The Three Beasts of the Apocalypse

 

 Apostle John

João Cruzué

Revelation presents three figures of evil in alliance—the Dragon, the Beast that rises from the sea, and the Beast that rises from the earth (the false prophet)—forming a profane parody of the Trinity. These figures are not mere isolated characters, but articulated expressions of spiritual, political, and religious evil. Christian tradition has read these texts in different ways according to the theological method adopted. Below are presented, in a continuous and comparative manner, the interpretations of Stanley M. Horton, John F. Walvoord, Saint Augustine, and Saint Thomas Aquinas, with five paragraphs devoted to each Beast.

The Dragon, in Revelation 12, is understood by Stanley Horton as Satan, personal and real, the spiritual source of all persecution and deception. For him, the text does not allow a merely symbolic reading: it refers to the historical enemy of the Church, judicially defeated by the cross, yet still active in the present time. Horton emphasizes that the Dragon operates through systems and human powers, never in isolation.

John Walvoord interprets the Dragon in an equally literal way, but with strong eschatological emphasis. For him, Revelation 12 describes objective events connected to the end times, including the definitive expulsion of Satan from the heavenly realm and his concentrated fury against Israel and the saints. The Dragon is a personal, intelligent, and strategic being whose time is short and limited.

Saint Augustine sees the Dragon as the personification of spiritual evil that runs throughout history. In his theology of the two cities, the Dragon is the animating principle of the City of Man in opposition to the City of God. It is not restricted to a final moment, but acts continuously through pride, violence, and the idolatry of power.

Saint Thomas Aquinas, in continuity with Augustine, understands the Dragon as Satan as a fallen intellect, whose action occurs primarily on the moral and rational plane. For Thomas, the Dragon does not create evil, but parasitizes it, diverting the human will from natural and divine law. His activity is real, yet always subordinate to God’s providence.

Comparatively, the four agree that the Dragon is Satan as a personal being; they differ, however, regarding temporal focus. Horton and Walvoord emphasize his direct eschatological activity, while Augustine and Thomas see him as a permanent agent in human history. Even so, all affirm that his power is limited and already condemned.

The Beast that rises from the sea (Revelation 13:1–10) is interpreted by Stanley Horton as an anti-Christian political system, inspired by Satan and manifested in empires and oppressive governments. Horton admits the possibility of a final personal leadership, but insists that the Beast already operates historically whenever power absolutizes itself and persecutes the saints.

John Walvoord understands this Beast as the literal Antichrist, a future world ruler who will exercise real global authority. For him, the connection with Daniel 7 is direct and historical, pointing to a concrete final empire. Unlike Horton, Walvoord concentrates on the personal figure who heads the system.

Saint Augustine rejects the primary identification of the Beast with a specific individual. For him, the Beast of the sea is the Civitas Terrena in its maximum expression—the political power that rebels against God and demands absolute obedience. Pagan Rome was a historical figure of the Beast, but not its final realization.

Saint Thomas Aquinas harmonizes these readings by affirming that the Beast represents the moral body of unjust power. He admits the possibility of a final anti-Christian leader, but maintains that the essence of the Beast lies in the perversion of the purpose of authority, when government ceases to serve the common good and becomes tyrannical.

In comparison, one perceives that Horton and Augustine privilege the systemic and historical dimension, Walvoord emphasizes the future personal manifestation, and Thomas acts as a synthesis, integrating individual and structure under a moral criterion. All, however, agree that the Beast of the sea represents political power hostile to God.

The Beast that rises from the earth, the False Prophet (Revelation 13:11–18), is seen by Stanley Horton as a deceptive religious power that legitimizes the first Beast through signs and false spirituality. Horton warns that this Beast looks like a lamb but speaks like a dragon, symbolizing religious leaders who maintain an appearance of piety while betraying the truth.

John Walvoord interprets the False Prophet as a literal and future religious leader, a direct ally of the Antichrist. For him, this is a concrete historical figure who will promote the worship of the first Beast and impose the mark with real economic consequences, even though it involves a conscious decision of loyalty.

Saint Augustine understands this Beast as the corruption of religion, when worship ceases to point to God and begins to serve human power. The mark of the Beast, for him, is not physical but spiritual: it lies in the mind and in the works of those who adhere to the values of the City of Man.

Saint Thomas Aquinas follows Augustine in interpreting the mark as intellectual and practical adherence to error. For Thomas, the False Prophet represents the misuse of reason and faith, when religion departs from the truth and becomes an instrument of moral and social domination.

Comparatively, Horton and Augustine emphasize present religious deception, Walvoord highlights the future literal figure, and Thomas provides the ethical reading that integrates both. All four agree that the greatest danger of this Beast is not violence, but spiritual deception disguised as piety.

The joint analysis reveals that, despite methodological differences, the four theologians converge on essential points: the three Beasts represent an organized, articulated, and temporary evil, always subordinate to the sovereignty of God. Horton calls the Church to spiritual discernment, Walvoord to eschatological vigilance, Augustine to an ethical reading of history, and Thomas to the moral order of reason illuminated by faith. In all of them, the final message of Revelation remains the same: the Dragon, the Beasts, and every anti-Christian power will be defeated, and the Lamb reigns forever.

SP- 21/12/2025.

How to reconcile with God

by Joao Cruzue*

Ten steps

The first step to be close to God is Faith. We live in a World that rationalizes things, “veerything you see or feel is real”. Faith is not so, it is  an exception: Faith comes by hearing the God’s word. For example: a person with an advanced cancer, reason says: he/she is going to die. Then, someome comes, prays, and he/she becomes healled. There is no explanation, so is faith. We could not explain, see, touch, feel, but faith exists and works.

The Gospel of Christ is accepted by faith. 

Impossible things can be possible. Closed doors can be openned. Pain can be changed for days of joy, by mean of faith. The Bible also says that faith is not for all. Faith is like a seed dropped in your heart. While you expect what you need for, it may grow up. But if you have all things under control, may be you guess faith is an idiot thing. On the other side, if you are feeling empty, sad, worthless, sick, please continue to read and go ahead.

If you are thirsty, this message was written to you. Remember: by faith in Christ you can win the war, even though you can loss some batles. As Martin Luther King said: Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase.

The second step is to reconcile with God. It seems to be quite simple but it is not so. There are some details you need to understand. To reconcile with God means: to accept Christ in your heart. 

How could it be?

Find a place to be alone, and speak to Christ as if He be aside you. Speak to Him. Say, something like that: "Jesus Christ, if you do exist, please come and dwell in my heart, from today on". Talk to him, invite Him. He is very polite, He will only come to you,  if you ask Him for. Jesus Christ is a spirit but be sure, he is also a real person like you. The way He will speak to you is a little bit differente that you are accostumed to comprehend. He speak to our own spirit. It seems a voice that talk to your mind or to your heart, like a thought.

The third step is repentance. Look for a quiet place and talk to Him again. This time, you have to confess to Jesus Christ your sims, all bad things you have done during all you life. See this case. Certain woman go down to the river to wash dirty clothes wrapped in a sheet. For her clothes were very dirty, she became ashamed and did not unwrap that sheet. She, simply, went to the middle of the river, sank the sheet of clothes and went away home. She only wet her clothes. Therefore they were still dirty.

To wash your sims and clean your heart you have to wash every piece of clothe. One by one. To do it correctly, make a list of all and confess them to Jesus. All of them at once. Confess and stop to do them. When you get out of that place be sure: all things you spoke to Jesus, He , in fact, already forgave you. The Forgiving brings peace in your soul and joy to your heart.

The fourth step: abandon your "old" friends, because they should make all things for you give up. I mean: change your friends for new friends. Cut old and bad friendship. I don't mean a absolute abandon, for sure. But that friends you are acostume to do bad and awful things together. Let them behind, and when God have made a miracle in your live, you may go back to offer your hands to help them. But only after Jesus had made a change in your own life.

The fifth step. - Ask Jesus (The Lord ) things what you need for, and by faith, believe and await. All basic things you will receive. Healing, emploiement, peace, safeness. “Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for Him” Delight yourself also in the LORD, And He shall give you the desires of your heart.

The sixth step - forgive bad things people did against you. You must forgive to be forgiven. Forgive yourself, pray to Lord Jesus to help you to forget the past. In Bible there are these words: "...But one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus". Let all your failures for behind. Dream about the future.

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The seventh step is : read the Bible everyday and join to a good protestant church, where people live what they preach, without hypocrisy. Learn as much as you can about the God's Word. My suggestion for books: All from Watchman Nee.

The eight step is: be saint. Leave sins away from your life. God has a compromisse with holiness. If you do so, the Lord will be your close friend.

The nineth step - whenever you go to a service at your Church, dond't forget to offer part of your income. And be carefull to those pastors that care not about you, but about your money.

The tenth step - Find the will of God for your life and work to please Him. Don't be a useless and a lazy person. Work to Lord Jesus.

Conclusion: there will be many other steps, but these words are able and enough to help you to make your reconciliation with God, through Jesus Christ. And now, I am sure you can know how to speak your needs to God for yourself.

Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus,

My name is John Cruzue, 58, pastor, and an agent of  Sao Paulo State Controller Office.  I live in Sao Paulo City, Brazil. I am a believer for almost 40 years and great things I have got from my Lord Jesus Christ. English is not my native language, that is why you have found some mistakes in this text, but I am sure, you have understood what I meant. Mailto me if you want: cruzue@gmail.com I will appreciate to hear about your progress.

A braziliam christian missionary in a Senegal jail

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          Letter written by José Dilson, in the prison of Thiés - Senegal

Thiés, Feb 25, 2013

Dear brothers and sisters,

God is great and merciful. He does not change or stop being what He is, because of the problem or difficulties that I may be experiencing. The circumstances of life, no matter how difficult they may be, do not diminish God's glory or goodness. I cannot in any way keep from looking to my Lord and putting my confidence in Him, my eyes and hope are fixed on Him.

It's now two o'clock in the morning, and I cannot sleep. All the nights are hot, without space to turn over, extremely uncomfortable. In spite of all this, I know that Jesus is at my side, and this comforts me. I see my colleagues all asleep, and I keep imagining that Jesus wants to have some time with me for us to talk a little. These are the moments when I have freedom to express my frustrations, my feelings of anguish, my fears - what a dear friend, how I love Him!

During these nights I experience battles you can't imagine. I also feel the presence of the enemy close by, whispering in my ear, saying that God does not care about me. What a fight I wage against self-pity, against the feeling of despair, loneliness, injustice, anger, and so many other feelings that seek to dominate me. I rebuke those mental battles in the name of Jesus, the One who shed even His last drop of blood for me. He is infinitely good, and His mercy endures for ever!

Those battles are fought not just at night, but also during the day. One needs to have a lot of courage, along with humility, and overall the Lord's grace to resist the insults, the acts meant to humiliate us, the arrogance and disrespect. A while back a muslim man approached me and began to verbally attack me saying: "You are nothing. You know nothing. And nothing you teach is worth anything. You are less than the little toe of anyone here." And with many other words he tried to humiliate me more and more. The words he spoke were hard and terrible.

And all I said to him was: "Yes, you can continue. Yes, I am listening. Continue!" He became even more impassioned and poured out a flood of insults trying to drown me in his hellish words. After a brief silence, I asked him: "Have you finished? Have you said everything you want? If so, can I speak now?" With a stern voice he replied: "Speak!", expecting I would reply in a tone of arrogance and anger.

So, I began by saying: "You're right. I really am nothing. I am less than a grain of dirty sand. I am dust. I am a worm. I am a filthy rag. I am a dead dog. And, almost crying, I added: "But I want you to meet someone who was everything, who was the creator of the universe, full of glory, the sovereign Lord, who in spite of all that, loved me so much He gave up his life to be insulted, broken and shed his blood for me. But not only for me, but for you, too. You are important to Him, and He loves you. He died for your sins and rose from the grave so that you could have eternal life."

And when this man heard me say that, it was as if he had been shocked with 50 thousand volts. He never expected that reaction. He expected I'd pay him back with equally harsh words. Then, with a soft voice he told me: "I have been trailing you and watching your movements over the past month. I was sent to test you, to see if you really are a man of God. And I can say that you are the man of God that everyone says you are. For a man of God, when humiliated, is exalted by God. Starting today, you have my respect!"

I was overwhelmed to hear this man recite the Word of God! Now he is one of my best friends. He has not come to Christ, but he has never again opposed my sharing Christ!

My dear brothers and sisters, I want to remind you that your life is hidden in Jesus, regardless of where you are or in what circumstance you find yourself. You might find yourself being humiliated, misunderstood, sad, anguished, sick, facing many needs. I want to encourage you today: "Cast your care upon Him, for He cares for you." Don't let the enemy receive any glory, for the Lord is present, even though He's not solving your problem in the way you had hoped. He will give you grace to endure and to be more than a conqueror.

Some days ago another man, to whom I've been ministering since I first arrived in prison, asked me: "How can I be a Protestant?" I answered: "I'm going to answer your question in way that's different from what you're expecting. I'm going to imagine that you are asking me: "How can I receive Jesus in my heart and become converted to Him?" I then showed him some Bible verses, especially Rom 3:23, Rom 6:23, Rom 10:9-10. I told him about the expulsion from paradise, the condemnation to eternal death, the plan of redemption through Jesus and his death on the cross. I told him that it is necessary to believe in Jesus and obey him, and after sharing a few other things I asked him: "Do you want to give your life to Jesus and become one of his disciples, believing and obeying him? He answered: "I do. I want to give him my whole life. I want to live for him." This man is French, 55 years old. The Lord has given me the opportunity of sharing His love with such a diverse audience: catholics, atheists, muslims, christians. Alleluia!

We need to remember that our life belongs to Christ, and since the one who owns us is the Lord, he has the right to use us however he desires, and wherever he desires, to fulfill his perfect will. He is God, the creator. In Him we live, and move and have our existence. What a privilege to be chosen by Him to be in this place and at this moment, in order to be his arms, his feet, his mouth in order to embrace, help and show the way to so many here, who besides being prisoners, are so needy in every imaginable way.

I want to thank all of my brothers and sisters who have been with me in this prison. I can honestly say that my biggest desire used to be to leave here and rejoin those I love. However I have been praying the prayer of Mary: "May your will, Lord, be fulfilled in me." And if it be his will that I stay longer in prison, in order to bring freedom to those who really are captive (physically and spiritually), then may it be. He will give me grace to handle it, as He has so far. And He will give grace to the brothers and sisters who have been giving us the necessary support here.

I do cry and lament over being imprisoned, for I would rather be with my family, my wife, my children, whom I love deeply. Freedom is priceless. How it is precious! I had it for so many years of my life, and I didn't realize how important it was; how I should have taken more advantage of it to spend time with the people I love. But at the same time I rejoice in being a prisoner for the sake of the Gospel.

After the latest hearing (dealing with a man we had hired who claimed to be a lawyer, but really was not), the judge told me: "My work as judge has finished, the only issue that remains now is the fact that you converted children (minors)." He has seen that all of the other charges are false. The judge himself said that we are not "gang leaders" and he sees we are innocent of the enemy's accusations. The judge even told Zeneide that she was unjustly imprisoned.

All of this confirms what I've said from the beginning: I am a prisoner of Christ, and God is my judge. When the moment comes, He will release us from here, and I want to leave with the feeling that I was faithful to the Lord during my journey through this place.

The moments of pain and need, the times of illness, discomfort, loneliness, tears … everything will be rewarded when we shake the hand of hundreds of people there in glory. When I assisted in the funeral for Amadu (a Christian from Liberia who died here in prison on Christmas day), I thought: "One day I will embrace him in glory, and together we will give praise to the Lord for His salvation". May our Lord and Savior whom we have the privilege of serving receive glory!

I would like to thank you for every email and message of encouragement, posts on Facebook, contributions, prayer meetings and times of intercession for us. Only God can really reward you.

I love you, dear friends, and even those I've not yet met personally, but who now are part of our lives, who have demonstrated so much love and affection for me and for Zeneide, as well as for Marli (my beloved wife) and my family (Jonatas, Debora & Zucki). May the Lord continue to shower your lives with blessing.

Christ's prisoner,

José Dilson

If you can do something, do it.

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Pope Benedctus XVI's Resign Announcement

Washington Post

Pope Benedict XVI announced on Monday during a meeting of Vatican cardinals that he would resign at the end of the month. Here is the text of his announcement as it appears on the Vatican Radio Web site.

Dear Brothers,

"I have convoked you to this Consistory, not only for the three canonizations, but also to communicate to you a decision of great importance for the life of the Church. After having repeatedly examined my conscience before God, I have come to the certainty that my strengths, due to an advanced age, are no longer suited to an adequate exercise of the Petrine ministry.

I am well aware that this ministry, due to its essential spiritual nature, must be carried out not only with words and deeds, but no less with prayer and suffering. However, in today’s world, subject to so many rapid changes and shaken by questions of deep relevance for the life of faith, in order to govern the bark of Saint Peter and proclaim the Gospel, both strength of mind and body are necessary, strength which in the last few months, has deteriorated in me to the extent that I have had to recognize my incapacity to adequately fulfill the ministry entrusted to me.

For this reason, and well aware of the seriousness of this act, with full freedom I declare that I renounce the ministry of Bishop of Rome, Successor of Saint Peter, entrusted to me by the Cardinals on 19 April 2005, in such a way, that as from 28 February 2013, at 20:00 hours, the See of Rome, the See of Saint Peter, will be vacant and a Conclave to elect the new Supreme Pontiff will have to be convoked by those whose competence it is.

Dear Brothers, I thank you most sincerely for all the love and work with which you have supported me in my ministry and I ask pardon for all my defects. And now, let us entrust the Holy Church to the care of Our Supreme Pastor, Our Lord Jesus Christ, and implore his holy Mother Mary, so that she may assist the Cardinal Fathers with her maternal solicitude, in electing a new Supreme Pontiff. With regard to myself, I wish to also devotedly serve the Holy Church of God in the future through a life dedicated to prayer."

From the Vatican, 10 February 2013

BENEDICTUS PP XVI

Source: Washington Post

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Amazing Grace - the best of Aretha Franklin

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The best I like



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NOV.07 NEWS FROM YOUCEF NADARKHANI'S LAWYER

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www.mohabat news.com

Wednesday, 02 November 2011

In this article you'll read an interview with Abbas Salmanpour, one of the attorneys of Yousef Nadarkhani, conducted by Mohabat News in which he describes Nadarkhani's current situation.

It's now about two years since Yousef Nadarkhani, one of the non-Trinitarian Christians, was arrested. His case has followed a very uneven way up to the present. First he was charged with apostasy and sentenced to death. The leaders of many different countries expressed their objections to this ruling. As a result of the international pressures, the Islamic regime of Iran stepped back from its initial position, annulled his death sentence and sent his case back to the local court in Gilan province for further investigation.

After sending the case back to the local court, the news media supported by the regime, accused Nadarkhani of some different crimes. Also the governor of Gilan said in a speech that Nadarkhani's crime was not apostasy but he had been jailed for several rapes and establishing brothels.

These things are being said now, although a record of Nadarkhani's apostasy verdict issued by the court in Gilan, was published over the internet some months ago. The complex and lengthy process of this case is a puzzle designed by Iran's judicial authorities, which they now appear unable to solve.

It's also said that the referral of Nadarkhani's case to the Supreme Leader of Iran, Ali Khamenei, has made the resolution of the case more complex. What seems obvious is that a political decision is being developed in which the judicial authorities and Iranian political leaders may share responsibility.

A reporter from the Iranian Christian News Agency, Mohabat News, interviewed one of the attorneys of Yousef Nadarkhani by telephone and asked him about the latest developments on Nadarkhani's case.

You can hear the interview here (In Farsi) :

-Please inform us about the status of Nadarkhani's case at the moment?

- I should say that the case must be referred to the high court again.

- You mean the case will be sent back to the high court?

-Look, if the local court announces the second verdict and if we appeal, the case would be sent to the high court.

- How is Nadarkhani's situation in the prison right now? Is he allowed to visit and/or call his family?

Yes, as far as I know he has no problem in this regard. I mean, I asked him about this and fortunately he is in a good situation in prison. He is not under pressure or other such problems. The related branch of the court allows his family to visit him as much as possible. Fortunately there is no problem in this matter.

- Five of the Marja-e-Taghlids (literally meaning a source of guidance and reference) rejected the accusation of apostasy against Nadarkhani and now his case has been referred to the Supreme Leader of Iran, Ali Khamenei. If he confirms the apostasy verdict for Nadarkhani, what would happen to his case?

The disagreement between lawyers and judges in this case is whether Nadarkhani meets the conditions to be called an apostate or not. The Marja-e-Taghlids do not reject an apostasy accusation in principle. Generally, they support such kind of accusation. But the discussion is whether Nadarkhani's activities would make him an apostate or not. If according to the facts of his case they recognize him as an apostate then according to the Islamic principles the apostasy penalty would be announced for him. And if not, he would not be treated as an apostate. The major problem is about this issue.
As you asked about the referral of his case to the office of the Supreme Leader, according to our leadership system, if the Supreme Leader decides on something, basically that decision should be implemented.

- Would the decision of the leader have more credibility than the other five Marja-e-Taghlid?

Since he is the Supreme Leader, according to the constitution, he is in a higher position than the other five. The Marja-e-Taghlids would make their comments but the Supreme Leader has the right to issue a final verdict. Such verdicts are binding. I think and I'm quite sure that the judges would implement this final verdict.

- It is said that in a trip to the province of Gilan, Mr. Eje'ei has rebuked the judges for sending the Nadarkhani case to the office of the Supreme Leader. Is this true?

I'm not sure about the accuracy of what you say here and so I can't comment on it. I can just add a point to your words and it is that if there were any rebukes, which I don't think there were, surely it would not take place in a way that everyone would know about it. I mean to say that this is most probably just a rumor.

-During recent months or even years, a large number of Christians were arrested and imprisoned by the security authorities. Even now some Christian converts are being held in prison. In your opinion, why has the accusation of apostasy only been mentioned in Nadarkhani's case?

What has made this case more sensitive is that it's believed that Nadarkhani has undertaken some actions to spread his beliefs. I mean the accusations that are mentioned in his indictment are of forming a house church and of spreading Christian beliefs to others. It is also claimed that he had been a Muslim and later converted to Christianity. These issues have made the case a bit more sensitive.

Of course my colleagues and I don't believe this. I believe that he won't be convicted of being an apostate. The very fact of being a Christian has not made the Nadarkhani case sensitive. He is not being convicted because of being a Christian. It's not like that. As far as we know, our Christian friends and neighbors continue living in peace and are free to practice their faith inside their churches. The accusations pointed towards Nadarkhani are of gathering in a house church, preaching Christianity to Muslims and deceiving them to leave their Islamic beliefs.

However, we are trying to prove the opposite and to prove that he has not done that. And even if any preaching was done among his fellow Christians, it cannot be seen as preaching against Islam. There is also a disagreement about this among the lawyers and judges. We hope that all these disagreements will come to an end and be resolved in some way. I also hope that with the tact of the judges in this case, they will conclude it in good order so that he can go back to his family and this case will finally come to an end.

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Bible Gospel of John in Farsi

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To your research:

www.farisnet.com

Brother Joao Cruzue/Brazil: cruzue@gmail.com












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Iranians are thirsty for Jesus Christ

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Mohabat News

An interview is conducted in this regard with Mr. Shahram Nikoo, an Iranian Christian and the spokesman and manager of the Iranian Church in Europe.

Q- Do you have any evidence to show that the acceptance of Christianity is growing in Iran?

Yes, the wave of acceptance of Christianity in Iran is increasing on a daily basis. We know this from Christian television networks which are being broadcast through satellite signals and also the feedback people give from inside Iran regarding these programs. It's also obvious from the view rates on our websites. All these factors show that many people in Iran are interested in committing their lives to Jesus Christ.

Q- How do you evangelize these groups of people? Do you do it freely or in a secret way?

We do nothing in secret and everything is completely open. All evangelical television programs are accessible through satellite channels and/or internet. Praise the Lord that today we are living in a world which gives us the opportunity to communicate with people around us. Of course the people themselves are eager to discover the gospel and study it. Some other people also come to the faith through dreams and visions.

Q- Is the internet the only way to support the people who want to know about Christianity or are there also books and other literature available for this purpose?

No, there are no Christian books or literature available in Iran. The only resources available to the people who want to know about Christianity are the internet and satellite television.

Q- Are the websites active in this field being subjected to filtering?

Of course they are being blocked. but there are also ways to overcome the filtering.

Q-Geographically, are there any areas in Iran in which more people convert to Christianity?

There are more people coming to Christ from the religious cities like Qom and Mashhad in comparison to other cities.

Q- Are the people who believe in Christ only from the Shi'ite Muslim background or are there people from other backgrounds as well?

At this time there are people from various religious backgrounds who have converted to Christianity including Baha'is, Sunni Muslims, Zoroastrians and so on.

Q-It's being said that the security authorities of Iran have undertaken contradictory behaviors towards Christians who have been arrested. In a statement recently published by some Human Rights organizations it's explained that when they arrest someone, one of the first things they do is to make a false financial or moral allegation against the arrested person and then tell the individual that if you repent and return to Islam then all your crimes will be pardoned. Please speak about the treatment of arrested Christians at the time of their arrest.

I'm not living inside and I've never faced this issue closely but the reports that I have heard confirm your words. Unfortunately, inappropriate behaviors are being used against Iranian Christians, especially those who have an Islamic background. It's really surprising that the Islamic Republic is pressuring Christian converts to this extent. These people really have nothing to do with politics and they're not trying to change the regime. These people have just changed into different and better people. It's so puzzling why a regime is trying to persecute its own people rather than encouraging them.

We have people who were addicted to drugs before they believed in Jesus and now that they've accepted him as their Savior, their lives have been totally changed. Now they are sharing their faith with other addicts around them and encouraging them to give up drugs. There were situations in which couples were losing their family life and after believing in Jesus they were both living happily together and had started a new life in their Lord.

What's the problem if people who had a ruined life change their lives and share this better life with others?

Q-Generally, what are the main problems that Christian prisoners face after their release?

During the past seven or eight years I've met with some Christians who had been jailed for their faith. The main problem they had was with their landlords. When the landlords realized that they were arrested for being Christians he/she would force them to vacate their house. Also, in their workplace they faced problems with their employers who fired them from their job because of being jailed for their faith. Actually, the Christian prisoners in Iran lose their right to have a house or a job and as a result they have a really difficult life. The attitude of society toward them would change and they'd be considered as criminals among their community.

Q- Do you mean that people reject them or is this from the authorities?
People reject these Christians as a result of fear of the authorities. It's kind of an indirect pressure from the authorities.

Q-What kind of sentences do the judicial authorities issue for Christian prisoners? What is their crime?

Mostly, Christians who are arrested get released after signing a commitment to not evangelize and paying a prescribed amount of bail. But I've heard that these people are subjected to various other pressures for converting to Christianity.

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The journey from Christianity to Islan is a big lie

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A FALSE IRANIAN SITE DO DECEIVE HIS YOUTH

Mohabat News

Reports received from the city of Rasht state that an apparently cultural organization called Haghighat-e-sabz-e-Gilan (The green truth of Gilan) plans to hold a series of conferences in Rasht named "The Journey from Christianity to Islam".

According to the Iranian Christian news agency, Mohabat News, the Haghighat-e-sabz-e-Gilan is a newly formed organization which is headed by Mohammad-Reza Mahboob. He was interviewed by Adian-News, a website backed by the Qom Islamic seminary. There he outlined the purpose of this organization as "following the propaganda of foreign countries and media, this cultural organization was formed to identify religious teachings about both Islam and Christianity and to be responsive to religious questions."

"With respect to attacks from foreigners inside the country, particularly in Gilan province, which has caused many doubts regarding religious issues, a series of conferences by the name "The Journey from Christianity to Islam" will be held with presentations and speeches by converts from Christianity to Islam and people familiar with the Bible" he added. These conferences will be held in collaboration with the Office of Culture and Islamic Guidance of Gilan province and the cultural and propagating deputy of the Office of the Islamic Propagation of the Islamic Seminary of Qom. The manager of these conferences claims that the speakers for this series of conferences will all be literate people from Argentina, Germany, Myanmar and Iraq who have converted from Christianity to Islam.

The establishment of an internet radio station called "Voice of Christ" which is against Christ

One of the most important points that Mohamad-Reza Mahboob mentioned was the establishment of an internet radio station by the name "Voice of Christ". The purpose of this station is to answer questions about Christianity and its targets are all the Farsi speaking countries including Iran, Afghanistan and Tajikistan. The interesting thing here is that the programs of this station will also be broadcast in the Gilaki accent (accent of the people of Gilan) and the Taleshi dialect (the local language of the people in northwest Iran).

Some questions that should be asked in this regard

The very selection of Gilan province and the city of Rasht (birthplace of Nadarkhani) as the location for these conferences regarding "The Journey from Christianity to Islam" raises some questions. Furthermore, it's not clear to what extent international pressure on Iran and international support for Nadarkhani have pushed Iranian authorities to hold such conferences.

No doubt these conferences are evidence that Islamic clerics and religious authorities in Iran have become nervous and feel the need to hold such conferences. What comes to mind by hearing this news is that the main goal for these conferences is to support the prestige of Islam in the city of Rasht, to reduce the negative effect of the publication of news about Nadarkhani and to overcome perceived weakness of the Islamic Republic in this regard.

On the other hand, this matter shows that aversion towards Islam among the youth has even reached the city of Rasht in spite of severe pressure and threats from the government. This fact has increased the fear among Islamic authorities of Iran. By holding such conferences, the authorities of the city of Rasht are seeking an opportunity to distribute whatever they want.

The most significant issue in this regard is that the Islamic Republic is spending large amounts of money to counteract the spread of Christianity among Iranian youth. This time they have chosen a deceptive way to use Christ's name to fight against Christianity. You can understand this fact from the name (Voice of Christ) that they have chosen for their internet radio station. Using the name of Christ for an Islamic radio station is nothing other than an attempt to deceive youth who are thirsty to hear and know the truth about Christ, by teaching them false ideas about Christ. The radio station established by the regime to answer religious doubts and questions, is full of duplicity and doubts itself.

The obvious goal for this radio station is to stop the spread of Christianity among Iranian youth.



Here: How do know the true Jesus Christ



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Letter from Iran prision: Pastor Yusef Nadarkhani

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http://presenttruthmn.com
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This is a message from brother Youcef Nadarkhani, a pastor of an Iranian church who is remaining in prison.

Our dear brother has been kept in custody since the October of 2009 and has recently been sentenced to death. This message has been translated from Farsi to English.

Dear brothers and sisters, Salam

In the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ, I am continuously seeking grace and mercy to you, that you remember me and those who are bearing efforts for his name in your prayers.

Your loyalty to God is the cause of my strength and encouragement.

For I know well that you will be rewarded; as it’s stated: blessed is the one who has faith, for what has been said to him by God, will be carried out.

As we believe, heaven and earth will fade but his word will still remain.

Dear beloved ones, I would like to take this opportunity to remind you of a few verses, although you might know them, So that in everything, you give more effort than the past, both to prove your election, and for the sake of Gospel that is to be preached to the entire world as well.

I know that not all of us are granted to keep this word, but to those who are granted this power and this revelation, I announce the same as Jude, earnestly contend for the faith that was once delivered to the saints.

We are passing by special and sensitive days.They are days that for an alert and awake believer can be days of spiritual growth and progress. Because for him, more than any other time there is the possibility to compare his faith with the word of God, have God’s promises in mind, and survey his faith.

Therefore he (the true believer) does not need to wonder for the fiery trial that has been set on for him as though it were something unusual, but it pleases him to participate in Christ’s suffering.

Because the believer knows he will rejoice in his glory.

Dears, the “ judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?”

Therefore those who are enduring burdens by the will of God, commit their souls to the faithful Creator. Promises that he has given us, are unique and precious. As we’ve heard he has said: “Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you”

How can it be possible for a believer to understand these words?

Not only when he is focusing on Jesus Christ with adapting his life according to the life Jesus lived when he was on earth? As it is said ” O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken: Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory? And it is easier for heaven and earth to pass, than one tittle of the law to fail.”

Have we not read and heard: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. Many attempt to flee from their spiritual tests, and they have to face those same tests in a more difficult manner, because no one will be victorious by escaping from them, but with patience and humility he will be able to overcome all the tests, and gain victory.

Therefore in the place of Christ’s followers, we must not feel desperate, but we have to pray to God in supplication with more passion to help us with any assistance we may need.

According to what Paul has said: In every temptation, God himself will make a way for us to tolerate it.

O beloved ones, difficulties do not weaken mankind, but they reveal the true human nature.

It will be good for us to occasionally face persecutions and abnormalities, since these abnormalities will persuade us to search our hearts, and to survey ourselves.

So as a result, we conclude that troubles are difficult, but usually good and useful to build us.

Dear brothers and sisters, we must be more careful than any other time.

Because in these days, the hearts and thoughts of many are revealed, so that the faith is tested.

May your treasure be where there is no moth and rust.

I would like to remind you of some verses that we nearly discuss everyday, (Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.) but as long as our human will has priority over God’s will, his will will not be done.

As we have learned from him in Gethsemane, he surrendered his will to the father, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.”

What we are bearing today, is a difficult but not unbearable situation, because neither he has tested us more than our faith and our endurance, nor does he do as such. And as we have known from before, we must beware not to fail, but to advance in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, And consider these bumps and prisons as opportunities to testify to his name. He said: If anyone is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.

As a small servant, necessarily in prison to carry out what I must do, I say with faith in the word of God that he will come soon.”However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?”

Discipline yourself with faith in the word of God. Retain your souls with patience. For there is no man that doeth any thing in secret, and he himself seeketh to be known openly.

May you are granted grace and blessings increasingly in the name of Lord Jesus Christ.

Yusef Nadarkhani

Lakan Prison in Rasht

2/June/2010

Photos Royal Wedding Prince William and Kate Middleton

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London, 29th of April 2011

João Cruzué

Buckingham Palace - British Royalty House



Fiancés: Miss Kate Middleton and Prince William




Catherine Elizabeth Middletonand William Arthur Philip Louis

(09th of January, 1982) .................... ...............(21th of June, 1982)




Inside of Westminster Abbey - Church fo Religious ceremony




A carriage that will bring just married back to Buckingham Palace



Rolls Royce Phanton VI

A car alike, will drive Miss Kate Middleton till teh Westminister Abbey.



Bentley State Limousin

Prince William will be conduct till the Westminster Abbey in a vehicle alike



Princess Diana (1961-1997) and her wonderful bridal dress

(Mãe do Príncipe William)



DETAILS:


Oficial Briefing of Ceremony


Galeria of photos - Daily Telegraph





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Balade for Fukushima Children

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"TEARS OF THE SAINTS"

Lyrics by Lelland

There are many prodigal sons
On our city streets they run
Searching for shelter
There are homes broken down
People's hopes have fallen to the ground
From failures

This is an emergency!

There are tears from the saints
For the lost and unsaved
We're crying for them come back home
We're crying for them come back home
And all your children will stretch out their hands
And pick up the crippled man
Father, we will lead them home
Father, we will lead them home

There are schools full of hatred
Even churches have forsaken
Love and mercy
May we see this generation
In it's state of desperation
For Your glory

This is an emergency!

Sinner, reach out your hands!
Children in Christ you stand!
Sinner, reach out your hands!
Children in Christ you stand!

And all Your children will stretch out their hands
And pick up the crippled man
Father, we will lead them home
Father, we will lead them home

Listen to this music at Lelland/myspace music: Tears of the Saints

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Psalm for Japan

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Psalm # 60
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1  O God, thou hast cast us off, thou hast scattered us, thou hast been displeased; O turn thyself to us again.

2 Thou hast made the earth to tremble; thou hast broken it: heal the breaches thereof; for it shaketh.

3 Thou hast shewed thy people hard things: thou hast made us to drink the wine of astonishment.

4 Thou hast given a banner to them that fear thee, that it may be displayed because of the truth. Selah.

5 That thy beloved may be delivered; save  thy right hand, and hear me.




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Hindu Boycots threaten christians in Orissa - India

The persecution did not stopped.

All India Christian Council

The Collector: of Kandhamal, Orissa, Dr. Krishan Kumar who headed the district during the anti Christian violence of August-October 2008 which left 100 dead, 5,600 houses burnt and about 56,000 persons displaced, seems now to be presiding over a well thought out economic boycott of the minority community.

Confronted with the stark reality, Krishan has taken to blaming the Church and its leadership for being a hindrance in restoring peace - possibly because they have petitioned the High Court and the Supreme court of India on issues of justice in the region.

The economic boyctott of Kondh and Panos Christians in Kandhamal, which first came to light in the People's National Tribunal headed by former Delhi chief justice Shah, held in New Delhi in August this year, continues to be a source of major harassment of the community, a fact finding team of social activist and lawyers has discovered in a field study of the region earlier this month. The preliminary report was released yesterday.

The fact finding team consisted of four well-known activists led by Advocate Nicholas Barla, a tribal activist leader, with Advocate Brother Marcus, a social worker, Jugal Kishore Ranjit, a dalit human right activist and Ajay Kumar Singh, human right activist.

They visited Kandhamal on 5th of November 2010 to verify the allegations of social and economical boycotts of Kandhamal Christians. The team visited four villages of four police stations of three blocks in violent hit district of Kandhamal in Orissa.

The following is the operative part of the Fact Finding Report and
Update:

Despite the state administration claims of normalcy, what has been found by the Fact-finding group report reveals a state of lawlessness and utter fear and sense of insecurity of the persecuted Christians.

The team first visited Gadaguda village under G. Udayagiri police station under Tikabali that witnessed violence as late as 30th of October 2008, almost two months after violence was unleashed against Christian. An elderly couple in their late 70s were axed and then burnt alive here. Scores of people were injured.

One of them, an army man, has bullets in his hands and thighs. Some are still in tents. The team interacted with the people of Dakanaju village and nearby villagers. They included the postman, Sarapanch and a group of affected Christians. The team was told the Christians of Dakanaju village were barred from taking water from the government dug well.

The team then met Gadaguda Sarapanch, Sachindra Pradhan and asked whether he was aware of such instance. Mr. Pradhan told that he was not aware and would look into the matter and sort out at the earliest.

The team then headed for Bodimunda village under Tikabali police station in Tikabali block. They parked the vehicle on the roadside and headed towards the broken buildings and houses, a sure sign of wrath of anti-Christian violence. Upon reaching the village, the team members headed for a pastor's house as there were hardly anybody seen on the street amidst the ruins.

The pastor, Binod Pradhan (name changed), welcomed the group to his house and a definite anxiety reflected on his face. The team found that his house was intact. The pastor told the group that he has been forced to become a Hindu to save his old mother, who could not have escaped the violence as she was not in a position to walk even.

Within minutes of the team's coming, a person later identified as a RSS cadre came to the house to enquire about the group. The pastor informed him that the guests are bank officials as his relative works in a bank. It was a sign that the team should leave the house soon.

Meanwhile, the team was informed of social and economical boycott imposed on the Christians by the right wing group RSS, the parent group of the Bharatiya Janata party, and there would be fines if any vehicle ferry any Christian be he healthy or sick, or their belongings from the village to outside or from outside into village.

The team wanted to verify the allegations and went to a house of certain Bamadev Pradhan, a tribal Christian. Bamadev was lying on the muddy floor and could not get up as he was struck with paralysis. The family members told the group that being paralysis man and was suffering from fever, they looked for a hired auto to take him to a nearby hospital, Tikabali, 8 kilometres away from the village.

Nobody was ready to come to village and finally a Christian who owned an auto-rickshaw was almost forced to pick up the paralytic person. when the hired auto was returning after the drop, it was stopped and taken away by the RSS elements.

The owner took the help of the auto union, which negotiated for the release of the auto paying fine of one thousand fifty one rupees (Rs 1,051) and with the assurance that the auto owner would not ferry any Christian from the village.

The team has started interacting with the paralysed family members for five minutes, when a Christian villager; Jesaya Nayak entered the house and informed the team members that it should leave the place as the situation was volatile.

The team went to another house. A fearful group of Christians had assembled there and interacted with them. The fearful Christians said, "We are in a state of shock. Those who have something have moved out the village and we poor people are left behind.

What haunts us and saddens us is the administration, the BDO and police, who are hand in glove with RSS. Instead of becoming sensitive to our plight, the administration wants to deprive us of our basic amenities. They have banned the local auto-rickshaws, the only means of transportation in the area from taking Christians passengers.

"We are not allowed to bring housing materials nor food provisions or medicines nor allowed to buy anything from the local shops. We do not have any shop of our own. Here, we are struggling to live as human being", the victims said.

The team enquired whether they had complained it before the police, the people replied positively and explained the statement of Inspector in charge, IIC, Tikabali, who said "being a Christian you have to suffer and there is no option'

The team wanted to meet the auto-rickshaw owner and others who have been fined. A villager volunteered to join to meet the auto owner, who has to pay the fine for ferrying the paralytic to the hospital. The auto-rickshaw owner, a pastor, told the team that he had to pay the fine one thousand fifty one rupees despite he had to complain to the police.

The team then met Birendra Nayak (name changed and a Hindu himself), who told the team members that he had to pay Rs 5000 to get his tractor released as it was transporting the housing materials for the construction of the house of a Boarder Security Force soldier, which was destroyed during anti-Christian violence.

Birendra Nayak went on to add, "It is because the local police takes percentage, (a bribe) and protects the anti-social elements who rule the roost. I informed the local police, but nothing happened".

Pushpanjali Nayak, the soldier's mother said who could be contacted over the telephone, told the group, "this incident shocked her army son, who became ill and left the village in disgust. We are presently living under polythene like a cowshed without roof and floor and proper wall with little money that we have had managed to collect, yet we cannot build our houses.

We had brought sand for the house and were taken away by RSS. Our life is hell here". She continued sobbing as she narrated. The former pastor, who says that he would openly practise the faith if situations become normal adds, "The sand that the tractor brought for the house was taken away to build the temple in the village".

Incidentally, there are a group of 15 police persons stationed in the village and they are mute spectators to these incidents. The team then headed for Keredi village under Phulbani block and went to a Christian household. The team found a huge photo of Lord Krishna.

Naresh Digal, an ex-army man (name changed) explained that he had to" live like a Hindu as they are four households in the locality. The environment is quite hostile and there is no support from the administration. He went on to further state that his neighbour, an ex- army man, had to bear the brunt of RSS people and his house was destroyed.

He filed the complaints and after eight days police came to see and left the place even without entering the broken house. The life time earnings of his neighbour are gone. What will he invest on the family's future? What is the use of this way of life if there is no support from anywhere?" The woman, who shared that her cousin has become a nun, said"we are waiting for the day when we could be free to practise the religion of our choice. "Not sure when the day would dawn."

The team then went to Gandapadar village in Minia gram panchayat in Phiringia block. It was deep in the interior. It was not difficult to identify the Christians' houses. The woman of the house welcomed into the repaired house. The team saw a huge framed photo of Lord Shiva on the wall. When asked about the photo, she changed her face and struggled to explain," The RSS has given us the photo and a "Tulsi" plant for worship. We have kept as often they come to check whether we reconverted to Christianity. We know we can never leave our faith." The villagers also stated that almost all the houses in the village have two photos; that of Jesus and Shiva. Tarabati Digal explained that there are 10 families still living outside the village.







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A christian letter from India

A letter from Brother Aby Mammen

Dear Brother,

Happy to know about your concerns about Indian missionaries. First, let me try to answer your questions.

The name of the brother whose transcript I wrote is Philip P Eapen. You may visit his website : http://www.philipeapen.com/

1. Malayalam Bible : The Malayalam translation of the bible popularly used by the protestant Christians is about 170 years old. Some of the words used in this translation are not understood now or has translational errors. So, preachers tend to compare with English bibles to get a clearer interpretation of the verses. In 1997 a newer translation of the bible was published, but it has not become popular. The people have a traditional mindset and they adapt to the new methods very slowly. Also, these are the only versions that are available. It would be good to have a Malayalam children's bible at least.

2. Persecution in Orissa : The news you have followed about the persecution in Orissa is the one propagated by the media. It doesnt give the full picture. The underlying reason behind why Christians are being targeted is because of the rate of Christian conversion is increasing !!! How is this increase brought to notice ? When Christian organizations themselves try to boast through the media about their work of conversions. You'd have know how the Australian missionary Graham Staines along with his two sons were torched to death by Hindu extremists.

Yesterday I got news about two pastors being attacked in Bihar. Many similar persecutions are happening to the native people. But it is not brought to notice at an international level, probably because the people affected are a minority and there is fear in the minds. Also, due to Christian principles, people do not seek to take legal actions against their persecutors.

3. Intimidation and Isolation of a new believer, house church :

To understand you need to read the full sentence and also the cultural context here. Related to this non-involvement is the general climate in today's churches. Instead of being seeker-friendly, the churches intimidate and isolate newcomers. Instead of having attractive, relevant services, the churches often have archaic forms of worship, seating arrangements, architecture, etc.

Please don't think that Christians try to harass those new comers in the church. To understand about the non-attractive worships, I'll explain more. In India, Pentecostal churches do not have benches inside the church to sit comfortably. This was mainly because of two reasons :

One is that : from the time Pentecostal movement became prominent in the land, the people were used to sit down on the ground on mats inside the church, mainly because we considered it as a better posture to worshiping God on our kneels than sitting comfortably on the benches. Also, there were no good musical instruments available as that of today. What was available was Drums and clangs and people clap hands when they sing and there is no choir in small churches. Even today, there are many churches who considers using other musical instruments would not be effective for worship!

Secondly most churches are poor and contains few number of people. In a town there will be many churches - a few big churches and many small churches. So, small churches would not have their own church buildings. Building a church needs money and the building expense cannot be met by the few members. So, they meet at the Pastor's home / rent a house to use for worship. That's how the name "house church" is coined. But interestingly, this is what we see in Acts of Apostles !!! In villages mostly the churches are poor and are house churches.

Even if a church has many members and has raised money to build a church structure, they would not generally seek to beautify the church or make the interior comfortable with benches / decorate the stage... or have good music for worship. This is because of the mindset of the people who are satisfied with the traditional worship style.

I go to a house church too. But we have electric organ to accompany the worship.

So, when a non-Christian comes to the church they will find a bit uncomfortable to sit on the floor, hear songs sung without music, listen to lengthy sermons etc... makes it unattractive.

Another aspect is using jewelery is considered sinful by the pentecostals here. Generally, people in our land give much importance to jewelery, especially the women. You can see a bride will be decked with ornaments for her wedding.

The early Pentecostal church leaders in our land took a stand to lead a simple life-style. They decided not to use expensive clothes/ build big houses etc and will not use jewelery. But as time passed by not wearing jewelery has become the general code-of-conduct in the church. People have taken it as a doctrine. So, when a non-Christian come to church, they will be seeing people without jewelery and will feel odd. Usually only the widows don't use jewelery in the land. Some churches would not allow to take baptism or partake in the Lord's table if the person has worn ornaments, because they are afraid to act out of the tradition. Thus it is a harassment and intimidation to the new comers.

You see these are because people are blindly following the tradition.

4. Summary of my previous mail for you to understand better :

1. Evangelism is done by very few people/organizations. People generally do not consider that they are appointed to do evangelism. But this was not the case earlier.

2. Churches are not friendly / happy place to the new-coming people. (I've explained why in 3 above)

3. Missions are not happening in unreached areas much even with the mission organizations because of - fear of attacks by non-Christians, lack of finance, lack of good relationships with people of other faiths and inability to mingle with the people in their cultural context.

4. Successful evangelism happens with person-to-person method. People bring their close friends or relatives to Christ after continually ministering to them at a personal level. This is called friendship evangelism or household evangelism. Mass evangelism like a convention will help only in creating a mood in the minds of people which should be done with a follow-up of those who have shown interest in knowing more of Christ.

5. Cell based church style : a big church will have small divisions called churches which will have their own prayer meetings and evangelistic efforts. This is becoming very effective.

6. Many churches who are good in evangelism are not good at teaching the Word. So, discipling is not done well. What results is a group of people who are not grounded well in faith.

7. There are churches who have lot of vision to engage in cross-cultural evangelism , but they lack finance. But there are other churches who have surplus finance but lacks the desire to reach out to evangelism.

8. A fast growing church movement in Eastern Uttar Pradesh ( the largely populated , but poor state in India ) - operating as a social welfare movement. The people evangelize their household members. No outsiders is involved. The converts do not throw away their traditional practices which are not contrary to the Word. They do not practise idol worship. But their weddings, festivals etc are still celebrated in their own cultural ways. Hence it is fast growing for the past 15 years.

9. Literature evangelism is very much in need now. Also, having songs, books, training materials, films in native language .

5. How you can help missions :

To see the zeal and the burden you have in the progress of the gospel has encouraged us greatly, dear Brother. May God greatly bless you.

I can help you to get connected to missionaries who really are in need and doing missions in difficult places.

I have contacts with mission organizations which find very difficult to run because of lack of finance. These times a lot of mission hospitals are shutting down or have started functioning as private hospitals (ie by taking more money for treatment to run the hospiltal, instead of the free / less money they used to take for the treatment as they used to), because of the lack of committed Christian doctors who are ready to serve with low salary.

I occasionally support a tribal mission hospital - who minister to the tribal people in a place called Attapadi (http://www.tribalmissionindia.org/). I have great admiration to Dr. Muraleedharan of this organization who was instrumental in setting up a mission hospital, nursing school, an English medium school in a remote place in Tamil Nadu, by investing his life there.

There is another mission organization called Indian Evangelical Mission (http://www.iemoutreach.org/), which are also struggling to pay their missionaries. I have a friend - Luke Titus who is a missionary working in a place called Lahaul & Spiti - places in the Himalayan mountain range. A hardworking missionary from my land doing cross-cultural missions at Himachal Pradesh.

Another mission organization is http://jesusmissionindia.org/default.aspx. Saju Mathew of Jesus mission is another missionary leader I admire. He has mission fields in Orissa where persecutions happened. Also, God is using him in Mozambique in Africa. There are other poor pioneer missionaries I can connect to through trusted missionary leaders.

Missionary organizations will have a Social Welfare Trust through which they can receive money. If you can let me know how you would like to support - like is it a one time support or a continual support I can tell you what is a better method for sending the funds. Also, would you like to transfer the funds to the missions organization or directly to missionaries ? How did you help the mission field at Nepal ?

My mail is quite long... :)

I hope I have explained clearly to your questions. Pls let me know if you need more clarifications.

And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. (Phil 1:6).