July 2023, Vol. 31 No.

9

Editorials
Oscar Pimentel
General Overseer
THE 117TH ANNUAL GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF
THE CHURCH OF GOD will convene August 7-12,
2023. It will be held at Westmore Church of God, 2440
Legacy Parkway NW, Cleveland, Tennessee. The first ses-
sion will begin at 6:30 p.m. on Monday.
leadership abilities in their respective areas, have earned the
privilege of attending and have been invited to this year’s IYC.
All State/National/Regional Overseers, you are encouraged
to be at IYC. There is no doubt that your presence will serve to
bless and encourage our Church youth.
THE PRE-ASSEMBLY PRESBYTERY MEETING
will begin at 2 p.m. on Saturday, August 5, 2023, at our Gen-
eral Headquarters in Cleveland, Tennessee. State/Regional/
National Overseers, please make plans to be in the Presbytery
meeting. We are expecting to see you there. Please be on time.

FASTING AND PRAYER WEEK for the General
Assembly is set for July 24-30, 2023. We would like to
have great success at this year’s meeting under the Lord’s
direction, so we kindly urge this week to be set aside as a
time of special fasting and prayers for God’s divine guid-
ance. Surely, if we humble ourselves before the Lord, He
will be gracious to grant us His approval and assistance
for this General Assembly. It is only a few short weeks
away now and we must pray down God’s blessings upon
this very important event. Special Prayer Day is Sunday,
July 30, which is the 5th Sunday of July. It would be good
if every member would begin praying now and continue
until the Assembly is behind us. We wish for every pas-
tor to please have special prayer times in the morning and
evening services in their local churches.
INTERNATIONAL YOUTH CAMP is August 3-5,
2023, at Johnston Woods right outside of Cleveland,
Tennessee. Plans have once again been made to conduct
days of training, instruction, fellowship with the saints, and
worship of the Lord. Some of the leading young people from
the Church who have demonstrated outstanding conduct and
COME ONE! COME ALL! TO A SPECIAL HOUR
OF PRAYER SERVICE! “And when they had prayed, the
place was shaken where they were assembled together; and
they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the
word of God with boldness” (Acts 4:31). Prior to the start of
our General Assembly, we plan to conduct a special service
focused on prayer for the Assembly. This special prayer ser-
vice will begin at 10 a.m. on Monday, August 7, and will be
held at the Zion Hill local church in Cleveland, Tennessee.
Everyone is invited to come and join us.
POWERFUL CONVENTION BLESSINGS ARE
BEING HAD! God’s blessings are reserved for you, don’t
miss out on them by missing out on the Convention in
your area. As much as is possible for you, support it with
your presence and prayers. Be ready to worship and glorify
the Lord along with the other saints. Convention just isn’t
Convention without you, dear member, and I’m sure the
Overseer appreciates your full support and cooperation. Since
our Overseers have such a great responsibility appointing
pastors and leaders in their area of labor, make sure to keep
them in your prayers for God’s wisdom and guidance.

PHONE: (423) 339-8264 The Church of God e-mail: info@thechurchofgod.org

Visit us online at:
FAX: (423) 339-8268 General Headquarters
www.thechurchofgod.org
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The Evening Light is an official publication of The Church of God with Oscar Pimentel, General Overseer, Editor & Publisher;
Colin Shuler, Assistant Editor. This paper is published monthly at General Headquarters, 197 Tillie Road, Cleveland, TN 37312. Those
desiring information or wishing to submit articles or testimonies for publication may contact the Assistant Editor at the following
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First-Class Mail. Digital subscriptions are available for free at www.thechurchofgod.org/eveninglight.

The Evening Light 2 July 2023

 Anticipating the Assembly
Oscar Pimentel, General Overseer
The Church of God
The following article is a reprint from the August 14, 1982, edition of the White Wing Messenger,
written by General Overseer M. A. Tomlinson
A Great Feast Just Ahead—God’s Presence Will Make It So
“It’s not long till the Assembly.” This expression is
being heard more frequently these days, and when-
ever it is said it quickens expectations within people
all around the world. This is an event unlike any other
within the Church, and since 1906 when that First
Assembly was held in Cherokee County, North Caro-
lina, members from throughout the Church come
annually to these feasts, always anticipating some-
thing special from the Lord.
While not all our people are privileged to attend
each year, there are some with long attendance records
who would be heartbroken if anything should occur to
prevent their being present. They just wouldn’t think
of missing the Assembly if there was any possible way
for them to come.
What is there that is so special about this annual
gathering? Many things make it special. First, the fel-
lowship within the Church is second to none. Our
people truly love one another, and when they come
together at the Assembly, hearts are warmed and
gladdened with the renewing of acquaintances; warm
embraces are witnessed on every hand as brothers
greet brothers and sisters greet sisters. This is a genuine
love for which human hearts everywhere yearn, but so
few have found it. Those who have found it treasure it.
There is not only the fellowship with one another;
the communion of the Holy Ghost also is so very won-
derful during these times of worshipping together in
this great feast. Singing together, praying together,
rejoicing together—there are times when human spir-
its blend so perfectly with God’s Spirit that the very
atmosphere seems filled with a divine glow. Oh, this
is wonderful!
But it is not just for such blessings as these that we
gather together in the Assembly. The burden of the
work to which we have been assigned—the fulfillment
of the Great Commission given us by the Lord—weighs
heavily upon our souls. And we come together search-
ing for God’s help—for enlightenment, for inspiration
which will enable us to move ahead at a more rapid
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speed. We know that the work must be done and that
we are responsible to do it. So we turn to the Lord for
divine enablement.
Those responsible for the auxiliary programs feel
this burden. They know that the helps over which
they have oversight are to be employed in helping the
Church to finish its work; therefore, they labor in prayer
in preparation for their programs [so] that fresh inspira-
tion will be provided in the Assembly. They realize that
these auxiliaries have been put in the Church to har-
ness the spiritual energies of every member, directing
such energies to productive means of reaching people
with the last-days message of the Church of God.
The preachers who preach in the Assembly
recognize that they are filling a responsible role, and
much prayerful preparation goes into each message.
Through them, the Holy Ghost can speak to the Church,
enlarging our vision and firing us with holy zeal to forge
ahead in this great work. Through them, the Holy Ghost
can inspire our people with a renewed dedication.
At the same time, they are aware that without Holy
Ghost anointing their messages would do little except
leave the delegates disappointed. But none of us can
deny that God has truly used this Assembly preaching
through the years to bless His Church.
Also, as in the early Church, problems arise on the
field from time to time which deserve the Church’s
attention in the Assembly. Satan has never quit trying
to disrupt the unity and harmony that is essential for
the Church’s growth. So, we have matters for consid-
eration so as to maintain a mutual accord, one with
another. If we were not willing to come together in
brotherly love to resolve any differences which may
have arisen, we could not hope to attain the unity
which God’s Word has dictated for His people.
We are willing, however, to do this inasmuch as
we are striving to become one, in answer to Christ’s
prayer in John, chapter seventeen. We rejoice to recall
the many times when the Holy Ghost has helped us
to reach agreement on matters affecting our unity and
3 July 2023
the progress of the work for which we are responsible.
We appreciate His help so much; it would be impos-
sible to know God’s will without Him. It is urgent that
we always give Him the respect He deserves.
The Assembly broadens the vision of those members
who are able to attend. There is always such a diversity of
cultures from the many states and nations represented
in these meetings. Mingling with people from such
varied backgrounds helps one to know that respect
must be given to the different traditions held by our
people, and that no one culture should seek to impose
its traditions upon others. Of course, if our traditions
conflict with the Scriptures, all of us must be willing
to lay these aside. Being exposed to those who come
together from contrasting environments helps to create
a greater tolerance for one another’s peculiarities. The
mutual love we have for one another seems to be the
catalyst that binds us together in spite of our differences.
General Assembly Announcements
WOMENS MISSIONARY
BAND LUNCHEON
We are bringing back the Womens Missionary Band
Luncheon! The luncheon is for all ladies and the cost is $20
per person. It will be held during the General Assembly on
Thursday, August 10, 2023 (during the lunch break). The
luncheon will be at Southern Charm Event Venue located
at 656 Minnis Road, Cleveland, Tennessee. Immediately
following the luncheon will be the WMB Fueling Work-
shop for the WMB leadership—a short meeting where the
plans for the new Assembly Year will be shared. Regis-
tration and payment can be completed online by visiting
www.thechurchofgod.org. Please share this information
with your ladies and make plans to attend!
WMB CHOIR
Ladies, plan to wear your white (and blue, if you would
like) during the WMB program at the General Assembly!
Also, plan to join the WMB choir! There will be only one
practice session and the day and time will be announced at
the General Assembly.
WMB CRAFT TABLE
We will, once again, have the WMB Craft Table dur-
ing the General Assembly. Please bring your craft items
already priced. We appreciate any items you would like to
donate to help us raise funds for missions. Volunteers are
always needed to help work the craft table. Please come to
the WMB Craft Table to sign up.
The Evening Light
Surely this 77th Assembly will hold in store many
blessings for us. Only a small percentage of our
membership will be able to attend, but those who
cannot be present can unite with us in prayer
wherever they are. This is important because this
Assembly will certainly affect them, also. Those of
us who can attend should feel highly honored for
the opportunity to do so. I believe the majority of
us do feel that way, and our hearts even now are
thrilled with the anticipation of what’s in store for us.
We want this expectation to mount higher. When we
come together let it be with full confidence that we
shall experience God’s presence in a very special way.
These are exciting times for the Church of God, and
our excitement about the things of God should be
contagious. Others can become excited by our zeal as
we keep saying with great anticipation, “It’s not long till
the Assembly.”
Sharon Griffin
General WMB Coordinator
MISSIONS CLOTHES CLOSET
In addition, we will have the Missions Clothes
Closet. Donations of clothing (church attire but not win-
ter items) and shoes are accepted, along with suitcases with
wheels that are in good condition. Personal hygiene prod-
ucts are also needed such as soap, shampoo and conditioner,
deodorant, toothpaste, etc. Please make sure these items are
regular size and not travel size. In addition, school supplies
such as notebook paper and pens are also needed.
Since we will have limited space
this year, please limit women’s sizes to
12-20 and men’s suits from 40-50. We
will not be accepting children or baby
clothing this year. Donations will be
accepted beginning Monday, August
7, at 3 p.m. through Wednesday at
the supper break. The Clothes Closet
will be open at the lunch and supper
breaks during the General Assem-
bly and will close on Friday at
the lunch break. Thank you in
advance for your donations.
4 July 2023
 James R. Horne, General CPMA Coordinator
The year 2023 represents a
tremendous historical year for The
Church of God. We are celebrating 120
years since June 13, 1903, 100 years since
the reorganization of 1923, 90 years since the
original flag was adopted by the Assembly, and
30 years since the Solemn Assembly where God
delivered us once again from creeping apostasy a
departure from theocracy.
Heritage Day was held on June 10th at
the Zion Hill local church, combined
with the BTI graduation. Our ini-
tial thoughts were to take Heritage Day
back to Memorial Auditorium where
the Solemn Assembly and many of our
Assemblies occurred. Unfortunately,
that venue was not available. Although
the Church wasn’t reorganized on Zion
Hill, God has done much at that loca-
tion. We are glad to recognize and honor
those who stood for truth and carried on
with the original vision of June 13, 1903,
the Arise, Shine with A. J. Tomlinson
receiving a vision of the last days Church.
Our Heritage Day service opened with
prayer by the General CPMA Coordinator
followed by a Scripture reading by Robert Hawkins
(Isaiah 60:1-5, 11, 14, 15, 18, 19, 21, 22). An historical
reading was shared, highlighting the Church being
found in Fields of the Wood as Brother Tomlinson
came under the spirit of seeking out the place and
habitation of the Lord. The account was also read
concerning that morning when Brother Tomlinson
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ascended the mountain for prayer,
received the revelation, and came
back down with the declaration, “Well,
if you take the whole Bible rightly divided,
that makes it the Church of God” and how
he asked them if they were willing to take it
and keep it the Church of God. A recording was
played in A. J. Tomlinson’s own voice concerning
that vision, followed by a Church song medley
led by Janet Talley with Barbara Brantley
accompanying her on piano. The General
Coordinator then shared some more
thoughts and emphasized June as our
Heritage Month, celebrating the Church
piercing through darkness in the Arise,
Shine with her last days mission, bringing
God’s full light to the world. He spoke of
the Church being covered over by man’s
creeds and doctrines but not destroyed,
and then uncovered for its work in the
last days. Isaiah 25:7 says, “And he will
destroy in this mountain the face of the
covering cast over all people, and the vail
that is spread over all nations.”
Knowing our heritage and keeping the
vision alive in the hearts of our people is impera-
tive to maintaining a vibrant revelation of who we are
and what God has purposed for us to do. Every pastor
is encouraged to preach the doctrine and vision of the
Church so their people remember what we are stand-
ing for and will stay faithful to the old paths. God has
given us a glorious heritage in The Church of God
and this must be passed on.
5 July 2023

Paul H. Horton
General BTI Coordinator
Praise the Lord for another amazing
year of Bible Training Institute. We’ve been
blessed to have conducted BTI schools
in seven countries, as well as two in the
United States. In Cleveland, Tennessee, we
had the largest 3rd Term class since the
Church’s reorganization, with 40 students
graduating.
Enjoy these photos and testimonies
from some of our schools this year. We
trust they will stir many hearts to make
plans to attend one of the BTI schools in
the coming year.
With much gratitude in my heart
toward God, I am happy to announce
that I graduated from BTI! I was blessed
to attend the school in Cleveland, Ten-
nessee, for all three years. I know my
brothers and sisters in Christ would
agree with me when I say the knowl-
edge and understanding we find in The
Church of God concerning Bible doc-
trine does not compare to any other
doctrine found in this world. This is The
Church of God!
The fellowship after classes was
wonderful. I enjoyed getting to know
other members throughout the years and
listening to their testimonies. I left this
year with a certificate of completion, a
contacts list full of wonderful people I
know I can count on, and a heart full of
God’s divine love. Now, it’s time for me
to get to work!
Thank you to all the staff that made
sure we were fed every day, both physi-
cally and spiritually. May God continue
to bless our BTI schools around the
world. They truly are an immaculate
blessing! Don’t miss out!
Alma Machado
3rd Term Spanish President
The Evening Light
I want to start by saying that God is good! Thanks to Him, we had two
wonderful weeks of BTI. It was wonderful!
Personally, I went back to take 1st Term again. In our class, we enjoyed
the presence of God. Some of us came in with health issues, but God worked
marvelously by giving us good health. Two were baptized in water. Glory to
God! Every day we enjoyed delicious breakfasts and lunches (may the Lord
bless the hands that prepared the meals). And thank God for the wonderful
and experienced teachers He has given us.
I want to finish by saying the same as I began. God is good!
Josías Membreño, 1st Term Spanish Reporter
First term BTI left my soul refreshed and my spirit uplifted. I went back
home thinking no other Church function could top it off, but I was wrong.
Second term came around this year and it was an even greater blessing!
It was wonderful to be together with those who wanted to seek more
understanding of the Church and of the Lord’s will. It was evident that all
the teachers had prepared in prayer and fasting and were abundantly knowl-
edgeable in their respective subjects. The outpouring of God’s Spirit and the
genuine and brotherly fellowship felt during the services could only make one
think of how glorious our time together with our Lord in heaven will one day
be! That was the thought that kept repeating itself in my mind for the duration
of the two weeks.
If you have been thinking about going and being a part of BTI, quit think-
ing about it and grab a friend or family member and bring them along! I assure
you, you will both be greatly blessed!
I’ll finish up my thoughts regarding BTI with a very fitting verse from
Psalm 133, verse 1: “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to
dwell together in unity!”
Glenda Membreño, 2nd Term Spanish President
The class theme we picked was “Ye Are the Light.” It served as a good
reminder of why we come to this Bible school. There was a good mix of seri-
ousness, knowing that the Lord’s work is serious, but also a good bit of love and
laughter. We enjoyed learning more of our Church history that many of us from
the younger generation weren’t there for. Our teachers kept the lessons interest-
ing and found ways to not only teach them but also to involve us. The lessons
were good, as were the personal testimonies that came with them, from both the
teachers and students. We got a deeper understanding of business, history, and
teachings that will aid us in whatever work the Lord may call us to. The things
we have learned here in training, we hope (with God’s help) to retain and use as
we go back home to our local churches. “He that is faithful in that which is least
is faithful also in much” (Luke 16:10).
Moriah Doran, 2nd Term English Reporter
With 30 students in attendance, our graduating class has done our very best
to live up to our chosen theme, “Making History Through the True Light.” We
intentionally used the preposition “through” in our theme as a way of giving
glory to God (who is the True Light). Without His guiding hand we would not
have been blessed to remain together and graduate from BTI with the largest
class. God has indeed had His hand on the class of 2023!
We are thankful for our amazing teachers who worked hard to prepare and
study to teach us each day. We have not been a class to shy away from the
hard questions, but our instructors were consistently prepared with biblical
answers. As a class full of lifelong learners, we cannot wait to continue grow-
ing in His Word together for many years to come.
Haley Anders, 3rd Term English Reporter
6 July 2023
 Cleveland
bti 2023

Staff

English 1st Term Spanish 1st Term

Spanish 2nd Term English 2nd Term

English & Spanish 3rd Term LPD

The Evening Light 7 July 2023

 k i n g i n t h e l i
Wa l

Bible Training

The Evening Light 8 July 2023

g h t o f t h y wo r
d

Institute 2023

The Evening Light 9 July 2023

 Philippines
“For of him, and through him, and to him,
are all things: to whom be glory for ever.
Amen” (Rom. 11:36).
More than 150 mem-
bers and friends of The
Church of God across the Philippines gathered in
Odiongan during the weekend of April 23-25 for a
blessed 34th Annual National Convention. God richly
blessed through the preaching of His Word and dur-
ing powerful times of worship. We enjoyed a unique
opportunity to hear sermons from all but one of our
pastors during the Convention. The prayer times at the
altar were rich as
the Holy Ghost had the liberty to minister
to the people’s hearts. Our precious Fili-
pino saints love these times of closeness
to God and to one another, and we look
forward to it at every Convention.
Everyone mentioned our theme, “To
God Be the Glory.” Testimonies were
given, reminding us that God is our everything and He truly deserves ALL honor and glory, for He has done mighty
things in our midst.
Our guest speaker, National Overseer Yosua Naing-
golan of Indonesia, preached two powerful messages
and encouraged the people to trust God and serve Him
wholeheartedly. Brother Nainggolan endeared himself to
our people with his kind spirit and gentle demeanor. We
hope this will only be
the first of many visits
to our country.
During the Convention, our National Overseer opened the doors to the Church and
received six new covenant members into The Church of God. To God be the glory!
Another special blessing God provided was the opportunity to present evangelist
licenses to six of our pastors. These are experienced ministers who work diligently in
the care of their local members. We look forward to many great testimonies for each
of them as they continue to serve the Lord.
We give glory and honor to God for His many blessings upon our Filipino people. It is our joy to serve Him with all
our hearts. Please pray for us—we are praying for you! To God be the glory!
Reported by National Overseer of the Philippines, Donald Estep, II

Phenix City, Alabama

We had another big day at the Craw-
ford Market. We raised $451 toward
our building payment and distributed
53 Evening Lights to the community.
Since June 2022, we’ve distributed 407
Evening Lights to our donors. That
averages to one per day for the last year!

The Evening Light 10 July 2023

 Tabernacle Exploratory Committee
ANNOUNCEMENT: Tabernacle BBQ Fundraiser
When: Thursday, August 10, 2023, during the supper break at this year’s Assembly
100% Our total as of June 15
Where: The Church of God, Zion Hill, Cleveland, TN
90% is $680,109.96—54% of the
Details: All plates come with a choice of meat (smoked chopped pork OR smoked maximum down payment
chicken leg quarter), baked beans, coleslaw, pickles, and a drink. Seating is avail- 80% goal approved for
able in Zion Hill fellowship hall and outside. 70% property purchase.
Cost: $12 per plate 60%
NOTE: You do not have to pre-register to purchase a meal. However, if you know you 50% WAYS TO DONATE
plan to purchase one during this session, please take the time to 40% Send a check to:
fill out our meal form for each plate that will be purchased. This will 30%
The Church of God
Treasurer
help our cooks with food preparation. The link to the form is found at
20% P. O. Box 450
the following web address: https://forms.gle/3b9wCqBxFJBggsFn6 Charleston, TN 37310
10%
You can also take a picture of this QR Code with your phone and be Call us at:
automatically redirected to the form. (423) 339-8264, Ext. #230
The Assembly Tabernacle Exploratory Committee would like to thank every mem- Visit our website:
ber, local church, State/Region/Nation, and our Tabernacle Fundraising Coordinators for www.thechurchofgod.org/give
and click “Give Online”
your participation in Heritage Month and your involvement in fundraising efforts for an
Assembly Tabernacle. We are excited to tally the results and report them to the field.

Revival’s “Big If”

by Tim Cyr
Siler City, NC
3
Seek the Lord’s face (see Psa.
105:4; James 4:8). When we
seek God’s face, we make Him a pri-
“If my people, which are called by ority with our full attention. God will
my name, shall humble themselves, and not honor halfhearted efforts. Jeremiah
pray, and seek my face, and turn from 29:13 says, “And ye shall seek me, and
their wicked ways; then will I hear from find me, when ye shall search for me
heaven, and will forgive their sin, and with all your heart.” We must forget
Deborah Perkins
will heal their land” (2 Chron. 7:14). about our thoughts and ways and seek
General ABM Coordinator
We need revival, and God desires to His instead. In 2 Chronicles 26:5, we
bring revival. However, there is a “big if” to be met—in fact, learn that, “as long as he [Uzziah] sought the LORD, God
there are four requirements to be met. If we meet them, God made him to prosper.” Uzziah’s problem was that he even-
will send revival. tually stopped seeking God and followed his own way, and

1 Humility (see 1 Peter 5:6; Matt. 23:12). Many might God smote him with leprosy. We must never stop seeking
think they are not proud, but we need the eyesalve the Lord’s face to follow Him with all our hearts.
Jesus prescribed for the Laodicean church in Revelation
3:14-22. They needed it so they could see themselves as He 4
Turn from our wicked ways. Our wicked ways can be
summed up in Jeremiah 2:13: “For my people have
saw them. They said they were “rich, and increased with committed two evils; they have forsaken me the fountain of
goods, and have need of nothing” but they didn’t know they living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns,
were “wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and that can hold no water.” Are we drinking from the well of
naked” (Rev. 3:17). Oh, that we could see ourselves as God living water or from self-made wells that are dry and hold no
sees us. This would surely humble us. Humility is produced water? If we are not as close to God as we once were, let us
by focusing on God's holiness, perfection, and loving-kind- turn back to His well of living water that sprung forth from
ness in contrast with our own sinfulness, unworthiness, and the finished work of Christ at the Cross.
ingratitude. I used to think I had humility when I would beat Let us meet these “big if” requirements and, with faith
myself up for failing, but a pastor told me, “Humility is not and strong assurance, look for God to hear from heaven, for-
thinking less of yourself but thinking of yourself less.” give our sins, and heal our land.

2 Prayer (see Prov. 28:9; James 5:16). To be effective,

our prayers must be humbly, sincerely, and fervently
directed to God with faith. In Luke 18:9-14, we see a proud
Churches Reporting 100% in Emergency $:
Oxnard, CA Hopkinsville, KY Summerville, SC
Pharisee and a humble publican praying. Jesus said the Phar-
isee was praying “thus with himself” and wasn’t acceptable Winter Haven, FL Efland, NC Farmville, VA
to God, but the publican who said, “...God be merciful to me Sellersburg, IN Smithfield, NC Roanoke, VA
a sinner” went to his house justified.

The Evening Light 11 July 2023

 We extend our heartfelt condolences to the
friends and family of female evangelists
Edna Pearline Taylor of New Rochelle,
New York, who passed away on February
27, 2023; and Edna Marlene Partin of
Cleveland, Tennessee, who departed
this life on June 10, 2023.
“Precious in the sight of the LORD
is the death of his saints”
Psalm 116:15

History is made in Cuba!

On May 10, 2023, General World
Missions Coordinator Robert Hawkins
and General Headquarters Translator
Luis Bañuelos landed in Havana,
the capital of the country of Cuba, to
meet National Overseer Bishop Bolivar
Sanchez and his wife, Sister Mercedes
(who live in the Dominican Republic),
for several days of teaching and training the saints
of God in Cuba and for some much-needed fellowship. This was
the first time since the Reorganization in 1993 that General
Headquarters representatives had set foot in this communist island
country, situated just 90 miles off the coast of the United States.
With the efficient help of our dear brother and pastor, Vladimir
Garcia Perez, the missionaries were able, after several months,
to obtain Cuban Religious Visas and were permitted to
enter the country with approximately 80 pounds of Bible
literature and to preach the gospel of Christ freely and
openly. A passionate love for Christ and a vision of His
Church were found among the members and leaders
of The Church of God in Cuba. The government made it known
to Brothers Hawkins and Bañuelos that they were being observed during their
stay, but great liberty was felt in delivering the Word of God to all who would
hear and receive! Amen! The congregation prayed, shouted, sang, spoke in tongues,
played their instruments, marched, danced in the Spirit of God, and one joined the Church! Praise God!
The saints in Cuba face severe economic challenges and spent several months working together to gather all the
foodstuffs that were needed for the meetings. Their hard work, sacrifice, planning, and good cooking were much
appreciated by all the attendees. God’s people face many restrictions and challenges in Cuba, but by the grace of God
and your prayers, they will stay victorious!
To operate legally and become registered and recognized by the Cuban
government, The Church of God needs to purchase land and a structure
it can call its own. The maximum cost of a combined land and church
building purchase would be $25,000. Would you be able to contribute to
this worthy cause and help The Church of God in Cuba? Time is critical.
The world is becoming more volatile and we don’t know if the doors to
this communist country will close once again. Let us pray and do all we
can to help The Church of God gain a foothold in this country that has
officially forsaken God!
¡CUBA PARA CRISTO! CUBA FOR CHRIST!

The Evening Light 12 July 2023

 Stay Focused on is easy, and my burden is light” (Matt.
11:28-30). We do not have to walk this
the Lighted Path path alone or singlehandedly bear our
Charlotte Dixon burdens!
Mountain View, AR Now refreshed, Elijah went to
Horeb, but he hid in the darkness of a
1 Kings 16:30-33 reveals the cave. God then asked, “…What doest
state of things in Israel when Elijah thou here, Elijah?” (1 Kings 19:9),
declared to King Ahab there would to which he replied, “…I have been
be no rain or dew for years as Shanna Campos very jealous for the LORD God of
punishment for the nation’s worship General Sunday School Coordinator hosts: for the children of Israel have
of Baal—though God would make forsaken thy covenant, thrown down
provision for Elijah’s needs, first at a brook and later at thine altars, and slain thy prophets with the sword; and
the home of a widow in Jezebel’s home country. After I, even I only, am left; and they seek my life, to take it
three and a half years, God sent the prophet back to Ahab. away” (1 Kings 19:10). God then sent him out of the cave
Arrangements were made for the king, the false prophets onto the mount where he witnessed a destructive wind, an
of Baal (and the groves), and all of Israel to meet with earthquake, and a fire (none of which the Lord was in), and
Elijah at Mount Carmel. There, Elijah besought Israel to finally a still, small voice. Yet, Elijah hid his face, walked
make a choice, then a competition of sorts ensued and back, and stood facing the entrance of the cave. Again, he
Baal was proven powerless. Then Elijah spoke a short but was asked, “…What doest thou here, Elijah?” (1 Kings
powerful prayer to the true God who answered with fire 19:13). He replied as he had earlier, but this time God
that consumed the water-soaked sacrifice. “And when all commanded him to “…Go, return on thy way” (1 Kings
the people saw it, they fell on their faces: and they said, The 19:15). Another way to say this is “Go, get back on the
LORD, he is the God; the LORD, he is the God” (1 Kings pathway.” The Lord steered the prophet’s focus back to the
18:39). They saw, believed, and the false prophets were work at hand instead of all the drama vying for his atten-
rounded up and killed. When Jezebel learned what Elijah tion. Elijah was given some assignments and assured he
had done, she “…sent a messenger unto Elijah, saying, So was not standing alone.
let the gods do to me, and more also, if Satan still wants our focus on some-
I make not thy life as the life of one of thing besides the path ahead, such as what
them by to morrow about this time. And others are or are not doing, while he whis-
when he saw that, he arose, and went pers thoughts of fear and hopelessness.
for his life…” (1 Kings 19:2, 3). However, God has warned that the last
After such a victory, Jezebel’s intim- days will be like the days of Noah and Lot.
idation was enough to send Elijah flee- Even within the Church, Paul warned, in
ing into the wilderness! Elijah’s mind Acts 20:29, 30: “For I know this, that
saw her threats, and, in fear, he ran, sat, after my departing shall grievous wolves
asked to die, and laid down as though in defeat. This is a pic- enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own
ture of a despondent man carrying a burden too hard for him selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw
to bear, but God provided help and rest under a juniper tree. away disciples after them.” When this happens, we should
The word juniper in Hebrew means “pole,” the root word of not despair or retreat into darkness, because God declared
which means to “yoke up.” What a beautiful Old Testament these things would happen. The fulfillment of these scrip-
likeness of Jesus who says to us, “Come unto me, all ye that tures actually helps confirm The Church of God is the One
labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take Fold as prophecies concerning her are fulfilled! Soon, she
my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly will leave this world in like manner as Elijah! In the mean-
in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke time, be encouraged, and stay focused on the lighted path.

CONTACT E. Roger Ammons (Rammons@thechurchofgod.org) if you’re interested in joining the

MISSION TRIP to ANSAPIT, HAITI — SEPTEMBER 15-17, 2023

The Evening Light 13 July 2023

 “Near the close of 1905 the work fear lest we might or should deviate the
had so prospered that there began to least little bit from the plan laid down
be a demand for a general gathering in the Scriptures. We felt we must have
together of members from all the everything just right.
churches to consider questions of “Just before closing this first
importance and to search the Bible Assembly of the churches the
for additional light and knowledge. following statement was written, read
Accordingly arrangements were made and adopted and spread on the Minutes:
and the meeting called. “‘It seemeth good to the Holy Ghost
“Names Of Those Attending First James R. Horne and us, being assembled together with
Assembly. The first Assembly of the General CPMA Coordinator one accord, with the Spirit of Christ in the
Churches of God was held January 26 midst and after much prayer, discussion,
and 27, 1906, at the home of J. C. Murphy, Cherokee county, searching the Scriptures and counsel, to recommend these
North Carolina, about one-half mile from the school house necessary things, and that they may be ratified and observed by
where the great revival had broken out ten years before. all the local churches. It is the duty of the church to execute the
Twenty-one members were in attendance as representatives laws given us by Christ through His Holy Apostles.’
from the different churches. “And oh, the sacredness of it all! I feel the powerful effect
“As a matter of information I herewith give the names of of those early days now as I write.” (A. J. Tomlinson, God’s
all those in attendance, which shows that we started out to Anointed Prophet of Wisdom, 1943, pp. 63-65).
keep an accurate record of all who attended. The names: R. May the pattern of Acts 15 and the Spirit testified
G. Spurling, T. N. Elrod, W. F. Bryant, Nettie Bryant, Agnes of in 1906 be an impetus and guiding light as we enter
Bryant, J. C. Murphy, Malissie M. Murphy, John Ellison, this upcoming General Assembly. As the world grows
Johnie Brown, Andrew Freeman, Alexander Hamby, R. R. very dark, let us remember Exodus 10:23, “…but all the
Jones, Balford Abercrumby, Sally Hamby, Theophilus Ellis, children of Israel had light in their dwellings.” The Star
N. S. Ellis, Ella Robinson, Lucy Coleman, W. M. Coleman, is shining brightly in the Church! There is light in our
M. S. Lemons, A. J. Tomlinson. dwellings and an expanse of depth and spiritual light
“At this Assembly many important questions were before us as we fully yield to the Holy Ghost and follow
discussed, and much added light obtained by those present. A the Head of the Church, Jesus Christ! CPMA Leaders, let
good foundation was laid, and although we did not then know us join together in prayer for our General Overseer and
of the great development that was destined to follow, we were for every part of this upcoming Assembly. Pray for the
very careful to follow the Bible in all our deliberations and CPMA program!
decisions. This was the one thing accurately aimed at, and to
me now it would seem extremely marvelous were it not for CHURCHES 100% in CPMA this MONTH:
the fact of the great Head and Founder of the church directing Anniston, AL Zion Hill, TN
His work to see that it was well done. It was His unseen hand
and loving counsel that directed every substantial move that Hopkinsville, KY Farmville, VA
was made. We often trembled with holy reverence and Godly

GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOTEL INFO:

FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES
2815 Westside Dr. NW - (423) 664-2501
$119+ tax for king, executive king, or
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HOLIDAY INN
2400 Executive Park Circle - (423) 478-1212
$179+ tax for king or double
queen rooms; $199+ tax for double
queen suite. No breakfast.
Group Code: Travel King
Cutoff to book: 7/24/2023
LA QUINTA INN
130 Interstate Dr. NW - (423) 813-7300
$139+ tax for king or double queen
rooms. Hot breakfast daily.
Group Code: TCOG2023
Cutoff to book: 7/01/2023
CLARION INN
185 James Asbury Dr. NW - (423) 559-1001
$89+ tax (based on occupancy of 4) for
king, king with sofa bed, and double
bed rooms. Hot breakfast daily.
Group Code: TTK2023
Cutoff to book: 7/24/2023
HAMPTON INN
4355 Frontage Rd. - (423) 458-1222
$169+ tax for king or double queen
rooms. Hot breakfast daily.
Group Code: TKG
Cutoff to book: 7/08/2023
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS
4355 Holiday Inn Express Way NW
(423) 790-1199
$165+ tax for king or double queen
rooms. Hot breakfast daily.
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QUALITY INN
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TOWNEPLACE SUITES
160 Bernham Dr. NW - (423) 790-7799
$154-$164+ tax for king or
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Cutoff to book: 7/07/2023
TheTravelKing.net is our preferred
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book at a Cleveland hotel not on this
list, please send an email to sales@
thetravelking.net with the name of
the hotel.

The Evening Light 14 July 2023


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THE GLORIOUS
CHURCH OF GOD
Ichabod—The Glory Is Departed
The previous articles on Ichabod
gave 11 causes for the departure of God’s
glory from Israel, but another cause was
the Lack of Divine Revelation.
“And the child Samuel ministered unto the LORD before Eli.
And the word of the LORD was precious in those days; there was
no open vision” (1 Sam. 3:1). Notice this did not say there was
“no vision,” but rather there was “no open vision.” The meaning
is that, even as with the word of the Lord, visions were very rare.
However, in the previous chapter “there came a man of God unto
Eli, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Did I plainly appear
unto the house of thy father, when they were in Egypt in Pharaoh’s
house?” (1 Sam. 2:27). This refers to divine revelations given
to Aaron while he was still a slave in Egypt. These revelations
were foundational for the calling of Aaron and his house to the
priesthood. By divine revelation, Moses received specific plans
for the Tabernacle and its service by the priests. The Hebrew word
for “appear” is translated elsewhere at least 10 times as “reveal,”
“revealeth,” or “revealed” (1 Sam. 3:7; 3:21, etc.). The word
“glory” and some form of the word “appear” are both in the same
verses of the Bible at least 15 times.
The man of God who came to Eli had received a divine
revelation of the judgment that would come upon Eli’s house
because they despised God, His sacrifices and offering, and His
house. He prophesied that Eli’s sons, Hophni and Phinehas would
die in battle. But he also proclaimed a glorious promise from God,
“And I will raise me up a faithful priest, that shall do according to
that which is in mine heart and in my mind: and I will build him
a sure house; and he shall walk before mine anointed for ever”
(1 Sam. 2:35). The “faithful priest” is understood to be in contrast
with Eli and his sons: 1) he is to be raised up by God directly, that
is, not merely called and chosen; 2) he will act in accordance with
God’s will; 3) God will build him a sure house; 4) he shall walk
before God’s anointed forever. The words “mine anointed for
ever” would ultimately be fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ
as the “faithful priest” whose faithful house (The Church of God)
will walk before Him forever (in the original Hebrew the same
word is translated as “faithful” and “sure”).
The writer of Hebrews says, “consider the Apostle and High
Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus; Who was faithful… whose
house are we, if we hold fast… unto the end” (Heb. 3:1, 2, 6).
“If therefore perfection were by the Levitical priesthood… what
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further need was there that another
priest should rise after the order of
Melchisedec, and not be called after the
order of Aaron?… this man, because he
continueth ever, hath an unchangeable
priesthood” (Heb. 7:11, 24). But in the
immediate historical context, Samuel
was a type and shadow of this “faithful
priest.” Even though he was not of the
lineage of Aaron, God would raise him up, even as Christ, who
would be a priest after the order of Melchisedec. The foretold
death of Eli’s sons pointed to a change in the order of the
priesthood. Samuel’s faithfulness in his obedience to Eli and in
trimming the lamps and opening the doors of the Tabernacle as
he “ministered unto the LORD” (1 Sam. 3:1), prepared him for
future priestly duties—such as speaking the words of the Lord
(vv. 19-21; Mal. 2:7) and interceding as a mediator between God
and the people (1 Sam. 7:5).
Samuel walked before God’s “anointed” all the days of his
life as he ministered unto the Lord before Eli, King Saul, and King
David. He received a divine revelation that was very similar in
content to that which was received by the unnamed “man of God.”
A life consecrated to God, an obedient and submissive spirit, and a
responsive heart had prepared Samuel to receive a revelation from
the Lord. While Samuel slept, the Lord called him three times,
but he thought it was the voice of Eli. “Now Samuel did not yet
know the LORD, neither was the word of the LORD yet revealed
unto him” (1 Sam. 3:7). Knowing God, in this usage, doesn’t
mean a general knowledge of God, but the special knowledge of
God, which was given by extraordinary revelation or by God. Eli
perceived that God had spoken to Samuel and told him that if He
called again to say “Speak, LORD; for thy servant heareth” (v. 9).
God called Samuel again, but this time it was more than just a voice.
“And the LORD came, and stood” before Samuel (v. 10). The voice
became a “vision” (v. 15). The next morning, Samuel told Eli of
the coming judgment upon his house as it had been revealed in the
vision. All that God had revealed came to pass (vv. 19-21). “And all
Israel… knew that Samuel was established to be a prophet of the
LORD” (v. 20). “Established” is the same word which is translated
as “faithful” and “sure” in 1 Samuel 2:35.
As Samuel was faithful to God, God was faithful to him with
His presence and confirmation (1 Sam. 3:19), as well as glory and
future revelations (v. 21). The word “for” in verse 21 indicates that
it was because of the revelations by God to Samuel that the glory
of the Lord “appeared” once again in Shiloh as it had in earlier
times. Even so, divine revelation was such a rare occurrence that
the glory of God would depart from Israel as a nation.
15 July 2023
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Holy Ghost-filled Rally services! Souls being saved, sanctified, baptized with
the Holy Ghost, healed, and delivered, as well as anointed training in the work of
EVANGELISM! EVANGELISM FULL SPEED AHEAD!!!
Coming up before the General Asembly, GO Rallies are scheduled for Montana,
Washington, Canada (West), and Mississippi. If you are near a Rally, you won’t want
to miss it!
Jerry W. Campbell, General Evangelism Coordinator

Georgia New Mexico North Carolina