2012 UBF Southern Africa Regional Conference
August 10, 2012
Venue: Camp Bethel (Union Scripture ministry developed the conference site. During the pioneering age, UBF used daily bread study material published by the ministry. Union Scripture is the publishing arm of Intervasity. They became largely successful, so they became an independent ministry. UBF learned the daily bread from the Union Scriptures, and Dr. Samuel Lee developed our own daily bread materials.) [The conference site is rather remotely located about 2 and half hours of driving distance from the Johannesburg airport. It has a main lecture hall holding about 300 people. The dorm facility where we stayed does not have any heating system, nor hot water. So we refrained ourselves from taking showers. This is a winter season in S. Africa. Two days ago it snowed. During the night the temperature dropped below zero centigrade.]
[Total 290 registered for the conference (90 foreign delegates, 32 from Zimbabwe, 92 from Pretoria, 20 from Wits, and the rest also brought some.) Conference fee - $250 for foreign delegates; $80 for Africans]
[News:
Congo pioneering - Congo is being pioneered by the Missionary Peter Ban. He used to work at a Daewoo company in Hanoi, Vietnam. But Posco (Pohang Still Co. S Korea) took over Daewoo company. As a result they dispatched Peter Ban to Congo to its deepest part, a place a mining place.
Ghana pioneering - As of coming Fall, Missionary Truman Lee of Nigeria will be relocated to Ghana, for his company Samsung Electronics opens a new business there.
WITS (pronounced vits, the university where Nelson Mandela received a law degree, in Pretoria, S. Africa) UBF - only one family Jacob Kim from Namsan used to pioneer the university, but six months ago, one missionary family from Chongno II joined the ministry - Joanna Kim and Matthew Kim. They have two children - Soyong (10), and Sukmin (6). Matthew works at a private company run by one Korean church elder as a technician repairing TV sold by Samsung. Joanna works for a Korean employer as a cashier. Originally he got a job offer from SK, Korea, the offer to work in SK S. Africa as a computer engineer. Based on the job offer he and his family got all packed up, secured passports, and were ready to leave Korea for S. Africa. But at the last minute SK Korea cancelled the job offer. So Matthew had to decide to go to S. Africa regardless of job offer, that is, purely for mission, or not to go to S. Africa because job offer was gone? They repented of their calculating mind. By faith they decided to go as a missionary even without a job offer. Then when they arrived by faith, God provided them with good jobs. In case of Matthew, his Korean boss offered a better salary that is 15,000 Rand (which is about $2,000) a month. According to Missionary Jacob Kim of Wits, this amount is more than what SK S. Africa normally pays for after tax (which is about 40% in S. Africa), the net amount an employee at an entry level gets is way less than 15k Rand.
Opening Message by: Shepherd Andries Cortese (Cape town UBF)
Do not say I am only a child (Jeremiah 1:7)
We have been praying to pioneer all 35 nations with the gospel.
Jeremiah is from a small village not far from Jerusalem. At that time Israelites practiced despicable idol worship dedicated to Molek. In such an utterly dark corrupt times God called Jeremiah. God appointed him as a prophet to the nations. Jeremiah was overwhelmed. So he said, "I don't know how to speak. I am only a child." But God said, "Do not say I am only a child." Shepherd Andries was frustrated that his sheep did not attend the conference. Through the passage he realized that God did not make a mistake to call him as a shepherd to the nations. Our generation is difficult. Students are distracted. We also like Jeremiah are tempted to say, "Lord, please send someone else. Please let Koreans or Americans go out and preach, not Africans." Obedience is the most important to be used by God. If we obey, the Lord takes care of the rest. Andries work 5 days a week as a business analyst. During weekend he teaches the Bible to a student. He also prepares a sunday worship message. He has a family to serve. He does not know what to do. He lack experience. His ministry is young. He learns what works what does not. He is not strong. His character is not suitable. His character is like a squirrel. He wished to have a character like an elephant. In the past he used to serve a local church as a sound technician. But through the passage he heard the Lord's voice. He learned only if he obeyed God will take care of the rest.
Evening Message 1
(Genesis 2:4-25)
God establishes marriage
by: Desmond Mabilo (Wits, RSA)
God created a beautiful world, a perfect garden, and the marriage.
Part I. creation of man of mission
God made Adam with the mission to serve God as God's servant taking care of the garden. What does God want us to do now? God wants us to do Gods' will by winning people's heart back to God. As he grew up he did not know God's purpose. He went to Wits univ. to study engineering. In 2009 he got a job at an international auto manufacturing company. The salary was not good enough to buy the kind of fancy car he wanted to buy. Right before graduation he got invited to a sunday worship. God's word esp. book of John filled emptiness in his heart. Later through Genesis he was moved by how God helped Abraham. He learned God wants him to be a blessing. He started inviting students. In Sept. 2011 he was called to be a shepherd. Shepherd Jacob said it is a narrow road. But he accepted the call. John 12:4 inspired him to keep visiting the campus and invite students. As a shepherd he overcame the desire to go easy. Yes, the Lord can use anyone even an undeserving sinner like me, he said.
Part II. Uniting man and woman in marriage
God knew Adam needed a helper. During early era police dog was trained to bite only black Africans. Animals really cannot be suitable helper for Adam. [Power went out, room became pitch dark, then power came back.] So God made woman out of Adam. Without God no suitable woman could have been brought to Adam. God brought her to Adam for a greater purpose - the vision to carry out God's mission together to the end. Genesis 2:24 It is the same with us today. How can marriage expand Gods' mission? It is through opening a house church to welcome many so God's words can be taught. The example is seen in Genesis 12:2-4 that is God's plan to bless all nations through them. After his graduation from high school his parents divorced. He stayed with his uncle. In Sep. 2009 his mother died. He felt miserable. He was crushed. She was like god to him. Through John 14, he received comfort: do not let your heart be troubled; trust in God and trust in me. He felt great comfort. He wanted to receive comfort. So he found a girl and committed fornication. He realized he was a sinner before God. Through John 4 during Spring Conf. through Jesus like Samaritan woman he experienced the power of forgiveness. He received Living Water. He wanted to get married. Through the passage he realized that there is nothing he can do except doing God's work hard. Then God will bless him to build a marriage which does not end in divorce, but the marriage that expands the life of mission. May God bless Africa by establishing many house churches. Amen
Hymn 328]
Life Testimony
1 Onward (zimbabwe) - born in sep. 89 as the only son. Born in Zimbabwe. His father is a security officer. He attended a church from childhood. He wanted to be a doctor for his mother suffered from asthma. He excelled in school. In 2005 during highschool he got arested by police. He did not do a crime but the police rounded up many including him. After three days of incarceration he got released. The government tore down his parents house, so he became homeless. He commuted to school changing biuses four times. In April 2010 one shepherd invited him to UBF service. He joined a common life. He grew up in many aspects. He learned to give. He prays to overcome lustful desires. As a medical student he is busy. The conf. schedule conflicted with his final exam at the medical school. He applied for a passport last Feb. But since one of his parents was not born in Zimbabwe, the passport did not come out in six months. So he prayed. He went to the citizenship office, explained his situation. Then they issued a passport so he could come and joy the conference now. He wanted to make money and make his mother happy. But he learned that Jesus had a greater purpose, that is, to become not only a physical doctor but a spiritual shepherd. One word: Be a spiritual doctor.
2. Apolonia (Zimbabwe) Born in Dec. 1989. Grew up in a poor family. She could not afford a pair of shoes. Growing up in poverty and family conflicts she used to lie. She used to attend Union Scripture fellowship. In 2008 a friend invited her to UBF while freshman year. She did not understand the messages. Bible study and testimony writing were new to her. She woke up early to do daily bread. Missionary Rebekah prayed for her. Soon through God's words she realized her sinfulness. Last year she graduated from the university. She began to work with Dr. Samuel Lee. She desires to be a full time3 shepherdess. She has one Bible student. She let her stand up among the audience. She prays to feed five sheep. She also wants to marry by faith and become a missionary some day.
3. Lesedi (Wits, RSA) In Feb. 1984 he was born. His family moved to a small town Kuruman. He is of royal blood. Born in the family with six children. Under the western orthodox church. Inwardly he complained to God. He was a man of humanism and sefl righteousness. Missionary Rebekah Kim fished him and gave him to Jacob Kim. He wanted to prove Jacob was always wrong. He fell in sexual sin countless time. Through Roman 4:5 he learned to depend on him. Jacob encouraged him to visit S. Korea for training. He had the desire for Ph.D study. But through Matthew gospel study, he realized that he must live for God's glory. He was appointed a shepherd, but he knows he needs a lot of training. Humanism is the life that believes in happiness of man. Jesus caught him. Jesus says, "Come follow me." He accepts Jesus calling, "You will be fisher of man." He has three Bible students. He went to Canada for a Ph.D study. He joined Luke Hong's ministry. He joined Canada UBF common life staying with common life bothers. He regretted leaving Wits and coming to Canada not knowing the Ph.D study topic. He met one brother from Botswana. Later he met a brother Patrick from India. He comes to Sunday worship. He met John. Each time he studied the Bible with John John said he had peace. John is from Africa. During his entire youth John never saw his father. He looks forward to acting in a drama for the upcoming Canada UBF conf. He prays to be the best actor for God's glory. He keeps going to campus for fishing with his Bible teacher Missionary Peter still doing Ph.D. Unlike African students, Canadian students keep questioning the existence of God. There is also a great Muslim community. Jesus says a good shepherd lays down for the sheep. He prays he gives his Ph.D study for His glory and be a professor shepherd in God's time. He prays for a faithful woman who would marry him by faith. One word: Come follow me, I will make you into a fisher of man.
** A dance program
4. Eric (Pretoria, RSA) - a man from cape town. Luke 5:10, don't be afraid. from now on you will be a fisher of man. Born in January in 1990 in cape town. Growing up both of his grandmas were Christians. His parents were not. He and his parents moved to live with his grandma from his mother's side for his parents went into trouble. His father was a taxi driver. He used to carry weapon. He started using drugs and alcohol. His mother could not this. So his father moved out of his grandma's house when he turned 9. In 2000 he was killed at the drinking establishment. He felt alone after his father was buried. His mother moved to a different neighborhood. His mom struggled for poverty. She was hardly at home. She left cape town to work at JNB. He had to live with his grandma. He suffered academically at school. He failed the first grade at highschool. In grade 9 his mom came back to cape town. He started smoking weeds and doing alcohol. In 2005 in grade 10 he came to know Christian boys and he was drawn to them. Sometime later he was invited to a gospel church in the area. There he learned many things about God. One day after the message the pastor called to the front. That day he accepted Jesus as Savior. In 2006 he got baptized. But he was still in sin. He cried to God for the hardship. In grade 10 and 11 he worked hard. He became a top student at school. He struggled with fear and anxiety on his future and the struggle on sin. In 2008 he had no finance to attend a college.
During the first year at univ. at pretoria, he lived a sinful life with girls. He looked for a church to attend. He found UBF. Shepherd Christian invited him to one to one Bible study. He felt like Peter who worked hard but got nothing. With Chris he studied Genesis, and learned to put trust in God through Genesis 12:2-4. God's promise can be a reality his life if he commits himself to God. Luke 5 also moved his heart. Simon obeyed the command to let down the nets. Jesus said, "Do not be afraid; from now on you will catch man." He learned even a dirty sinner can be a useful fisherman. He went out and fished and found one to one Bible student. He also brought Brother Tipet and Brother Rior. He prays to give glory to God not to be a slave of sin any more. He completed undergraduate study, and is now working on an advanced study in law. May Jesus help him to be a fruitful fisherman for Jesus.
5. Khomo (Wits, RSA) born in 1990. He is from a large family. He was a smart boy so he jumped from 4th to 6th grade. He was shy. He spent high school days committing sexual immorality. He was addicted to porn. He became like this during university as well. He deeply got into pornography. He also got into a sexual relationship with her while watching pornography. She became pregnant. He was afraid of HIVS. He prayed to God, "Please let the result be negative." The result was negative. Then he resolved not to have a sexual relationship with girls. But the sin continued. At a crusade run by Benny Hinn, he confessed all of his sins. But after the conference was over, he was more consumed by sexual sins. But he got invited to UBF conf. There he heard the voice, "Go and call your husband." He confessed all of his sins. Huge burden was lifted. Since then he began to live a mission life. He invited many students (like Donald and Robert) to Bible studies. Then he experienced inner joy. However he could not overcome sexual desires. He got into a sexual relationship with a girl. On his say to a Bible house around 7 p.m. a bandit took his camera with which he took pictures of a naked woman's body, and his backpack away. He was under a gun point. It was God's will. He thanked God for the robber taking away the camera. Later one he got severely rebuked for becoming like Eli's two sons who mistreated God's offerings lightly. Since then he rededicated his life to the Lord and his mission. Thank God who transformed a sinner like him to a light for the Gentiles. From a worthless sinner to a light for the Gentiles.
James Lee - according to Genesis 2 God created man and woman for mission. So we must carry on God's mission in Africa.
Morning Devotion by Shepherd Abraham Victor of Namibia
Matthew 6:33
We have multitude of desires like the desire to dominate over the other. The same was true with the disciples. This results in man sinning, falling short of God's glory. So he says we are to seek God's kingdom and his righteousness. Then God rules. Then Satan's kingdom is no more. True joy arises.
If we seek His kingdom God will provide us with all things. All include job, friends, happy marriage, money, blessings, happiness and long life. Every good and perfect blessing is here, along with the secret of successful and fruitful life. Examples include the changed life of Matthew and Daniel.
From the latter part of 1990 till the middle of 1994 Missionary James Lee of Zimbabwe used to work at a Korean embassy in Namibia. While he was there, he went to the Namibia State University and fished students. One student used to study the bible with him but soon started pulling himself back from the one to one relationship. James Lee kept visiting him. He then showed him a gun, and asked James not to bother him again, but rather study one of his friends named Victor. This is how James Lee met Abraham Victor. James Lee left for Zimbabwe in 1995. He had to serve the ministry. He married Betty.
I had a breakfast at a table with John Park (Kwang Joo II - chapter director), Missionary Andrew of Johannesburg, a brother (20 years old) from Wits UBF (freshman), and three more sisters. I was curious of the reason why we do not see many Africans wearing eye glasses. Andrew presented two reasons: No. 1. Not many African students can afford modern gadgets like computers or iphones. In addition they prefer to go outside and do outdoor activities like playing soccer. So their vision is mostly good. No. 2. Some of them have poor vision, but they are too poor to afford eye glasses. He also added that many African students have bad teeth or missing teeth, because if they go to a dentist, he pulls out teeth without considering other alternatives.
Group Bible Study led by Motheo Mahapa (UP, RSA)
The group leader works as an environmentalist. She perfectly memorized all the answers to all the study questions, and spoke in perfect English without any grammatical error. The introduction, the summary of the passage and points of the message, the answers she gave to the class, indicate her level of self-discipline and preparation as a group leader.
She emphasized the importance of personal relationship with Jesus Christ as one's personal Savior. She said one could develop such a relationship through one to one Bible studies, or daily bread. Jesus is the king of kings, prophet of prophets, and priest of priests. When we confess Jesus as the Christ, we accept that Jesus is our high priest through whom our sins are atoned for so in Jesus we can enter the presence of God. Jesus is the king and a ruler. So you accept his rule in your life. Isaiah describes Jesus' kingship as the prince of peace, wonderful counselor, mighty God, ever lasting father. Heb 1:2 says God speaks in and through Jesus, his son, so we accept that Jesus' words are God's words. He is my prophet, so I listen to and obey his words. Jesus my priest, Jesus my king, Jesus my prophet. Taking up the cross means taking up the spiritual cross, not "me" cross. The cross of Jesus is the power of God.
Main Lecture 1
Mark 8:27-38
You are the Christ by Oliver Maradziki, Zimbabwe UBF
He says everything from Zimbabwe is wonderful - Vic Fall is wonderful, special song is wonderful. After confessing Jesus as the Christ, what kind of life are we to live? Jesus was more than John the Baptist and Elijah. Many regard Jesus as one of the super heroes.
Before he married his wife Rene, he used to wonder "What is that I deserve such a wonderful woman?" He wanted to know, "Do you really love me, Rene?"
He teaches geography and history. He also wants to know members of his class. Likewise Jesus wants his disciples to know who he really is personally. Money is a false Christ. Samaritan woman thought husbands would solve her problem. Nicodemus thought success would solve his life problem. But they were not all satisfied. They all met Jesus who solved their life problem. Through Jesus they were saved. In 2000 he met Caleb Shin and studied the Bible. But he led a double life. He became a slave of fear and fatalism. After confessing Jesus as the Savior burdens lifted. He also could love his wife. He also could live as a disciple of Jesus.
Obet Sibanda Life Tesstimony Zimbabwe UBF
Born in Jan 1988 at Masvingo. His mom went to church with his four sisters and older brothers. But he and his father a prison officer did not go to church. In first grade he became ill. Pastor prayed for him and was healed. The following sunday he went to a church. In 1994 his father retired. His father and family moved to a new town. He wanted to be a medical doctor. In 2006 he graduated as the best science student. After a highschool in 2007 he went into the univ. of Zimb. Due to financial constraints he could not go to medical school. In 2007 he worked as a temp teacher. In 2008 he came to S. Africa to work as a bus boy. In 2009 he joined a univ. in Pretoria. Then he went back to Zimb to reapply to a medical school. He then lived a sinful life. In 2009 he joined the medial school at the Univ. of Zimb. In 2010 he began the second year. Then he was kicked out for he could not pay the school fees. At the end of 2010 he got invited to UBF by shepherf Onward. This was a turning point He accepted Gen 1:28 through his study with Missionary Petra. On Jan 11, 2011, he joined the tent life. Sunday worship, one to one bible study and testimony sharing helped him to know Jesus better. By faith he was trained to live for God's glory. God also saved him from a dark sinful life. He sees himself not only as a medical student but a visionary as a man of mission. One word: My help is in the name of the Lord.
James Lee of Zimb announced saying, "Zimbabwe is beautiful. Why? It is because of his wife, Petra, a sacrificial wife. He came to S. Africa by air but she came with students by bus taking 24 long hours." Who do you say I am? You are the Christ. This confession is very important, for through this confession we become one with Jesus Christ. Then we live as Jesus' witness.
During the lunch fellowship, I had a fellowship with coworkers from Kwangjoo III esp. Dr. Aquilla (and priscilla his wife) Park. Dr. Park is a physician. In the U.S. the quota for immigration visa to the U.S. opened in three areas: medical doctors (RN's closed) and IT related jobs.
After lunch, at 2 p.m. there was an IEB meeting. [Ab. T. Kim; David Kim; Daniel Yang; James Kim; Mark Vuce; Samuel Lee; Paul Hong; Ab. K. Lee; Daniel Lee; John Jun; Ron Ward; Isaac Kim] at a dorm for the foreign delegates. Discussion was over: Christmas offerings 2011-2012; International statistics and current needs; HQ central loans to overseas chapters; HQ special fund; financial support policy for members' retirement / relief; 2013 International Bible conf. preparation; Founders Day Plan; IEB members; Feb. 24, 2012 IEB Meeting notes.
CBF
Total 30 children were given a separate hall where a program for the kids went on.
Missionary Isaac Choi came up with a simple program, Bible memorization. Out of 30, 25 are Koreans, 5 Africans. The Bible passages to memorize: Luke 5:1-11 and Matthew 16:22-30. All 30 children fully memorized and came to the conference room.
evening program
Shepherd Boaz of Zambia served a message "you will be a blessing". Abraham was a hopeless person but God had a hope. So God said "Leave n go"! God gave him great promises.When we accept God's hope God can use us. God's hope for us is to be a blessing. Zambia ministry looks hopeless. He was a drunkard. He slept with many girls. As he struggled with the message he realized n accepted God's hope.
[Life Testimony]
Mission Report:
DR Congo - Peter Bahn (Video)
Ghana - Truman Lee (Video)
Mozambique - Cremildo
Maputo, the capital city of Mozambique, is about 450km away from Pretoria, S. Africa. During holidays of last March, in order to pioneer Mozambique, James Lee of S. Africa along with four native leaders went to Maputo by car. The police at the border line on the Mozambique side gave them hard time for they held the S. African driver licensees. On arrival they visited the Mozambique University campus, and invited students to Bible studies. Brother Cremeildo was one of the students whom they met. At first Cremildo rejected the offer, and went back to his dormitory. Later when they visited the dormitary they met Cremildo again, and invited again. Then Cremildo accepted the invitation. On the very spot he studied the Bible. He liked the Bible study. So he studied a few more times. He then gave them an email address and a phone no. Several other students also gave them email addresses. Then they went back to Pretoria. Upon returning they started contacting the students they met. Only Cremildo replied. James Lee invited Cremildo to the Spring Conference at S. Africa. When he said to his friends that he would go to Pretoria to attend a conference they asked him not to go there for if he did, he might be abducted and be sold in human trafficking. But by faith he went to Pretoria by bus, and attended the conference. Through the conference he received much grace. He studied Genesis 12-35. He went back to Maputo. He began to invite students to Bible studies and began to teach what he learned to students. Now he has 10 Bible students. He does not know what UBF is all about. So he had hard time to explain to his sheep about UBF. Now that he attended the S. African summer Bible conference he could understand UBF better. Mozambique speaks Portuguese. His English is poor.
Cultural Night:
[Video, Pics]
Camp fire
[Video, Pics]
August 12 (Sunday)
[Refer to Chicago Website]
In the early morning Blessed from Zimbabwe delivered his message on Mark 1:35 about Jesus’ prayer at dawn. Jesus woke up early and prayed. Blessed serves a fellowship, but he could not help some members spiritually in the fellowship. He realized that he should pray to God early in the morning, so that he would have wisdom and power from God. We learned that prayer is the power to be witnesses of Jesus.
As the second main message, Theo from Pretoria UBF delivered on Acts 1:1-11. Jesus taught his disciples that his resurrection was the rise of the kingdom of God. The disciples were stuck to the world seeking the kingdom of Israel. But Jesus knew that they needed to know the eternal life of the Christ and the eternal kingdom of God. It is the good news for all to know. This truth empowered them to preach the gospel to the ends of the earth. Theo decided to obey Jesus’ command to be a witness, and made a decision to go to Mozambique to establish a UBF ministry in Maputo within a year.
As the closing message, Dr. Abraham Kim delivered his message on Acts 19:8-22. He described how to become powerful witnesses. According to the text, we must study the Bible diligently, just like Paul studied the Bible in Tyrannus Hall for two years daily. The word of God is the Spirit and power of God. Jesus’ witnesses must study the Bible diligently. We saw God’s vision that the gospel will go to 55 nations of Africa through his witnesses, and we ourselves must be the witnesses of Jesus’ resurrection and his kingdom.
[After sunday worship, most of the American journey team visited Cape Town. But I chose to visit Zimbabwe. But there was a problem with the flight schedule: all flights to Zimbabwe on Sunday were fully booked. In addition Missionary James Lee of Zimbabwe would not return to Zimbabwe until late evening of the following Monday. Furthermore, Dr. Samuel Lee, his wife, and 17 students from Hanyang UBF were scheduled to return to Zimbabwe on Sunday, then go to the Victoria Fall by bus and come back to Zimbabwe by the following Tuesday late evening. I did not want to be left alone by myself in S. Africa for two days. So using this time I planned to visit the Victoria Fall. Luckily there was one cheap flight leaving JNB at 11:00 a.m. Sunday to Livingstone of Zambia from which you can go visit the Victoria Fall. So at 7:30 a.m. I delivered offering to Missionary Joshua Surh of S. Africa (the Conference Administrator). There was another team leaving JNB early Sunday (Moses and Maria Lee of Kwanak UBF and their two sons). Missionary Joseph Lee of S. Africa gave us a ride to the airport.
Zambia and Zimbabwe share the Victoria Fall. The I arrived at the Livingstone of Zambia around 2:00 p.m. From 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. I took a look around the Victoria Fall on the Zambia side, and then crossed over to the Zimbabwe side. I spent a night at a lodge called Victoria Fall Rainbow. ]
August 13 (Monday)
The next morning from 7:00 to 9:00 a.m. I did a trail developed around the Victoria Fall on the Zimbabwe side, and came back to Livingstone by bus. From there I flew back to JNB arriving at around 3:00 p.m. Then at the airport I met Missionary James Lee and Hyerin Yoon (the younger sister of Daniel Yoon of Mount Sac). The airplane left JNB at 7:40 pm and arrived at the Harare Airport at around 9:00 p.m. Hyerin's parents greeted us at the airport. That night I slept at the Hyerin's house.
Next day (August 14) Tuesday
Missionary Susanna Yoon (Hyerin's mom) invited James Lee to a breakfast with me at her house. After breakfast, James and I visited the Zimbabwe UBF Bible center. Beginning the year 2000 the Zimbabwe government ordered white people to leave the country. They also nationalized the ownership of the lands owned by the white people. Many whites started leaving. As a result housing prices came down. Until that time Zimbabwe UBF did not have any Bible center. Then a spacious house right across
the street from the campus came out to the market for sale. It was priced way below the market value. At that time Dr. Agustine Sohn of Chicago was visiting Harare. James Lee shared the prayer topic to buy the property as a Bible center. Dr. Agustine went back home and shared the prayer topic. Shepherd Teddy Hambekides heard the news and volunteered to donate $20,000. Others also donated, so for $50,000 they purchased the house. The lot size of the property is square about 150 by 150 feet. It has an auditorium with the seating capacity of about 50 people. Attached to the auditorium are: three rooms, one kitchen, one half bath, a small dining area. On the corner there is a small unit where sisters have a common life. In two rooms attached to the sanctuary students (Steward, Albert and others) have a common life.
After visiting the campus, James and I visited the University campus next door. We also visited Dr. Samuel Lee's office where he teaches a Korean language class on campus. (Dr. Samuel Lee was still on his trip to and from the Victoria Fall, so we could not visit his place).
After visitation to the campus, per James' invitation I visited his house. (The campus, the Bible house, James's Lee's house, and the Yoon family, all live nearby, in the same neighborhood.) James and Petra have four children (James - college 3; Hanna - college freshman; Nayong - 7th grade; and John - 5th grade). At his house, between 10 am - 12:30 p.m. I had a long talk with the couple. Both of them have a "sleep" problem: the energy level of Petra has gone down to a very low level, so she had to sleep more than 10 hours a day. James suffers from insomnia, so he could hardly sleep for more than 4 hours a day. Petra has worn out taking care of sheep and children. James Lee also got exhausted attending triple crosses - work at the Korean Embassy, duties as a missionary feeding sheep, and taking care of family. Circa the time Zimbabwe coworkers going to the S. African conference the Prime Minister of S. Korean government visited Zimbabwe, and he was responsible for attending the government officials. He also went through and overcome a number of unexpected difficulties to transport between Harare to Pretoria the Zimbabwean delegates (including 22 local students) by bus. (It took 24 days to go from Harare to Pretoria by bus, and they had to wait 6 hours to cross the border for the S. African custom officials did not trust anyone crossing the border from Zimbabwe a poor country to S. Africa). After listening to them, I shared with them Micah 5:4a, "He will stand and shepherd his flock in the strength and in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God." I made them especially James to memorize the two words: "strength" and "majesty", and the phrase, "in the strength of the Lord" and "in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God." I also asked and explained the meaning of the word "majesty", reminding him that the Lord called James and Petra to serve the Lord's flock in the strength and majesty of "the ruler of the universe". Along the Bible study the faces of James and Petra brightened up.
Missionary Susanna invited James Lee and I to a lunch at her house. There Mr. Yoon, James, and I had cold noodle (called Naeing Myun). During lunch I asked Mr. Yoon why he chose to come to Zimbabwe. (Here is what he said: He used to work at the Lotte company. But in order to start his own business he quit the job. But in order to do his own business he realized that he needed to learn English. Then one day he attended the worship service at the Tongkyo UBF where his wife had a Bible study. That Sunday he heard a mission report by Missionary James Lee of Zimbabwe. Mr. Yoon thought that the best way to learn English is to go to the place where they speak English. On the very spot he decided to drop everything and go to Zimbabwe to learn English. He shared the vision with his family. All agreed. But Shepherd Elijah Lee attached one condition, that is, to share a life testimony and make a decision to go as a missionary. He complied. Now it has been 7 years since he first came to Harare. He supports his family by running a business, "Kentucky Fried Chicken." His Christian name is Jacob Yoon. He has two children: Hyrin and Daniel.
After lunch, James took me to a short tour to a stoney mountain located about half an hour away from the city. Missionary Susanna also invited us to a dinner. After dinner, all missionaries (Susanna, Caleb and Rebekah Shin, Jams and Petra) met at the James Lee's house where we had a Bible study on 3 John "Work Together for the Truth". During the Bible study they honestly shared their problems in coworking. Rebekah Shin in particular was frank in expressing what was on her heart. She said, "In UBF, only directors get recognition, and receive due attention and support; the rest like us (referring to herself and Caleb) go unnoticed." This led us to the discussion of the role of pain we go through such as Joseph in Genesis, for having lost her mom, Joseph could not get loving attention from her mom. Yet this resulted in him being deeply rooted in the love of God. As he walked with the Lord, he could be a source of blessing. [Calelb is one of James' bible students. They are from Chongno chapter. Caleb runs a Photo shop. Rebekah is a home maker. They have two sons - Caleb and Daniele.]
The next day I came to the center early and devoted myself to praying and rest. Two students, Albert and Steward, were also staying at the center. Missionary Susanna gave me a lunch box (Kimbab). I shared the lunch box with them.
That afternoon James Lee took me to the Caleb Shin's photo shop. That evening I invited missionaries to a dinner fellowship at the Shangrira Chinese restaurant.
So James Lee left for the restaurant first to order food. I waited for Caleb to close the shop. He drove and we went to the restaurant. It was already dark, and the streets were poorly lit. I saw Caleb ignoring the red lights. He just drove through the reds. I asked him why? Then he said at the intersection when it gets dark, you better not stop at the stop sigh, for it causes you to be exposed to robbery. On one occasion while he stopped at a stop sign in one of the cross sections of Harare, a robber smashed one of the windows of his car, took his laptop, and ran away. On another occasion while he was traveling by car to Johannesburg, a police man stopped him, and searched his hand bag. On discovering cash he forced him to come to a police station under a gun point. There the policeman locked him behind the bar. Caleb said, "I need to talk to my lawyer (for he meant to call Missionary Joshua Surh who is a lawyer)." But the police chief did not allow him to call. Rather they asked for more money. He gave them all excepy for a few dollsrs, and got released.) That evening, a journey team (Samuel and Okhee Lee, Moses Yoon of Chongno, Moses Kim of Hanyang, Three students from Beijing, and the rest Hanyang students) arrived at around 9:00 p.m. from visiting Vic Fall by bus. In 5 cars we picked them up from the bus station and checked them in to a guest house where they had a late dinner as prepared by Susanna Yoon. then, Dr. Samuel Lee invited me to his house for a tea fellowship. His house is locate [Mr. Yoon used to work at the Lotte company in Seoul Korea, as a sales person. About seven years ago he quit the company to start his own business. To start a business he learned he needed to learn English. One day he attended the [Mr. Yoon used to work at the Lotte company in Seoul Korea, as a sales person. About seven years ago he quit the company to start his own business. To start a business he learned he needed to learn English. One day he attended the [Mr. Yoon used to work at the Lotte company in Seoul Korea, as a sales person. About seven years ago he quit the company to start his own business. To start a business he learned he needed to learn English. One day he attended the [Mr. Yoon used to work at the Lotte company in Seoul Korea, as a sales person. About seven years ago he quit the company to start his own business. To start a business he learned he needed to learn English. One day he attended the d close to the campus. There along with James Lee, we discussed about the future direction of the African ministry. James Lee opined that we better keep up with the regional setting, provided that we limit the number of foreign delegates, for in case of S. Africa, they had about 70 delegates. Missionaries became occupied with serving the foreign delegates that they could hardly find rest and get spiritually recharged. James Lee suggested that in the future foreign delegates if at all ought to be limited to a small number like mor or less 10 who can actively participate in and serve the ministry by doing things like serving dance program or songs of praise, etc. Around 10:30 pm, we closed the meeting with myself praying. I came back to the Yoon's.
August 16 (Thursday)
At 6:30 a.m. Jacob Yoon gave me a ride to the Harare Airport.
August 17 (Friday)
Western Africa Regional Bible Conference
Total 35 foreign delegates (from U,S., UK, Ukraine, Germany, Korea, and S. Africa) attended. About 150 attended the conference. [Conf. fees: $200 for the foreign delegates; $20 for Native sheep; $40 for shepherds; $60 for leaders).
In Lagos there are four chapters:
Unilag I (univ. of lagos - Peter Park)
Unilag II, (univ. of Lagos - Abraham)
LUTH (lagos uni. of teaching hospital - James Odejimi)
Yabatech (Andrew Yoon/Joseph Fabian)
Opening Message:
Young men will see vision Acts 2:1-17
Shepherd Fato John
Shepherd Fato works as a CPA in charge of accounting department at Samsung, Lagos. His wife is a lawyer. In Nigeria the monthly salary of average college graduates is between $300 and $500. Yet, Shepherd Fato offers $500 a month in order to support Shepherd Abraham director of Unilag II. (Unilag I and II share the Bible center, but separate sunday worship services.) Shepherd Fato also made a special offering ($1,200) to cover expenses for this summer Bible conference).
Pentecost is the way when Jesus' witnesses were born. When the Holy Spirit came they were transformed inside out. Some made fun of them. When God changes us, people may make fun of us. To them Peter explained by quoting a prophecy from Joel, "Your young men will see visions." John Fato met Jesus in 1992 receiving a vision for student campus evangelism. Nowadays young men have no visions. It is because they shifted the focus on material things. When they have God's vision they will work for God. May the power of the Holy Spirit move greatly to send out missionaries to 55 nations.
Main Lecture I "Jesus' power to render new life" Mark 1:40-2:17 by Joseph Fabian (Yabatech)
Jesus came to give us new life. He did it to a leper, a crippled beggar, and a tax collector. In Jesus we can find hope. The leper was humble, and believed in Jesus' healing power. If you have any weaknesses ask Jesus for healing believing in His healing power. Jesus is willing. Leprosy is like sin. Sinsickness ends in spiritual death.
Most precious thing we can do for our friends is to bring them to Jesus, just like the friends of the paralytic. We may think we have many problems, but from Jesus' point of view, we have a sin problem. We may have paralyzed minds and bodies. Paralysis is not important. When sin is gone, redemption comes out.
Jesus forgives man of sins. He set the paralytic walk again! Joseph was like a paralytic. His family was poor. But in 1998 during freshman year he got fished. That time he realized he was seeking job, and he was no different than the beggar.
Jesus called Levi, a money maker into a man following Jesus, a disciple. Levi found hope in Jesus. Levi threw a party.
Afternoon Program: testimony writing and sharing in groups
After dinner, evening hours began with an evening devotion message by Shepherd Stephan Elsholtz from Bonn Germany. "Bring God's salvation (Isaiah 49:1-7; Key 6)
Preceded by the special song by Yabatec.
God called Isaiah to bring God's salvation to the ends of the earth. God calls his servants according to his sovereign will. We need God's help to be a sharpened sword and polished arrow.
Through God's training he wants to mold us into an instrument that reveals God's glory.
Without God's vision we only see our problems. Then we are full of fear to take the next step. He was a youngest son with a severe fear problem. He was so afraid that he could not register on his fourth year law school program. At that time God sent a Bible teacher. After several years of long Bible studies, finally he accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior. Then the sin burden was lifted. Then he was hired by a law firm. But soon he was laid off. He could have been looking for a job else where. But to serve the mission he decided to say in Bonn and serve the Lord. Then God rehired him at the same law firm. Then he made a vow to the Lord to put the Lord's mission first. God blessed him with a higher pay, a blessed family and children. He now prays to be a light to the Gentiles in pioneering 1700 European College campuses.
Abraham Owoeye made an announcement.
Testimony Sharing:
- Anu: He is from a broken family. His heart was broken for the loss of his fatherly support. He decided to feed sheep by bringing his five loaves of bread and two fish esp. his time.
He shared a testimony shedding many tears.
- Ronke Ruth: she grew up under step mother. She lived a wild life. She was invited to a bible study at UBF. She thought she was too sinful to be forgiven. But through the message of Jesus who came to call sinners, she opened her heart and accepted Jesus as Her Lord. Now she feels unworthy to be called a servant. When she comes to Jesus Jesus removes shame and guilt, making me worthy for his service. She decided to feed sheep who has the same kind of problem as she had.
- Abiola (LUTH): He wants to be a neurosurgeon teaching the Bible.
- Duke: from a polygamus family with his father having 5 wives. (See a separate file for life testimony)
Evening Program: Cultural Dance Program (Unilag I)
James Odejimo led a prayer time
Saturday Morning Program:
Song of worship led by LUTH praise team
Message by Shepherd Sebastian (LUTH) Jesus called his first disciples (Mark 1:14-28; Key verse 1:17)
John the Baptist got arrested for he rebuked Herod for taking his brother's wife as his. Jesus did not make any effort to secure his freedom. Nothing else can be as important as preaching the gospel to the college campus students.
In the past he wanted to chase after money. He takes care of 10 sheep. He is a senior working at the Quantity Survey Department of Univ. of Lagos.
James Odejimi says whatever we follow in this world has an end, but it is not so with the call to follow Jesus. It joins eternity. There is no greater invitation than Jesus', for there is so much peace and life. May the Lord bless us to live fully as fishers of men, for this is the life with such full vitality.
After breakfast, there was a group Bible study on Mark 6:30-44, Key Verse 37, "You give them something to eat."
U.S. team led the song in worship before the message. LUTH praise team led a special song.
Abraham Vucekovich served the message. Who is Jesus? He is a shepherd for the flock. Sheep are dumb and vulnerable. Population in Lagos is 20 million. Chicago the third largest city has 3 million. He talked about corruption. We are like a sheep lost. God wants to rescue us. In Jesus we are no longer lost. King David says the Lord is my shepherd. Through His word he reaches out for us. Jesus' word, "You give them something to eat" is a challenge for all Christians to follow Jesus' example the call to live as a shepherd. Jesus asks unqualified the inadequate to give something to eat. How far will you go to love my sheep? His parents were poor so they could not buy nice shoes Abe wanted. One day Abe drew Nike sign on old shoes, and went to school wearing them. On his way it rained so the logo sign he drew disappeared. He cried, came back home crying. Then his father took him to a shoes store and bought for him most expensive shoes, Jordan's Brand. When we love others limitlessly Jesus does the miracle.
After dinner fellowship, LUTH fellowship served a drama followed by a special song.
Evening Message by: Shepherd James Woods from UK "You will see Jesus coming again." Mark 13:1-31; Key 26
Watch out! In life we experience spiritual birth pains. Do we have the right perspective of our life? He works with teenagers. They are good in complaining. If we get the right perspective we stop complaining but thanking all the time. The gospel must first be preached. Times of evil are times for people to come to God. So we can stand firm. And preach the gospel. Jesus will come with great power and glory. 2Ki 7:9 tells us with what spirit we need to share the gospel. English people are reserved. But Nigerians have great. They are open. In London things are orderly yet the number one cause of youth's death is suicide. We need to preach the gospel as the first priority. Shepherd Abraham said pioneering the Unilag II is a hard work but a blessed work.
Heaven and earth will pass away. But not so with God's words.
We need a Christian value system.
James Odejimi announced. Those who believe in Jesus coming any time say "Hallelujah!" He asked, "Are you ready for Jesus' coming again?"
Mission Reports:
Truman Lee - Ghana Report: God prepared him as a missionary to Nigeria through military training. Samsung company dispatched him to Ghana.
Congo - Peter Ban is already in Congo. During college he vowed saying, "God, if you let me work at a trading company, I will go out as a missionary." God answered the prayer.
Tokyo Report by Daniel Chung. God blessed Japan ministry by granting a Bible center.
LUTH - James Odejimi - In the past he did not like rules. His mom was strict. Father forgive them. Through this he met Jesus. His dream was to be a surgeon. He was invited to UBF in 1999. Monica invited him. 2004 he married his wife. In 2005 he started pioneering the medical school. He lost job. Things grew hard. But through daily bread writing he did not run away from mission. There was no bible center. 2010 they got a bible center and a flat next to the center. 4 brothers have common life. He got a job and got promoted. He has a vision that through the medical students God would establish Nigeria as a kingdom of priests. He prays to raise 5 medical missionaries by the year 2020.
Lagos II - Abraham Omotunde. Born in a muslim and pologamous family with three wife. His father married more wives. In high school he joined a christian school. He failed college exam twice. Wanted to commit suicide. He went to mosque. He vowed if God allows him to get into Unilag he would serve Jesus. He got in. His parents persecuted. One shepherd invited him. 10 years ago he married Elizabeth. His family raised Aquila Tunde a missionary to Washington DC. This feb. he started pioneering a new chapter based on Roman 1:17. They pray for 15 regular SWS. attendance, 20 1:1's, 4 faithful teachers.
Yabatech - it has 14,000 students. 1994 Andrew and Rebekah came to Nigeeria. March 14, 2001 they pioneered. 1st house church between sunkanmi and rita in 2002. 2nd house church between Joseph and Ese. There is a third house church between duke and a sister. 4 fellowships. Pray for 60 SWA, 60 1:1's. 4 native shepherds to get married.
Unilag I - Shepherd Seun - he is the first sheep to attend the worship. He built a house church with Daniel who is a lawyer. 1990 Peter Park arrived. In 1994 Andrew in 1996 Timothy came. They established 7 families. Five fellowships. They have the vision to conquer W. African and world. Support pioneering chapters.
James Odejimi announced that Nigeria to be changed from a corrupt nation to a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.
Sunday, August 19, 2012
Morning Devotion: Why have you forsaken me? (Mark 15)
Before Jonathan left Ukraine for Lagos, his name was changed to "Lagos Jonathan". At first he did not understand why God sent him to Lagos. Now he realizes that God sent him here as a Jesus' witness. Jesus died on a tree. What was it for? How should we decide to live on? Asked Jonathan Salyuk.
King Jesus underwent all of the pain involved in all men being put to death. People mocked Jesus. Many still mock Jesus by committing sins like adultery theft. Let those who ridicule Jesus Christ repent of their sinful life style. All the while Jesus' Father was with him. Jesus became the lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world. What did he suffer for? What was it all about? Isaiah 53:3-6 answer the question. He was forsaken so that no one else may ever be forsaken by God. Sin destroys life. It starts with a little thing. He suffered from meaninglessness. So he spent time in computer games and drinking. But through Jesus on the cross he realized that his life is valuable. What is our response to his act of love? Romans 6 says, "Do not let sin rule over your body; rather offer yourself to God as instruments of righteousness." We are people who declare Jesus' majesty. Heb 9:14 - blood of Christ cleanses our consciences.
After the group Bible study, we had a Sunday worship service.
Main Sunday Message by: Shepherd Benedict, "You will be my witnesses." (Acts 1:1-11; Key Verse 1:8)
Special Song by Unilag Praise Team:
Benedict finished a law school at the University of Lagos. He is now doing a military service still working at a chamber of commerce. Jesus rose again and showed his body to his disciples.
After rising Jesus spoke about the kingdom of God. This is the hope of believers, that is, a better country.
Jesus instructed the disciples not to leave Jerusalem but wait for the Holy Spirit to come. A while ago he used to feed 14 sheep. It was too much for him. So he wanted to secretly run away from Lagos. But Missionary Peter Park prayed that he would stay in Lagos.
He obeyed. Then God blessed him to finish his law study.
When the disciples prayed and obeyed, indeed the Holy Spirit came and empowered them to be Jesus' witnesses, testifying about the news that Jesus is alive. They might face persecution. We should not promote our own ideas or opinions, but bear name of Jesus, to the ends of the earth. We need to live as Jesus' witnesses braving Boko Haram ('suicide bombers').
We must sacrifice our small dreams to share God's glorious dream. Jesus is our commander-in-chief. We need to fulfill Jesus' last will on earth. In the past he wanted to be the richest Ibo man (Ibo man is an east Nigerian tribe who worship money as their own god, so they stop at nothing to make money, even willing to kill people for money). Then one day his shepherd Victor Edun invited him to UBF. He became confrontational to his shepherd. But his shepherd was stubborn. Then he gave excuses. Shepherd Victor did not give up on him. Finally he was convinced. The Holy Spirit came to him and convicted him that the nation is in need of witnesses. Now he commits himself to the life as a Jesus' witness.
Offering Session:
Closing Message: Dr. Abraham Kim (Acts 19:8-22) "The power of the word of the Lord"
Korean UBF (Chongno UBF II) Singspiration Team offered a special song
Do you want to be a fruitful witness of Jesus? asked Dr. Abraham. Then listen to the Word of the Lord, said Dr. Abraham. The Apostle Pau went to the church of Ephesus. There he found disciples prepared by the Lord. He worked on them. He shared God's word. When we deny ourselves and simply obey His word, God reveals His power. When the Lord called him to be a shepherd he decided to leave his comfortable life based on Matthew 6:33. While he was working on a doctoral study, there was much pressure on him. But he chose to seek God's kingdom and his righteousness. Then God granted him a success in his doctoral study. God also helped him to raise up two shepherds one of whom serves now as the senior pastor at the Chicago Head Office. The Lord also gave him victories in making disciples and sending out missionaries one of whom is here in Nigeria. Nigeria has future because disciples are growing up. Paul welcomed all who came to the Bible studies. But he focused on raising up disciples. Paul served the Lord, not his own ambition, remembering the grace of His Lord. Paul also shepherded his disciples one on one for each person is different. He visited the disciples' places house to house, all in love. Gal 4:19 Paul did not lead people to himself but to Christ, that Christ be formed in each person. This is the secret of successful disciple-making ministry. May God bless Nigeria UBF to raise disciples through life-giving shepherds and shepherdesses. The Lord is with you! Let us devote ourselves to Bible studies and raising disciples! May God spread the Word through the UBF chapters in Nigeria. One word: power in God's word.
Dr. Abraham T. Kim's announcement:
Thank God for blessing the Western Region African Conf. Thank all foreign delegates, all the messengers, testimony speakers, and music servants. Three Korean staff who would be in Nigeria to receive internship training: Jun Yong (also known as John) Kim (from Chongno); Joshua Chung from Inje Chapter; Jaesuk Kim (Sungdong Chapter). They will stay 4 months in Lagos and 2 months in Yabatech.
We are called to be holy, kingly priests. We need to believe and obey the Word of God, even one word, and pray to be a good shepherd, life-giving shepherd. Pray to reach out to 55 nations, esp. 12 western region African nations, praying for Ghana and Congo and campus pioneering work in Nigeria in Lagos and Abuja. Pray for S. Sudan, for Shepherd Oyo Moses Malakal and Padet Deng in Juba. Please pray for Bethesda Clinic in Uganda, for the healing of Rebekah Yoon who is in Korea. Pray for the conference in the Middle East which is from 20-22nd this weekend. Pray for the 2013 Int'l Conf. in Pennsylvania which is organized to serve two purposes: to encourage missionaries and leaders and empower young Americans to see the world mission vision. Pray for sending out missionaries to 140 unreached countries, of which 40 are in Africa. God bless Africa.
Missionary Peter Park came out and shared a direction: let us hold onto just one word: that is, Acts 1:8, holding onto the hope of the kingdom of God. Be determined to serve the Lord until the coming of Jesus. Shepherdess Bimbo (Yabatech) is going to go to Abujah and pioneer. She came to UBF in 1994. Through testimony writing and weekly fellowships, she could grow up as a disciple of Jesus. She thanks God for the loving care of Andrew and Rebekah Kim family. She heard through the conference she heard the message, "You give them something to give." She prays for her husband to join the UBF ministry.
Benediction by Shepherd/Missionary Daniel Rhee.
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