MY GOSPEL @ Desmond R Singh Joe McCormick

In his thought-provoking manner, Brother Singh challenges us with a question that stirs our souls: "Have we, the Gospel Assembly Fellowship, become the Pharisee church of the 21st Century?"

Brother Singh compares the Pharisee movement to the present-day church to illustrate that maintaining traditions does not mean God is with us! For instance, wearing a white shirt does not make us righteous; a woman wearing a granny's knot does not make her modest; speaking in tongues does not mean a person has the Holy Ghost.

This Sunday morning, reality provokes us to examine the genuineness of our worship. While Gospel Assembly Fellowship believes our doctrines are correct, every other denomination does too. Thus, we are not here to pass judgment. Instead, let us critically examine our efforts to worship God the Father according to His will, not our own.

During worship, we sang a beautiful chorus, 'MY DESIRE IS TO BE LIKE JESUS.' Our Pastor posed a question that may have made some of us uncomfortable. 'Is it truly our desire to be like him?

We older saints may underestimate the challenges and struggles of youth today coping with the evils and despair of a society gone mad. Br James blessed our Saturday evening service with his energetic testimony. Brother John followed him, recounting the struggles of his youth, reflecting his love for Christ's church. "LORD, I have loved the habitation of thy house and the place where thine honor dwelleth." (Psalm 26:8) 

As evidence of God's judgment falling on humanity increases, Brother Singh asserts that righteous living by the elect shields a community. Conversely, if the elect fails to conform to divine laws and principles, judgment will strike that community. Imagine if a tsunami or tornado were to devastate this area; it would be a clear sign that we are not living according to God's will.

As Jesus sat upon the Mount of Olives, the disciples asked, "Tell us, when shall these things be? And what shall be the sign of thy coming and the end of the world? {the consummation of the age}." (Matthew 24:3).

Referring to the state of the world and our understanding of Biblical history, Brother Singh reiterates, "If ever there was a time to make changes in our lives, it is now."

The disciples were anxious about the timing of Jesus's return, asking, "Lord, willt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power." (Acts 1:6-7). 

 What constitutes worshipping God in the Spirit? It is an important question, for many congregations presume shouting, jumping, and outlandish body gyrations are necessary. In this essential lesson, Brother Desmond Singh shows us from scripture such behavior is fleshly, not spiritual.

The Prophet Isaiah's caution is a call to discernment, for God's people, the Jews, historically found themselves in rebellion. Yet, they believed they were serving God faithfully.