow on! Good old hymn for a Band of Brothers in the army of the Lord of hosts. Just a short story, by an old man, for the glory of a Blessed Savior, one and only God our Savior, our Redeemer Messiah Jesu. Was getting some timber today for a project, minding my own business (shamefully so ) when the work of Jesus overtook me (bless HIS name for overcoming our selfish use of HIS time HE has given us). See the photo, Eric and Namachana. Bernard who helps us at our home, Bubba's Bible College Student, exalted the holy name of Christ our Lord to these 2 precious souls. I got sucked into the perfect storm of the spiritual war. Taught them of His Royal Highness, King of Righteousness, King of Shalom, Prince of Peace, Man of Sorrows who carried our grief and was wounded for our transgessions, bruised for our iniquity, the Healer of our Sins and their results, death; then preached repentance and faith in Jesus Messiah the only wise God. They claimed to believe in Him not trusting their religion. Gave them Bibles...now look again at the photo. I do love it so, this walk of the Word of Life!

Phil

Sunday Blessings

2011-10-17T11:11:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Melody and I visited with Jacob Nasibebo and the people he is ministering to. They meet Friday for discipleship and services on Sunday morning. From small beginnings in the Lord, great things appear, ask the Apostles.

During the service while prayer was being offered up, I took a picture of George and Kelvin [do not tell me my eyes should have been closed without giving me a verse...HA gotcha]. George, unchurched, starting coming to be discipled by Jacob. Now he is a faithful follower of Jesus Messiah our Savior. Kelvin has been coming faithfully for a few weeks, and joy of learning Christ is beginning to be seen in his life.

Grandma in middle of group picture, Jacob's 90 plus yr old Grandmother was singing and smiling all the time. She has gone to church since a girl, practicing witchcraft all along. The first time I met her she was mumbling in a 'tongue' Jacob had never heard but assures me it was not any Zambian language, ....you figure it out....while shaking her head at me with obivious anger; anyway a year later she came to services, proclaimed that she was now following the Jesus of the Bible that Jacob taught and repented of witchcraft. Been smiling ever since!

After the service, Jacob gave Kelvin a Bible. What glory is seen when our God and our Savior, Jesus Christ is our Life.

Servant of the most high God, Phil.

Please Forgive Me

2011-10-14T00:01:00.000-07:00

I have struggled a bit since last post. Just tired all the time, and a shelf fell on me, got problems with neck and shoulder. Not complaining cuz at 61 am thankful to be able to do anything, just has reduced my time in the bush villages where the action mostly is.

There is one other pressing matter that has occupied my time and will for a while. Have been working on series of Lessons for our Zambian Pastors, leaders and anyone who wants to seriously minister for Jesu Kristo here in Zambia. Am on Lesson 30 at the moment and it is an effort to declare Jesu from Genesis to Revelation as Jehovah who is our Savior, our deliverer.

I am not a desk kind of guy, not a writer by choice, but this has been a direction the Lord has led me and it has been revolutionary, by their testimony, in the lives of those who have used it. It is 99.5% internal Scriptural evidence with a very small addition from generally accepted history, less than a 1/2 %. Enuff of that!

Yesterday, Pastor Kebby Malamo and his wife, Etambuyu met with me to determine their agreement for Kebby to go to our bush works for some days each month for training leadership. Etambuyu is a city girl like Melody, my wife. Bush jest ain't her thang! Opps my Texas jumped out before I cud stop it.

I told them to consider and pray over how much he could be gone without harming their home life, personal and family. I gave them a week or so to pray and discuss the issue, went to get them a sandwich and something to drink and Etambuyu was saying something to Kebby in Lozi. I caught all the words, but no understanding with my Texas mind.

When the old man returned to the table Kebby said Etambuyu had made her position clear as a Preacher/Evangelist's wife. When they married, Kebby was going for a week at a time to Evangelize. She knew it was right. What ever time he needed to strenghthen our ministry was good for her. The Lord had prepared her already to stand by Kebby and the ministry of Christ in which we labor together.

This is one step closer to the people we minister with, not needing me as they serve Christ from the heart. Our end goal is disciples of the Lamb of God, our blessed Redeemer, not disciples of man or man's religion.

Now we will not allow him long absences from home, but maybe 3 times for 4-5 days per trip every 2 months he will go to the Habbanyuku valley to train up leadership for the 2 churches there. Meanwhile he is at our home translating our material into Tonga and Lozi.

This morning Kebby came in the gate singing "I sing because I'm happy, I sing because I'm free...." .....strange..?... naw, just glad to be free to serve the LORD JESUS who made Kebby free from sin and because HIS eye watches Kebby....I aked him!

Here is picture of Kebby with the smile of the Life of Christ shining out to a lost and dying world.

Well, am going to Habbanyuka tomorrow, maybe a new story for the pages of God's book regarding HIS work among the children of men!

Barely Sanctified by the Crucified, Fully Justified by the Resurrected.

Your servant for Christ, Phil

A Time To Rejoice

2011-08-26T07:43:00.000-07:00

Greetings from Africa,

Been a while, sorry for the silence, working on extreme Scriptural discipleship material on Jesus Messiah Genesis to Revelation; this includes overseeing translation of same into Tonga and Lozi.

Yesterday and today we went to Simasiku and surrounding area with Pastor Jacob Nasibebo. We passed out Gospel booklets full of Scripture and showing who the Lord Jesus is. We started with 2 young men that came to greet us and taught them for about an hour. They bowed their heads and called on the Blessed Light and Eternal Word of Life, Jesu (old and Zambian English) for remission of sin and His life in them to follow Him.

Then we went and witnessed regarding Christ redeemer to some curio craftsmen, passing out Gospel Booklets to all we met. The Booklets included one called Help From Above which is simply scriptures topically arranged. Another one was "LOVE STORY" sent to us free of charge by Chick Publications for the booklets; altogether giving us 12,500 of them costing only $550 for shipping. Praise the Lord all that hath breath!

At one home several men said, "we know Pastor Jacob, he is a good Pastor, we will come to his services on Sunday! THEN (bated breath) !?!! strap on ur seatbelt, grab ur Bible, Uncle Bubba Phil is going to tell a story of glory....Pastor Jacob said, "I want us to go see an old man. It is told that he practices in the darkness of Satan and every one is afraid to go to his home. None of the preachers will go tell him about Jesus ". [side note, most of the preachers in the area are greedy hirling religionists, by all accounts shepherds that fleeeoowwweeee in face of the enemy] The motor sped up, dust boiled out from the tires of the Toyota, prayers, praise and supplication were offered, hearts of anticipation pounded as we slud in (Dizzy Dean's baseball term for u old timers) to the side of the road, bailed out and went to see this soul adrift in the sea of darkness in Satan's realm.

The old man greeted us as long lost friends and said we were welcome to bring the words of Leza (God). There, to him and two young men, I told quickly the story of Deuteronomy 5:22 thru 27,28,29 of mouths saying one thing but hearts far from the truth. Then I told the story of Baalim, a tragic story of blessing the Hebrew with his mouth while working deceit to provide for their vision the wicked, rioting, vulgar rituals that brought on illicit relations between the men of Israel and the Moabite women. In turn it worked destruction by the wrath of the Lord for their wickedness. And Baalim, though realizing his error in repentance, was found dead in the midst of his kinsmen when Israel conquered in the land of Canaan.

Silence, no reply, moment pregnant with the power of the Scriptural truth...then I shared that the only relief from sin, is complete repentance toward God and obedient faith in Jesus Christ the Lord of glory to save us from our sins.

With that we arose to depart and the old man said, 'You are welcome to return and tell us more of Jesu!"

AND so shall it be if the Lord our almighty, Jehovah our salvation, Jesu (u know!) will keep us breathing and moving for HIM.

Today, Jacob said before he was saved, converted to Christ when he met HIM thru Bible study I conducted at Victoria Falls, he was afraid of that old man. Jacob said, "yesterday was a real blessing, uplifting to me to go without fear and tell that old man of the Lord Jesu, our God and our Savior."

Picture is of Jacob serving Christ, the Lord of all the earth.

Blessings from our Father of lights,

Phil "Uncle Bubba" in Zambia Africa

Nakumpatu and the mighty hand of Jesus!

2011-07-31T22:25:00.000-07:00

Will any come forward...we preached Christ Jesus the only Savior, Deliverer from sin to His righteousness...4 verses of song so far no response to invitation to believe on Him who died for us...oh here is one, was sure there are some here who had not yet repented to the Lord and had faith in in Jesus Christ.....This is typical in Church services here in villages of the bush. They do not usually respond quickly at closing hymn when they are invited to come forward and publicly call on the Lord for forgiveness of sin and deliverance from Satan by believing Christ for new birth, new Life, His life in them.

NOT NAKUMPATU!!! Sunday morning, as the closing song first started 8 precious souls came forward, immediately, no hesitation, now now as they say in vernacular English...I mean right NOW...Pastor Kebby had given the plea for them to receive Jesus.

I had taught and preached Christ who died for our sins and is new Life for any that call upon HIM for deliverance from the power of Satan and darkness. I preached they must have a sorrowful repentant heart toward the only Most High God and Savior and call on HIM the Lord, Jesus Christ, with obedient faith in Him to forgive their sins and give them HIS righteousness and His eternal Life.

HERE THEY COME! Pastor Kebby had started singing with his eyes still closed from praying after extending the invitation for them to come forward receiving Christ as Savior, Redeemer, Lord, Master. His eyes popped wide open as he heard the foot steps of those rushing forward to proclaim faith in Jesus! He told me later he was not sure what was happening, he had never seen it like this before.

8 came, one to give thanks to Jesus for saving him. 7 said they had come forward because they wanted the Lord, Jesus Christ, to be their Savior and with all their heart wanted to follow ONLY HIM forever!!

YEAH, GLORY, HALLELUJAH, these people were rejoicing...joy did abound, Almighty God of Abraham Isaac and Jacob was exalted in Praise, Jehovah our Salvation, that would be JESU CHRISTU, was seen the Captain of our Salvation, the Word of Life...well I could go on about HIM the King of Kings, Lord of lords, Everlasting Father, Prince of peace...I mean where do we stop in praising HIM for being our Truth, the Way, the Life that is the Light of the World.........

Oh by the way, our newest ministry from Victory Baptist Church in the Habbanyuka Valley, Victory Care for the Vulnerable, is moving under the direction of Javist Mukua. The picture is an old man of Nakupatu receiving blankets for him and his wife. What a joy to help the needy in the Holy name of Jesus, Lord God Messiah!

Phil signing off to see why we have had no water supply at home for 2 days...just another African adventure!

Grandmama Simasiku

2011-07-10T07:43:00.000-07:00

It was October 2009 that I met her. Her grandson, Jacob now a Pastor, had just come out of the wicked cult of Rastapharianism and introduced her to me.

She was sitting outside her little hut, mumbling to herself. She was not happy I was there. She practiced witchcraft and had been a church member most of her life. I know, I know, one can't serve 2 masters, and from the way she regarded me I knew who her dark master was. I prayed.

Meanwhile back at the hut a few days later, on the way to see Jacob, she turned her back on me muttering, and peeping like a wizard out of Leviticus. She would wave her hand at me to stay away. I prayed for her.

The other night, we had an incident at our home where I was sure some evil spirit had followed someone in our house home from a village. I realized about 3 AM when I woke up. I prayed, it left, the air cleared, the oppression of darkness lifted (others in the house realized something had been wrong and said so the next day). Then with a song in my heart, I began to pray for the people we minister with and Grandmama came to mind. I prayed for her to be delivered from witchcraft, darkness and the clutches of the Satan.

A couple of days later we past her hut and saw her laying outside, asleep. I prayed for Jesus to save her.

Day before yesterday, Jacob told me that Grandmama Simasiku came to his house and said she wanted to put away witchcraft and follow Jesus. Well today we were with Jacob's discipliship group and here came Grandmama. At the end of Jacob and me speaking on the love of God and being born again, Grandmama said in Tonga,"I could have gone anywhere but I came here. Now I will follow only Jesus, believe on HIM."

Glory, I prayed!!

Till we meet again,

Phil

NEW CHAPTER OLD STORY

2011-06-30T08:34:00.000-07:00

I know, it has been a long time...am somewhat sorry.

Tired, weary, feeble weak (definition of "sick" James 5) today. Bush truck is sick, no trip as planned to Habbanyuka valley this weekend. Discouraged?...yeah a bit.

Knock at gate, who is that? another problem probably. "Someone to see Phil", Bernard called out. "OK OK coming" feet draggin, old Dragon jabbing, complaint forming on my lips : ( ...open gate??????? : )

: > () GLORY !!!!!!!! THERE SHE WAS, Grenda. Yeah Grenda (spelled Glenda). What joy came to my soul. "Melody, Grenda is here from Njabalombe!"

In 2001, we had returned to Njabalombe to hold a second meeting and have a baptism. When it came time to baptize, Grenda went into the water, was thrown backwards out of the Zambian preacher's hands and went under...she did not come up...the preacher grabbed her...realizing she was not saved and evil, familiar spirits were trying to drown her. She was dragged from the water by several people and laid on the bank.

Finally she got up but could hardly walk, started vomiting, grunting like swine, growling like a dog, staggering, falling, crawling, trying to stand...it dawned on me then that she was possessed of foul and evil spirits of darkness of Satan. The Pastors with us just let her go...I had no idea what to do, but I knew she had said she wanted to follow the Lord Jesus.

I grabbed one of the Pastor's that was a good friend and told him we must do something...he shrugged and followed me to her. They are so used to it that they did not know to deal with it and I did not know how. Now friends, this next is on a video taken by a missionary from Mexico who was visiting... from across the river where he was video taping the baptism he said"it is very cold this women is overcome by the cold"...."no, I think she is possessed of demons, we have seen this in Mexico". About that time, you can here me,"OH GOD, WE NEED SOME HELP DOWN HERE!" and folks, i weren't kiddin.

We had a team from States with us and they were backin us up .... way back, yeah and still backin up... Grenda was growling as we were bending over her. I opened her eyelids and her eyes were completely rolled back in her head, yeah dear Lord we need some help. I asked the Zambian preachers to interpret for me as I held her eyelids open asking her if she wanted the demons or Jesus, she managed to mumble Jesu...then she went wild then stiffened out like a board, I mean like a 2X12, completely rigid...now close your eyes for this next, I promise it is true, I was there but wondering why me, Lord...remaining rigid as a board, arms stiff at her side, no flex in her body, legs and all , she started raising up off the ground to a 45 degree angle with only the backs of her heels touching the ground ... we pushed her back down, took 3 of us! She came up again, we pushed her down muscles of 3 grown men straining, she 'tilted' up again, DOWN LADY we pushed again.

Then I called out to the Lord, "she wants Jesus please drive these evil spirits from her' she convulsed, growling barking, writhed on the ground then went still and Hallelujah, relaxed. Her eyes opened, and as she came to a smile of joy spread across her face, the same smile she was wearing today when I opened my gate. Smile of deliverance, joy, relief, and soon called on the LORD to be her Saviour. Back to the water, this time coming out rejoicing shouting Glory Hallelujah, thanking Jesus for forgiveness of sins. Yeah Buddy as we says in Texas, the Lord sent Glory, named Glenda, called Grenda to my gate today, I needed some rejoicing!

Phil

Building People and Buildings; In That Order

2011-04-22T05:01:00.000-07:00

Chief Mukuni opened the door, Jesus stepped thru with an old Missionary/Evangelist. Jacob, who lives Mukuni Chiefdom, came to Christ from a drug culture thru our Bible Study at Vic Falls Market.
About that time, Chief Mukuni stopped me on his palace road, inviting our ministry to go Southeast side of his kingdom.

Now Jacob is serving Christ on that side. Today I went to direct the building of place for his ministry with children and families to have shelter. Soon, Jacob and I agree, there will be a Church planted by the Lord there.

Today, much more important than the building, building people in the most holy faith took over. There were some questions about the Spirit of Christ, when he is received by the individual believer and the difference in that and Jesus' baptism promised to the assembly of believers with the Apostles. Nearly 2 hours later they saw the gift of the Spirit of Christ, Holy, and new birth were now synonymous for the individual, while the Baptism in the Spirit of God, Holy, same Spirit, was for the Congregation for power to be witnesses around the world.

Then we dealt with some false teaching prevalent around the world about the misunderstanding of these 2 works of Christ by HIS Spirit. We explored how people, looking for individual experience to match false teaching, fall for experiences that mirror rituals of darkness by foul and evil spirits initiated by " greivous wolves" Acts 20 "false prohets and teachers" who through covetiousness, with fake words "make merchandice" of those they deceive II Peter 2. We explored how these teachings cause people to return seeking the same excitment because they are empty when they get home, unchanged and not producing the work of Christ around the world. They revel in the experience not worship in the Person of Christ!

Then we reviewed what the work of Jesus Spirit, Holy, in the life of a believer and the lives of those in HIS CONGREGATIONS, will produce... 1. individual lives changed to HIS life in them by the Holy Spirit I Corinthians 1:30, Galatians 1:3-5 2:20, John 20:19-23 ... 2. witnesses in Congregational accord to the unttermost part of the world , Acts 1:1 and the rest of the book. These works of the Spirit of the LORD do not produce frantic screaming, writhing, foaming at the mouth and morbid appearances of death, noises of animals coming from humans etc. Those things are not imparted by the Spirit of Christ. They are found in souls of bondage that need deliverance from darkness; ...read the Bible as written and let experiences be judged by that, not the Bible judged by that which is right in the eyes beholding or experiencing the moment.

Building people most important because physical buildings fade away and those that have not "learned Christ"will also fade away in eternity to everlasting fire and brimstone.

Truth is a person, let us give HIM, Jesus Christ, to people!

Controversial but in love of God,

Phil

The Love of Jesus, Sweet and Marvelous

2011-03-29T07:28:00.000-07:00

It came to mind as I looked in her face...you know, the song "Isn't the Love of Jesus something wonderful...wonderful it is to me". There she sat, one of Melody's Little Bible Students at Kooma Basic School.

We traveled 1 1/2 hours from home, 30 + kilometers in the bush (during rain season, closer route in dry season), to reach this place...week after week! It is the 5th school in which Melody has taught Bible since we moved here.

Today, Melody had to step out of class while they were coloring, and I got to sit with them. Nicodemus and Jesus were getting some Zambian styling, bush concept. The precious babes of the bush villages had just heard the story of the Love of Jesus for this wicked, cheating little man who climbed a tree looking for something more that riches and fortune.

Then she looked up at me...smiled...yeah you got it, I thought of the wonderful marvelous love of the Blessed Lord of creation who became a man, the very and only begotten Son of God, to be our sacrificail Lamb shedding His own blood to wash our sins away. That same love so overwhelmed my sweet Melody and me, that we came here so this little bush girl could know HIS GREAT LOVE!

Now that is Praise to the LORD, Praise from earth to heaven, Praise ye the LORD. From Texas to bush pardise lost; but now regained by children of the bush thru the Holy Light of Heaven, even our Eternal Life, Jesu Christu, Jehovah our Redeemer, Savior Father, Friend of Sinners: for His Glory sake...Praise the LORD, Praise the LORD!

Yeah and Hallelujah, 'Isn't the Love of Jesus Wonderful'? Look at this face and argue...WOWEEEE I do love it so!

Phil

"Go ye therefore..."

2011-03-19T10:11:00.000-07:00

Greetings from Zambia

As we teach and preach the Bible, our desire is the people of Churches planted by the Lord Jesus in our ministry, have the vision of Christ for the world. He said these things..."all power in heaven and earth is given me...go ye therefore and teach all nation...preach the Gospel (power of God for salvation) ...ye shall be witnesses unto me (so HE, Christ the Lord would be the One we teach them)...to the uttermost parts of the world!!!

Now this is not the complete charge the Jehovah who is our salvation, JESUS, left us in the scripture, just part of His words in Matthew 28, Mark 16, Luke 24, John 20 and the Acts of the Apostles 1.

Today, as I was leaving Kooma, Albert elder man and disciple of the Lord Jesus in Grace Baptist Church there, said this to me, "we must go to other places far away and teach them who Jesus is because many do not know HIM"!!! Our conversation revolved around building a house for Pastor Aaron Siazyombo. And that when he is there with them full time, they could do the work of the ministry together thru out the week every week.

That statement out of the heart of a man that loves Jesus and has Jesus heart vision for the world, is the very essence of the Life of Christ formed in us.

Did I do that? NO, NO, NO! Only the Lord of Glory can move a man to have that vision of reaching the lost with the revealed Glory of our loving God by the Gospel as seen from Genesis 3 and 4.

More stories coming soon...don't move that dial.

Phil Stephens

New Work for Jesus: Nakampatu

2011-02-28T07:15:00.000-08:00

In the remote valley of Habbanyuka, the Lord Jesus directed, empowered, blessed and provided the planting of Victory Baptist Church. It is HIS work, not mine. It is HIS Body, Congregation of assembly, HIS believers, baptized unto HIM for HIS Glory by the work of the Gospel.

This Church has now planted another work, serious, serving and surely sanctified, by the Lord Jehovah our salvation, even the God Amighty of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, Jesus the Christ. The remote village of Nakampatu is the location of this new work in Christ.

Breyford Mwaanga, Pastor of Victory Baptist Church is training men to reach their world with the Gospel. One of those men is Given. He and his wife went thru a ruff patch 2 years ago. The wife was very ill, but they called on the LORD for help in time of need. Pastor Mwaanga and I went to visit them along with other members of Victory Baptist Church. We prayed with them, on several occations.

In the midst of Given and his wife's trial, their families pronounced a curse on them for rejecting traditional ancestral worship (familiar spirits) and for refusing to allow the darkness of witchcraft to be consulted. They stood firm that, live or die, they were serving Jesus Christ and trusting only HIM for any and all needs.

The wife is well, and Given is now preaching every Sunday at Nakampatu. Sunday 12 were Baptized, 4 from Habbanyuka and 8 from Nakampatu. And Jesus who is worthy, is receiving glory by the Gospel spreading across this remote area.

Stay tuned as these 2 works of Christ have been invited to come to an even more remote village. The people heard of the mighty work of God and sent messengers to plead that this same Gospel be brought to them.

If our slow internet will do so, I am downloading a short video of the baptism this past weekend.

Your loving servant of Jesus,

Phil

PS how bout a picture, video will not load. Maybe in a week or so when we get a new Internet Provider.

They said WHAT?

2011-02-20T21:47:00.000-08:00

This is Sunday, February 20, 2011. 04:30 zulu time, called "early, very very early". Left sleeping beauty, Melody, where she snuggly lay, and cooked some eggs with... HALLELUJAH!!... Tony Chachere Seasoning from Louisiana (a eastern rural community of the Republic of Texas).

Packing some lessons for Fred Mutinta, my Sword, written version of that which proceeds from the King of Kings and Lord of Lords in HIS Revelation seen clearly in chapter 19, some water and Coke Light (keeps me light in the saddle) NOT...fast forward on slow road to Maluma ....>>>

Arriving Maluma area Baptist Church, surprise visit, 010:00 zulu time (sounds military huh? not, zambian time actually meaning we are there when we get there never early, never late), we find some gathered in the Blessed Name of Jesu Christu, our Lord and our God, Savior One and Only...rejoice, rejoice again I say rejoice...

Songs, Hymns, Spiritual Songs, choir 4 songs, oh the Glory did roll, Sunday School taught by Daniel from Highway Baptist Church... THEN...minor key 'dum de dum dum'... question time ( why do they do this??? : > ( ???)....

Jacob a bright star for the MORNING STAR was supposed to preach...he sat down beside me and frightened miss muffett away...well actually he asked me if I was OK then told me what I feared from what I perceived, though lesson and questions in Tonga... They had butchered the truth, built a golden calf, danced around the subject(s), for 45 minutes of the hour and 15 minute Sunday School lesson which switched or witched away from 'what is sin' to 'how to destroy biblical truth about Satan and and since they already had 2 wives and lusted after another woman was it ok to take another wife... we already broke God's plan, 1 woman with 1 man = 1 marriage too late now because many have 2 women with 1 man + lust... might as well have 3 wom..." well you'll get the point, read it again.

"What is that , Jacob?" "Should you speak, Pastor Phil?" "Oh why not, Jacob, what is the worst that could happen...things get worse?" "HUH? Pastor Phil what do you mean?" "Oh never mind, just interpret for me Jacob" Grin, Jacob's face, he loves a good fiasco...

One and a half hour later, Satan is put in place, lust is condemned, period, more sin must not follow forgiven sin, no divorce but no more wives, NO QUESTIONS but one...you get the BIBLE POINT? and will you live for JESUS and let HIM have your life?

AMEN was the answer, let's get out of Dodge, dodging any more questions...13:30? who cares what time...start the truck, wave good bye OHHHH wait one more thing, let's take a photo and oh yeah let's PRRAAYYYYYYYYYYYYY.

Yours truly...knocked out for Jesus, I do love it all!!!

Phil Stephens

miracles are still ours

2011-01-20T21:16:00.000-08:00

Welcome, have been away from home in Zambia for a while but now back and the stories of the work of Yahweh our LORD and God even Jesus Deliverer Messiah abound. First story from the bush ministry now!
Trouble had been brewing as Satan stirred his seething pot of darkness in the heart of a man at the Church in Sinamanjolo. When Melody and I arrived, Pastor Costa Musena (with family on the left, picture taken 2 days ago) told me that one of the "leaders", Eliot, in the Church had threatened him with death.
Eliot told all the faithful that if they came to Church, Costa would be killed. They, for fear of Costa's life, stayed home for 2 weeks. He also told Costa that before the old white man(that would be me) returned, Costa would be dead and dried. As you can see from the photo Costa is alive and quite hydrated.
The story goes that this man with a heart of murder and evil got his childhood friend, Preston, to go with him to beat Costa. As they walked to Costa's home, the follower saw a fiery sight ahead (no bush fires at this time of year and no fires in the area) and realized he was following to fight against the LORD, most high God. He told his long time friend that they were friends no more and went back to his home.
The next day as the instigator continued his evil plot, alone now, Preston repenting of the wicked scheme came to Costa, confessed the story, apologized, asked forgiveness from the LORD and Costa and said, "I was deceived by Eliot that you should not be Pastor. He has been rebellious from the start, I will never listen to him and the Devil again. When I saw the fiery vision I knew it was a warning from the LORD".
In the process, the LORD had already given Costa great peace that he was safe. Costa visited the homes of the faithful last week and assured them he was in the LORD's hands and for them to return to Church, he had no fear of death! They all were encouraged and even some who were faithful in the past, hearing this, said now that the truth regarding Eliot was clearly seen (they had known his devious ways for years) would return to the Church they loved.
There are more elements of the Grace of God in this story and HIS direct touch from heaven on Costa and the people. But I choose to let them be known when you see Jesus, miracle on miracles. JUST LOOK INWARD AND CHECK YOUR OWN LIFE IF IT BE SURRENDERED FULLY TO CHRIST JESUS. IF SO THAT IS SALVATION PROMISED TO THE REAL BELIEVER. CHRIST IN US, HIS LIFE BECOME OURS!!!

Stay tuned to the channel of stories of the mighty work of God among the children of men.

Phil

Last for a While

2010-06-28T22:19:00.000-07:00

We are, with mixed emotions, headed to States. Though we will miss our people here, we will be delighted to see those that we left behind to come this side.

One last salvo across the bow of Satan's hell bound 'ship' before we depart. Last weekend we went to a bush village that is given to darkness, witchcraft and the blinding deceit of that old Serpent.

Bondage of souls of men is the art of the great red Dragon. His kingdom is alive in death and the depths of wickedness. BUT and so we charge with the Sword of the Spirit of Christ, the Holy Scripture.

They agreed to a meeting. We taught and preached Jesus Christ for over an hour and half. 3 men asked to receive Christ. Then Sunday morning 2 of them plus 2 more came to Grace Baptist Church with us just down the 2 rut road at Kooma.

After preaching service of life with Christ, and promise of new heaven and earth, new body at His return, Romans Chapter 8, Isaiah51, Colossians 3 another one came to front of the Congregation calling out to the Lord Jesus to forgive him for drinking, witchcraft, beating drums (their word for witch doctor all night drunken reveling) and for Jesus to receive him and take his life to be a follower of the Redeemer.

Take that in the heart you old Devil! Jesus has "snared and taken" some more to HIMSELF!! Isaiah 28:7-13 (KJV to see the full import).

HIS servant,
Phil

New Village Same Gospel & Love of God

2010-06-21T05:03:00.001-07:00

Been absent, busy getting things in order here to come home to USA for furlough. Then infection set in. Common problem with cuts scrape and bacteria. Really got bad while in Habanyuka Valley this past weekend.

We found a new village off the beaten path. Many people there, small crowd of 30 or so people gathered and we preached the Gospel according to Isaiah the prophet. One man received Christ.

That evening, hand throbbing from infection but worth the pain, I picked a group of them and brought them to Victory Baptist Church. Again we preached Christ crucified, dying for our sins and risen from the dead.

These people called out that we must start a work of this Bible teaching in their area. Pastor Breyford Mwaanga agreed to bicycle to them each Sunday afternoon to hold Bible Study, 7 miles! Yeah, this is the work of Jehovah our Savior, Jesus Christ, amongst the children of men to bring them salvation from sin and death, giving them His eternal life...." "who gave Himself for our sins that He might deliver us from this present evil world...' Here we live and breath and have our being in HIM and HIM through us to "those that sit in darkness" who now "have seen a great Light" even Jesus in whom is Life.

See you tomorrow, Lord willing.
Phil

Let's Build A Place to Congregate

2010-06-14T00:46:00.000-07:00

Mutinta, in Maluma Area, Baptist Church. A small Congregation of the assembly, with the heart of Jesus Christ who is the Head of the Church which is His body, Ephesians 1. Well, they needed a place to meet, so here they are building. I am not in the picture, not important. Someone had to operate the camera.

How about the Zambian ladder? Very effective if you are agile. Me, I stay on the ground. My job is to instruct in the construction, carry the lumber around, measure for the wall plates and trusses and teach them the whole council of the Scripture, lead them so we together may be servants of the most HIGH GOD, Jehovah, and preach the Gospel to every creature...climb that ladder, NOT! Not in this lifetime, and that ladder?... surely not in Heaven or on the new earth and in new Jerusalem.

Well, they are moving forward for Jesus so we shout in Texan praise Kiyippeeallelujahiaye! Jesus Christ our Lord is on the throne, the Right Hand and Strong Arm of the LORD, Psalm 98. The rodeo is on and bull ride of this old world is at 7 1/2 seconds...not to worry we will make 8 because Jesus made the rigging and His hand is over ours, wraps will not come loose. Got His promise on that John chapter 10. (If you do not understand the terminology, go to the world finals of bull riding this year...you will get it then).

Regards in Christ the Lord,
Phil from Texas in Zambia...I do love it so!!!

Light in the Darkness

2010-06-10T12:04:00.000-07:00

Overnight meeting, Sinamanjolo. Preaching to the people I love of the love of God for them. No light but the candle (of course the flash of the camera enhanced by Kodak Photo Edit) and the Light of the life of Jesus our Savior. O, the Light that is shed abroad in our hearts. O, the light of Christ that we pray will shine from us into the darkness of African culture. O, the Light that will drive the darkness of sin and shame from the hearts of men and women. O, Lord of hosts, Jehovah even Messiah who gave Himself for our sins, deliver us from this present evil world, from the love of the world, lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes and pride of life. May our life be the Life of Christ in us, for us and through us that HE may be glorified.

Couple more pictures of the loved ones of the beloved Son of God in whom HE is well pleased.

Light is Seen In Darkness

2010-06-07T05:46:00.000-07:00

This photo is expanding light. This is the ministry staff of Highway Baptist Church at Sinamanjolo. Pastor Costa in the green shirt is training the others to be servants, led by the Spirit of Christ. As they serve they also oversee the Church at Maluma.

This past Saturday we had an overnight meeting of Highway Baptist, Victory Baptist from Habanyuka and the Church at Maluma. Over 200 attended. The next morning at team from America came in, 2 souls came to Christ, and 7 were baptized. Glory of the Lord was present.

So we give thanks to the Lord Jesus for His unspeakable gift of eternal life and His allowing us to minister the Gospel to many who sit in darkness until the see a "great Light", Jesus Christ whom we serve.

In this blog is also a photo from this weekend, baptism.

Love of the Lord Jesus to all,
Phil

Not Missing in Action, Just in Action so Missing

2010-06-04T09:47:00.000-07:00

Wow, been going day and night. Well another bright light in a dark land, Aaron Siazyombo. The picture is him introducing his wife to some guests we had at Kooma where he is the Pastor...totally UN Zambian. The Lord has blessed us with some real humble servants of the most high GOD. Aaron and Mary are among them. They have 2 precious girls Priscilla and Princess.

The other day I was going in to work on the building at Kooma and ran into (ok not literally) Aaron on his bicycle out visiting in the area. He had worked 12 hours the night before. I would just imagine the Lord's smiling down at His servant being seen with the good works of Jesus Christ effective in him!

Now I leave you with this thought. The Lord's School of Scripture has no graduation on this side of Heaven. Many graduate from a Bible College even Seminary with all kinds of degrees earned from curriculum designed by man. Then these same many find new ways to rehash what they learned at the feet of men for the rest of their ministry. I think we would do well to simply open that Blessed Old Book, get a good source for definitional study, bow in prayer to the Lord for teaching by His Holy Spirit and study over and over the words of that book while letting the books of man about the Bible gather some dust. No graduation from that school, til we see Jesus.

Light of Jesus Seen in Believers

2010-05-22T10:57:00.001-07:00

Sorry, have been busy day and night, but have not forgotten the stories of Light. Though the darkness in this world would overwhelm us by Satan's design, the Lord promised light. This man, Jacob Nasibebo, and his wife Veronica show the light of the Life of Jesus Christ in the darkness that surrounds them.

Coming from a culture of typical church religion mixed with witchcraft, continued sin, even by the leaders, here in Zambia, Jacob moved to the drug/drinking/reveling world of Rastafarian. Then, after coming to Bible Study at Victoria Falls for a while, June 29 2009, he received Christ as Savior, in his words, "as my life, truth, way and righteousness".

Since that time, he has given his time, effort and heart to knowing Jesus Christ of the Scripture. If someone says to Jacob, "lets go serve the Lord, study the Scripture, pass out Gospel literature, tell someone about Jesus", I have some advice regarding that. Do not get in his way or try to stop him!!!... he will kindly patiently gently tenderheartedly compassionately carefully run over you on the way to the WORK OF JESUS.

Acts 10:34-41 begins with Peter preaching and in this passage Peter said, '...the word which God sent...preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (He is Lord of all)...who went about doing good...whom they slew and hanged on a tree: Him God raised up the third day and showed Him openly...and He commanded us to preach unto the people...that through His name whosoever believes in Him shall receive remission of sin.'

This same Life of Jesus, going about doing good, commanding us to tell people that by His name (all that He is), we, by faith can have remission of sin...this same Life that is Jesus Life, John 1:4 and 14 can be seen effective, the Life of light which pierces the darkness, in Jacob. On earth, first seen by his family, then professed to me as he chose me to disciple him to Jesus Christ and now proclaiming to any and all who will listen, Jesus saves. You just cannot shut the boy up about, or divert his attention from, JESUS CHRIST!

Yeah...that is the work of Jesus Christ the light of the world among the children of men!

Delivered from Darkness, Serving Christ

2010-05-17T03:48:00.000-07:00

Last story was of darkness. Today I begin showing the result of the Light of Jesus Christ in this darkness of Africa.

In 2006, Breyford Mwaanga began working with me in the ministry. He had gone to a Fundamental Baptist Bible School in Livingstone. But soon he was set up for failure.

Young, inexperienced, unmarried, that Organization sent him out with another, inexperienced, unmarried young man. They went to a place where a few meetings had been held, and told to "Pastor" the few that had received Christ. Not only was there Biblical mandate that they were not qualified, novices and no wives, but they had not worked faithfully with any elder men in the faith in new areas.

Soon, Breyford was 'out of service'. Then his uncle sent him to me. Within a few weeks, he was traveling with me nearly every week. I continually taught him Biblical principles, definition and showed him the power of Jesus Christ's life in the Scripture. He learned the Apostles doctrine which they received from the Lord Jesus.

Now he is married, and his family is moving to Habanyuka. He is no longer a novice, he is the husband of one wife, he has a son and he has been seen stable by the life of Jesus in him. Pray for them as they go to labor in the ministry...the people of Habanyuka love him and his family.

Stay tuned for another bright light on a dark continent in the next couple of days.

Walking in Darkness

2010-05-15T09:19:00.000-07:00

Culture of darkness. Many that proclaim to be followers of Jesus Christ, still walk in darkness. The photo above is in an area where there are many Congregations, but according to people we know that live in this village area, most if not all have the darkness of witchcraft in them even while proclaiming Christ.

1 John 1:6 says, "If we say we have fellowship with HIM (Jesus) and walk in darkness, we lie and do not the truth". One cannot have it both ways. Jesus says in Matthew 7, "Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity." One does not have saving faith in Jesus Christ the Lord and walk, continue, choose to follow the works of the devil.

These boys and men in the picture are carving traditional masks of witchcraft. They do so with blessing from those that have familiar spirits, wicked spirits of darkness, fear, terror by night, wickedness in high places. Yet, they claim to be with Jesus. We asked!

However in this dark culture, there are the shining lights that reflect the work of the Life of Christ, who is the Light of the world. In the next few stories, I intend to profile a few of these.

So watch for some saints in the Zambia who know the power of Jesus Christ in them, the same Christ who is the Son of God that was "manifested, that He might destroy the works of the Devil". Jesus was "manifested to take away our sins".

These are men out with me visiting, with the glorious Gospel, those that are "blinded by the god of this world" who is Satan. Yeah, fellowship with Jesus!

Torment of Satan

2010-05-09T23:38:00.000-07:00

i
Sorry so long in writing, have been overwhelmed. My nephew is helping build a clinic next door to Victory Baptist Church in Habanyuka. I only have a month and 1/2 to get this organized. Plus we are in 2 other building projects at Kooma and Maluma with those Churches.

Yesterday at Habanyuka, Endless, mother of Blessing, girl with Cerebral Palsy, came to Church. She has been involved with witchcraft before coming to Christ 2 weeks ago. Well when we began singing the "Worshiping Song", she started to the front and was suddenly struck with crippling in her left leg. By the time she got to the front of Church, she could not walk and fell to the ground.

We work with people that have been in bondage for centuries to "power, signs and lying wonders" of Satan and his "mystery of iniquity" (read about it in II Thessalonians 2).

It was invitation time and another had come repenting of not being faithful to the Lord. When we got to Endless, she told us she was being tormented by evil spirits. When she tried to ask the Lord to deliver her from their torment she could not. She said they were holding her. Finally she did manage to call on the Lord, but was still smitten and could not stand. Now I was sure that she had "given place to the devil". There was something in her life that allowed the messengers of Satan to torment her physically.

After much prayer and as we were leaving she suddenly was released, by the hand of the Lord, from that sudden infirmity of wicked and foul spirits .

Friends, we are in a battle. To be effective, we must walk in light as Jesus is in light. His life is light and if we abide in Him and His words abide in us, we will have victory over the works of darkness. John 12:46, 15:7. If our walk is in His words, we can ask and He will do for us.

Praying, going, walking with Jesus "who died for our sins that He might deliver us from this present evil world" Galatians 1:1-3.

Ministry That Rips The Heart

2010-04-28T21:42:00.000-07:00

Her name is Blessed. She is nearly 3 years old. She was born in adversity, oxygen deprived, now living with Cerebral Palsy. Her mother's name is Anolty.

She has been to several clinics and 2 hospitals for evaluation. They had no clue so told mother she was just undernourished.

When I heard the story, I realized what the problem is. I explained the difficulty to her family and told them to feed her a protein diet to help her develop as much as possible. I also told them her intelligence may be just fine and to teach her just as they teach others. Her speech may be distorted, but they could learn her language.

Thru this anguish, the mother has been coming to Church and this past Sunday, she come forward and said, "Today I now understand I must receive Jesus as my Savior. I must give my life to Him and believe in Him with all my heart." Then she bowed her head and asked the Lord to forgive her sins and take her life and come live with her. No prompting, just the plea of a repentant heart for deliverance from sin to salvation.

Adversity turned to glory, shame to joy, trials to eternal life in Christ.

"Yeah, dear Lord Jesus, just give me a few more years to see your glorious work among the children of men."

Door Frame

2010-04-27T06:23:00.000-07:00

Where is Door Frame? He is leading the next song.
Yes, his name is Door Frame, it was his Grandfather's name and became his name when his Grandi died.

Half blind, poor, no family living to his knowledge...loves the Lord. Precious in HIS sight!

Was told by the family he was staying with that if he went back to Victory Baptist Church in Habanyuka they would beat him. Asked one of our members, Ba Javist, what he should do. Javist asked him if he wanted to keep coming to our Church. Door Frame said yes and Javist told him to follow what he knew the Lord wanted. So he is still with us and now lives with Ba Javist.

Below is Door Frame leading Tonga song "We Shall See Jesus Coming in the Clouds". No wonder I love what I do! Glory to God I do love it so!

PS Tried to load video but our internet service is lousy.

Old Ones Serving Jesus

2010-04-18T21:47:00.000-07:00

3 sisters, youngest on your right was a witchdoctor, now walking in light of Christ having repented of the darkness of Satan. Eldest in the middle, remember her story from a few weeks ago? Faithful to the Lord Jesus.

The one on your left is the middle sister. The eldest and youngest brought her to church! Brought her to hear the words of Christ. Brought her that she may hear, Jesus saves!

These are the faces from 3 generations ago in Africa. The youngest was born in 1942, and when she was a young girl, the eldest was already married. That would make her in her 80's at least. She and middle sister do not know their ages.

Well, they have been reached by and taught of Jesus Christ. How God must love them, to have them know that there is salvation for those in darkness...they have seen that great light, even the promised ONE, Messiah, the Lord Jesus.

I thank the LORD for allowing me to be a part of HIS work for these old, precious people in Africa.

Later,
Phil

Joy Of The Work Of Christ

2010-04-15T11:25:00.000-07:00

I first met her over a year ago. She came to Sunday morning Church meeting at Kooma. She is a Machabela, elder woman.
When invitation came, 3 Machabelas came forward, she is the youngest. One by one we spoke with them and they said they were coming to give their lives to Jesus and repenting of drunkeness, lying, stealing and prostitution.
Of the 3, she has continued faithful. This past Sunday she came forward asking the Lord to help her live so others could see Christ in her. She was asking the Lord to guide her to be like Jesus.
Now what about that! Dear Lord, I do love what you allow me to do...tell your story of love and forgiveness. Thank you, Jesus.

Signed, Phil

See What The LORD Has Done!

2010-04-09T00:09:00.001-07:00

Let's go, the kids are waiting. So away we went to Melody's ministry at Kooma school. This is our last meeting with them for the term.

Now at the end of each term, I preach and we give an invitation. No arm twisting, no generic do you believe in Jesus, just serious preaching based on the teaching Jesus Christ throughout the term.

Well I preached, we had 14 profess the Lord Jesus as their Savior. Many more came forward but they came because the older kids came. It is discerning and knowing your people. It is understanding their culture. So I was convinced that 14 students were fully persuaded to receive Christ in repentant obedient faith.

Now we know that it is the thought of the heart that the LORD sees and that is what counts. So our number may well be different than HIS, but at the end of the DAY, the increase is HIS, we just plant and water. All that counts is a Christ saved life, eternal life in the true believer, the very life of Christ in them. Melody and I are but messengers, servants of the most high GOD, Jehovah who is our salvation, Jesus the Messiah...HE who is anointed to save HIS people from their sins and restore all things unto Himself.

Halleluyippeeia...OH WHAT A SAVIOR!!! He is who this old Texas redneck is talking about.

New Home Area, Same Story, Christ!

2010-04-06T23:28:00.000-07:00

Forgot my camera. So the photo is out of archives from the remote area of this story. We arrived this past weekend and visited the home area of Funwell (they call him Funy, seriously). He had invited us to come when I spoke at the funeral of his Dad a few weeks ago.

We arrived and soon had over 25 gathered to hear of Christ. After teaching Christ for about 45 minutes, they asked some questions. More to the point they spoke of accusations that we were of Satan. These accusations came from other Churches in the valley.

Here is the irony. These Churches had been established beginning in 1945, then mostly abandoned with little teaching. They are infested with witchcraft, ancestral spirit worship, familiar spirits of Deuteronomy 18 and other scriptures. They practice the arts of divination and black magic while using the name Jesus. Charms, beads, idols...they have long gone after other gods, just the same as the spiritually adulterous Israel did over and over. AND THEY ACCUSE US OF BEING SATANISTS.

These Churches have burned each others building and homes. Yeah that is spiritual evil!

Well, I told them we are in good company. Jesus was accused of working with the devil. So what could we expect. Here was Funwell's answer: "...and we know the truth, because you have come with only Jesus...". You see, the Bible is correct after all is said and done. Jesus said He is the way, the truth and the life...so when we simply show HIM to others the truth, Jesus, sets captives free, we are freed from lies and HE is glorified.

Many came from that home area to Church Sunday morning, believing that Christ is the Savior. Glory to God in the HIGHEST! On earth, peace with Jehovah comes by Jesus Messiah the Lord, Jehovah who is our Savior.

Where HE leads!

2010-03-31T09:32:00.000-07:00

They needed cement, so away to Kooma with 2 preachers. The Church is building and so I am the gopher. As we journey, I teach along the way. Called discipleship. Jesus did it.

On our return journey, I was tired, old you know. I was talking to myself, under my breath, "...I sure am tired but think I will take a left turn and go thru the forest. Yeah, I know it would feel good to get home and drink a Coke Light...eat a bite...take a short nap...but the drive is so magnificent, trees, birds, (and sometimes the Lord chimes in and I think I am still talking...to myself)... wonder about those huts where no one is ever seen, they seem kind of mysterious...yeah I'll go that way...."

"LOOK OUT YOU MISSED THE WAYS" Pastor Mwaanga shouts.

"Pepe (NO), I decided to go this way." "Why?" "Not sure."

"Hey men, look at all those people, let's stop give them some Gospels (booklets)".

Well we did and guess what, it was the Lord that interrupted and I did not know it until the people begged us to bring them a Church. The mysterious huts were overun with people. One was the village headman, Simon Siachibondo. They told us they had no Church, no Bibles and no teaching about Jesus who they heard of but did not know HIM.
April 24-25 we will return by the hand of the LORD and hold meetings to introduce them to our best Friend, Jesus our Savior, the Savior of the world. Don't tell me talking to yourself in a sign of being crazy. The Lord can interrupt at any time. . .specially when HE has a road for us to follow.

Off to the 4x4 races with in the old Gospel truck, best race ever; Jesus: owner, designer, driver, mechanic, and power fuel. I just go along for the ride...look out, we are crashing the gates of hell!!!

OK so I am crazy. As my old friend Bob used to say, " you don't have to be crazy to be a missionary, but it helps.

Remembering the Joy!

2010-03-29T22:57:00.000-07:00

The night was late, the meetings were over, the fires had died down. It was the first time our people from Habanyuka valley had come up from the valley to meet with the Church at Sinamanjolo.

We had great evening of teaching, preaching and singing. The old white man was in his tent and the visitors from the valley were settling down in the Church building for the night. It is their custom to be talking as they go to bed and suddenly, as if on cue they are just silent.

This night all became quiet for a moment and then, they began to sing. Sweet Zambian song called the Worshipping Song. Then they began to pray. They were thanking God for saving them, for leading them safely here, for teaching them, for loving them. As they prayed, I wept...for those yet lost but mostly tears of deep joy unspeakable for what our great God and Savior Jesus Christ had done with this remote people of the bush.

So they were praying, I was thrilled and suddenly...quiet. They went to sleep praying. I feel sure that Jehovah, Jesus the Son given, the Everlasting Father was watching with healing in HIS wings and love that we cannot express adequately with words of man...love that He expressed in the Word become flesh who died for us and for these people who have believed here on the dark continent.

Thank you dearest Lord Jesus for letting me serve you, a messenger to those in this place and in this darkness that they may see the great Light.

Glory Story Book 2 Story 3

2010-03-25T23:33:00.000-07:00

Bernard, "How are you this morning?" Phil, "Just OK, but many problems (coolant leak in Melody's car trouble repairing, logistics of the day for 2 journey's into bush etc.) but God is bigger than our problems."

Little Later:

Pastor Mwaanga, "Just got good news from Victory Baptist in Habanyuka. Many that were at funeral (see Book2 Glory Story 2) where you spoke last week are coming to Church. They wrote the old white Madala (Phil, oh that's me) a long letter of thanks for the message, but it was too long for Richard's cell phone text message. "

Little jig danced,
Little shouting hallelujah,
Thanksgiving offered to Jesus!

Phil, "Did you tell Bernard yet?" Mwaanga "No, not yet." Phil, "Bernard, come here. What did I tell you earlier? God is bigger than our problems. This is how HE is bigger than our problems. The car may still leak, we may not get our program finished, but listen to what HE has done in Habanyuka."

Pastor Mwaanga to Bernard:

"Kabotu, story in Tonga dialect to Bernard...." Bernard, "Our God has blessed us"

Huge grin while speaking,
Rejoicing by 3 men,
Glory of the Lord Jesus revealed this morning,
HONOR TO THE KING!
HONOR TO THE KING OF GLORY!

See Psalm 24 and Galatians 1:1-5 and Ephesians 1:17-20

...That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead...

Book 2 Glory Story 2

2010-03-23T21:19:00.000-07:00

They were wailing. The darkness of despair was on them. A Madala ( old man) had died. The ancestral spirits, familiar spirits condemned by the LORD, cast out by Jesus, pretending to be dead ancestors were tormenting them. Fear of death prevailed. Hope of favor from enchantments, wizardry, spells of pacifying the 'spirits'; not being the one blamed for his death by a witch finder, dim hope indeed, hung a pall of evil over the gathering.

And so I was brought to this scene of agony, tragedy, wickedness of worship in the kingdom of Satan. My friends, it is not "mental", it is spiritual darkness, very real, magic that brings literal, deadly, effect that is supernatural and manifested physically in things impossible to humanly perform. It is not light, smoke and mirrors. It is the work of the spirit of iniquity, directed by a real adversary, the king of devils, Satan.

Into this scene came Light, the Life of Jesus the Light of the world, the Word of God who became flesh and lived among us, whose glory we beheld, the glory of the only begotten of the Father, the child born, the Son given who is the Everlasting Father. In Him is Life, eternal Life that lights every man that comes into the world...this very one who came to destroy these works of the Devil. It is in the Book. It is the record. It is a record of Jehovah our salvation, JESUS.

After speaking this Word, Jesus to this gathering, the second born of the dead Madala asked for these words of the Jesus be brought to his home. By the power, protection, provision, of the MIGHTY GOD, the Son of the government of Jehovah, a government of love, mercy, grace to those that believe, judgment and perdition to those that refuse, the Son of God in whom we live and have our being...WE WILL GO!

Glory Story: Book 2 Story Number 1

2010-03-21T11:06:00.000-07:00

"Let's go visit Siawela and Tankali. They live on the side of the second gorge from Loyd." "Can I drive the 4x4 there?" "No you have to walk but it is only about a kilometer away." "Remind me who they are." "They are the old couple that are faithful members here at our Church (Victory Baptist Habanyuka). You know the old man 70 or 80 years old." "OH yeah, but can I make?!???" "Sure you can."

FAMOUS almost last words on this earth for me. We did, and I think I died twice but God revived must have revived me cause here I are. But it was worth it. They are precious. They are old Zambians that Jesus snatched out of darkness and shifted them to the Kingdom of Light through HIS ministry in Habanyuka. So here are a couple of Pictures. Just got in from bush, bushed. Another story or 3 this week. Hey if it was easy and paid a lot, everyone would want to do it. BUT, nobody would love it more than me.

Thank you LORD Jesus for choosing me to come here. I bow in thanksgiving for your wondrous love! Truly YOURS forever, Phil.

When its time to go, its time to go!

2010-03-18T08:14:00.000-07:00

His Dad, Albert, Headman of Kooma, faithful member of Kooma Baptist Church, called on cell phone...
"Cryson's animal injured him"...
Phil, "Come again"
"Cryson animal injured him, he bleeds from mouth"...
"A cow injured him?"
"Ayaaa, knocked him, he's coughing blood"
"Did cow step on him?"
"Ayaaee, 3 times and knocked him with horns, no transport can you come?"
"No, the bush truck broken, maybe bearings in alternator broken, will repair tomorrow."
"OK, see you."

LORD (to my heart, as tears came to my eyes)... "Look and see what problem is."
Phil, "Sure it is alternator..."
"Look and see"

Out the door, under the hood, saw the problem a tension pulley for the A/C...took off the belt and pulley...and away I go in the African night riding with Jesus to the rescue....praying, singing, praising, pleading and knowing that there was no place on earth I would rather be, thanking God for letting me do what I do...and asking my Heavenly Father for protection for Cryson, a faithful follower of Jesus, as it sounded that he had a broken rib puncturing his lung.

Well, picked up (literally) the patient, took him to hospital, doctor there but did nothing until morning. The cow (all his animals weigh over 900 pounds) stepped right on his chest over the heart. He was spitting blood.

Next day the X-rays showed....NO BROKEN RIBS.... now who do you suppose arranged that? I know! Cryson is a small man with small bones, the cow was a big cow with huge hooves, God is a great God and Saviour with great love, and He loves us and He loves to protect HIS own, HE loves to answer prayer.

Picture is Cryson and his wife when I took them home yesterday. Sore, muscles injured, but safe in the care of Jesus! I love this life...you know, me and Jesus in the bush...' in joy and in sorrow, today and tomorrow, I know HE will walk with me!' Yes, 'Jesus will walk with me down through the valley... when in the sunshine or when in the shadow, if HE goes with me I shall not complain' what a song! 'Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for THOU art with me...' what a Psalm (23)...my comfort is in Jesus my Saviour who is with me to the end of the world (Matthew 28:20)! Rodeo for Jesus, just open the chute and let er rip! Sorry Texas just pops out from time to time.

Grand Ma, loving Jesus

2010-03-15T12:13:00.000-07:00

Walked into the Church building at Highway Baptist Church (bush highway, like, two ruts between and over rocks and weaving among trees and bumping over the roots...I love it...Highway to Heaven) and there she is. Grandma, faithful in loving Jesus. First one there for services. Walks with limp and creaking bones from her home over a half kilometer away, uphill (no, not both ways), a very rocky path, BAREFOOT.

Faithful, loving, kind. She half curtsies (far as she can bend) and folds her hands over her heart when she greets me. When I return the greeting in Tonga, her face comes alive with a 'quarter' of a toothy grin.

Yessiree, when Church is on she is there. I dread the day when she is not present, cause most likely it won't be sickness that prevents her coming; she will be with Jesus and I will weep for joy for her and I will weep because I will miss her love of the LORD she shares with me. Love that comes from saving Grace of Jesus who died for her, forgave her sins and rose from the dead.

Grandma, I love you and I love the Jesus you love. Thank you and sleep well tonight in HIS care.

Phil, your friend

Following Jesus, called to serve

2010-03-11T06:46:00.000-08:00

He said, "I was blinded until I came to the Bible Study on 'Christ Who is Our Life' you were teaching at Victoria Falls. I had seen in the Churches those claiming to be with Jesus, but were still doing witchcraft. All the Churches at Songwe my home village were just that way."

Then he told me, "First I went to be Rastafarian, they have no rules, you do what you want, drugs, drinking, sex what what. Now I could not see and lost my way in my family, my life was darkness and sin."

"At your Bible Study I saw there was joy. One day I came and heard why there was joy. The joy was the real Jesus of the Bible. I now was knowing to understand what He did for me and that His life would change me, give me new life. I believed Him and gave myself to Him."

Next he told me, "I cut my dreads, (dread locks) and stopped the life of sin by Jesus power. I was reading my Bible and it was alive now."

This week he informed me, "I want to be with you in ministry, I desire to learn more of Bible to understand from you" Later that day he said, "No matter what it costs, I will walk in HIS will and work every day. When it is time to go for Him, call me I will be ready and Jesus will take care of me and my family."

Today he went with me to Kooma to minister with me in the school (Melody could not go). His wife came into town and is in Bible Study with Melody as she teaches Zambian ladies. This is their picture at top of page.

He is Jacob Nasibebo. His wife is Veronica.

And the picture below is their kitchen he has converted to a Bible Study room and family prayer room where they read the Bible and pray every morning. Now that it the good works of Jesus Christ in, through and for those that are His workmanship, Ephesians 2:10

God's will becomes our life

2010-03-06T09:40:00.001-08:00

Since visiting a village of Mukuni Kingdom near Victoria Falls 2 weeks ago, I have been praying if the Lord was directing us to begin a Bible Study in view of planting a Baptist Church. There is no Baptist Church in the Royal village or near it on the Vic Falls side. On that side there are 3 villages and a Zesco Electric company compound with over 200 homes.

We have a guest in Medical profession visiting. We were invited by Mukuni Clinic to come to palace and meet the Chief's wife and see if our guest could help the Clinic. Mrs. Mukuni extended a gracious reception and plea to come help 2 days a week. In this process, I mentioned meeting with Chief re: the Bible Study. The Chief has been a friend since 2002 and his wife said surely that would be good.

Later that day, my wife and our guest, Tammie Lee, toured the village with long time friend Lumba. While they were on the tour, I met the Prime Minister of Mukuni Kingdom and one of Palace staff in meeting seen above gave me the Chief's cell phone number and said call him Sunday morning.

BUT WAIT, it gets better. When God is in something, has a will and desire for our direction, has a willing, yielded and seeking worshipper, HE will direct the paths. Roadblocks disappear. Difficulties turn to opportunity. Obstacles are overcome. Defeat turns to VICTORY IN JESUS!

In the late afternoon, back on the Mukuni Village Road hoping to show our guest elephants, we passed Chief Mukuni. I did not know his vehicle, but as we passed each other he stuck his hand out the window and stopped. I stopped, we got out in the middle of the road, and had a GOD meeting. He welcomed us to come to his Chiefdom, follow the leading of the LORD and feel free because many of his people were not in any Church.

So we saddle up. Remember Jacob, Jesus man on fire for the LORD, and Winsha a few stories back? This area mentioned above is their home area. God saw the need, saw the solution, sent the men.

Hallelujah for Jesus who kicked the doors down, revealed his Right Hand of Victory (Psalm 98) and moved Chief Mukuni the LION KING (seriously, that is his title) in one day.

Let's roll. As the plane of this world is crashing, we are charging the enemy with the Word of GOD! HE will win, got the Book on it.

Oh by the way, below is Chief Mukuni, the LION KING, talking to an old man that loves being led by Jesus day by day.

Glory Story; Final thoughts on last weekend!

2010-03-03T20:49:00.001-08:00

See these precious little ones. Look closely. They are the future of the work of Jehovah to man. They will be what they learn. Oh, I know, genetics is the major component of their lives. Seth was made in the image of Adam. BUT, our God can 'quicken them' for His purpose and works among the children of men by what they learn of Jesus the Messiah appointed our Savior.

This is a good start start, the House of the God, the Congregation of the Assembly, the Church of the living God, people saved (delivered from death by their sin, forgiven in Jesus), baptized obediently showing the story of the Gospel, following Jesus, meeting together for that purpose.

And what do they learn there? What do the 'grayhairs' teach them? I pray it is the things found in Psalm 71. Here are a few of the verses;
1 In thee, O LORD, do I put my trust: let me never be put to confusion.
2 Deliver me in thy righteousness, and cause me to escape: incline thine ear unto me, and save me.
3 Be thou my strong habitation, whereunto I may continually resort: thou hast given commandment to save me; for thou art my rock and my fortress....
7 I am as a wonder unto many; but thou art my strong refuge....
9 Cast me not off in the time of old age; forsake me not when my strength faileth....
14 But I will hope continually, and will yet praise thee more and more....
18 Now also when I am old and greyheaded, O God, forsake me not; until I have showed thy strength unto this generation, and thy power to every one that is to come....
24 My tongue also shall talk of thy righteousness all the day long....

Remember this, in verse 7 of Psalm 71, people may look on us as a 'wonder'. But we always know that it is God our 'refuge' Who is our hope, trust, might and power, refuge from who we are without HIM. Psalm 41:1 & 8 with Hebrews 13:5-6. Phil

PS: Not on a soapbox but for continuity of thought I use the KJV. May be antiquated but still most consistent in connectivity OLD and NEW Covenants.

Glory Story #3 Habanyuka

2010-03-02T22:23:00.000-08:00

Given is a man of God, servant's heart for Jesus. He and his wife refused traditional medicine (witchcraft) when she was very sick, even in face of threats from their families. They were told they were refusing the Ancestral Spirits and would be punish by their dead ancestors. "We are with Jesus" they proclaimed. And by the next day she was well.

3 weeks ago he went on visitation with us while in the throes of malaria, shivering, high fever etc. The picture shows Given that day on the far left. Serving in midst of trouble. Stalwart and a true soldier of the Christ the LORD.

This past Sunday he came forward at the end of service with 2 requests for prayer. One he said was not so important, constant headaches which are probably sinus pressure...diagnosis by Dr. Phil. But most important, "I want to be more 'faithiful' to Jesus every day." What about that?!

Oh the Grace of God that brings salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously and godly in this present world (Titus 2:11-12).

LORD, may I desire the same as Given!
Phil

Glory Story #2 Habanyuka

2010-03-02T03:58:00.000-08:00

Pastor Breyford Mwaanga and his wife Leona with son James (seen at breakfast table) are planning to move to Habanyuka this month. HOWEVER, Leona was raised in town; so village life plus a new place she did not know were causing her to struggle a bit.

As we were driving into the valley, a loooooonngggg ruuufffff... road(1st), oxcart trail, opening among the trees and rocks, pot hole expressway (the rest), well little of the first, lot of the rest, I asked her if the mountains, hills and valleys were beautiful. NO!

I have been praying, I had a trusted friend in the valley praying. My wife has been praying (not 100% sure what as she does not want our 'grandi', James, leaving us) but surely for Leona's peace of heart in moving to Habanyuka.

Sunday morning Leona just got the kids together, took some teen girls to help and out the door to the Sunday School place (shade tree) she went and taught. Then in the main service, this was her testimony given by her husband as she is really shy. 'I had seen the pictures of this place. I have heard of the people. I have now seen the place. I have met you. The struggle is over'.

Glory, praise HIS dear Name, Jesus is the mover of hearts of men, women, boys and girls. I looked at my praying friend.... :>)
He looked at Phil.... :> )

Jesus is on throne!

See ya in the funny papers, laughs on the Devil.

Glory story # 1 from VBC Habanyuka Valley 2/28/10

2010-02-28T23:33:00.000-08:00

Well, the glory of the LORD came down and filled the Church at Habanyuka. As we were faithful to pray, visit and be servants of the most high GOD, Jesus, He met with us. Moving these men by HIS Spirit, they came running to greet us.

Later the teaching, worship, joy, singing and mighty praise calling on the our Lord and our God is still ringing Hallelujahs in my heart and I am sure in the hearts of HIS people.

So now just enjoy the choir as you check out the video. AND for the faint hearted, this is not dancing. If you think it is you simply do not know dancing in Zambia. This is calm, worshipful, respectful 'marching' (their word). They are 'marching' all over this valley with the Gospel. Why I'll be thanking God these people are moving with HIM. I have seen em so I am shouting YIPPEEALLALUJAH and HOSANNA!!!

More stories to come about this past Sunday of Grace, Glory and Power from the Blessed One who is worthy of all our praise and worship and our life of following HIM!

Grab a 4x4 seat belt

2010-02-24T07:31:00.000-08:00

Rainy day...can't go visiting, too muddy, might get wet...NOT! Visitors in from Lusaka, Missionaries Johnsons. Ladies Bible Study at house so you men...git...so we did. Grabbed a couple of the Amazing Grace School of Disiciples for Jesus, Winsha and Jacob. We hit the bush, slinging mud, dodging mad elephant, serious, he charged us while we were looking for some people to witness to of the love of God. Been wanting to reach some villages that have not been touched in Mukuni area near Victoria Falls.

Yippeekiaye-hallelujah, Jesus had a plan we were just along for the ride. We were going to find a village that Winsha and Jacob said Baptist Missionaries had not gone there yet. As we were going we passed a man and the boys yelled there he is...who?... the Headman of that village. Yeah, ya got it, he is in the picture, and is a judge at Mukuni tribal court. Imagine that, a Jesus plan! We prayerfully, faithfully depend on those plans.

We gave him a ride and he welcomed us and said we must go home to home and tell his people of Jesus. Look ooouttt you old Dragon, Jesus has dialed up your number, and you are summoned by the judge and the Great Judge, we are just serve the warrants. Wooooeeee, I love my job!!!

Well, the other pictures are Jacob and Winsha at the Headman's home and with the Headman's wife. (Winsha, lose the shorts son, oh, ok, guess it looks like disciple clothes ... TO JESUS!!!)

We preached at 4 homes and had a 90 yr. old grandima call on the LORD. Beat it Devil, we got claim now in the mighty Name, only Name of salvation, Jesus Jehovah our salvation.

As we were going to the 4x4 after the last home, Jacob, ex Rastafarian, saved at our Bible Study next to Victoria Falls, said he has been praying the Lord show him what to do with his life. Jacob said, "What we do today brings joy to my heart, I now know the Lord wants me to follow a Mission path with HIM." OH look out...glory bumps broke out all over me...he had called me 4 days ago and asked me to pray that he be a good soldier for Jesus like Paul wrote Timothy. I think he found out how to march, TODAY...shout praises, clap hands, bow before Jesus who is worthy.

Sunday Wow

2010-02-22T07:27:00.000-08:00

Great day at Kooma yesterday! Had a good crowd of 58 for rain season, high attendance for the month. Heavy rains made the mud deepen, so the ride in was a wild trip. Mud rooster tail behind the Nissan 4x4 was out of sight in the rear view mirror. Worth it for cause of Jesus.

We had the Curtis Johnson family our Texas 'Cousins' from Lusaka visiting, BBFI Missionaries par excellent. They have a growing, building Church there, Faith Baptist Church. Curtis' wife, Julianna, taught the young people and Curtis preached. Our people loved them with their daughter and son, Hollyanne and Brandon.

The Lord met with us and we had a several visitors. Brother Aaron Siazyombo is doing a wonderful job teaching them to follow Jesus. He is the Pastor on the right in the photo.

We ask for continued prayer as they grow in the midst a the attacks of Satan. As one I am discipling told me the other day, "I want to be a good soldier for Jesus". AMEN, so do I. It is a war after all. But we have the Captain of our salvation in front and we will follow on. FORWARD with JESUS.

Public school Bible Classes, Hallelujah

2010-02-17T05:10:00.000-08:00

Well, we have a guest writer today. You are probably tired of me anyway.
I would be. See ya on the flip side. Phil

Hi All! Just want to share a little bit of my school ministry with you. We have been going to Kooma for over a year now. When we first started the classrooms consisted of 2 mud huts and no bathrooms. (Unless you count the bushes!) The children (about 45 to 65 depending on the weather) are the most attentive, well behaved children that I have taught here in Zambia. They watch, listen and learn.

There were 2 "teachers" when we first started. Shortly after beginning our teaching of God's word, one teacher left and only Gertrude was there to teach all grades and all subjects. She did an incredible job. The children listened and learned for her. She was one of those rare teachers who had a heart for her children and looked for ways to help the ones who struggled. Gertrude does not have a teaching certificate and since the area has built 2 new school buildings, 16 toilets and 5 teacher houses, she is no longer allowed to teach. Very sad. She did an incredible job.

There are now 2 certified teachers at the school. I pray that they can do as good a job as our Gertrude!

I love going and sharing the Word of God with these young people. They respond well to the message and I am praying that they will know that God loves them each in a personal way....so much that He gave His only begotten Son for them and so much that He planted a love for them in the heart of a very Americanized grandma, so much so that I was willing (okay, reluctantly at first) to leave Texas to come and teach them about Him.

Justin, is one of the little second graders who was quite amazed when I took him by the hand and told him that I very much wanted him to go to heaven with me. I told him that my Dad would love to meet him and he was speechless.

Please take time to look at the faces in the picture below. With a lot of love and prayer, these children may be your neighbors in heaven! Thank to all who prayerfully support us for allowing me the great blessing of sharing His love with these young ones!

Loving God...loving people

2010-02-15T21:49:00.000-08:00

Little change in format. Bit more room of stories/photos. As promised another story of Jesus' work, you know HE is still going about doing good.

Mosquitoes are terrible this year. Malaria is locally epidemic in some villages. Needed treated mosquito nets... for a 100 the cost was 1200 USD. Do not have that.

Then a business man, friend, asked if i knew anyone that needed nets at bottom wholesale price, 389USD for a 100. Now ain't that just like our God!! HE (Jesus) knew someone that needed them for HIS (Jesus) ministry AFRICAN MISSIONS ON BIBLICAL STEROIDS...ministry of our power enhancement of choice, HOLY SPIRIT OF CHRIST. Whoopeekiyippeeiaye, rodeo for Jesus. Saddle up for a new adventure each day...I do love it so.

Picture is one family group that got nets. The old lady second from the right is Julia, repentant witch doctor and now servant of the LORD.

I love you Jesus.

Phil

Sunday in the Bush

2010-02-14T08:32:00.000-08:00

Just returned from our works at Sinamanjolo and Mutinta. At Highway Baptist we had our first Amazing Grace Bible School of disciples for Christ Saturday night. Changed the name from Institute to School of Disciples. I am just not very collegiate. Here we see some of the students eating after session here.

Then Sunday morning I went with Eliot one of our Bible Students to the Baptist Church at Mutinte/Maluma. We had 40 in attendance, a good number and these people are in love with Jesus. Hurrah for Jesus...Hallelujah! Going to meet with Chief Singani to confirm the Church plot. It is a beautiful setting with huge trees for shelter for our meetings when we eat together. Woohoo and praise the LORD for eating ... in the love of Jesus, Amen. More tomorrow. Phil

Bush Church work Kooma building

2010-02-12T03:07:00.000-08:00

Not all Missions work is teaching and preaching. But it is all good! Today we went into the trackless bush to harvest timbers for building. As you can see from the photos there were no roads, no bush tracks, stumps must be cut to drive and not one forklift. Arm lift?... yep!

In the midst of this process, I kicked a rotten stump, my foot slipped, Achilles tendon stretched and I nearly went down. Albert, Head Man at Kooma and faithful Church member (Albert is the one with the charcoal, he burns charcoal to provide for his family), said something one rarely hears from Zambians. He said, "Phil don't break your leg, I love you. Be careful, we love you and want you near." Sometimes the LORD just grabs a tongue and gives me what I need to cheer the heart.

"Jesus, I love you and want you near." Phil

Tragedy to triumph

2010-01-31T03:46:00.000-08:00

My dear friend, Pastor Kebby Malamo, was beaten and left for dead this week. I have known him since July 2000. I walked with him in the bush, working with him in an all night Bible Conference the first time I met him.

We were together when the first penetration to Kooma area was made. There is a Baptist Church there now under the ministry the Lord has given us.

He is recovering and while he is recovering, there were several that came to Christ today at Church where Kebby serves on Pastoral staff with a dear Missionary friend of mine that founded that same Church. I know, I was there. I saw tragedy turn to triumph as several men came forward receiving Jesus the Sovereign Savior.

Take that you old Devil! Jesus is still King and still has all power, and whether we live or die we are the Lord's, "For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living". We are with Jesus, who turns tragedy to triumph, to HIS honor and glory.

Kebby, the Lord raise you up to continue the fight! "Onward Christian soldiers, marching as to war, with the cross of Jesus going on before. Christ the Royal Master, leads against the foe...at the sign of triumph, Satan's host doth flee; on then Christian Soldiers on to victory..." So onward Brother Kebby, on with Christ, do not give place to the Devil! I gave you a Bible, but Jesus gave you life, HIS life!

Your loving Brother in Christ,
Phil

Brother Loyd

2010-01-28T06:15:00.000-08:00

Last outpost, village, in Habanyuka valley going north. This is Loyd's home. Confessed drunkard, trouble maker, never prayed in his life. The ones from Victory Baptist, our Church in the valley, knew Loyd well...why everyone in the valley knew him and most were nervous to be near him, I learned later. No white man or Gospel preacher had ever been near him.

When we arrived, I found him to be a black redneck. They hunt, fish, farm and look to get remote and wild. That's my comfort zone, been there (except farm) done that. We were welcomed, hesitantly.

With permission I told the story of the Bible, beginning with the first 'rednecks'. They lived off the land, you know...Adam and Eve. But they rebelled against the Creator, our Holy God. So, for over an hour, I spoke on sin, death and overriding love of the Everlasting Father, the Son given who died for our sins and rose for our justification. The same certain ONE who takes our sin and gives us HIS righteousness.

I told of my sinful life, quite like Loyd's. Loyd asked if Jesus could change him like HE changed me. I said Jesus can and will if Loyd wanted Jesus as Lord and savior. Loyd said, to stunning shock of all there that knew him, "eeeiih, Jesu Kristo" in Texan that is "yep, Jesus Christ".

I told Loyd to just tell the Lord that he wanted his sins forgiven and wanted to have Jesus be his life. Loyd said he did not know how. Some one spoke up and said pray to God. Loyd said he had never prayed. I told Loyd, "just tell God what you want from HIM, like you would tell anyone what is in your heart about them."

Suddenly, he started talking to GOD! Confessions poured out, repentance was declared, trust that Jesus would take his life, forgive his sins, change him...he called out to God for 5 minutes or more. Silence, I mean pin dropping quiet. His family looked in shock. Mr. Mukua who was interpreting for me was speechless and he is never speechless, talks non stop. Given, one of our faithful members, a mighty hunter by repute, shivering from malaria, yet out with us on visitation, slowly broke out in a big smile, and when I proclaimed 'hallelujah", Given said Amen and LOYD LOOKED RELIEVED!

Now, my dear friends, that is a testimony of Jehovah our God quick to convince a sinner of his sin by HIS own Spirit, Holy, and mighty to save that same sinner from that sin, faithful to give that very sinner HIS righteousness, because Christ is our righteousness, redemption, sanctification and wisdom. So we live and move and have our being in the Blessed Savior, a wild and wonderful life here in tribal Africa. Phil

Delivered by Jesus

2010-01-25T20:11:00.000-08:00

This is Miriam. Some have heard her story some time back. She was overwhelmed by the darkness of Satan, witchcraft, and on her death bed. Miriam is a believer I have known for over 2 years, but she became involved in a Church that is full of evil spirits even though they claim to believe in Christ. She had opened her physical body to the attack of Satan (Ephesians 4:23-27) because she was not angry with who she was before receiving Christ thereby cooperating with that evil.

With her family and neighbors all around, some witches who have familiar spirits ( see re:this... Leviticus 10:31, 20:6, Deuteronomy 18), they had laid her outside as is their custom when they expect that one to die quickly. Her breathing was so shallow that saliva bubbles did not break with her breath. First, I spoke to all rebuking with SCRIPTURE the evil of the Devil that I knew was present and active. Then, those from our Church that brought me to her and I went to war in prayer for her life and the Lord raised her up. By the next morning, this young girl was eating and walking around. OUR GOD, Jesus our salvation, is Mighty God and the Prince of Peace.

Sunday, January 24, I greeted Miriam at Church. She now is the lead soprano in our Choir, serving the Lord Jesus. She is full of joy of the Spirit of Christ, the Holy One. I wanted to hug her but let Jesus do it for me.

So as we journeyed this past weekend, we came to the village of
Nkatani. Our first time there, the first to come directly to them with the real Gospel. We greeted the mother of Miriam (holding the little one with the red shirt) and witnessed to them of the saving Grace of the Lord Jesus. They have promised to come to Church soon. They live about 2 miles away as the crow flies...though not sure what that means as I have never seen a crow fly straight, probably some idiom from an idiot...guess that makes me a company idiot for quoting the idiotic idiom...at least I am an idiot for Jesus...he can use anyone...obviously me being example...and does on a regular basis...using the yielded to show HIS power thru our weakness.

Hallulujah, Amen...I'm in love with Jesus and HE's in love with me!! More stories from this past weekend...later...

Trip toVictory Baptist and beyond, Habanyuka Valley

2010-01-24T22:13:00.000-08:00

Past weekend we went to Habanyuka valley. Victory Baptist Church which began meeting together in 2005 after 2 intensive, week long trips there. It is the largest, most faithful work of the LORD our salvation, Jesus the Messiah. We visited 2 villages that had never been seen by a white man, according to Mr. Javist Mukua. He is a 70 plus yr. old member and faithful follower of Christ.

Now, my friends, this is just the first installment this week of our trip. There are stories to come of what God has done this past weekend. There are 3 pictures for now. One reminds me of the line from Robert Frost 'road less traveled'. As you can see (look carefully top center of photo) it is and oxcart trail winding thru the hills in the Habanyuka Valley.

The other pictures are of far greater significance. It reminds me of what Jesus said, ''suffer the little children come unto ME and forbid them not, for such is the kingdom of God". Suffer is a big word having a large definition and one element is do not leave them behind to die! Of course foremost is reaching them with the Gospel. But also the physical. I weep as I write this, because we had 7 children die from malaria, in this valley last 3 weeks, because of lack of medicine. I did not know. We are arranging for meds to go there today, but they need a clinic there, but no funds build. Pray with us on this matter. Well, see ya tomorrow...

Villages Here We Come

2010-01-21T11:21:00.000-08:00

Leaving in the morning for Victory Baptist Church in remote valley of Habanyuka. There are 11 Villages in the valley, of which 7 we have not yet reached with the Gospel. So there we go to visit at least 2 of them. I am sure there will be a story or 3 when we return. We have insisted in prayer on the presence and power of JESUS to declare HIS glory and salvation to those we visit. Hallelujah, Amen!! Picture is visitation out of the Church planted there by the LORD beginning 2005. The old woman is deep Tonga, a very Gospel resistant people...but glory to God, she received Christ Jesus by faith.

2010-01-19T21:09:00.000-08:00

Howdy again,
To continue what I started on the last Post...internet failed me here, imagine that in 3rd world...the dangers here are real, but the blessings from the LORD are inexplicably greater. This first pic is the hospital toilet (actually dirtier than the picture shows) where we took a patient; young retarded girl Mbweda, rape victim who lost resulting child and is now HIV positive.

This next picture is common here as we travel. This truck turned over partially on the main Southern Province highway. Sometimes it takes weeks to clear them, causing others accident. Drunken truck drivers, narrow and often bad roads, faulty equipment, accidents looking for opportunity.
But remember what Audie my friend says, we are in the LORD'S hands all the time! Well, let us continue with that thought and how HE loves us. HIS blessings are our rejoicing.

Now let me show you HIS blessings, HIS testimonies, stories, accounts written in the hearts and faces of our lovely Zambians and delivered to us by HIS allowing the love of
Jesus to be ours now here in this place.

<- Visitation in the valleys and mountains of Habanyuka...joy and rejoicing, to be allowed by the most high God to carry the name of Jesus to these, HIS love and joy.

<- Here we find two ladies of Victory Baptist in Habanyuka cooking for a Bible Conference.
This same Conference a precious young mother came to Christ, result of visitation by Pastor Costa Musena from our Church at Sianmanjolo.
Also, Saul, headman of the area in the 4x4 visitation picture above, came to Christ saying 'I have been witching and drinking, but now I give my life to Jesu Kristo'. Oh Hallelujah to the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world from sinners!

Stay tuned, God is on the move...Phil

2010-01-19T11:54:00.000-08:00

Howdy in Texan from Africa,
Just got back from meeting with American Embassy personnel. Quite interesting. Sometimes we forget the dangers of 3rd world living...however, as my friend Audie says,'we are in the Lord's hands all the time.

2010-01-18T08:54:00.000-08:00

Well, this is my first post, so just of a bit of news. Amazing Grace Bible Institute just enrolled another student. That makes 8 now and another possible by end of the week. We wait on the LORD to direct.

Attached is picture of an old man at a mission hospital about 30 klicks out in the bush. Quite a feisty fellow, but became very humble when I mentioned the Lord Jesus. Gave him some Gospel booklets and about a dollar which will feed him for 2 days. Thank you LORD for allowing me to help this one named Robert, old but important.