Our Dear Brethren,    21st July 2018

I enjoy writing letters each week knowing that this letter will reach our brethren in three different countries (Malawi, Zambia, and the USA), including five different congregations (Lilongwe, Malawi; Chipata, Zambia; New York City, NY; New Jersey - North; Hartford, CT). We are often reminded that the Church of God is a spiritual organization led by Jesus Christ. God has called many different people from many different backgrounds and many different places into this spirit-led group of people called His Church. "Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him" (Acts 10:34-35, KJV).

It is God who has chosen each of us, called us to be part of this body of Christ, and justified us today in this time so we could be part of the firstfruits of His children. It is not because of who we are or what we have done that God has chosen us. The choice to accept the unique opportunity to be called His firstfruits is completely ours. There are scriptures that describe "predestination" (see Romans 8; Ephesians 1; 1 Peter 1). Some interpret these scriptures to mean that the choice to be saved or condemned is in God's hands. If this were true, then why would God offer us a choice?

The fact is, our Heavenly Father desires no one to be condemned, but wants every single human being who has ever lived to choose Him and to choose His gift of salvation (1 Timothy 2:3-4; 2 Peter 3:9). The choice to choose His salvation is up to us. The timing of our calling, however, is up to Him. "No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him; and I will raise him up at the last day" (John 6:44). God has not predetermined salvation or condemnation, but has predetermined the calling of each of us. Some now, offering us the chance to become firstfruits and to reign with Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15). Some during the thousand year reign of Christ with His firstfruits (Revelation 20). Some after the second resurrection for the first time will have the chance to choose salvation based on truth (Revelation 20:12).

There is a very well written article on the UCG.org website that appeared in print in 2003 (https://www.ucg.org/the-good-news/predestination-are-you-just-a-pawn). The article is titled, "Predestination: Are You Just A Pawn?" And was written by Tom Robinson. Here is a quote from this article that summarizes this topic of predestination:

"...predestination does not concern whether or not individuals will be ultimately saved or condemned. Instead, it refers to when people are offered salvation."

Here are some additional links to articles on the website on this same topic:

https://www.ucg.org/bible-study-tools/bible-questions-and-answers/does-predestination-mean-that-god-has-already

https://www.ucg.org/bible-study-tools/bible-questions-and-answers/does-the-bible-teach-predestination

In each of the congregations that this letter reaches, I see God's people striving to work together to please Him. This is shown in different ways at different times. Each congregation has their own struggles, and their own successes. None of the difficulties are exciting to see, but all of the successes are wonderful to be able to witness! For instance: The congregation in Chipata, Zambia has done well in educating many of its members in successful farming practices. In Lilongwe, Malawi the congregation has banded together to prepare their own piece of land to both grow crops and keep the Feast of Tabernacles which is fast approaching. The congregation in New York City successfully gathers each week after services to study God's word together, and to enjoy each others' fellowship as brethren. In New Jersey - North, the congregation has begun developing more individuals to speak during services, and is in the midst of planning a Bible study group during the week. In Hartford, CT, the brethren gather for fellowship and activities outside of the Sabbath to help encourage one another and get to know each other further.

Lena and I pray always that God is with each one of you in continuing these good works, and also in further developing each other so we can do more. Let's all continue to pray for each other and even reach out and encourage one another as we are able. I ask you to also please pray for the success of a project that Lena and I have been asked to help with. We have been asked to go on a trip to help in the planning process for a future young adults leadership camp called "Boundary Waters Adventure" that will take place in Orr, Minnesota here in the US. This adventure camp will officially begin in 2019, but preparations and planning need to happen first. This preliminary trip goes from July 24th through the 29th.

Here is a description of the purpose of this camp as well as a link to the website which contains information for those who would like to know more about it:

"Participants learn practical outdoor and adventure skills, as well as how to be better prepared for the future--in terms of both personal growth and service. The United Church of God needs leaders and pillars who can not only face difficulties with perseverance and courage, but who will also challenge themselves towards growth in leadership and spiritual maturity."

http://uyc.ucg.org/camp/boundary-waters-adventure

Thank you all in advance for your prayers for the success of each other in all that we do to please our God according to His will, and not our own.

Our love is with you.

Lewis VanAusdle