The River

Celebrating 40

2012-02-24T12:33:00.002-05:00

Forty years ago this February Wally & Eleanor Best initiated a gathering of a few people in Lakefield High School that was to become a prophetic influence in Ontario. Wally had received the baptism of the Holy Spirit in '71, and believed that a life in the Spirit would change the church for the good. The Fellowship as it was known would become a leader in the charismatic renewal, and would go on to evolve into several new and prophetic expressions touching many lives in the years to come.

Some of the original gathering continue to meet with other inspired believers as River Run Fellowship. True to their roots River Run is posturing itself for the next move of God, by preparing a new wineskin for the new wine that is to come. God has said that, 'The whole earth will be filled with a knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea,' and River Run is readying itself for such a time. God's people must always be versatile and resilient, ready to follow what God is about to do.

In looking back we are grateful for what God has done and for those who pioneered a way, yet we continue to press forward knowing that there is more to come. It is nice to reminisce about what was, however the purposes of God are always moving forward to reach the current culture, and to resist the devil and his devices.

Thank you Wally and Eleanor, and all those who together helped establish a way that was revolutionary. We will continue to hold close within our hearts, that sense of expectancy that God can do anything.

"The tools of our trade aren't for marketing or manipulation, but they are for demolishing that entire massively corrupt culture. We use our powerful God-tools for smashing warped philosophies, tearing down barriers erected against the truth of God, fitting every loose thought and emotion and impulse into the structure of life shaped by Christ. Our tools are ready at hand for clearing the ground of every obstruction and building lives of obedience into maturity." 2 Cor. 10:4-6

The Problem With Church Buildings

2012-02-10T11:11:00.001-05:00

One of the guys in River Run Fellowship suggested these three articles to read. They are accessed by pressing the following links.

The articles address the problem with church buildings. They are not for the faint at heart nor for the traditionalist, but rather for the out of the box thinker and doer. The author strongly implies a major paradigm shift from thinking how to fill a building, to thinking how to grow the kingdom and win the lost.

A recent survey suggests that such thinking is necessary. The survey showed that 80% of church growth consists of transfers from other churches and from children growing up in the church and having children. In other words only 20% of church growth is actually from reaching the lost. At that rate, the church as we know it in North America is unsustainable.

It's time for some unusual thinking and if not, it's at least time for something to jar our thinking. Happy reading!

The Problem WIth Church Buildings PT1

The Problem With Church Buildings PT2

The Problem With Church Buildings PT3

Is Boredom The Problem?

2012-02-07T14:07:00.001-05:00

A. W. Tozer thinks so.

'THAT THERE IS SOMETHING gravely wrong with evangelical Christianity today is not likely to be denied by any serious minded person acquainted with the facts. Just what is wrong is not so easy to determine.

One mark of the low state of affairs among us is religious boredom ... And that it is found to some degree almost everywhere among Christians is too evident to be denied.

Boredom is, of course, a state of mind resulting from trying to maintain an interest in something that holds no trace of interest for us ...

Christians who belong to the evangelical wing ... have over the last half-century shown an increasing impatience with things invisible and eternal and have demanded and got a host of things visible and temporal to satisfy their fleshly appetites.

It is now common practice in most evangelical churches to offer the people, especially the young people, a maximum of entertainment and a minimum of serious instruction. It is scarcely possible in most places to get anyone to attend a meeting where the only attraction is God. One can only conclude that God's professed children are bored with Him, for they must be wooed to meeting with a stick of striped candy in the form of religious movies, games and refreshments.

The striped-candy technique has been so fully integrated into our present religious thinking that it is simply taken for granted. Its victims never dream that it is not a part of the teachings of Christ and His apostles.

Any objection to the carryings on of our present ... Christianity is met with the triumphant reply, "But we are winning them!" And winning them to what? To true discipleship? To cross-carrying? To self-denial? To separation from the world? To crucifixion of the flesh? To holy living? To nobility of character? To a despising of the world's treasures? To hard self-discipline? To love for God? To total committal to Christ? Of course the answer to all these questions is no.'

Excerpts from: Man - The Dwelling Place of God, A. W. Tozer, Ch. 30, Religious Boredom

For more, click the link Man - The Dwelling Place Of God, A W Tozer

God Heal This Land!

2012-01-18T17:17:00.001-05:00

Almost four years ago River Run Fellowship made preparations to erect a new building to house its church activities. Over these past years we have watched it emerge with hope. At the same time we have also known many difficult struggles and disappointments. Ultimately the struggles have led us to believe it was best to sell it all.

The sale of the properties was faster than one could imagine however it too was met with unbelievable complications. Yet River Run people continued to believe that God can do the impossible.

With that in mind, on Wednesday, January 18th, 2012 Barney Coombs (Vancouver), Dennis Penner (Pickering), and Andrew Wynn (Newmarket) met with Stephen on the building site to pray that God would complete its' sale. Together they asked God to 'Heal this Land' and to 'Make the bitter water sweet'.

Barney reminded the group of the power of negative words and of their menacing effect. Together and in agreement, they bound and broke the power of negative words or curses. Words like demise, peril, and loss had been spoken against the church, and were specifically bound. As Barney prayed, he proclaimed with a commanding apostolic voice, "Enough is enough, bring this chapter to an end!" He continued with reminding the Lord of his promises to His people.

In addition Stephen blessed those who had cursed them. He asked God to strengthen, increase, and use those who had specifically spoken negatively of the church and himself. Heartfelt forgiveness toward the church's accusers was offered before the Lord. The Lord's presence was among the four, and God was hearing them.

The time of prayer and warfare was completed when Andrew took a mallet from among the framing timber and struck the platform as if it was a gavel. He said, "It's finished, seal the deal Lord - it's time for these people to move on!"

God had ordained the day. Barney had arranged to be with Stephen two weeks prior to Wednesday, January 18th. Andrew and Dennis had asked to come to pray with Stephen six days prior to the 18th, not knowing Barney would be there. The company taking soil samples outside on River Run property, happened to do it at the same time the group of four were praying inside the building. To God be the glory!

The group picture was taken by the person taking soil samples.

Christmas At River Run 2011

2011-12-21T15:25:00.001-05:00

Not too many years ago the majority of people in churches were mostly from the surrounding area, where as today's church is a mixture of local people, and people from around the province and out of province. Many people are traveling during the Christmas season. This makes for a very different church and the need to rethink how we celebrate seasonal holidays.

Most church celebrations are as near as possible to the actual holiday. This year for example churches would traditionally celebrate Christmas with something special on Saturday, December 24th or Sunday, December 25th - and for New Years with something special on Sunday, January 1st. Added to the already planned family celebrations, it makes for a busy time of year.

However the River Run folk were encouraged to be with their families and friends for these occasions, when we cancelled both Christmas and New Year Sunday Worship Services. This allowed people to travel where they need to be, and to visit as long as they are able. Equally any service at home would not be half attended.

For this reason we celebrated Christmas on Sunday, December 18th. We sat around festively decorated tables and enthusiastically worshipped the Lord with our favorite carols. The children spiritedly sang some songs with actions that made everyone smile. Stephen concluded the service with a message about anticipation, illustrating the story of Mary and Elizabeth.

Then it was time to eat our Christmas lunch. Spring rolls, bun-wiches, festive hors d'oeuvres, and more were laid out on the buffet table, and everyone helped themselves. It was good to eat but it was also good to hear the laughter and see people enjoying themselves. A special shout out to the those who organized the event, it was one of the best!

Tot's Playdate Christmas Party 2011

2011-12-20T17:36:00.000-05:00

Tot's Playdate happens each Monday morning and offers a great opportunity for moms to meet other moms, and for tots to play with other tots. Usually there's coffee and snacks, and sometimes there's an outing or special event, yet without exception there is always good conversation and genuine support. If you would like more information on Tot's Playdate, contact us at riverrunfellowship@gmail.com

Santa makes a special visit to Tot's Playdate!

The Church Of No Frills

2011-12-14T16:41:00.003-05:00

‘You want to be with me because I fed you’ (or because of what I did for you). This was Jesus comment to the crowd that followed him to Capernaum (Jn. 6:26), after he had fed the five thousand. He had filled their hungry stomachs with bread, and they wanted more.

In his words is the subtle yet painful reality that people desired him for what he could give them, and for how he made them feel. Unlike the disciples, the people were not interested in giving up everything to follow Jesus. They were simply following him because of the frills.

Church Hopping

Unfortunately things haven’t changed very much. Many Christians attend churches simply because it offers them some kind of benefit other than ‘Life in Christ’. The benefit can vary from something as simple as soft chairs to something as common as youth ministry. These benefits may seem trivial yet many Christians base their church attendance and experience on what a church has to offer, thus the term church hopping.

Regardless of the benefit, it is symptomatic of a Christian mindset that views the church as a faceless organization, and the believer as fickle consumer. It conveys the idea that church is a service industry obliged to meet consumer demands, and believers as its self-seeking customers. If one church fails to satisfy one’s wants, there is always another one down the road that might. I find this disturbing and can only imagine how this must grieve the Holy Spirit.

Thirty plus years of ministry has shown me that what some Christians look for in a church, are generally the same things why they leave a church. Generally they will search out a church that meets their criteria of music, Sunday school, youth ministry, or a Sunday service, and equally will leave over their disapproval of the same things. At times their disapproval will spawn serious offenses and frustrations that if left untreated, emerge again with the next church that disappoints them. Although this seems petty and shallow, it is often the case.

Is there anything wrong with comfy chairs and a dynamic Sunday school? Of course not, and who wouldn’t want the best for our backs and children. It’s nice to have something for everyone. Besides, isn't the church suppose to offer all this stuff?

When we stop being the biblical church and run after what we think makes up the church, we are in a truckload of trouble. When church amenities take precedence over Christians acting responsibly to the Lord, or when we are benefit driven over unity driven, the church has strayed from its original directive and it now serves itself.

Jesus Will Build It

The church that Jesus was building was straightforward and mobile with no gimmicks. It was intended to thrive under any economic condition or political administration. In it’s design was a Holy Spirit ability to endure, sacrifice, and overcome. Their love and service to each other, their ability to rise above difficulties, and their modeling of Jesus in their everyday lives identified them as the church. They lived effectively and genuinely by being less self-absorbed or more outgoing.

Concerns for the children, teens and elderly, the women and the men, the mothers and the fathers, the poor and the lost, the married and the singles, the widows and the orphans were met with united prayer and action. Everyday the early church spontaneously and genuinely gave themselves to the Lord, and to the care and development of their church family. It did not depend on a Sunday service, a church program or a pastor. It was Holy Spirit driven in every individual believer. Everyone was engaged in the Lord’s work in a simple way.

While many of us recognize that the church is people, we still struggle to free ourselves from an organizational – consumer mindset. We have become too familiar with getting rather than giving. Although we admire those who live simple and suffer for Christ’s sake, we on the other hand don’t want to be one. After all, we have mistakenly learned that God’s blessing means bigger and better, more and never less. It was Paul who said, “I've learned by now to be quite content whatever my circumstances. I'm just as happy with little as with much, with much as with little.” (Ph. 4:11 MSG)

Giving Rather Than Getting

The crux of the matter is that we Christians frequently think like the world, and especially when it comes to matters concerning the organized church. Unlike JFK’s memorable words, we think of what the church can do for us, and not what we should do as the church – and we’re okay with that. This however must change.

We get a clear image of the church in Acts 2:42, when they committed themselves to following God’s Word, shared meals and various interests together, remembered the Lord around the bread and wine, and when they prayed and worshiped together regularly. This in essence was the church, and the Lord was so pleased that he added more people to them every day.

The church is at it’s best when it’s love for Christ is demonstrated through their love for each other, and when pettiness, frustrations, and vested interests are exchanged for a genuine sense of fellowship and mission. This is the church that Jesus is building, “a church so expansive with energy that not even the gates of hell will be able to keep it out.” (Mt. 16:18, MSG) Hell itself is threatened as the community of believers genuinely commit themselves to the Lord.

New Motivation

The cross of Christ is the place of new beginnings for the church. While it speaks of forgiveness and a new destiny, it also speaks of a new motivation for every believer. The self-seeking heart that caused Adam’s separation from God was nailed to the cross, and a new heart of laying-down one’s life was imparted. The church came forward as sacrificial people willing to contribute, be involved and be responsible. The ‘Sunday morning Christian’ or the – ‘what’s in it for me thinking’ was now on the other side of Calvary.

Born again believers are the church set free from self-indulgence, insecurity, guilt and fear – to serve each other with the greatest love and respect, Gal. 5:13. When God’s people seek to serve themselves they cease to be free, and are no longer living in the life of the Holy Spirit. The church turns inward and is self-serving when options, convenience, and special features become the focus. In effect it becomes a club. On the other hand, the life of the Spirit is a life of love and sacrificial service. Where you find love and service you have found the church that Jesus is building.

People’s frustration with the church is obvious considering everything we have made and expect from it. To recapture the essence of the church we have to go back to the cross and see our self-interests and concerns nailed there, and that we are fitted together. We have to see that a new life in Christ means saturating ourselves in God’s purposes first, and not worry about missing out on anything.

When we seek him, Christ will take care of our everyday concerns and matters of the heart (Mt. 6:33). If the church hasn’t a Timeless Treasures Group or a Rock of Ages Worship Band, it will be okay. If we lack resources and customary programs, it will still be okay. Around the world God’s people have survived on less. We need to remember that the testimony of Jesus has been successfully shared from one generation to the next through imperfect and unrefined churches, which have solely relied on the supernatural ability of the Holy Spirit.

My Utmost For His Highest - Oswald Chambers

2011-12-12T02:30:00.001-05:00

December 9

Very few of us debate with the sordid and evil and wrong, but we do debate with the good. It is the good that hates the best, and the higher up you get in the scale of the natural virtues, the more intense is the opposition to Jesus Christ. "They that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh" – it is going to cost the natural in you everything, not something.

The natural life is not spiritual, and it can only be made spiritual by sacrifice. If we do not resolutely sacrifice the natural, the supernatural can never become natural in us.

December 10

Some of us are trying to offer up spiritual sacrifices to God before we have sacrificed the natural. The only way in which we can offer a spiritual sacrifice to God is by presenting our bodies a living sacrifice. Sanctification means more than deliverance from sin, it means the deliberate commitment of myself whom God has saved to God, and that I do not care what it costs.

My Utmost For His Highest

About The Church

2011-09-16T12:00:00.003-04:00

The Roots Series by Stephen Best Copyright 2011

‘Going to church’ and other phrases like ‘the church on the corner’ are commonly used phrases in our culture. More than ever it is acceptable to understand church as attending a religious service held in a religious place somewhere on Main St., Anywhere. It’s a part of our everyday lingo.

Somewhere included in this thinking of church is a belief system that appears irrelevant. While many people might appreciate church and what it stands for, especially during the holiday season or in moments of crisis, they might also say that it is out of touch with the real world.

Some church leaders have accepted this perception and have developed new ways in how church is done, so that more people might actually ‘go to church.’ It’s now fair to say that both religious and cultural perspectives suggest that the church’s identity primarily includes a service, place of worship and an arrangement of activities. Church is now something we do, as opposed to something we are. It is like going to the cinema at the mall.

Added to this perception of church is the perception of success. It is also widely accepted that a church is perceived successful if it has an attractive building, numerous people attending and various programs for all ages, not forgetting an amiable worship service and an engaging leader.

What is wrong with this picture? Who wouldn’t want a church that is relevant and meeting our needs in a comfortable atmosphere?

To adequately answer this question it’s best we use the Bible to understand what the church is about. As mentioned there are many different notions surrounding church, but Jesus said that he would build his church, and that leaves the Bible as the only measurement that really matters.

The following are simple reminders of what the Bible says about the church, and are intended to help us have expectations that are like Christ’s.

Our English Bible translates the Greek word ‘ekklesia’ as church 113 times in the New Testament.
·      Ekklesia simply means a gathering of people called out from their homes.
·      Attending a church or doing good deeds does not include someone with those who are called out.
·      The called out refers to those people who have committed their lives to Christ by receiving him as Lord, Col. 1:13, Eph. 2:4-10.

God’s house or the church is a gathering of people committed to following Christ, Eph. 2:19-22.
·      The Bible clearly shows that the church is not a building, but rather people called out of their homes to gather together.
·      The church includes every race and ethnicity that professes Jesus as Lord.
·      The Bible does not ask us to go to church, rather it says to ‘consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds,’ while also ‘not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching’ (Heb. 10:24-25). In other words the church was to meet regularly with the intent of encouraging each other. The traditional ‘going to church’ might seem easier.

The church’s primary goal is to offer itself as worship to God, 1 Pet. 2:5.
·      We do not ‘go to church’ nor do we ‘do church’, we are the church that collectively lives a life of sacrifice to God.
·      The church is not to serve us, but rather the church (the people) is to serve God and make Him famous.
·      You cannot ask what a church has to offer without first asking, “What do I have to offer?”

The Bible describes four basic functions of the church: applying themselves to biblical teaching, encouraging, enjoying each other’s company, and sharing in the Lord’s Supper, Acts 2:42.
·      The Bible describes the church as ‘relationally centered’ rather than ‘program centered’.
·      Similarly the church is not a Sunday activity, as it exists beyond a one-hour service and the one-day of the week.

The church is an assembly of God’s people where every person thinks about others, and practices genuine love through acts of generous serving, giving, and praying, Rom. 12:6-18.
·      Practicing genuine love is not volunteering. It is being obedient to Christ.
·      The church is not a social convener.
·      The church does exist without programs, events and buildings. It actually thrives when every member does its part.
·      Church activities are not to be a substitute for practical acts of kindness.

The church anticipates persecution and attack, yet Jesus said that it will not be overcome, Mt. 16:18.
·      Believers are constantly encouraged through the Bible to be ready for difficult times, Jam. 1:2, Mt. 5:11-12.
·      Churches are perceived blessed because they have a good worship band, or because they have a great attendance at their services, but the Bible says they are blessed when they suffer for Christ’s sake.

The church has been given abilities to develop the church and to equip God’s people to do His work, Eph. 4:11-12.
·      The church has laborers not celebrities or academics, who work to see God’s people live life as Jesus intended.

The church is an organic assembly of God’s people, Col. 1:18, Eph. 1:22-23.
·      The church is not a nonprofit organization or a charity, and exists regardless of government support.
·      The church is not a business or a bank account.

When and where the church gathers is insignificant, God’s presence is there, Mt 18:20.
·      The presence of the Holy Spirit identifies God’s people more than any charitable number or full church building, Ex. 33:15.
·      The Holy Spirit’s presence is not delicate and airy, but supernaturally practical.

The church is a living testimony of God’s grace and in turn genuinely works toward the salvation of their neighbors, friends, and family, Acts 1:8.
·      Where Jesus is actively involved in the lives of his people, there is not only a modeling of his grace, but also a declaration of it, Rev. 19:10.

Signs and wonders are anticipated in church life, Acts 2:43 & 47.

Summary:

Ø    An overhaul on the understanding of church is needed, and a more biblical model must be desired. Simply replacing man-made traditions with more man-made improvements is not enough.
Ø    The church is people who belong to Jesus, and who are being changed by the Holy Spirit to be like Christ in the world. The church is not a product to be consumed. Nor should it be promoted with every imaginable thing that appeals to people’s worldly senses.
Ø    Rather than programs being the church’s ‘calling card’, Christ desires to make himself known through the church.
Ø    God designed the church to be simple and to function within any geographical boundary, form of government, and economic system. It is adaptable and movable.
Ø    The church’s success is related to the active presence of the Holy Spirit, rather than the size of its’ congregation or building.
Ø    The drive to fill empty seats is a secular value that distracts the church away from its roots. Let’s reach for something more purposeful by applying biblical teaching, encouraging others, fellowshipping together and regularly ‘breaking bread’. God will then add to His church.

CITC Pastors Pray For Us

2011-09-08T00:20:00.004-04:00

Glenn Duncan

On Wednesday September 7th several pastors from Church In The City (Peterborough) met Stephen in the parking lot of the fellowship's new facility to pray. The leadership of Church In The City has often expressed their interest and hope in seeing our building project completed, and practically wanted to extend their support and commitment to pray.

Mark Murack, Carlo Raponi and Glenn Duncan walked with Stephen around the property and prayed for the building's completion. They prayed for God to bless our former contractors, and for God to show River Run His favor. They asked God to sell the multi-residential property swiftly and for the new buyer to have no difficulty in price or in financing the purchase. They prayed for God to remove the mountain and cast it into the sea.

Carlo Raponi

The pastors also asked God to bind the powers of the enemy and his ongoing frustration in the construction of River Run's facility. In conclusion the men prayed for many people to come to Christ through the message and ministry of River Run Fellowship.

As they departed the pastors laid hands on Stephen and thanked God for Stephen's faithfulness and hope. They asked for God to refresh his body, mind and spirit, and that together with River Run they might see the fulfillment of what they long for. They asked for an outpouring of the Holy Spirit.

Mark Murack

River Run is privileged to the blessing of the pastors and the churches from Church In The City. Their commitment to oneness and to the purposes of God in Peterborough is genuine and at the same time humbling. With this type of unity God can only command a blessing.

We thank them for their love and support, and we stand encouraged!

Labor Day Weekend Corn Roast

2011-09-07T22:11:00.001-04:00

At six o'clock the clouds looked grey and then with little persuasion it began to rain. The Bethany hills grew foggy as did Stan's hopes of a great corn roast. Once again another fellowship event seemed dogged by rain.

Yet determined corn roasters took shelter in Fox's garage. Stan rolled the VW out of the garage, and soon there was room for everyone. The weekend party was not going to be squashed by rainy weather. Stan & Gord manned the BBQ, and Nat & Patty took on the corn, and soon everyone was downing burgers & dogs, and cobs of buttery corn. And needless to say there were some other awesome and wholesome foods brought by everyone.

As the meal progressed there was a whisper of a surprise in the air. Not only had it stopped raining, it was someone's birthday. When the desserts rolled out, so did a chocolate cake for the birthday boy. With gusto everyone began to sing Happy Birthday to Stirling. Although a little embarrassed, he loved the attention and his mom's cake.

Many stayed late into the evening enjoying good conversation and lots of laughs. The night concluded around a roaring campfire with Mike and his friend, and Gio playing us various tunes. Nothing like good music around a fire. Everyone went home feeling well fed, and blessed with friends and a good time.

Summer Fun at River Run

2011-08-30T11:09:00.000-04:00

Although the campfires arranged in early summer were rained out several times, eventually we were able to get together for some outdoor fun.

In early July Stan & Cheri had the church out to their place in the country to enjoy their million dollar view. Nic BBQ'd the burgers and dogs, and Wilf presented his now famous Lemon Pie while Kathy H added her amazing fruit in a melon. To say the least it was a great night.

Near the end of July we met on a Sunday evening around Barry & Cathy's swimming pool to witness Ron's baptism in water. Ron couldn't be kept out of the water as he clearly shared his testimony about receiving Christ and his desire to be baptized. After Jason baptized Ron, he had hands placed on him for him to receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit came upon Ron with a visible demonstration in the pool. It was wonderful to witness the work of God in Ron's life.

A midweek picnic was held at Stephen & Cindy's in early August and the turn out was fantastic. Everyone brought great food and a special shout out goes to those who indulged us with KFC. Thank you! Also a quick note to say how great it was to have so many kids out that night, and to see them enjoying themselves.

In mid August several hardy families camped together at Balsam Lake Provincial Park. The rain held off so they could enjoy swimming, campfires, and eat allot of marshmallows ... especially Alisa, and Moriah. Moriah and Alisa also perfected their english accents while Ben, Sterling, and DJ became structural engineers with a huge sand canal. Valentino danced the whole weekend, and Nibila remained her cute self. It was also wonderful to hear that Julie a friend to many families at River Run, received Christ into her life. Congratulations Julie, life will never be the same. Many more camping picture can be seen on River Run Fellowship Facebook.

God Is In Control

2011-08-10T14:43:00.000-04:00

Harold Collins

Harold has served the Lord Jesus for many years as a pastor, missionary, and as the executive director of Calvary International Canada. His journey has led him extensively throughout Ontario and British Columbia, and internationally to the European, African, and South American Continents.

Harold has a great history with the Peterborough area. Since graduating from Eastern Pentecostal Bible College he has frequently returned to Peterborough to impart life and vision. His teaching continues to influence many people today. River Run Fellowship is privileged to receive his ministry.

Harold is highly regarded as a Bible teacher. He not only shares information, but also brings revelation with great enthusiasm and conviction. As you listen to him, you will equally be challenged and inspired.

Click play to hear an audio version of Harold preaching that "God Is In Control".

Josiah's Dream

2011-07-27T17:26:00.005-04:00

I Have Seen God!

Ruben Erazo is a good friend of River Run Fellowship. He and his wife Jeanette pastor a lively and growing church in San Martin Peru. For many years ministry teams from River Run Fellowship have ministered in San Martin, and have developed a mutual bond of friendship with Ruben and the church.

We are always encouraged when visiting Ruben because he talks about the Word of God with great conviction. Often those conversations happen over great Peruvian food in local restaurants and cafes. Each time he shares we go away reminded that God is full of grace, and that nothing is impossible with Him.

We have included (see: Ruben's Testimony) a video clip of a recent conversation with Ruben where he describes a dream that his son Josiah had when he was four years old. It was randomly shot in a Chifa Restaurant as traffic passed by in San Borja Peru. While we do not want to give too much away, we will say that Ruben and Jeanette were awakened one morning by Josiah saying, "Mom, Dad ... I have seen God!"

You will be encouraged as you see this and will be reminded not to limit God in anything, and that he is actively changing lives.

Ruben's Testimony

The Spiritual Society

2011-07-13T19:43:00.005-04:00

My Utmost For His Highest, by Oswald Chambers
July 12

"Till we all come . . unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ." Ephesians 4:13

Oswald Chambers

Rehabilitation means the putting back of the whole human race into the relationship God designed it to be in, and this is what Jesus Christ did in Redemption. The Church ceases to be a spiritual society when it is on the look-out for the development of its own organization. The rehabilitation of the human race on Jesus Christ's plan means the realization of Jesus Christ in corporate life as well as in individual life. Jesus Christ sent apostles and teachers for this purpose - that the corporate Personality might be realized. We are not here to develop a spiritual life of our own, or to enjoy spiritual retirement; we are here so to realize Jesus Christ that the Body of Christ may be built up.

Am I building up the Body of Christ, or am I looking for my own personal development only? The essential thing is my personal relationship to Jesus Christ - "That I may know Him." To fulfil God's design means entire abandonment to Him. Whenever I want things for myself, the relationship is distorted. It will be a big humiliation to realize that I have not been concerned about realizing Jesus Christ, but only about realizing what He has done for me.

"My goal is God Himself, not joy nor peace,
Nor even blessing, but Himself, my God."

Am I measuring my life by this standard or by anything less?

See: http://www.myutmost.org/07/0712.html

It's All About Me!

2011-07-07T14:11:00.005-04:00

She told me that this would be their last Sunday with us and that they were withdrawing their membership. Through tears she said that the church was no longer meeting their needs, and that she wanted to be in a church where no one knew her name or demanded anything from her. With that she wiped her tears, hugged us, and bolted for the door.

I would have tried to persuade her and her family to stay; after all, they had been with us for nearly five years. Unfortunately, in her thinking – she was exhausted and had already gone. I had seen this dilemma in others before. She was simply one of hundreds, if not thousands looking for a church where their needs would be comfortably met.

Researchers tell us that there is an alarming cultural shift today that is touching all aspects of our society, including churches. They suggest that while in the process of encouraging self-esteem, an unwitting yet inflated focus on self is having serious side effects everywhere.

This is illustrated in significant increases in disrespect, indifference, attention seeking, entitlement, bullying, and “doing what is best for me”. From outright rudeness to material entitlement, from excessive debt to failed marriages, from celebrity worship to an abundance of ego and vanity, researchers are saying that narcissism (a disproportionate sense of self-worth) is epidemic. At the very core it is an egotistical preoccupation with personal preferences, aspirations, needs, success, and image.

Now you might wonder how does this affect the church? Today, the church is regarded as a service provider in a competitive market, rather than as a community of transformed people living for God’s glory. Church services must provide a welcoming ambiance, and they must reach every person’s need or expectation. The sermons and programs must not be too personal so as to offend people, yet they should be relevant so as to encourage repeated attendance. Church has been redesigned to suit the needs and notions of its participants. An inflated focus on ‘Me’ is subtly directing its services, programs, counseling and doctrine.

The supporting argument for this is the demand for the church to be relevant to the current time and culture, and to meet the ongoing needs of people. However this simply supports the presumption that the church is an institution providing services, and that people are the consumers. The Bible on the other hand, doesn’t support this.

1 Peter 2:5 says, that ‘you are living stones that God is building into his spiritual temple … you offer up spiritual sacrifices that please God,’ and Ephesians 4:15-16 says, that we are ‘growing in every way more and more like Christ who is the head of … the church … He makes the whole body (church) fit together perfectly.’

In other words, the church in not an institution or a service provider, neither are the people consumers. The church is people who offer or give their lives to serve God. It presumes that people (the church) are being collectively redesigned to serve God, and since Christ is the eternal designer they (the church) should be relevant. The church only ceases being relevant when Christ is excluded from their lives.

Yet people today want a church (and a God) that works for them, one with the most benefits and at little cost. To be honest, they are being given what they want. They are being told that Jesus wants them to be affluent in every way and to just ask God. Tempered messages avoid the concept of ‘picking up one’s cross and following Christ’, and suggest a more convenient approach to God. Inadvertently, the church is telling people that their needs and wants are its highest priority.

It’s no wonder that when the realities of life suddenly hit, people dismiss God or go to another church. Messages that only emphasize what God will do for me, simply embellish our egos, increase our sense of entitlement, and further align the church with a culture that is already self-indulgent. In this way it sets us up for failure.

This is very different from the model Jesus gave the church. Philippians 2:6 says, ‘Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to … he gave up his divine privileges, he took the humble position.’ Jesus further says in Matthew 16:25-26, ‘If you try to hang onto your life, you will loose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose you own soul?’

Our culture persuades us to look out for ‘Number One’, to do what’s best for ‘Me’, to think yourself ‘Special’, to love yourself excessively and to believe that you ‘deserve better’. Indulgences in these values are not at all like Christ, and are less likely to encourage forgiveness, consideration, perseverance, and sacrifice. Furthermore, they are more likely to emphasize that which we ‘do not have and need to get’, and promote the attitude that ‘if God fails us, we’ll simply quit’. Values such as these teach us to evaluate life and the church by what we receive or how it makes us feel.

Churches are not perfect, but neither were they intended to stroke people’s egos, be a service provider or a Community Centre, or a Hospital. Churches are simply people coming together to actively worship God, to encourage each other into a greater trust and responsiveness toward God, and to place other’s needs before their own. Jesus says in Matthew 6:33 to ‘seek the Kingdom of God above all else … and he will give you everything you need.’ If people are dependent upon the institutional church to meet their needs they will eventually be disappointed. Ultimately, it is God who meets our needs.

R. J. Rushdoony has said, ‘Worship is not a matter of taste but of obedience.’ Similarly the Bible tells us to present ourselves as a living sacrifice or to offer ourselves to God. Authentic worship requires something to be given, done or dedicated to God. It might involve an opinion being set aside, a preference vacated, a hand extended, or a benefit of doubt given. Worship does not begin with what one feels or receives, but rather a decision to give to God what He deserves.

This epidemic of self-indulgence is quickly counteracted if Christians simply remember that they ‘are the church’. If Christians are narcissistic, so will be the church. However if Christians have a sober assessment of their ‘selves’, extend forgiveness and practice self-control, then the church will be what everyone ultimately hopes for.

Stephen Best BA

Bob & Stephen's Peruvian Adventure

2011-06-16T17:47:00.000-04:00

Stephen Best and Bob Laing traveled to Peru for twelve days during the month of May 2011. Having been prayed for and sent out by the fellowship, they left with the encouragement to expect new and different things.

Saul & Ana

Their journey started with a new airline and a new route traveling via San Salvador to Lima, and them staying in a place in San Borja at the home of friends. Each day would start early in the morning and end close to midnight. For the first week they would travel to throughout LIma to churches and friends in San Martin, San Isidro, Santa Anita, and Mira Flores. They visited Pastors Saul Gutierrez Prado, Gilbert Rodriguez, Fernando Torres, Ruben Erazo, & Cesar Costa, and encouraged missionaries like Ron Smith and Steve Bremner.

GIlbert & Maariela

Stephen was asked to preach three times at Emmanuel Iglesia Biblica in San Isidro where God blessed the ministry of the Word of God. Many came to Christ during these services. While the church and Pastor Saul have been long time allies of River Run, it's only recently that have we have realized the mutual potential of this growing friendship. Pastor Gilbert, Ludwing, Rocio and Jason have been very helpful in developing this relationship between our churches.

Bob and Stephen also enjoyed a vibrant worship service in San Martin with Pastor Ruben Erazo. It is always a joy to participate in a meeting where celebration to the Lord is so animated and wonderfully Peruvian. Furthermore fellowship with Pastor Ruben is always an enriching and powerful time.

Roxanna, Marco, Bob & Stephen

Of course a trip to Lima is never complete without a visit with the entire Costa family. Bob & Stephen enjoyed several visits with the family and were treated to a fantastico beef meal at a special restaurant by Marco and Roxanna. It was truly a highlight.

Steve Bremner continues to establish a ministry in Peru. He is teaching english at Catedral de Fe Seminary and learning more about making disciples. Steve has also found a great apartment in Mira Flores as a base for his activities.

Fire Peru remains to be a progressive force in throughout Peru as it continues to feed and give shoes to tens of thousands of children each month, train pastors, and assist churches. The visit with Ron was mutually encouraging.

Sara & Francisco

Before leaving Lima they visited with longtime friends and translators Karem & Christian, and Sara & Francisco. Their lives are changing as they are enjoying their new marriages and young children. Our ministry in Peru would not be what it is today if it were not for these trusting and anointed helpers.

For the second leg of the journey Stephen and Bob rode the bus from Lima to Tarma. It is a upward, winding, hot, and enduring trip. At the end of the 8 hour ride is Tarma at an elevation of over 10,000 ft., and standing tall in the Andes Mountains. They were met by Martin and Denise who are ministering to children in Huaricolca, a village further up in the mountains.

Pastor Fraternity in Tarma

In Tarma Martin & Denise had arranged for a citywide church gathering where Stephen would preach. The following day he and Bob would meet with the pastors at a local and historical hacienda. Their unity was evident and their desire for God's blessing was sincere. God spoke to everyone during the day, and opened doors for more visits and ministry in the future.

Martin & Denise arranged for Bob and Stephen to visit the mission in Huaricolca. Their programs to the children were in full swing and Bob had opportunity to lead an english lesson. Never did he know the energy it would take to lead the song Head and Shoulder, Knees and Toes. The elevation plays havoc with one's breathing ability.

Martin & Denise are doing a great job in Tarma area and could use some extra support in finishing their home in Huaricolca. Please pray in how you can help their work.

The ministry adventure concluded with a radio interview reaching all Peru with Miguel Algorta, a shop in the local market, and a fast trip back down the mountains to Lima. Their last supper in Peru would be with Karem and Christian eating pollo a la brasa and drinking Inka Cola. The only real way to end a trip in Peru.

It was fantastic that River Run ministries had opportunity to connect with so many old and new friends in Peru. It was also amazing to realize so many new opportunities that God was presenting. We hope to return again in October - November. Many thanks to Rocio & Jason for scheduling and administration, and to Victoria for the use of her home.

Stephen & Fernando preaching in San Isidro

Dancing in San Martin

More dancing in San Martin

Karem & Christian

Ruben & Janette

Waiting at the bus station in Tarma Peru

Denise & baby

Hacienda where the pastor's fraternity met

Children in Huaricolca

Some members of the church in Huaricolca,
Martin is on the right

Tarma Market

Beans at the Tarma Market

Cheese at the Tarma Market

Pollo at the Tarma Market