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  • #142: Run, Cushi, Run and Tell The Whole Truth
    2026/04/19

    • Email: hpaulsilas@hotmail.com
    • https://apostolicinternational.com/
    • Statement of beliefs: https://apostolicinternational.com/statement-of-beliefs
    • The sermon: https://apostolicinternational.com/sermons/RUN_CUSHI_RUN_AND_TELL_THE_WHOLE_TRUTH.pdf
    • This sermon draws from 2 Samuel 18 and contrasts two messengers—Ahimaaz and Cushi—to illustrate the difference between partial truth and faithful proclamation. After Absalom’s death, both men run to inform King David. Ahimaaz, though fast and eager, delivers an incomplete message, avoiding the painful truth. Cushi, though slower and less prominent, faithfully communicates the full reality.

      This contrast becomes a powerful metaphor for modern preaching. Ahimaaz represents those who prioritize speed, popularity, and acceptance over truth. They proclaim comforting messages like “all is well” but fail to address essential spiritual realities. The sermon identifies two such groups: Trinitarian preachers who complicate the identity of God rather than clearly declaring Jesus as God manifested in the flesh, and prosperity preachers who emphasize comfort, success, and blessing while neglecting suffering, sacrifice, and repentance. Both avoid the difficult but necessary parts of the gospel.

      In contrast, Cushi represents the faithful preacher of the One God who stands on the rock of scripture and declares that the LORD our God is one LORD. (Deuteronomy 6:4, KJV) He declares that Jesus Christ is that One LORD manifested in flesh. For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. (Colossians 2:9, KJV) He does not need three persons to explain the mystery. He simply preaches what the scripture says: God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself. (2 Corinthians 5:19, KJV) The faithful Cushi preacher also preaches the whole counsel of God concerning the new birth. He does not skip Acts 2:38. He proclaims it boldly: Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. He tells people that baptism is not a symbol but an answer of a good conscience toward God, by the resurrection of Jesus Christ. (1 Peter 3:21, KJV) He tells them 4 that except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. (John 3:5, KJV) He tells them that the promise of the Holy Ghost is for them and for their children and for all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. (Acts 2:39, KJV).

      The sermon also highlights historical and contemporary examples of “Cushi-like” ministers—often humble, overlooked individuals—who faithfully spread the full gospel without seeking recognition. The message calls believers to value faithfulness over fame. God is not concerned with who arrives first or gains the largest audience, but with who tells the truth. The challenge is clear: choose to be like Cushi—obedient, truthful, and committed to carrying the full message of the gospel.

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    1 時間 25 分
  • #141: Youth and Social Media
    2026/04/18

    • Email: hpaulsilas@hotmail.com
    • https://apostolicinternational.com/
    • Statement of beliefs: https://apostolicinternational.com/statement-of-beliefs
    • The sermon: https://apostolicinternational.com/sermons/YOUTH_AND_SOCIAL_MEDIA.pdf
    • This sermon addresses the growing influence of social media and the internet on young people, warning of its spiritual, moral, and practical dangers. Drawing from Acts 17:21, it compares modern digital culture to ancient Athens, where people spent their time endlessly sharing and consuming trivial information. Likewise, today’s world is absorbed in constant online communication—often lacking spiritual value and depth.

      The sermon emphasizes that much of online interaction promotes “foolish talking” and idle communication, which Scripture warns against (Ephesians 5:4). With the addition of technology, the tongue’s power is amplified through typing and posting, making it easier to spread gossip, negativity, and meaningless content. This creates a culture of distraction and self-indulgence, pulling young people away from spiritual growth and discipline.

      It also highlights the vulnerability of youth in the digital age. Scientific insights show that the part of the brain responsible for sound judgment is not fully developed in young people, making them more prone to impulsive decisions. This increases risks such as exposure to harmful influences, identity theft, and exploitation by predators.

      The sermon draws a powerful parallel between the internet and the Tower of Babel, where humanity united in communication but ultimately rebelled against God. Similarly, the internet fosters constant human-to-human interaction while neglecting the essential relationship between humanity and God. Without divine guidance, such communication leads to pride, confusion, and spiritual decay.

      In conclusion, the message urges young people to exercise discipline and discernment in their use of social media. Rather than becoming addicted to online platforms, they are called to prioritize a relationship with Jesus Christ. Technology should be used sparingly and purposefully, ensuring that all communication reflects holiness and aligns with God’s will.

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    1 時間 30 分
  • #140: The Foundation Wet with Blood
    2026/04/18

    • Email: hpaulsilas@hotmail.com
    • https://apostolicinternational.com/
    • Statement of beliefs: https://apostolicinternational.com/statement-of-beliefs
    • The sermon: https://apostolicinternational.com/sermons/THE_FOUNDATION_WET_WITH_BLOOD.pdf
    • This sermon presents a profound theological truth: the foundation of all creation and salvation is the blood of Jesus Christ, the Lamb slain “from the foundation of the world” (Revelation 13:8). It emphasizes that Christ’s sacrifice was not an afterthought to humanity’s fall but part of God’s eternal plan. Even before creation, the redemptive work of Christ was established, meaning that the very foundations of the world were laid in His blood.

      The concept of a “foundation” is central—representing that which supports and sustains everything. Without a secure, blood-covered foundation, nothing can stand. Scripture consistently demonstrates this principle through Old Testament patterns. Abraham built altars and offered sacrifices wherever he went, establishing his inheritance through blood. Similarly, Solomon dedicated the temple with immense sacrifices, showing that God’s dwelling place must be founded on atonement.

      The sermon warns that any attempt to build a life, family, or purpose without this foundation leads to destruction, illustrated by the curse of Jericho. In contrast, the New Testament reveals that Jesus Christ Himself is the only true foundation (1 Corinthians 3:11). His sacrifice is not just historical but eternal—the basis upon which salvation, the Church, and the new creation stand.

      Believers are then described as “living stones,” built upon this foundation, forming a spiritual house. Salvation is not merely a moment but an entrance into a blood-established order that extends into eternity.

      The sermon concludes with a call to remain rooted in the cross. Christians must continually return to the sacrifice of Christ, ensuring that their lives remain “wet with His blood”—symbolizing ongoing dependence on grace. Without this, faith risks becoming dry and superficial. True spiritual stability, forgiveness, and transformation are only possible through the ever-present power of Christ’s atoning blood.

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    1 時間 24 分
  • #139: The Three Hebrew Children
    2026/04/18

    • Email: hpaulsilas@hotmail.com
    • https://apostolicinternational.com/
    • Statement of beliefs: https://apostolicinternational.com/statement-of-beliefs
    • The sermon: https://apostolicinternational.com/sermons/THE_YOUTH_OF_CHRIST.pdf
    • This sermon highlights the powerful example of Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah—young Hebrew captives living in Babylon—and their unwavering commitment to God in the midst of temptation and pressure. Though taken into a foreign land filled with luxury, privilege, and cultural influence, these young men demonstrated remarkable spiritual discipline and conviction.

      Babylon, a dominant superpower, sought not only to control them physically but to reshape their identity—through new names, royal food, and elite education. Unlike Egypt’s oppression, Babylon’s strategy was subtle: inclusion, comfort, and recognition. Yet Daniel and his friends resisted this assimilation by “purposing in their hearts” not to defile themselves. Their strength did not come from age or experience, but from a deep relationship with God cultivated early in life.

      A key lesson from their story is the importance of spiritual community. Instead of facing challenges alone, they prayed together, sought God together, and supported one another in faith. This fellowship became a source of divine revelation and strength, demonstrating the importance of gathering with other believers.

      Their faith was tested further when they refused to bow to the king’s image, facing the threat of the fiery furnace. Despite this, they stood firm with humility and courage, recognizing that their true battle was spiritual, not against human authority. They respected leadership but refused to compromise their obedience to God.

      Ultimately, the sermon calls young believers to follow their example: to resist worldly pressures, remain faithful in hostile environments, and stand firm in conviction. It emphasizes that God honors those who commit themselves fully to Him, regardless of age. Their story is a timeless call to courage, purity, and unwavering faith in a world that constantly seeks to reshape identity and values.

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    1 時間 18 分
  • #138: The Youth of Christ
    2026/04/05

    • Email: hpaulsilas@hotmail.com
    • https://apostolicinternational.com/
    • Statement of beliefs: https://apostolicinternational.com/statement-of-beliefs
    • The sermon: https://apostolicinternational.com/sermons/THE_YOUTH_OF_CHRIST.pdf
    • This sermon explores the purposeful and spiritually focused youth of Jesus Christ, emphasizing that childhood need not be a season of aimlessness but can be filled with divine purpose. Drawing from Luke 2:41–51, it highlights how Jesus, even at the age of twelve, demonstrated a deep awareness of His mission. While His family faithfully observed the Passover in Jerusalem, Jesus remained behind in the temple—not out of disobedience, but out of devotion to His Father’s business.

      From an early age, Jesus understood His identity and calling as the Lamb of God who would take away the sins of the world (Matthew 1:21). His presence in the temple symbolically mirrors the Old Testament practice of examining a sacrificial lamb for blemishes. As He engaged with the teachers, asking and answering questions, all who heard Him were astonished at His wisdom and understanding. This reveals that God can work powerfully even through children who are attentive to spiritual matters.

      The sermon teaches that youth should not be despised but can be a time of spiritual growth, responsibility, and influence, echoing Paul’s exhortation to Timothy (1 Timothy 4:12). At the same time, Jesus models humility and obedience. Although He was God, He submitted to His earthly parents and lived in quiet obedience in Nazareth for many years. His life demonstrates that true greatness is found in humility, patience, and submission to God’s timing.

      Ultimately, the youth of Christ provides a model for all young people: to seek God early, prioritize spiritual matters, remain humble, and live obediently. It challenges modern notions of childhood that exclude spiritual purpose, reminding us that even in youth, one can be fully engaged in God’s plan and prepared for a life of impact.

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    44 分
  • #137: Evangelism Report In Zimbabwe March 2026
    2026/03/28

    • Email: hpaulsilas@hotmail.com
    • https://apostolicinternational.com/
    • Statement of beliefs: https://apostolicinternational.com/statement-of-beliefs
    • This is a short report of the mission trip in Zimbabwe - March 2026

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    33 分
  • #136: Joanna and the God Who Uses Pharaoh's Gold
    2026/03/21

    • Email: hpaulsilas@hotmail.com
    • https://apostolicinternational.com/
    • Statement of beliefs: https://apostolicinternational.com/statement-of-beliefs
    • The sermon: https://apostolicinternational.com/sermons/JOANNA_AND_THE_GOD_WHO_USES_PHARAOHS_GOLD.pdf
    • This sermon highlights the powerful and often overlooked story of Joanna in Luke 8:3, revealing how God can use even unlikely sources for His divine purposes. Joanna, the wife of Chuza—Herod’s steward—ministered to Jesus out of her substance. This is remarkable because Herod’s household represented opposition to God, being part of a corrupt and violent dynasty that sought to destroy God’s work. Yet, through Joanna, resources from that very household were redirected to support the ministry of Christ. This demonstrates a profound truth: God can take what is meant for evil and transform it for good.

      The sermon emphasizes that while God does not condone unrighteous systems, He is sovereign over all resources. Once wealth is placed in the hands of a devoted, faithful giver, it is sanctified and used for His glory. Joanna becomes a symbol of light within darkness—someone who lived in a corrupt environment yet remained faithful and used her position to advance God’s kingdom. Her story echoes other biblical examples like Joseph in Egypt and Daniel in Babylon, where God’s people were placed in ungodly systems but used for divine purposes.

      A central theme is the importance of cheerful and sacrificial giving. God values not just the gift but the heart behind it. Scripture assures that such giving is never forgotten; God keeps a record of every act of faith and generosity. The testimony from Kapiri in Zambia illustrates this truth in action—offerings given by believers enabled the preaching of the gospel, resulting in lives being transformed and souls baptized.

      Ultimately, the sermon calls believers to trust God with their resources, give with gratitude, and recognize that their contributions—no matter how small—are seeds planted in eternity. Like Joanna, every faithful giver becomes part of God’s redemptive work, and their names are known and honored by Him.

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    1 時間 17 分
  • #135: Youth and Parents
    2026/03/21

    • Email: hpaulsilas@hotmail.com
    • https://apostolicinternational.com/
    • Statement of beliefs: https://apostolicinternational.com/statement-of-beliefs
    • The sermon: https://apostolicinternational.com/sermons/YOUTH_AND_PARENTS.pdf
    • This sermon emphasizes the sacred relationship between youth and parents, rooted in God’s commandment to honor father and mother (Exodus 20:12). It highlights that this is the only commandment accompanied by a promise—long life—showing how deeply God values the institution of parenting. Parents make significant sacrifices even before a child is born, giving up freedom, carrying lifelong responsibility for their children’s well-being. Because of this, God places great honor on parenting and expects children to recognize and respect this divine role.

      The message stresses that parenting is not merely a human responsibility but a God-ordained calling. Unlike angels or animals, humans are uniquely entrusted with raising children in God’s image. The example of Abraham demonstrates how seriously God regards faithful parenting. God trusted Abraham because he would lead his household in righteousness, even revealing His plans to him. This shows that God shares deeper spiritual insight with those who lead their families according to His ways.

      In contrast, the failure of Eli illustrates the consequences of neglecting this responsibility. Though a priest, Eli failed to discipline his sons, resulting in spiritual decline and loss of God’s trust. Instead, God chose to speak to the young Samuel, showing that God honors those who are faithful, regardless of age.

      The sermon also highlights key qualities of godly parenting. Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice Isaac revealed to his son that God must come first. Additionally, Abraham’s care in choosing a wife for Isaac shows intentional, spiritually guided parenting. Such diligence produces “godly seed,” children who honor God and bring joy to their families.

      Ultimately, the sermon calls both youth and parents to responsibility: children must honor and respect their parents, while parents must faithfully guide their children in God’s ways. When both roles are fulfilled, the result is blessing, joy, and a legacy that honors God.

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    1 時間 11 分