|
Philippine Report for Thursday (4/20/06)
April 20, 2006
from Harry Osborne in Tuguegarao, Luzon, Philippines
Mike reports that the day began with
97 tolls of the bell at 4:30am. I think his plan for
assault on the thing grows closer to fruition with
each morning. Steve tells us that he is oblivious
to the ringing of the bell which surprises no one
who knows Steve.
The classes continue to go well with the students
growing each day. They are participating very well
and asking very perceptive questions. At times, we
are taken off of the main subject to deal with a point
of particular interest or concern to them. Those excursions
often prove to be of special benefit to them and the
situations they face in their work in this culture.
Today, we had a long discussion on the responsibilities
of each spouse in a marriage in order to have a good
home. We talked about the difference between initial
attraction and lasting “love” as commanded
in Scripture. Since most of the men in the training
program are young married men, it was a good use of
time to address some practical lessons to help them.
They were very appreciative when we discussed some
Bible-based advice and thoughts to consider.
The Church History class continues to be well received
also. We discussed the work and concepts of Martin
Luther today. I tried to show them how his mistake
of seeking civil officials to regulate religious matters
was a tragic blunder that led to the development of
state churches. We also noted his over-reaction to
the Catholic concept of salvation by meritorious works
as he swung to the opposite extreme of teaching salvation
by faith only. I warned them that many errors come
from a reaction to one error that leads to acceptance
of an opposite error rather than relying simply on
the teaching of Scripture without addition or subtraction.
In the “Issues That Divided Brethren”
class, we discussed the no Bible class, no located
preacher and one container errors. The Filipinos are
unfamiliar with the first two errors, but very familiar
with the one container error. We had a good discussion
which went beyond class time by about 15 minutes.
We must go to eat and on to the evening service. Tonight
I am asking Steve to take the session on use of the
maps because I must go talk with a young couple about
some things of concern to them. Please keep us in
your prayers as you are in our prayers each day.
Brotherly, Harry O.
<
back to April 2006 Trip list
|
