West Coast Spring Bible Conference 2006
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West Coast Spring Bible Conference 2006
Lazarus, Come Out!
(Reported by Isaac H. Kim)
From April 14 (Friday) to April 16 (Sunday) we had a spring conference at the Pine Crest Christian Conference Center located on a high mountainside about 6,000 feet above sea level. 173 people attended the conference. Seattle (Philip Won), San Diego (Daniel Park), Granada Hills (Gideon Kiligian) and Downey (Isaac Kim) joined the conference. It was a great honor for us to have Dr. John Jun and Missionary Sun-ji Jun at this conference.
Driving up from Los Angeles to the conference site was particularly challenging because it was raining like cats and dogs. The mountain roads were "VERY" foggy. Yet, we knew that all difficulties have a purpose in God, that is, as a test of faith from Him. So we were not worried.
Day 1 (Friday)
Singspiration by DYD (Downey Young Disciples) Shepherd Isaac Kim Jr. [Guitar] and Shepherd Garette Wang and the second gens (Joshua and Stephen Surh, Samuel, Jacob and Joseph Chang, Albert Hong, and Mary Kwon, John Paul Michaud [drums])
Opening Message by: Dr. David Min
In his message on John 1:4 Jesus is the source of life, and knowing Jesus is the key to solving the problem of anxiety. Jesus provides us with the meaning of life. Through his message, I learned that Jesus is the source of life, and I am a manager who needs to take care of my life by way of his precepts. [For example when Dr. David first saw me about a month ago he advised me to take one baby Aspirin pill each day for it will reduce the possibility of having a stroke by 30%. Through his advice, I bought a membership to LA Fitness, and I am exercising regularly.]
Friday Main Message by: Jim Tonne (CSULB, Graduate, Mechanical Engineering), The title: "Father forgive them" (Luke 23:34); Special Song: Downey Choir
In his message, he shared that Jesus was tried and died as the son of God, the King of the Jews, the Lamb of God. Pilate found Jesus to be innocent, and yet he handed Jesus over to a mob to be crucified. Jesus was handed over by God's will, though. Jesus carried the cross to unburden us from our sins. Jesus took upon himself the sin of the world. Jesus came to show how man should return to God. But many did not know this and crucified Jesus. He testified that we should not reject Jesus. Sinners are tormented by their guilt and shame. Yet thank God for Jesus who bore our shame and guilt on a tree. He testified that it is very hard for us to forgive. But Jesus did. Jim held a grudge against his stepmother thinking that it was due to his stepmother that his father died at the age of 72. He resolved to write a letter of reconciliation to her. Through Jesus' death on a cross the gate of heaven came to be open, so through Jesus all who believe in Him can come to the Father. Jesus' death gave light to a Roman officer, for to him Jesus was the righteous son of God. Jesus was buried in a new tomb. In conclusion the cross of Jesus is the symbol of glory and victory.
Bible Testimony by: Jasmine Jafari (Cerritos City Col. 2, Social Work) - she testified that Jesus forgave her and all who would believe in Him, so she decided to testify to Jesus' sin-forging love to students on Cerritos college campus this summer.
Two life testimonies:
1) John Lee (LBCC, Freshman, Nursing)- "You will catch men!" Luke 5:10b He was born in Korea in 1979. He watched stars and wanted to become an astronomer. His father was an alcoholic, and beat his mother. He failed a college exam. He became a loner. His desire to become an astronomer sustained him. Eventually he entered college. One lady invited him to a Bible study when he was on his college campus. He studied the Bible for one year. While attending a Bible conference, Jesus' sin-forgiving love touched his heart. Later he got into an immoral relationship with a woman. Soon Genesis 12:2 encouraged him to leave the relationship. Romans 8:13 helped him to put to death the misdeeds of his body. Luke 5:10b also helped him to be a catcher of men among college students.
2) Jennelle Koch (CSULB, Nutrition, Jr.)- "It produces many seeds." John 12:24 She was born in 1984 as the second daughter of a believing family. She desired to be a perfect woman. She was not sure of her salvation. She remained a single seed when she wanted to be praised by God. Through Bible studies she began to teach the Bible to other students. She struggled to "earn" salvation. Luke 3:8a (produce fruit in keeping with repentance) touched her heart, prompting her to live for God's glory not for her own. This led her to die to herself, and to let Jesus live in and through her. She became happy. God changed her through Bible verses like Psalm 33:1. She is a flutist serving in the orchestra. Mark 9:24b (Help me overcome my unbelief) helped her to die to her unbelief. Through this the Lord helped her overcome sexual immorality and demonic attacks during the night. She has vision in Christ to be a humble shepherd. She prays for four sheep. She has the vision to raise 12 disciples before she graduates from college. Each disciple can also produce many more seeds, until the number multiplies to even a million all by the power of God.
Day 2 - Saturday
Morning Devotion Message by: Jonathan Pyles (PhD Candidate; MA in Political Science, Azusa Pacific Univ.) Title: I am the light of the world, John 9:5 Music - Stringed Quartet by Downey UBF Orchestra Members: Isaac Kim Jr., Mary Yoon Jr., Albert Hong, Sinnie Chen
In Jesus our life has a great purpose. Man's life should not be seen as a great tragedy. Our life represents an opportunity to glorify God's name. Certain matters are beyond our control such as a child coming from a broken family. Children can ask, "Where is God in all these things? Isn't God punishing us?" The answer is that the work of God might be displayed in one's life! How can this be? We can only understand this when we think about God's purpose for mankind and His purpose in sending Jesus Christ. Yes. The world is full of misery. Yes. Everything is meaningless. But all these change when Jesus comes into one's life. When Jesus comes into your life, you begin to fulfill the purpose God has for you. How did Jesus heal the man born blind? Mud-pack! Think about the man going with this mud-pack to the pool of Siloam, and then coming home seeing! How joyful he must have been coming home seeing after not having been able to see anything?! Then the story begins. Many times, its right after we have been changed by Jesus that all kinds of challenges come our way. Many people do not rejoice with our changed life. Despite people persecuting him the man shared one thing he knew, "I was once blind, but now I see." He then fulfilled God's purpose, that is to witness to the work Jesus did, and thereby rendered glory to God. What can we say when our faith is under siege? We can make one simple confession: "Once I was blind, but now I can see." Jonathan was born in a Christian family. But still he did not know the purpose of his life until he turned 16, and at that time read the Bible. Later his faith was attacked. But through the passage he learned how to overcome doubts, and to hold onto the grace that came to him. He did not need to explain: all he has to do is to just remember the grace of Jesus, hold onto it, and thereby fulfill the purpose God has for him. When the man blind kept his faith, Jesus revisited him. It was only through him being tested and tried that he was ready to accept Jesus. Jesus came to see His glorious plan to save us and lead us to His kingdom.
Testimony by Cari del Casal (UCLA, Graduate, Biology): she compared herself with others and used to complain for not being blessed as much as others. But through the example of a man born blind she remembered God's grace upon her life, and learned God's great purpose for her, that is, to share God's grace in her life.
Evening Message by: William Larsen (Cal State Fullerton, Senior, Graphic Design), "A New Creation" 2Co 5:17 Verse 17 is the conclusion to 16 previous verses. A new perspective (1-5) A new creation sees one’s body as an "earthly tent" whereas the body to come is an "eternal house." A new creation sees the earth as a tent. A house is stronger than a tent. This life is temporary. Heaven is like a grand house where one can truly relax. It is like a camper wanting to go home. Our life here on earth is like a long overdue camping experience. This is what verses 2-3 are talking about. The new creation inside of us is groaning, longing to be out of this tent. We want to be clothed, rather than unclothed. What about the old creation's old perspective? We desire to have a bigger tent. Those who hold onto this old perspective view this life as a rat race, not wanting to leave this world, continually wanting more. But the Holy Spirit gives us a preview of what is heavenly. We can have our eyes focused on God's kingdom. A new goal (6-10) Our new goal is to please Christ in respect and love for him, all in anticipation of the day of Judgment to come. A new mission (11-15) What pleases Jesus the most is sharing the gospel. It is to help each person to get right with the Lord, by being very plain to God and to others, not to manipulate others. It is not easy to persuade people, but we can be effective when our motive is simple, that is, to please Jesus, all in love of Jesus and of others (13-14). D.L. Moody also known as "Crazy Moody" could not help but get the gospel off his chest. He made a vow to share the gospel to one person a day. A new mission is out of the love that compels us to share the gospel. The old creation lives for itself, but the new creation lives for Jesus. A new creation sees everyone from a heavenly point of view (16). In summary a new creation has a new perspective, a new goal, and a new mission. Conclusion (18-21) How can we have the power to live as a new creation? It comes through reconciliation with Christ. It is to be uniting with Jesus Christ. We came to the conference to be reconciled to God through Christ. One word: Be reconciled
Bible Testimony by: Kimberly Ingham (Music Education; Jr.; Fullerton City) A new creation is not enslaved by fleshly desires. As a new creation she shared the prayer topic to live no longer as a cursed woman but a blessed daughter of God dedicated to pleasing Jesus. As a new creation Kimberly thanked God for the call to serve children's bible fellowship.
Symposium:
A special song - by Neal Renzi, Nick Orozco, and Jay Irwin
1. Nick Orozco (UCLA, Sophomore, Microbiology) the change of Peter (John 21:15) The story of the life of Peter began on the Galilean seashore. There Jesus helped him out to make a big catch. Then Jesus changed the direction of his life to be a fisher of men. That morning Peter accepted Jesus' vision. About two years after, Peter made a confession of faith in Jesus as the Lord and Savior. Peter saw God in Jesus. Peter was shaky. He did not know how to love Jesus. In John 21 the Risen Jesus revisited Peter and exhorted him to feed Jesus' sheep. In this way Jesus laid a foundation for Peter to become complete, meaningful, and rock solid. Eventually he stood up for this call, going all the way, even to the point of suffering martyrdom for Jesus. Before meeting Jesus, Nick desired only to become a successful medical doctor. But at UCLA when he met Jesus, he received a new vision to work for God, teaching the Bible to UCLA students. He learned that it was through the work of shepherding that he could become a strong servant of God. "Jesus has a hope for me," said Nick. He made a decision to find Jesus' sheep on campus, by writing a deep testimony at the Friday meeting and being on time, and that by getting on his knees. He shared his prayer topic to build a 10 member weekly UCLA Bible fellowship.
2. Neal Renzi (Cal State Fullerton, Senior, Communication): the change of the Apostle John. 1Jo 4:16 Jesus loved John. John was an angry man. He had angry outbursts. Jesus gave him a nick name, "the son of thunder." John was a selfish man. John wanted to monopolize Jesus' everything, including the privilege to preach in the name of Jesus. John was a glory seeking man. Together with his brother John wanted the best seat in Jesus' glory. Still Jesus loved him dearly. Later through God's grace he learned what his soul really desires, that is, the love of God. John found the solution to his problem in God's love, so he testified, "God is love." He was healed through the power of God's amazing love. The change of Apostle Neal. God has been molding him into an apostle of love. Five years ago he came to the same conference site. Then and there the Lord opened his eyes. Like John he burst into anger on so many occasions against so many people like his elder brother, his step mother, etc. Love was missing from his words. Now he is praying to love even those who do not accept him. He then fell into deeper sins. He got involved in many activities to make his name, all for himself, all to feed his pride. But he learned that following Jesus is not a contest. God cannot live in destruction. God lives in those who love, because God is love. Through studying the life of the Apostle John he realized that since Jesus changed John Jesus can change Neal also. One word: whoever lives in God lives in love.
3. Jay Irwin (APU Graduate; Missionary Candidate): the change of the Apostle Paul. Acts 26:16 Paul was a Pharisee of Pharisees, dedicated to advancing Judaism. He lived the life of the Terminator, dedicated to terminate Christians. Jesus could have destroyed him. But the Risen Jesus met him, and rebuked him, "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?" Jesus then gave him a new mission. Thereafter he struggled to grow as a spiritual man as the Romans 7 indicates. In Jesus he found the righteousness that is from Jesus. The change of Jay Irwin. He was born in a Christian family. Yet he lived a double life. Through Matthew 10:7 the Lord God gave him a new direction of life, that is to live as a campus shepherd. But inside he was not changed. He could not control his sinful desires. All the hard struggles to control his sinful desires did not work. Yet, one Spring when he visited Bolivia to support the conference there he accepted Hebrews 11:24,25. Through these verses he received the vision to live as a missionary. About six months later he married a beautiful sister. The marriage exposed his legalism. Through the message he had the hope to be changed into a graceful husband. God gave him the vision to share the gospel to Ecuador. One word: change by the gospel of grace
Drama: "I am the light of the world" by Charles Wilson (UCLA, Graduate, English) and his company
The play followed the story of Jesus who opened the eyes of the man born blind (in John 9). It had musical components with cast members singing as in the opera songs like Mozart’s Marriage of Figaro.
Day 3 (Sunday)
Morning Devotion Message by: Jason Koch (CPA, CSULB Graduate) "Because I live" (John 14:19) Special Brass Ensemble by Downey Orchestra Members: John Paul (French Horn), Prayer Chung (Trumpet), Jenelle Koch (Flute), Kim Inham (Flute), and Dr. Esther Lim (Flute)
Do not let your hearts be troubled. Jesus knew that the time for his death was near. His concern was leaving his disciples behind. Jesus was aware that the disciples were concerned about their future life-security. Jesus prepared a "going-away kit” for them. It consists of trusting in God. Jesus is going to work through our faith. The next item is kingdom hope. Jesus is the way to God. Jesus also encouraged the disciples to believe in the work of the Holy Spirit. We are then to obey Jesus' command to love one another. Jesus predicted that he would rise again. The disciples' future life is dependant upon Jesus' living. Jesus is the Victor of victors. Jesus' promise is in regard to our future. Future guarantee is found in Jesus. We must trust Jesus with our future. Because of Jesus we have no reason to despair. Jesus is still alive. We have a glorious resurrection to come.
Testimony by: Lynette Atwood (6th Grade Teacher; Cal State LB graduate) Fear of failure ruled her heart, the fear of not being able to make disciples. Using one's own strength is the reason for fear. The remedy for the problem is trust. In love there is no condemnation in love. God's unfailing love sets one free from the fear of failure, for in love there is so much victory. Two decisions of faith: 1) the decision to go back to the campus and teach the Bible; 2) trust future to God.
Three Bible testimonies by: Jorge, Sergio, and Greg shared God's grace upon their lives.
Vision testimony by Msn. Abe Yoon. Joshua said in Numbers 14:9, "We will swallow them up." Joshua regarded the Promised Land as a kind of food like a hot dog. So we are confident that we can fully pioneer California, the West Coast, and North American college campuses.
Abe Yoon is the youngest son among 8 siblings. He was led to Christ during his college days through Bible study in UBF. Once he got into a car accident, and almost died. This made him realize that God could take him away any moment. He prayed to give his life to Christ and his purpose. He then came to live as a shepherd feeding sheep. One of his sheep failed the college entrance exam 4 times. But by faith in Mark 9:23 he helped him to repent, and graduate as an honors student. His sheep then became a missionary to the U.S. (Akron Ohio). He also prayed to be a PhD shepherd in the U.S. After graduation from college he worked as a public servant issuing parking tickets. He then came to live as a full time shepherd. God gave him Romans 8:38-39. Through this verse he came to believe in God's call to live as a missionary. In October of 2000 he married Msn. Suzy. He arrived in the U.S. in July of 2001. He started pioneering LBCC. He worked at a gas station. He could not understand English so in a LBCC college class he did not know what was going on. He babysat at home while his wife was working. Together with his son he cried saying, “What am I doing?” Soon he secured a green card. He finished the Master’s Program at Cal State LA in economics in two and a half years with all A's. Last semester he applied to a PhD program. God blessed him to secure admission from two universities with full scholarships. When he prayed, God granted him Gen 12:2. He prays to go to UC Davis and pioneer it. God wants to use the youngest son(of his family) to pioneer UC Davis which ranks No. 4 in environmental economies. It has 30,000 students. One word: you will be a father of many nations
Main Lecture (Sunday Worship Service) by Dr. John Jun on "Lazarus Come Out!" (John 11:43)
Dr. John Jun said that in times of crisis such as the one faced by Lazarus' family with Lazarus as the head of the family getting sick, we must immediately ask Jesus for help. What did Jesus do for them? Jesus said that Lazarus' death would not result in death but in God's glory being revealed. In times of crisis we must remember God's word and glorify God. Sickness refers to spiritual ones as well. But Jesus did not come immediately. Why? Jesus was waiting for God's time. [The worst time is God's best time.] Jesus decided to go to Bethany two days later. The disciples were afraid to go there for the Jews threatened to stone Jesus to death. Yet Jesus went there. In this way, Jesus taught his fearful disciples like Thomas to live by resurrection faith. Death makes man's life empty and meaningless, making man fearful and anxious. But we need to overcome these with resurrection faith. How did Jesus plant resurrection faith in Martha and Mary? It was through faith that we can have resurrection faith. Jesus asked, "Where is Lazarus?" This is to remind people of their limitation. Then Jesus commanded, "Lazarus, come out!" "Come out" means to come out of the tomb. Jesus proved that he is resurrection and life. He overcame the power of death. Man's fundamental problem is sin and death. But Jesus came to give us a living hope through his resurrection. We must grow in resurrection faith by believing Jesus’ love and power 100%. Resurrection is more important than Christmas. Jesus is the first-fruit of resurrection.
Two testimonies:
1) Nathan Braise (CSULB, Sophomore, English) - John 11:43 He was raised in a middle class family. He used drugs. Although he was born in a Christian family he drifted away from Christianity. He then got involved in sexual immorality. And he remained spiritually dead. He began to study the Bible with one missionary while he was at college. Yet his struggle with sin continued. Soon he became fatalistic. For 3 months last semester he fell into deep depression, suffering from a mental breakdown. He relied on medication but it did not help. Jeremiah 31:2 revealed God's grace. He began to repent and started obeying God's word. It was a difficult process. But Jesus faithfully called him out, "Nathan, come out!" He then received a new life. May God mold him into Jesus' likeness, and help him to bring the message of resurrection to college students.
2) Andy Jacobs - (Engineering; Sophomore, USC) He was born in 1982 in Idaho. He grew up in a Christian home. He had godly parents. He ended up serving his own sinful desires, despite his Bible knowledge. To him salvation looked intangible. By the time he was in college, he realized that he was in a pit. He asked God for help. God sent one missionary who taught him the Bible. The missionary taught him to accept God's word simply. Only by receiving Him, can we come out of the power of sin and death. Like Lazarus he used to wear many layers of grave clothes. But God's word loosened the grave clothes. The grave clothes eventually fell off, making him free. Jesus said that Lazarus' condition was for the glory of God. Likewise, his life is for God's glory. So God helped Andy to shape a student club at USC (Jesus into the boat club). He is currently serving a group Bible study each week.
The end
Lazarus, Come Out!
(Reported by Isaac H. Kim)
From April 14 (Friday) to April 16 (Sunday) we had a spring conference at the Pine Crest Christian Conference Center located on a high mountainside about 6,000 feet above sea level. 173 people attended the conference. Seattle (Philip Won), San Diego (Daniel Park), Granada Hills (Gideon Kiligian) and Downey (Isaac Kim) joined the conference. It was a great honor for us to have Dr. John Jun and Missionary Sun-ji Jun at this conference.
Driving up from Los Angeles to the conference site was particularly challenging because it was raining like cats and dogs. The mountain roads were "VERY" foggy. Yet, we knew that all difficulties have a purpose in God, that is, as a test of faith from Him. So we were not worried.
Day 1 (Friday)
Singspiration by DYD (Downey Young Disciples) Shepherd Isaac Kim Jr. [Guitar] and Shepherd Garette Wang and the second gens (Joshua and Stephen Surh, Samuel, Jacob and Joseph Chang, Albert Hong, and Mary Kwon, John Paul Michaud [drums])
Opening Message by: Dr. David Min
In his message on John 1:4 Jesus is the source of life, and knowing Jesus is the key to solving the problem of anxiety. Jesus provides us with the meaning of life. Through his message, I learned that Jesus is the source of life, and I am a manager who needs to take care of my life by way of his precepts. [For example when Dr. David first saw me about a month ago he advised me to take one baby Aspirin pill each day for it will reduce the possibility of having a stroke by 30%. Through his advice, I bought a membership to LA Fitness, and I am exercising regularly.]
Friday Main Message by: Jim Tonne (CSULB, Graduate, Mechanical Engineering), The title: "Father forgive them" (Luke 23:34); Special Song: Downey Choir
In his message, he shared that Jesus was tried and died as the son of God, the King of the Jews, the Lamb of God. Pilate found Jesus to be innocent, and yet he handed Jesus over to a mob to be crucified. Jesus was handed over by God's will, though. Jesus carried the cross to unburden us from our sins. Jesus took upon himself the sin of the world. Jesus came to show how man should return to God. But many did not know this and crucified Jesus. He testified that we should not reject Jesus. Sinners are tormented by their guilt and shame. Yet thank God for Jesus who bore our shame and guilt on a tree. He testified that it is very hard for us to forgive. But Jesus did. Jim held a grudge against his stepmother thinking that it was due to his stepmother that his father died at the age of 72. He resolved to write a letter of reconciliation to her. Through Jesus' death on a cross the gate of heaven came to be open, so through Jesus all who believe in Him can come to the Father. Jesus' death gave light to a Roman officer, for to him Jesus was the righteous son of God. Jesus was buried in a new tomb. In conclusion the cross of Jesus is the symbol of glory and victory.
Bible Testimony by: Jasmine Jafari (Cerritos City Col. 2, Social Work) - she testified that Jesus forgave her and all who would believe in Him, so she decided to testify to Jesus' sin-forging love to students on Cerritos college campus this summer.
Two life testimonies:
1) John Lee (LBCC, Freshman, Nursing)- "You will catch men!" Luke 5:10b He was born in Korea in 1979. He watched stars and wanted to become an astronomer. His father was an alcoholic, and beat his mother. He failed a college exam. He became a loner. His desire to become an astronomer sustained him. Eventually he entered college. One lady invited him to a Bible study when he was on his college campus. He studied the Bible for one year. While attending a Bible conference, Jesus' sin-forgiving love touched his heart. Later he got into an immoral relationship with a woman. Soon Genesis 12:2 encouraged him to leave the relationship. Romans 8:13 helped him to put to death the misdeeds of his body. Luke 5:10b also helped him to be a catcher of men among college students.
2) Jennelle Koch (CSULB, Nutrition, Jr.)- "It produces many seeds." John 12:24 She was born in 1984 as the second daughter of a believing family. She desired to be a perfect woman. She was not sure of her salvation. She remained a single seed when she wanted to be praised by God. Through Bible studies she began to teach the Bible to other students. She struggled to "earn" salvation. Luke 3:8a (produce fruit in keeping with repentance) touched her heart, prompting her to live for God's glory not for her own. This led her to die to herself, and to let Jesus live in and through her. She became happy. God changed her through Bible verses like Psalm 33:1. She is a flutist serving in the orchestra. Mark 9:24b (Help me overcome my unbelief) helped her to die to her unbelief. Through this the Lord helped her overcome sexual immorality and demonic attacks during the night. She has vision in Christ to be a humble shepherd. She prays for four sheep. She has the vision to raise 12 disciples before she graduates from college. Each disciple can also produce many more seeds, until the number multiplies to even a million all by the power of God.
Day 2 - Saturday
Morning Devotion Message by: Jonathan Pyles (PhD Candidate; MA in Political Science, Azusa Pacific Univ.) Title: I am the light of the world, John 9:5 Music - Stringed Quartet by Downey UBF Orchestra Members: Isaac Kim Jr., Mary Yoon Jr., Albert Hong, Sinnie Chen
In Jesus our life has a great purpose. Man's life should not be seen as a great tragedy. Our life represents an opportunity to glorify God's name. Certain matters are beyond our control such as a child coming from a broken family. Children can ask, "Where is God in all these things? Isn't God punishing us?" The answer is that the work of God might be displayed in one's life! How can this be? We can only understand this when we think about God's purpose for mankind and His purpose in sending Jesus Christ. Yes. The world is full of misery. Yes. Everything is meaningless. But all these change when Jesus comes into one's life. When Jesus comes into your life, you begin to fulfill the purpose God has for you. How did Jesus heal the man born blind? Mud-pack! Think about the man going with this mud-pack to the pool of Siloam, and then coming home seeing! How joyful he must have been coming home seeing after not having been able to see anything?! Then the story begins. Many times, its right after we have been changed by Jesus that all kinds of challenges come our way. Many people do not rejoice with our changed life. Despite people persecuting him the man shared one thing he knew, "I was once blind, but now I see." He then fulfilled God's purpose, that is to witness to the work Jesus did, and thereby rendered glory to God. What can we say when our faith is under siege? We can make one simple confession: "Once I was blind, but now I can see." Jonathan was born in a Christian family. But still he did not know the purpose of his life until he turned 16, and at that time read the Bible. Later his faith was attacked. But through the passage he learned how to overcome doubts, and to hold onto the grace that came to him. He did not need to explain: all he has to do is to just remember the grace of Jesus, hold onto it, and thereby fulfill the purpose God has for him. When the man blind kept his faith, Jesus revisited him. It was only through him being tested and tried that he was ready to accept Jesus. Jesus came to see His glorious plan to save us and lead us to His kingdom.
Testimony by Cari del Casal (UCLA, Graduate, Biology): she compared herself with others and used to complain for not being blessed as much as others. But through the example of a man born blind she remembered God's grace upon her life, and learned God's great purpose for her, that is, to share God's grace in her life.
Evening Message by: William Larsen (Cal State Fullerton, Senior, Graphic Design), "A New Creation" 2Co 5:17 Verse 17 is the conclusion to 16 previous verses. A new perspective (1-5) A new creation sees one’s body as an "earthly tent" whereas the body to come is an "eternal house." A new creation sees the earth as a tent. A house is stronger than a tent. This life is temporary. Heaven is like a grand house where one can truly relax. It is like a camper wanting to go home. Our life here on earth is like a long overdue camping experience. This is what verses 2-3 are talking about. The new creation inside of us is groaning, longing to be out of this tent. We want to be clothed, rather than unclothed. What about the old creation's old perspective? We desire to have a bigger tent. Those who hold onto this old perspective view this life as a rat race, not wanting to leave this world, continually wanting more. But the Holy Spirit gives us a preview of what is heavenly. We can have our eyes focused on God's kingdom. A new goal (6-10) Our new goal is to please Christ in respect and love for him, all in anticipation of the day of Judgment to come. A new mission (11-15) What pleases Jesus the most is sharing the gospel. It is to help each person to get right with the Lord, by being very plain to God and to others, not to manipulate others. It is not easy to persuade people, but we can be effective when our motive is simple, that is, to please Jesus, all in love of Jesus and of others (13-14). D.L. Moody also known as "Crazy Moody" could not help but get the gospel off his chest. He made a vow to share the gospel to one person a day. A new mission is out of the love that compels us to share the gospel. The old creation lives for itself, but the new creation lives for Jesus. A new creation sees everyone from a heavenly point of view (16). In summary a new creation has a new perspective, a new goal, and a new mission. Conclusion (18-21) How can we have the power to live as a new creation? It comes through reconciliation with Christ. It is to be uniting with Jesus Christ. We came to the conference to be reconciled to God through Christ. One word: Be reconciled
Bible Testimony by: Kimberly Ingham (Music Education; Jr.; Fullerton City) A new creation is not enslaved by fleshly desires. As a new creation she shared the prayer topic to live no longer as a cursed woman but a blessed daughter of God dedicated to pleasing Jesus. As a new creation Kimberly thanked God for the call to serve children's bible fellowship.
Symposium:
A special song - by Neal Renzi, Nick Orozco, and Jay Irwin
1. Nick Orozco (UCLA, Sophomore, Microbiology) the change of Peter (John 21:15) The story of the life of Peter began on the Galilean seashore. There Jesus helped him out to make a big catch. Then Jesus changed the direction of his life to be a fisher of men. That morning Peter accepted Jesus' vision. About two years after, Peter made a confession of faith in Jesus as the Lord and Savior. Peter saw God in Jesus. Peter was shaky. He did not know how to love Jesus. In John 21 the Risen Jesus revisited Peter and exhorted him to feed Jesus' sheep. In this way Jesus laid a foundation for Peter to become complete, meaningful, and rock solid. Eventually he stood up for this call, going all the way, even to the point of suffering martyrdom for Jesus. Before meeting Jesus, Nick desired only to become a successful medical doctor. But at UCLA when he met Jesus, he received a new vision to work for God, teaching the Bible to UCLA students. He learned that it was through the work of shepherding that he could become a strong servant of God. "Jesus has a hope for me," said Nick. He made a decision to find Jesus' sheep on campus, by writing a deep testimony at the Friday meeting and being on time, and that by getting on his knees. He shared his prayer topic to build a 10 member weekly UCLA Bible fellowship.
2. Neal Renzi (Cal State Fullerton, Senior, Communication): the change of the Apostle John. 1Jo 4:16 Jesus loved John. John was an angry man. He had angry outbursts. Jesus gave him a nick name, "the son of thunder." John was a selfish man. John wanted to monopolize Jesus' everything, including the privilege to preach in the name of Jesus. John was a glory seeking man. Together with his brother John wanted the best seat in Jesus' glory. Still Jesus loved him dearly. Later through God's grace he learned what his soul really desires, that is, the love of God. John found the solution to his problem in God's love, so he testified, "God is love." He was healed through the power of God's amazing love. The change of Apostle Neal. God has been molding him into an apostle of love. Five years ago he came to the same conference site. Then and there the Lord opened his eyes. Like John he burst into anger on so many occasions against so many people like his elder brother, his step mother, etc. Love was missing from his words. Now he is praying to love even those who do not accept him. He then fell into deeper sins. He got involved in many activities to make his name, all for himself, all to feed his pride. But he learned that following Jesus is not a contest. God cannot live in destruction. God lives in those who love, because God is love. Through studying the life of the Apostle John he realized that since Jesus changed John Jesus can change Neal also. One word: whoever lives in God lives in love.
3. Jay Irwin (APU Graduate; Missionary Candidate): the change of the Apostle Paul. Acts 26:16 Paul was a Pharisee of Pharisees, dedicated to advancing Judaism. He lived the life of the Terminator, dedicated to terminate Christians. Jesus could have destroyed him. But the Risen Jesus met him, and rebuked him, "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?" Jesus then gave him a new mission. Thereafter he struggled to grow as a spiritual man as the Romans 7 indicates. In Jesus he found the righteousness that is from Jesus. The change of Jay Irwin. He was born in a Christian family. Yet he lived a double life. Through Matthew 10:7 the Lord God gave him a new direction of life, that is to live as a campus shepherd. But inside he was not changed. He could not control his sinful desires. All the hard struggles to control his sinful desires did not work. Yet, one Spring when he visited Bolivia to support the conference there he accepted Hebrews 11:24,25. Through these verses he received the vision to live as a missionary. About six months later he married a beautiful sister. The marriage exposed his legalism. Through the message he had the hope to be changed into a graceful husband. God gave him the vision to share the gospel to Ecuador. One word: change by the gospel of grace
Drama: "I am the light of the world" by Charles Wilson (UCLA, Graduate, English) and his company
The play followed the story of Jesus who opened the eyes of the man born blind (in John 9). It had musical components with cast members singing as in the opera songs like Mozart’s Marriage of Figaro.
Day 3 (Sunday)
Morning Devotion Message by: Jason Koch (CPA, CSULB Graduate) "Because I live" (John 14:19) Special Brass Ensemble by Downey Orchestra Members: John Paul (French Horn), Prayer Chung (Trumpet), Jenelle Koch (Flute), Kim Inham (Flute), and Dr. Esther Lim (Flute)
Do not let your hearts be troubled. Jesus knew that the time for his death was near. His concern was leaving his disciples behind. Jesus was aware that the disciples were concerned about their future life-security. Jesus prepared a "going-away kit” for them. It consists of trusting in God. Jesus is going to work through our faith. The next item is kingdom hope. Jesus is the way to God. Jesus also encouraged the disciples to believe in the work of the Holy Spirit. We are then to obey Jesus' command to love one another. Jesus predicted that he would rise again. The disciples' future life is dependant upon Jesus' living. Jesus is the Victor of victors. Jesus' promise is in regard to our future. Future guarantee is found in Jesus. We must trust Jesus with our future. Because of Jesus we have no reason to despair. Jesus is still alive. We have a glorious resurrection to come.
Testimony by: Lynette Atwood (6th Grade Teacher; Cal State LB graduate) Fear of failure ruled her heart, the fear of not being able to make disciples. Using one's own strength is the reason for fear. The remedy for the problem is trust. In love there is no condemnation in love. God's unfailing love sets one free from the fear of failure, for in love there is so much victory. Two decisions of faith: 1) the decision to go back to the campus and teach the Bible; 2) trust future to God.
Three Bible testimonies by: Jorge, Sergio, and Greg shared God's grace upon their lives.
Vision testimony by Msn. Abe Yoon. Joshua said in Numbers 14:9, "We will swallow them up." Joshua regarded the Promised Land as a kind of food like a hot dog. So we are confident that we can fully pioneer California, the West Coast, and North American college campuses.
Abe Yoon is the youngest son among 8 siblings. He was led to Christ during his college days through Bible study in UBF. Once he got into a car accident, and almost died. This made him realize that God could take him away any moment. He prayed to give his life to Christ and his purpose. He then came to live as a shepherd feeding sheep. One of his sheep failed the college entrance exam 4 times. But by faith in Mark 9:23 he helped him to repent, and graduate as an honors student. His sheep then became a missionary to the U.S. (Akron Ohio). He also prayed to be a PhD shepherd in the U.S. After graduation from college he worked as a public servant issuing parking tickets. He then came to live as a full time shepherd. God gave him Romans 8:38-39. Through this verse he came to believe in God's call to live as a missionary. In October of 2000 he married Msn. Suzy. He arrived in the U.S. in July of 2001. He started pioneering LBCC. He worked at a gas station. He could not understand English so in a LBCC college class he did not know what was going on. He babysat at home while his wife was working. Together with his son he cried saying, “What am I doing?” Soon he secured a green card. He finished the Master’s Program at Cal State LA in economics in two and a half years with all A's. Last semester he applied to a PhD program. God blessed him to secure admission from two universities with full scholarships. When he prayed, God granted him Gen 12:2. He prays to go to UC Davis and pioneer it. God wants to use the youngest son(of his family) to pioneer UC Davis which ranks No. 4 in environmental economies. It has 30,000 students. One word: you will be a father of many nations
Main Lecture (Sunday Worship Service) by Dr. John Jun on "Lazarus Come Out!" (John 11:43)
Dr. John Jun said that in times of crisis such as the one faced by Lazarus' family with Lazarus as the head of the family getting sick, we must immediately ask Jesus for help. What did Jesus do for them? Jesus said that Lazarus' death would not result in death but in God's glory being revealed. In times of crisis we must remember God's word and glorify God. Sickness refers to spiritual ones as well. But Jesus did not come immediately. Why? Jesus was waiting for God's time. [The worst time is God's best time.] Jesus decided to go to Bethany two days later. The disciples were afraid to go there for the Jews threatened to stone Jesus to death. Yet Jesus went there. In this way, Jesus taught his fearful disciples like Thomas to live by resurrection faith. Death makes man's life empty and meaningless, making man fearful and anxious. But we need to overcome these with resurrection faith. How did Jesus plant resurrection faith in Martha and Mary? It was through faith that we can have resurrection faith. Jesus asked, "Where is Lazarus?" This is to remind people of their limitation. Then Jesus commanded, "Lazarus, come out!" "Come out" means to come out of the tomb. Jesus proved that he is resurrection and life. He overcame the power of death. Man's fundamental problem is sin and death. But Jesus came to give us a living hope through his resurrection. We must grow in resurrection faith by believing Jesus’ love and power 100%. Resurrection is more important than Christmas. Jesus is the first-fruit of resurrection.
Two testimonies:
1) Nathan Braise (CSULB, Sophomore, English) - John 11:43 He was raised in a middle class family. He used drugs. Although he was born in a Christian family he drifted away from Christianity. He then got involved in sexual immorality. And he remained spiritually dead. He began to study the Bible with one missionary while he was at college. Yet his struggle with sin continued. Soon he became fatalistic. For 3 months last semester he fell into deep depression, suffering from a mental breakdown. He relied on medication but it did not help. Jeremiah 31:2 revealed God's grace. He began to repent and started obeying God's word. It was a difficult process. But Jesus faithfully called him out, "Nathan, come out!" He then received a new life. May God mold him into Jesus' likeness, and help him to bring the message of resurrection to college students.
2) Andy Jacobs - (Engineering; Sophomore, USC) He was born in 1982 in Idaho. He grew up in a Christian home. He had godly parents. He ended up serving his own sinful desires, despite his Bible knowledge. To him salvation looked intangible. By the time he was in college, he realized that he was in a pit. He asked God for help. God sent one missionary who taught him the Bible. The missionary taught him to accept God's word simply. Only by receiving Him, can we come out of the power of sin and death. Like Lazarus he used to wear many layers of grave clothes. But God's word loosened the grave clothes. The grave clothes eventually fell off, making him free. Jesus said that Lazarus' condition was for the glory of God. Likewise, his life is for God's glory. So God helped Andy to shape a student club at USC (Jesus into the boat club). He is currently serving a group Bible study each week.
The end
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