MY GOSPEL @ Desmond R Singh: Recent Episodes
Joe McCormick
Desmond R. Singh pastors Gospel Assembly Church in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada, serving the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and northern New York State. He is an internationally recognized leader in the Body of Christ. Pastor Singh views the role of the church as producing overcomers for the Kingdom of God.
Though commanded to preach, "The kingdom of heaven is at hand," little could the disciples know that God would delay His promise by two thousand years. In this revealing lesson, Brother Singh bolsters our faith by explaining the discrepancy between God's promises and their fulfillment. God's timing and purpose are always precise.
In this enlightening message, Brother Singh addresses three primary fathers: our Heavenly Father, our Spiritual Father, and our earthly or Biological Father.
John's gospel describes the perfect father-son relationship: "Verily, verily, I say unto you, The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do: for what things soever he doeth, these also doeth the Son."
Building on Wednesday's lesson, Brother Sam expressed gratitude for the depth of teaching we receive in our assembly. "Ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free," Jesus said. (John 8:32). Often, we quote this passage out of context, for Jesus prefaced the statement with a conditional pre-requisite. "If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed, and {then} ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall set us free." Brother Sam then shared steps to ensure we implement the lessons we are taught so they move from an intellectual exercise to a lifestyle standard.
Converts from Judaism and paganism started the church in Rome with the best of intentions. Sadly, the fledgling church descended into spiritual depravity without a called man of God to establish it on the proper foundation. Hence, Paul wrote to the Roman saints in Asia Minor, "I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established" (Romans 1:11).
Similarly, Brother Singh visited Toronto to impart a spiritual gift to a few elect residing here 44 years ago and stayed
As God's elect, we are not merely recipients of Jesus'swords about himself, 'I am the way, the truth, and the life: no one comes to the Father except through me' (John 14:6).We live in the last days, and Jesus warned usthat deception would be rampant. Yet, the most pernicious falsehood is self-deception.
Brother Vid stressed that he is grateful that he does not believe in a fantasy concerning the gospel of the Kingdom. Brother Singh continued that theme, showing us Jesus "the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father but by him" (John 14:6). Nevertheless, when Jesus ascended to the Father, he gave the keys to the Kingdom to his ministry that would carry on his work in his absence.
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.
Every called man of God worries about what will happen to his work after his departure. Yet, ultimately, it is God's work!
Whether an assembly can try apostles, like Ephesus (Revelation 2:2), or will follow false apostles, like Corinth (2 Corinthians 11:13), is according to the Father's will. If we receive not a love of the truth, we will be damned. (2 Thessalonians 2:10).
We live in perilous times, but it is not a time to hate or criticize people, for Jesus will return soon. Instead, we must fervently embrace love and reconciliation. Learn to pray for our enemies and those who despitefully use us. And while we Gentile Christians may often pray, "Come, Lord Jesus, come!" This lesson will show that Christ can only return once Israel recognizes its need for him and repents.
While the world focuses on Israel and the geo-political events in the Middle East, fulfillment of prophecy always has an element of surprise attached. In other words, we cannot interpret prophecy before it happens.
"Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty." (2 Corinthians 3:17). But liberty is not the right to scream and shout and act wild in the house of the Lord. It is the right to strive for holiness righteously. Building on Wednesday's lesson, "Developing Christ," Brother Sam reminded us that God has a reason for everything in our lives (good or bad). Chastening is necessary, for the Lord disciplines the one he loves.
In this lesson, Brother Singh takes a practical, non-theological approach to the concept of 'developing Christ 'in this lesson. It's about cultivating Jesus's temperament, thinking, and nature within ourselves and integrating those traits into our daily lives. We often find ourselves trusting the devices and means the world offers rather than trusting God. However, the day may soon come when these worldly resources are unavailable, and we have no choice but to trust Him.
The chastisement that befell Nebuchadnezzar was madness and banishment to live like a beast in the wilderness for seven years until he repented and worshipped God.
The lesson we are to draw from this example is that even raw gold requires refinement before it can be used. God, in his wisdom, processes each of His elect. The Apostle Peter wrote: "Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy." (1 Peter 4:12-13)
In a world of deception and encroaching darkness, a child of God maintains hope because solid spiritual food belongs to those who are mature enough and, because of use, have had their senses exercised to discern both good and evil (Hebrews 5:14). Under this ministry, we are very well-taught. Yet, Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, could only persuade those who were willing to change. Brother Singh holds fast to his calling to preach what only God places in his heart. We must respond with a steadfast resolve to walk in light and truth.
Brother Singh challenged our congregation with a question that may unsettle some: "Do you possess the genuine Holy Spirit?" The implications of this query are profound, potentially leading to eternal consequences if we are mistaken. Such a matter demands our serious consideration.
This lesson is about Deception, which began in the Garden of Eden.
The title says it all. The message spilled out of the hearts and minds of God's people as they expressed their love, joy, need for, and longing to be in the center of our heavenly Father's will.
The worship was divine, the prayer lines lengthy, and the testimonies heartfelt. This audio recording cannot adequately express the feelings of God's people gathered in His house.
Healing in today's church is significantly different than it was for those in the crowd during Jesus' ministry. Occasionally, every sick person in a village received healing from Jesus. Yet miracles did not convert the crowds. When confronted with the necessity for change, the crowds left Jesus. (Review John 6). "If your life isn't right when the word of God is preached in this congregation, you may wish to depart also," Brother Singh emphasized. "We cannot serve God at our convenience, resisting change. Instead, we must follow the path our Lord has determined for us."
Rejection was the hallmark of Jesus and the apostles. In this penetrating lesson, Brother Singh helps us understand that serving God in Spirit and truth sets the elect apart from most churchgoers (See Matthew 10:22).
In stark contrast to the media-driven ministries of the 21st Century, Jesus and Paul would have been viewed as too humble and mediocre to be regarded as authentic. Pentecostal churches would surely have rejected them for not being in the Spirit.
A chorus we sometimes sing states, "There is a purpose for everything God brings our way." Everything includes suffering, trials, tribulations, sickness, poverty, and setbacks.
In this invaluable lesson, Brother Singh draws from the life of the Apostle Paul to fully demonstrate the principle of discipleship. Jesus said, "If any person will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me" (Matthew 16:24). 21st-century Christianity has abandoned the concept of suffering for Christ. Some will staunchly argue suffering is a sign of judgment, not God's favor. As a called minister, Brother Singh preaches the whole counsel of God, so we are taught in Spirit and truth, not fed "another gospel" to tickle our ears.
God calls His servants out of apostate religion. He called Moses out of the Pharaoh's court in Egypt. "When he came to {maturiy}, Moses refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; choosing instead to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompense of the reward" (Hebrews 11:24-26).
Human nature is such that we often only appreciate the value of water once the well runs dry. The truth of his comment served as a stark reminder that we will not always have Brother Singh and the elders available to guide and instruct us. Our response to the messages we receive today determines our future. Jesus warned, "For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be." We individually must ask, "Is my faith strong enough to endure and be saved?
Anyone who follows Brother Singh's gospel grows to appreciate the remarkable content of God's written word. In this awe-inspiring lesson, our Pastor takes the elect on a 45-minute survey of the Bible. "So, and let him come, that is thirsty. For whosoever will, let them come and take freely of the water of life. (Revelation 22:17)
The elect ought to study their Pastor and grasp the essence of his spirit. He conveys his experience with God in little stories from life, making his counsel practical and wise. "Moreover, because the preacher was wise, he still taught the people knowledge; yea, he gave good heed, sought out, and set many proverbs in order" (Ecclesiastes 12:9). The words of God's ministry speaks unto us "are spirit, and they are life" {that provides eternal life}. (John 6:63.) It is folly to ignore the advice of a man of God.
An elect child of God ought never to despise chastening. "My son or daughter, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him: For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth" (Hebrews 12:5-6). God never errors in judgment! He does not spoil His children to raise brats but disciples them. The elect cannot get away with anything in this life.
Chastening has a purpose. "Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby" (Hebrews 12:11)
Brother Singh explores our religious traditions' in this invaluable lesson. The Apostle Paul warned, "Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ" (Colossians 2:8). If we surrender holiness to follow a tradition of the world, we defeat the purpose of religion.
By contrast, good traditions anchor the elect in beliefs and behaviors God expects us to maintain. The Apostle Paul also wrote, "Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word or our epistle" (2 Thessalonians 2:15).
This article reposts one written four years ago today, April 7th, 2020.
Ironically, tomorrow, April 8th, 2024, many residents of Canada and the United States will witness a solar eclipse. When the moon moves entirely between the Earth and the sun, it blocks all light except an outer circle of intense light. This ring is known as a corona. God the Father exists in a light no man can approach. (1 Timothy 6:16) Jesus is the expressed image of the Father (Hebrews 1:3). He reflects the Father's glory but in light that we can see.
Let us reiterate how essential it is for God's elect to recognize truth and thereby reject error. The Apostle Peter warned, "They that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their destruction" (2 Peter 3:16). Brother Singh labors on his knees and studies the scriptures before the Lord so that he may feed us "meat in due season"(Matthew 24:45).
Although Paul had to escape from Thessalonica, he did not abandon the saints there. Hence, we read his letter to them:
Following Wednesday's lesson, "ROOTED, GROUNDED, & STABLISHED" (Colossians 2:7), Brother Singh encouraged our congregation tonight with Paul's exhortation: "We have this treasure {Jesus} in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed." (2 Corinthians 4:7-9). Serving the Lord does not offer a trouble-free life. Quite the opposite, but because of the hope in our hearts, we can handle life's hardships with maturity, dignity, and composure.
Unless God opens the eyes and ears of our understanding, we will never grasp the truth of God's plan contained in scripture. God anoints His called preachers to teach His elect. (Ephesians 4:11-13) Solomon wrote,
"Because the preacher was wise, he still taught the people knowledge; he gave good heed, sought out, and set in order many proverbs" (Ecclesiastes 12:9). This wisdom is not human intellect; it is God's illumination revealed through His servants by the Holy Spirit.
Brother Singh reminded our congregation and those joining us by live-streaming that partaking in the emblems of the communion service will not change our lives. It matters how we partake of Christ tomorrow, next week, and the rest of our lives.
Recently, we have focused on self-examination. "Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith."
A half-hour of praise, worship, and thanksgiving offered to God, our heavenly Father, through Christ Jesus, our Lord, Savior, and soon-coming King.
So, as we examine ourselves with humility in preparation for sharing the Lord's Supper this weekend (See 1 Corinthians 11:26-27). God the Father has invited the Gentile saints to the wedding feast of His Son because those that were bidden {the Jews} to the wedding would not come. (Matthew 22:33). Symbolically, He sent His servants to find us. "So those servants went out into the highways and gathered together all as many as they found, both bad and good, and the wedding was furnished with guests" (Matthew 22:10).
Today's message deals with the condition of our hearts as we prepare to remember the Lord's Supper. So, a reader might ask, "What does the condition of my heart have to do with water from Bethlehem's well?" It seems much more than we might initially assume! May God open the eyes and ears of our understanding.
As we prepare to share communion to commemorate the Lord's supper, we are reminded of the words penned by the Apostle Paul: "For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he comes (or returns). (1 Corinthians 11:26) Brother Sam stresses that we are not to be examined by others but must examine ourselves. "Examine ourselves to see if your faith is genuine. We test ourselves. Surely we know that Jesus Christ is in us, for if not, we have failed the test of genuine faith." (2 Corinthians 13:5).
God's people have always found it challenging to obey His laws. We study the history of ancient Israel not because the promises made to the Hebrew children belong to the Gentile church but because human nature has not changed in some 3400 years.
Many professing Christians will disagree with the statement regarding God's promises, and that is fine. People are entitled to serve God as they see fit. However, God's word is precise, and He expects the elect to serve Him according to His will, not at our convenience or capriciousness.
Brother Singh considers the Bible his lifeline, offering life and death. However, due to misinterpretation of the scriptures, the Bible has destroyed more people than have received life from its pages. "Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times, some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing (or demonic) spirits, and doctrines of devils" (1 Timothy 4:1).
God's work perpetually moves forward, meaning it never stagnates. Two critical men stood alongside Moses, Aaron, and Joshua. The first was responsible for caving into the people's will and producing the image of a golden calf, reflecting the idolatry of Egypt. The other young man waited forty days at the mountain's base, anticipating Moses's return.
Joshua's decision reflected God's will, which is never the people's will: "Therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.
While in exile on the prison Island of Patmos, the Apostle John received a series of visions that he recorded. "The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God {the Father} gave unto him, to show unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John." The opening statement of this book asserts these are revelations of Jesus himself, not "Saint John the Divine," as some versions of the Bible proclaim. It is one example of errant belief injected into God's church. Throughout the ages, a war has raged between the purity of God's word and a counterfeit version designed to deceive (if it were possible) the elect.
The job of "a faithful and wise servant" is not to give us goosebumps in the name of Jesus or whip us up into an emotional frenzy but to provide us with the discipline and desire to walk circumspectly! Can we please God when we leave this sanctuary? Can we disassociate ourselves from the evils of society? Can the change in our lives be a witness to our employer, friends, and family? He must present us to Christ as a chaste virgin without spot or wrinkle. (2 Corinthians 11:12).
Watering Wednesday's lesson WORSE THAN SODOMY, Brother Sam reminds us we are privileged to be God's house on Saturday evening when the world offers many alternatives. This little assembly in Mississauga is our Mount Zion and the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem. We gather with innumerable angels in festal gathering, and to the assembly of the firstborn written in heaven, to a judge who is God of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect.
Surprisingly, Jesus did not make following him easy, nor was his gospel simple to understand. He spoke in parables so that only those whose eyes and ears were open to receive God's word could understand. Our Lord explained to the disciples, I teach in parables because "they look, but they don't really see. They hear, but they don't really listen or understand. This {dullness} fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah that says, 'When you hear what I say, you will not understand. When you see what I do, you will not comprehend." (Matthew 13:13-14, NLT).
Today, we live in a period of history when the elect of God anticipate the return of Jesus as King of kings. Our Lord warned nearly 2,000 years ago. "Watch, therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come." (Matthew 24: 42).
In parabolic language, Jesus told his disciples, "Had the house owner known what hour the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and prevented his house from being broken into. (See Matthew 24:43).
Brother Sam & Brother John combine to water Wednesday's lesson, "APPRECIATING OUR MESSAGES." Watering applies to fostering the growth of the word of God to take root in our hearts, as watering seedlings in your garden nurtures germinating plants to take root. Too much water drowns the seedlings, and too little causes them to dry up because of thirst. Hence, an elder must be Spirit-filled, sensitive, and skilled in applying God's spoken words. The ministry sows the seed as led by the Holy Spirit.
Like horticulturalists working in a greenhouse., the tender attention of the elders develops seedlings into vibrant plants that bear fruit in due season: some thirtyfold, some sixtyfold, some a hundredfold. (Matthew 13:6).
Advancements in technology have given God's anointedministry methods of presenting the gospel that the Apostles and Prophets could not have dreamed of. In the past twenty-five years, cassette tapes, then CDs, and most recently, podcasts have allowed Brother Singh's messages to reach hundreds of followers in many locales globally.
"The night is far spent—the day is at hand," meaning the return of our Lord is imminent. (Romans 13:12). We are blessed that God has given us a voice, in Brother Singh, to awaken us from our spiritualslumber.
Brother Singh paused today's service to give us some vital instructions on worship. "God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and truth" (John 4:24).
Scripture tells us, "Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, And into his courts with praise: Be thankful unto Him and bless His name, for the LORD is good. His mercy is everlasting and His truth endureth to all generations" (Psalm 100:4-5). Our heavenly Father desires that we enter worship with heartfelt praise and thanksgiving.
Following Wednesday's lesson, "The Chosen," Brother Sam emphasized, "Many are called, but few are chosen." Conversion demands change, namely the change from our sin-prone, fallen Adamic nature to that of Jesus. Yet we face a problem, for our physical nature wars against the law of God. Our minds desire to do what is right, but our flesh keeps us captive to the law of sin that dwells in our members. It takes the power of the Holy Spirit to free us from the captivity of our fallen nature.
I stand in awe of the purpose and plan of Almighty God today as I did when I first heard the gospel of the Kingdom 26 years ago. Our heavenly Father plans to change us from our fallen, sin-prone nature into the image of His Son, Christ Jesus. Brother Singh reviews this fantastic reality for our comprehension and encouragement in this lesson.
The Apostle Paul wrote, "For we know in part, and we prophesy {or preach} in part. But when that which is perfect is come, that which is in part shall be done away."
Brother Singh reflects on 44 years of ministry in Canada, from humble store-front facilities on College Street to the property our assembly calls home on Greaves Avenue. But the church is never the property, but rather the people built into God's Kingdom through His ministry. Our Pastor's gospel is one story that only he can tell. His testimony is riveting. Be sure to drink in every word.
Gospel Assembly (GTA) gathered Saturday evening, February 17, 2024, to give God thanks for the ministry of Brother and Sister Singh. They have faced many obstacles and hardships, but their steadfast faith and dedication to God's calling have successfully carried them through. The elect from various locales around the globe join the saints in Mississauga / Toronto in praising our heavenly Father for bestowing us such able parents in the Lord. May He continue to lead and sustain them in their essential work.
Language changes over time. Published in 1611, the King James Version of the Bible used Elizabethan (or Shakespearean)English, so CHARITY means something different today than it did 400 years ago. Modern translations use "love," most essentially, God's unconditional Love. The second word we need to clarify is "tongues." Tongues refers to the term languages. Remember that definition, for it is vital to understanding tonight's lesson.
Our Pastor advocates researching the practices accepted into the church to determine their origin. Many pagan practices and unprofitable traditions have crept into worship over the centuries that are not of God. Dancing and speaking "gibberish tongues" are two common examples of Pentecostalism. These are acts of iniquity. It takes a diligent ministry to examine our practices and to guard an assembly against sliding into iniquitous habits, lest in the end, we find: "Surely our fathers have inherited lies, vanity, and things wherein there is no profit." (Jeremiah 16:19).
The world offers abundant choices when it comes to Christian denominations. So, a seeker may wonder, "Does it matter what church you belong to?" In this illuminating lesson, Brother Singh demystifies the choices available to God's elect, not according to the logic and traditions of men but according to scriptures contained in the Bible.
Jesus told his disciples, "These people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth and honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. But in vain, they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men" (Matthew 15:8-9).
None of Jesus' followers expected to have their souls whisked off to heaven at death. Instead, they fully understood and anticipated the return of Jesus to establish his kingdom. They asked until the day he was taken up to heaven, Lord, would thou restore the kingdom to Israel again? (Acts 1:6).
He answered: "It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power {or authority}. But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost comes upon you..."
Imagine serving God your whole life only to hear the Lord say in judgment, "I never knew you; depart from me, ye worker of iniquity!" That will be the fate of millions of Christians who did not serve the Father in spirit and truth. Jesus said, "Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom." The little flock is the "few" spoken of by Jesus in Matthew 7:14. They are also known as the remnant (Isaiah 1:9).
In this awe-inspiring lesson, Brother Sam skillfully takes us from merely practicing religion to qualifying for the resurrection of life. Life is the spiritual goal sought by every elect person of God.
The Bible teaches that "They that trust in their wealth and boast themselves in the multitude of their riches; none of them can by any means redeem his brother, nor give God a ransom for him: (Psalm 49:6-7). In short, no one can buy themself salvation.
The Book of Job presents an epitaph of human life: "Man that is born of a woman is of few days, and full of trouble. He cometh forth like a flower and is cut down: he fleeth also as a shadow and continueth not" (Job 14:1-2)
Much of what the Apostle Paul preached in his day was more relevant in dealing with the evils existing amidst the churches he started than that which existed in the days of the Prophets. What was written in the past is the foundation upon which we stand, but metaphorically, the foundation cannot cover us from the elements. Present truth forms the walls and roof of Christ's 21st-century church to protect us from today's storms of idolatry and iniquity. Modern Christians face evils that no other time in history faced.
Most people are "disciples of themselves," presuming they can follow God at their convenience in a manner they determine as appropriate. Rebelliousness is not a 21st-century problem but has deep historical roots. Through His prophet, God said, "Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth: for the LORD hath spoken, I have nourished and brought up children, and they have rebelled against me."
Encouraging the saints, Brother Sam stresses the difference Jesus makes in a convert's life. Church attendance does not qualify us to be a Christian. We require a personal relationship with God's own Son. A profound difference occurs when we experience Jesus personally: Our thought patterns are refreshed, and our standards of behavior conform to the Father's law.
Brother Singh delivered this timely exhortation to the saints in Mississauga and those abroad prior his departure for a week to undergo a medical procedure. Please join us in holding him up in prayer for the next few days.
There are many reasons to attend church, but the primary reason is to learn to serve God correctly. This profound message needs to be heard its entirety two or three times to grasp its depth and breadth.
Expounding on Ephesians 1, Brother John encourages saints to be neither fearful nor discouraged in these perilous last days. Instead, let us rejoice that in God the Father, we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace that He lavished on us. With all wisdom and insight, He has revealed the mystery of his will to His good pleasure as outlined in Christ. According to His plan for the fullness of time, He will gather up all things in him, in heaven and on earth.
A false impression exists that serving God is easy—that we experience a perpetual mountaintop experience of joy. That is not so! Christians are emotional beings, subject to the full range of human feelings. Anger, fear, sadness, and jealousy enter our lives as much as peace, joy, and hope. Thus, understanding how our emotions affect our Christian experience is essential. With understanding, we can develop the tools necessary to "do all things without murmurings and disputings. That is, "we may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, living amid a crooked and perverse nation, among whom we are to shine as lights in the world." (Philippians 2:14-15).
This weekend marks the 44th anniversary of Brother and Sister Singh's ministry in Canada.
It is beyond the capacity of this writer to do justice to Brother Singh's gospel. To learn how God led him from his initial conversion at age 12 to where he is today, followers must listen to this message. Every man God calls to His ministry has a personal gospel to share. Whether it was Abram called out of Ur of the Chaldeans, Moses called out of the court of Pharoah, Paul called out of Phariseeism, or Brother Singh called out of Guyana—each journey is unique and just as compelling.
"God is in control of every situation. Nothing comes against us that He does not see."
The lyrics of an uplifting hymn read, "Count your blessings, name them one by one, and you will discover what the Lord has done." The trials and tribulations of life can be very discouraging until we realize that adverse circumstances test the genuineness of our faith (which is more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire). Faith that endures results in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ (1 Peter 1:7).
The church's primary purpose is to facilitate change in the life of a believer. Countless organizations profess to represent the Lord Jesus, calling themselves churches. Yet, ultimately, only one church will be recognized by God, that is, one teaching the will of our heavenly Father.
Jesus said, "Not everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
Following the disruption of the pandemic, Gospel Assembly Mississauga finds it necessary to reorganize ourselves to a considerable extent. A fundamental improvement would be returning to our level of operation before March 2020. This brief article gives us a contemporary overview of how God expects his elect to conduct their lives inside and outside the church.
Every church needs a staff, but faithful attendance is critical to adequate staffing. We cannot serve God at our convenience and call ourselves dedicated.
Praise and worship, testimonies, and exhortations from Brother Vid and Brother John highlight our first Saturday night service of 2024. Though we live in troubled times, our hearts are encouraged, buoying our resolve to endure. "We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body." (2 Corinthians 4:8-10)
Imagine that you are suffering from angina, but your cardiologist does not want to offend you, so he tells you that your symptoms are caused by indigestion. Instead of getting stent surgery and medication, you are prescribed antiacid tablets.
Christians face a similar dilemma each time they hear a watered-down, politically correct gospel. People tend to view sin as unavoidable and hypocrisy as situational ethics.
Brother gratefully acknowledges his indebtedness to our Lord for leading him to the proper assembly, under the right ministry, to hear the correct interpretation of the word of God. Stressing light to illuminate us in a dark and sinister world, Brother Moses understands that only God can raise anointed ministers to deliver the present truth. All else is deception.
As we close out the final hours in 2023 and usher in 2024, "light and darkness" weigh on Brother Singh's mind. God has led this ministry through problematic trials over the past three years. But "we know that ALL things {good or bad} work together for good to them that love God, to them who are 'the called' according to His purpose. Moreover, we know that the trying of our faith worketh patience. And if we let patience or perseverance complete its perfect work, we mature to perfection, wanting nothing.
As 2023 draws to a close, Brother Sam expresses his gratitude to God for guiding and directing his life from conception to this day. "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things." (Philippians 4;8)
What differentiates God's called ministry from manufactured preachers—those processed—through certification mills? Paul explained. "For they {uncalled preachers & their enthusiastic followers} being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their "own righteousness" have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes." (Romans 10:3-4).
Brother Rolly Cain blessed our assembly with his rendition of LEAVING ON MY MIND by singing "in the Spirit, with the understanding thereof."
While the world celebrates Christmas, it is not a Christian celebration! December 25 was chosen as the date to celebrate the birth of Jesus to offset pagan celebrations offered to the pagan sun god.
While the world raced to and fro frantically completing last-minute preparations for a pagan celebration called Christmas, we entered God's house with grateful hearts and the peaceful anticipation of a soon-coming King. This recording offers a refreshing hour of worship, testimonies, and encouragement to the saints of God on a dark, wet December evening.
We live in a world where countless people think they have God's Holy Spirit but, tragically, may not. To illustrate, Brother Singh recounts being fooled by artificial flowers that looked so real he touched the peddles only to discover they were "GENUINE FAKES." Similarly, many of us pretend to be what we are not spiritually.
Hypocrisy plagues every believer to some degree. We are seeking to overcome our fallen, sin-prone nature. The danger we face, however, is self-deception.
Brother Singh's goal is to present the Lord with a measured temple—a church without spot or wrinkle—that operates according to the principles of God (Revelation 11:1). Yet, the traditions of our spiritual forefathers cannot achieve such a goal. Because truth is progressive, only the implementation of "the present truth" will save the elect in these last days.
In the material world, yesterday's weapons are inadequate to fight today's wars. Similarly, myths and fairytales do not support faith. There is a reality about serving God that we must comprehend.
For our annual holiday fellowship dinner, the young people at Gospel Assembly Church, Mississauga, presented a program of music, poetry, and thanksgiving to our Lord and soon-coming King, Christ Jesus.
We should never underestimate the importance of a God-called ministry—to bring people to spiritual maturity. Their calling is to nurture souls to become more like Jesus. The purpose of discipleship is to die to our fallen nature to develop the characteristics of Jesus.
"Perfecting of the saints" means developing our maturity to base our decisions on God's requirements, not our emotions or fickleness. The work of a minister is to deliver the word of God to change our lives effectively.
While most claim that Jesus is returning soon to establish the kingdom, few people live as if they believe it. And that disconnect between what we profess and how we live speaks volumes about our faith.
Jesus said, "For as in the days that were before the flood {people} were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, and knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be" (Matthew 24:37-38).
If we genuinely believed that Jesus was returning suddenly, should we not be preparing ourselves accordingly? In many regards, we are as the Antediluvians were: They saw Noah's preparation for the flood but were indifferent. They ignored the evidence, as many believers today likewise do. Our pastor stresses that it is one thing to create a religious IMPRESSION but another to have God work deeply in us to CHANGE our lives! We can sit in church and listen to great messages about the return of Jesus yet disbelieve the reality.
Commenting on the chorus, "MORE OF YOU," he reminds us that we sing more than a lovely song and express a prayer from our hearts. Under this ministry, God provides us with all the spiritual nutrients necessary to overcome our fallen nature and the world. Although we live in turbulent times as the end of the age approaches, we ought not to be fearful but confident enough in our faith to envision the glory that awaits us as Stephen did.
December signals the commencement of one of the most difficult challenges Christians face as the world entices us with the celebration of Christmas. It is an utterly pagan festival wrapped in the pretext of celebrating the birth of Jesus. Family and community expectations solicit our commitment to participation. The sights, sounds, smells, and gift-giving are hard to resist. This lesson deals with separating ourselves from the world. Little could the Apostle John have realized what we would face in our era when he wrote, "Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him." (1 John 2:15).
One of the projects Brother Singh has vowed to accomplish is reorganizing the ushering staff. Since the COVID lockdown, our congregation has slipped into lackadaisical patterns that do not speak well of the body of Christ. He stresses, "We do not work mechanically," meaning knowing what to do is vital, but performing the role with the right spirit is equally important. Ushers and usherettes must be alert to the needs of the people. Ushering is an honor. Ushering staff assist the ministry by ensuring the minute details of a service are attended well before a service starts.
Brother Sam's stellar encouragement challenges saints to anchor their thoughts in the lessons of the church to ride out the storms of life safely. Our minds are the main entry point for the enemy's distractions. While sanctification is progressive, so too is the deterioration of our faith. Deuteronomy 29:18 warns God's people against allowing their hearts to be distracted from the Lord our God to go after other gods of the heathens and the ungodly. He ties this passage to Romans 1:24-25. We can drift so far that we become God-haters, so He abandons us warped thinking, for we change the truth of God into a lie, worshipping the creature more than the Creator.
The title for tonight's lesson is an allegory for an overcomer's life. "Dead fish float downstream. Live salmon swim against the current, overcoming all obstacles en route to their destination." God expects His elect to swim upstream!
Building upon our previous lesson, "PAUL & THE SAINTS IN ROME," Brother Singh shows that we are "inexcusable, O man, whoever we are who judge, for in whatever you judge another we condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things" (Romans 2:1).
Brother Singh, preaching from our satellite assembly in Rochester, New York, explained, "Tragically, Paul's epistle to the saints in Rome did not save them."
The introduction to this letter gives the modern reader substantial insight into the early church. "Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God" (Romans 1:1). Apostles can only be CALLED by God the Father and APPOINTED by Jesus himself. Reality rules out anyone calling himself an apostle.
There is irony in the term 'closed canon' as it relates to the Bible. The implication is that God said all we ever needed to hear and thus no longer speaks to humankind, allowing people to cling to stagnant ideologies and traditions. Conversely, Brother Singh entered the sanctuary with a blank mind. Within half an hour of our starting time, the Holy Spirit led him into the line of thought that this post would try to reflect accurately.
The Apostle Peter wrote these magnificent words; "According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness..."
We admit that we live in bad times, yet our attitudes do not reflect the urgency we should be feeling. There is no expectation of peace or economic stability ahead. The Bible speaks of wars, rumors of wars, and nations rising against nations. It speaks of famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. Men's hearts will fail them for fear and dread of the things to come on the earth, yet we seem content in our complacency.
When COVID restrictions closed the churches, it affected us. Some took the opportunity to stop attending church altogether, yet for a few, it drew them closer to God.
Our Pastor saw a greater purpose for the suffering of those recounted in Hebrews 11. They all had a goal set before them, that is, like Moses, "choosing instead to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin, esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures of the world, for they looked to the reward." (Hebrews 11:25-26). Yet beyond the reward, these saints were being CLEANSED!
"NO PERSON WILL SIT ON A THRONE TO RULE AND REIGN WITH CHRIST IF THEY HAVE NOT SUFFERED."
This poignant lesson helps us understand why the children of God suffer. "If we are children, we are also heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ; if we suffer with him, we may also be glorified together." But, sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory which shall be revealed in us" (Romans 8:17-18). "Wherefore we are receiving a kingdom {a promise from God} which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God ACCEPTABLY with REVERANCE and godly FEAR. For our God is a consuming fire." (Hebrews 12:28-29).
COVID-19 shook the Body of Christ. (Hebrews 12:26-27). We are grateful that God protected our Pastor and Sister Chan during the pandemic. We need a strong leader to guide us into God's coming Kingdom. God was also merciful to our congregation. No one died, but our testing has not ended.
Brother Sam urges the saints not to forget God's law (Proverbs 3:1) by focusing on implementing our lessons in love. Love for God is reflected in service to the brethren. Building on Wednesday's lesson, "Addicted to Serve," he used the example of the household of Stephanas, the first converts in Achaia. They so devoted themselves to the service of the saints that history recorded them as having "addicted themselves to the ministry." (1 Corinthians 16:15)
We need to ask God for guidance for today. Our strength and confidence cannot be in the history of God's people. The issues the elect faces today are more challenging than ever. "We cannot fight today's wars with yesterday's weapons." The evil existing today is more subtle and malicious than it has been over the past four millennia.
The focus of this message is to help us assess our standing before God. We have backslidden from where we once were.
Our commitment to God has deteriorated over time, for we have lost the concept of serving one another. The possibility of apostasy lies within every assembly and every movement. Gospel Assembly is not immune from losing out on God. The seat of Satan existed in the heart of the Body of Christ at Pergamus. Never presume it cannot exist in our midst, also!
From his heart, Brother Jason has grown to appreciate the soberness of Brother Singh. The observations of a man of God ought never to be taken lightly. Deceptive spirits abound and can easily mislead us if we are not in tune with God's anointed ministry as the Holy Spirit leads it. He stresses that we cannot attain the mind of Christ without the Spirit of God. "We know the state of this world and where it is headed. Our lack of God {contrasts sharply with} our dire need for God."
Watering Wednesday's lesson, THE MIND OF CHRIST, Brother John assurances us that the 144,000 overcomers who stand with the Lamb on Mount Zion have the Father's name written in their foreheads because of a faithful ministry that initially led them here on earth. Jesus did nothing of his own authority but spoke only just as the Father taught him.
Paul wrote, "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 2:5). It takes a lifetime of discipleship to develop the mind or nature of Jesus. Precious few qualify as an overcomer, yet that is the goal Father God calls His elect to strive towards.
The 144,000 overcomers the Apostle John envisioned in Revelation 14 stood on Mount Zion {heaven}, with the Lamb, "having the Father's name written in their foreheads."
God intended for the Bible to be written in code. Likewise, Jesus taught in parables because the meaning can be grasped only by those minds opened by God.
Ignore any interpretations of scriptures coming from Bible colleges and seminaries. Jesus stated, "In vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men." Human intellect cannot comprehend end-times prophecy.
We must learn to respect {to fear} God when we gather in His house. Our nature is such that we would offer more respect for the Prime Minister than we do our Lord. Culture tries to change our vocabulary to meet their distorted agendas, but our speech before God remains the same. "Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created" (Revelation 4:11).
Wednesday's message, IDENTIFYING THE SINS OF BABYLON, was crucial to Brother Sam. "I went over the lesson a few times. When I am revising or going over some of these lessons, I want to make sure I get everything." He finds every part essential for our spiritual growth and development.
"I wonder why God gave us that lesson on Wednesday. I am sure individuals have gone over their notes and the scriptures and have questions. It was so timely, especially when dealing with today's situations—to understand part of the scriptures and prophesies being fulfilled.
Chastisement comes in many forms to the elect, not the least of which are health problems. Many of God's children suffer ailments in their bodies. Brother Singh admonishes us to consider Revelation 18:3, where the Apostle John "heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues." The "HER" is Babylon. But it is impossible to come out of something we do not comprehend.
If ever the devil desired to undermine a church, it is ours! That is the reason a spirit of democracy cannot be allowed to prevail. We did not hire Brother Singh, so we cannot fire him. God sent him to this assembly to minister to the elect. Training for life in the kingdom must start in the church. Yet, God will illuminate only those with eyes to see and ears to hear (Matthew 13:16). The elect of God requires a revelation to accept the gospel of the kingdom.
Brothers Vid and John combine to encourage the saints in Mississauga and those following online. Brother Vid stated the chorus 'LORD PURIFY MY HEART' expresses the totality of his walk with God. "Cleanse and wash the very inwards parts — Never let a single hinder me from anything." Sung as a prayer, it expresses the totality of our transformation from our old fallen nature to new creatures in Christ.
Brother Singh noted that Brother John spoke with an apostle's tranquility and quiet confidence.
We live in extremely trying times. The tensions in the Middle East could suddenly erupt into a global war.
War is horrific. Suffering and death are ugly. But what is telling about this particular crisis is how people are divided pro-Israeli and pro-Palestinian. Contrary to popular sentiment, Brother Singh is PRO-HUMANITY. Israel is a nation set apart unto God but living in rebellion and iniquity. We cannot equate secular Israel with the righteousness to which God called them.
Regular followers know that on October 1st, God gave Brother Singh a message concerning Israel a week before Hamas attacked it. Preaching about Israel after an event is one thing, but it is quite another to receive a warning in advance. Yet, repeatedly, God has given this ministry prophetic messages to prepare us. Sadly, we have often tended to ignore the man of God.
Hamas started the war, and Israel intends to finish it. Who is right? Who is wrong?
Brother Sam encourages saints unsettled by the times in which we live. Indeed, we live in "perilous times," as described in (2 Timothy 3:1). But, the Apostle Paul also stated: " If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things have become new" (2 Corinthians 5:17, KJV )
So, how can we know that we are in Christ? Baptism in the Holy Ghost produces a marked change between our carnal, unsaved lives and what we are now. Baptism in the Spirit and genuine conversion are dependent upon one another. There ought not to be a variance in our priorities, whether in church, work, school, or community.
The Day of Pentecost was a remarkable event in God's interaction with humanity. Astonishingly, Luke's account of what happened in the Book of Acts is our only record of the church's launch. Peter's message was unambiguous. Everyone understood it. "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. Save yourselves from this untoward generation. Then they gladly received his word and were baptized, and the same day, there were added unto them about three thousand souls. And they continued STEADFASTLY in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, breaking bread and in prayers." (Acts 2:38-42)
Today's message is vital, for we witness the fulfillment of prophecy while assessing our personal and collective walk with God. We pause this weekend to thank God for his many blessings. Yet, we also understand that He is a God of judgment. Israel is a pivotal nation in the plan of God, but Jesus "came to his own and his own received him not" (John 11:1). On October 1, Brother Singh prophesied, "The dome of protection that safeguards Israel {from incoming missiles and aircraft} will fail. This weekend, we witnessed an all-out Palestinian attack on Israel that foiled their defense system.
Canadian Thanksgiving weekend is about 45 earlier than in America. We are mindful that while we celebrate the blessings of God, Israel is in an all-out war with Hamas. We pray that God will deliver His elect from this brutal conflict.
Tonight, we were encouraged by uplifting messages from visiting pastors from our fellowship: Brother Brinkley, Brother Antoine, and Brother Moses.
Brother Singh stresses that the Jews could not anticipate they would reject Jesus because he did not come according to their 'traditional expectations.' That grave error of the Jews contains a lesson for God's elect in the 21st Century. Let us not presume we have a handle on God—that we have all the answers—for arrogance can be our downfall.
From childhood, God conditioned Brother Singh's mind for ministry. He was never gullible or brainwashed. Instead, he was compelled from the outset to seek the truth and to question mindless traditions. Nobody fished him into this fellowship. God led him to follow his teacher's ways in Christ, those of Brother Lloyd L. Goodwin.
Loneliness, rejection, and feeling despised are the norm for called men of God. As did our Lord himself, all the prophets and apostles suffered rejection and persecution, for "He came unto his own, and his own received him not" (John 1:11).
Following Wednesday's excellent message, entitled "FAITHFULNESS," Brother Singh encourages us to look beyond this life's struggles, setbacks, and disappointments. "If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable" (1 Corinthians 15:19).
On Wednesday, we studied the seven spirits of God. The Apostle John opened the Book of Revelation with a salutation: "From him which is, and which was, and which is to come; and from the seven Spirits which are before his throne." (Revelation 1:4).
Faithfulness is the central theme of this message. Yet, faithfulness is a characteristic that needs development. Brother Singh emphasizes that everything we do should comply with divine principles—everything from personal hygiene habits to punctuality—are essential building blocks to faithfulness, for we serve a mighty King. Undisciplined individuals cannot become overcomers, though we aspire to be a prince in God's kingdom.
The calling of God on a minister's life defies human logic. Our heavenly Father does not want His servants contaminated by apostate doctrines or vain philosophy.
Suppose God calls a man educated in a particular religious tradition (as was the Apostle Paul). God must 'undo' that education and training before He can use him to minister to His elect. Hence, after his initial conversion, Paul spent about fourteen years working as a tent maker, being deprogrammed from Pharisee traditions before starting his ministry.
Brothers Joe & John combine to encourage the saints regarding change. Watering Wednesday's lesson, THE ELECT LADY, they contrast two Biblical examples of God's elect changing from what they were to what God desires them to be: Hannah and Nebuchadnezzar. The church is our school room, where "heirs (differ nothing from servants), though lords of all, train under tutors and governors until the time appointed of their Father." (Galatians 4:1-2).
Profound change occurs when God motivates it. Peer pressure and imposed rules may cause us to conform, but it is only an outward modification. Permanent change happens when God convicts our spirits to yield to His will. Brother Singh's arrival in America vividly illustrates this reality. The Holy Spirit nudged him to change his appearance to blend with a Christian standard. Indeed, God instigated his whole transformation from denominational Christianity to the Body of Christ, not the coercion of men. Authentic Christianity is realized beyond the sanctuary after we leave the church door.
Our Assembly welcomed back these faithful men of God to encourage us. Continuing with yesterday's theme of affliction, Britger Richard showed us that affliction is the mirror in which we see our true selves before the Lord. God's love is so great he will not allow His elect to be undisciplined. King David's insight becomes our own: "Before I was afflicted I went astray: but now have I kept thy word. Thou art good, and doest good; teach me thy statutes." (Ps. 119:67-68)
Brother Githinjii stated, "Nobody likes affliction, but the pressure of trials causes us to submit to the Father's will. God's will is that the elect, "Seek first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; then all that we need shall be added unto you."
God blessed our Mississauga Assembly with two remarkable men of God who share their testimonies with us. Brother GITHINJII pastors the church in Ellington, Connecticut. Brother Nairn RICHARD pastors Elmont, NY Assembly. A central theme of their addresses was Psalm 34:19: "Many hardships and perplexing circumstances confront the righteous, but the LORD rescues {delivers} him from them all" (AMP).
We live in perilous times. Our faith is tested as never before, but "Whosoever heareth these sayings {teachings and instructions} of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock." The storms of life will batter us, but our house shall stand because we have built our foundation on the Rock of Christ's truth and Spirit.
It was a joy to have Brother Singh back in the Mississauga Assembly after his whirlwind trip to visit churches in Roselle, New Jersey, Westbury, and Elmont, New York. Despite medical advice against travel, the man of God felt it was necessary to visit these churches to "fortify their faith." We thank God he returned to us not only healthy but invigorated spiritually.
While speaking to the saints in Brother Richard's Assembly, Brother Singh explained his ministry was more prophetic than pastoral. By prophetic, he does not mean visions of the future, but instead, he exposes hypocrisy and weaknesses to help lead saints to light. Occasionally, his statements seem to contradict his fellow ministers. Probably, some are offended, but he has never had to apologize for anything the Lord led him to say from the pulpit. Ministers will not immediately accept some of his concepts, but he is confident that God will enlighten those men to see as he does in time.
Brother Singh did not expect to be in New York because he was under a medical doctor's orders to refrain from travel and strenuous activity. But the work of God must continue, and Brother Singh trusts God for the strength and endurance to fulfill his calling.
The Apostle Paul wrote two churches he did not start, Rome and Colosse. Despite the enthusiasm of a handful of saints living in Rome, saints cannot create a church! If God wants his church planted in a particular city, He will send His ministry to establish it. So Paul wrote to the saints in Rome, "I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be ESTABKUSGED" (Romans 1:11).
Addressing the ministers and the saints in Brother Mondesir Maruis' Assembly, Roselle, New Jersey, Brother Singh stated: "The purpose of the church is to reveal how fallen our nature is and how great the need is for our change." We attend church in futility if we are not changing from our carnal nature, worldliness, and those behaviors contrary to God's plan.
Paul was willing to suffer as Jesus had, even the basic comforts of life. No sacrifice was too excessive to be made, for his desire was to know Jesus and "the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;f by ANYmeans I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead" (Philippians 3:10-11). "Any means" has grave consequences. It could mean losing your family, a job, a thorn in the flesh, cancer, or imprisonment. Never quote "by any means" flippantly, for the means God may use to save could be similar to how he finalized Stephen's life. Hence, Paul proclaimed, "I do not FRUSTRATE the grace of God: for if righteousnesscomesby the law, then Christ died in vain" (Galatians 2:21).
God has shown us mercy none of us deserved. He desires that we develop maturity to show mercy to those we meet. If God were to judge us for the evils we have done, we would all have been dead long ago.
Most of us overlook the twofold reason for the first coming of Jesus: "Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father" (Galatians 1:4-5).
Sister Azeeman Kempadoo, from Tampa, Fla., blessed our Assembly with her testimony. She and her late husband, Phillip, are long-time friends of Pastor Singh. Sister Azeeman spoke with the spirit of a changed person. Her heart bursts with a mixture of sorrow and joy, considering the process God has taken her through in recent years. Her attitude reflects the many lessons Brother Singh has taught on our personal need for change, allowing God to remold our lives on the Potter's wheel.
God poured out his abundant grace on us by not destroying us. But we are only profitable when our lives reflect that mercy and grace to others. We would have been irretrievably lost had God shown prejudice against us for anything we did or said. God's grace extends far beyond our human frailties, even those sins we committed secretly. It is the unmerited favor of God. "Lord forgive me this day, my trespasses, {with the same grace} as I forgive those who trespassed against me."
No one cares more deeply for the Body of Christ than Br. John Mowatt. He received a revelation when he first heard the gospel of the Kingdom over 45 years ago. Gathering together a handful of others who had a love for God, he organized the beginning of the assembly we have today. For the past 43 years, Brother John has labored to support Brother Singh's ministry and stands ready to defend the present truth.
Religious movements developed by human reason devise principles and ordinances with a façade of religiosity. In the Gospel of Luke, we discover a very revealing scripture: "And the scribes and Pharisees watched Jesus, whether he would heal on the sabbath day; that they might find an accusation against him" (Luke 6:7). In every assembly, there lingers an element eager to pounce on the servant of God for the slightest perceived "slip up!" Luke emphasizes, "And they were filled withmadness, and communed one with another what they might do to Jesus" (Verse 11).
Brother Singh welcomed Brother Jean Falaise, Pastor of the Montreal Assembly, and his delegation to Mississauga. The interpreter you hearin the audio version of this message is Brother Ron Cherry. The MontrealAssembly is comprised chiefly of Haitian immigrants to Canada and is a vibrant community of elect saints of God. Brother Singh recounted the great respect and love that Brother Falaise and the Montreal assembly showed him during his two visits.
It is one thing to say, "Brother Singh, I believe in what you do." It is quite another thing for a person to follow our Pastor's ways, which be in Christ. Brother Falaise is such a man!
We live at the end of the age. Therefore, we can no longer afford to perform the mechanics of religion. Instead, we need to milk each service, taking full advantage of everything God provides. "Seek ye the LORD while He may be found; call upon Him while He is near (Isaiah 55:6). We all have problems too big to be handled alone. For that reason, God gave us the church. "The priest's lips should keep knowledge, and they should seek the law {counsel, and wisdom} at his mouth: for he is the messenger of the LORD of hosts. (Malachi 2:7)
John the Apostle wrote elegantly: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in thebeginning with God. He made all things, and without him was not anything made that was made." (John 1:1-3) Jesus is described as the Word. So, Jesus is with God the Father, and Jesus is God. In this statement, we can distinguish two individuals described: God the Father and God the Son. The begotten is never the same individual as the begetter.
We are blessed by her music in every service, but many followers may not know she is Brother & Sister's daughter. She loves the work of God and has devoted her life to her dad's ministry. This is Nadine's Testimony
Current health issues limit Brother Singh's ability to travel to fellowship meetings. But an added burden is that his presence upsets people. As he gets older, he gets bolder. He speaks plainly: "If you have something in your church that is pagan, I will say so from the pulpit." God called our Pastor to a prophetic ministry, and that is to tell the truth. "Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness...!" (Isaiah 5:20).
Reviewing recent lessons on the history of the Bible, Brother John reminded us that Scripture records how God called a ministry to represent Him throughout the ages. That pattern has remained the same right up to the 21st Century. Being called God's people through Christ Jesus is a privilege, but our responsibility is far from over. "If my people, which are called by my name, shall HUMBLE themselves, and PRAY, and SEEK my face, and TURN from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." We are in the Body of Christ to be changed according to Almighty God's plan as revealed by His called ministry.
The world is being bombarded with judgment from God. Yet, most people are indifferent. In ancient Israel, when God judged the nation, the people repented. They did not ignore the hand of God in the land. We can engage in all the mechanics of religion, but if we lack the Holy Spirit's leadership, we deny God's power! Paul warned against associating with elements that have a form of godliness “from such turn away.”
Some of us live the theory of our religion, while others live their religion. Brother Thomas Dacca concisely reiterated a principle necessary for our salvation. We need to hear the word of God spoken through His anointed ministry. As an elect, Brother Dacca understands that the only way to qualify for entry into the Kingdom of God is to follow our Pastor, Desmond R. Singh.
He emphasizes that many people listen, but few people hear. Many people sit in church to be educated, but few people allow their lives to be changed by the word of God.
We live in perilous times—the last of the last days. To face the uncertainty of life with confidence, our hope must rest in the word of God. However, let us be confident that we are following the word of God and not scripture. The Bible scriptures record what God inspired old men to record. But to be effective in our lives in this time, Jesus called the “Beginning of Sorrows,” we must embrace the “present truth.” Brother Sam is grateful that Pastor Singh is a called man, anointed by the Holy Spirit to interpret God’s word for today—to lead us—because “many false pr ophets have risen, and shall deceive many. And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many is waxing cold.”
God’s judgment is plunging the world into chaos. Apocalyptic images of fire and smoke from towns on Maui, Hawaii, are terrifying, as people jumped into the ocean to escape the flames. Brother Singh reminds us that life is fragile, “Humanity is like a flower that blooms today and is gone tomorrow.” As we age, we grow acutely aware that our days are numbered.
“Man, that is born of a woman is of few days and full of trouble. He cometh forth like a flower and is cut down: he fleeth also as a shadow and continues not.” (Job 14:1-2)
Discipleship is a central theme of Brother Singh’s gospel because Jesus demanded it from his followers. There are four categories of disciples: Disciples of the Lord, the devil, the beastly system, and of oneself. Discipleship demands self-denial and obedience to God in every situation, even if it demands our death. Such demands are challenging for 21st Century saints because they are antithetical to North American culture, emphasizing the fulfillment of “oneself.”
Last Wednesday’s lesson on faithfulness showed us how the work of God spreads throughout the world. It is essential to understand Biblical patterns and our local history. The Body of Christ does not thrive by accident. God inspires faithful men whose priorities align with the Lord’s will. Without Brother John Mowatt’s faithfulness, Gospel Assembly Church in Mississauga, Canada, would not exist. His love for God and his response to the truth, some 48 years ago, motivated him to establish a fledging church in Toronto. What a remarkable testimony! Jesus said, “The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field.” When it was determined that the field would produce wheat, Brother Singh was sent to pastor the assembly.
Faithful men are a rarity in life. This service remembers Brother Martin Ndiforwah, a young minister who died on August 2, 2019. His faithfulness won Brother Singh’s heart and abiding respect. Listen to the entire audio message to learn about this faithful man of God.
The Apostle Paul wrote to the saints in Corinth, stating, “…though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye, not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus, I have begotten you through the gospel. Wherefore, I beseech you, be ye followers of me.”
Whether it is a message delivered in our local assembly or judgment happening on the earth, a child of God must recognize what God is doing. Failure to recognize God’s voice is an untenable situation for the elect. COVID-19 shook God’s work severely. Some people left the Body of Christ. Hopefully, those who remain are more firmly planted. “Shaking” involves judgment that ultimately helps the local assembly and the fellowship, removing “those things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain.” (Hebrews 12:27).
Our Senior Elder exhorts the saints to covet a genuine experience with the Holy Ghost. “That we put off concerning the former conversation {lifestyle} the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; and be renewed in the spirit of our mind; that we put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.” Our assembly is fed rich “meat in due season.” Still, the question is, are we taking full advantage of what God is offering? Know ye not that the unrighteous shall NOT inherit the kingdom of God? Let us not be deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of us: but we are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.” (1 Cor. 6:9-11).
This lesson connects with last Wednesday: “SCRIPTURE FOR US.” While we are a part of the church that started at Pentecost almost 2000 years ago, we differ significantly from that body of believers. The church launched by the Apostles had the power and authority we lack today. And as we have previously learned, the early church did not have a Bible. The Old Testament scrolls were held in the temple, and the New Testament, as we know it, would only be written for years to come. The New Testament was a result of the New Testament church.
It will surprise some people that the Bible was not written for us. For example, the Apostle Paul never anticipated that his letters to Timothy would be included in a book we refer to as scripture. His letters to Timothy were for Timothy. His letters to the Corinthians were written to that assembly—Romans was meant for the saints in Rome— Colossians was directed to the saints at Colossae. The Old Testament was for Israel, not the church.
While we liberally apply the scriptures to our modern Christian lives, using literal interpretations to make hard and fast rules can be a mistake.
The Body of Christ has always suffered from a scarcity of faithful men. Brother Singh desires that every elect child of God could experience a pure heart free of all evil desires and intentions. But we know “The heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked” (Jeremiah 17:9). Only God can know what is hidden in our hearts. While we sing choruses with good intentions, it takes a lifetime of the sanctification process to cleanse us—despite the emotionalism whipped up by evangelists.
A church without a strong leader is like a rudderless ship—adrift on a stormy sea. Brother Jason Mowat testifies about Brother Singh’s vision and how that has guided his life to give him strength & stability. His testimony encouraged Brother Singh’s hope for the future. We need the next generation of men to step up to carry this work forward into the future, provided God has called them. Brother Jason reminded us that our Pastor’s gospel is his life story–not a matter of blowing his trumpet—for he lives what he preaches.
A church without a strong leader is like a rudderless ship—adrift on a stormy sea. Brother Jason Mowat testifies about Brother Singh’s vision and how that has guided his life to give him strength & stability. Brother Sam then reinforces his testimony. Similarly, he has learned to follow in our Pastor’s footsteps. Watering Wednesday’s lesson: “Talents Unused,” our senior elder stressed that any talents we are entrusted with are hot ours but belong to God. If we do not invest our time and talent to support the vision of our Pastor, our heavenly Father will hold us accountable when we stand before Him in judgment.
This remarkable lesson questions our claim of being saved if we serve God only at our convenience. The apostle James wrote, “Faith by itself if it does not result in works {that is effort, action, or participation in the church}, is dead. But someone will say, “You have faith, and I have works.” Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my works. You believe that God is one. Good for you! Even the demons believe that—and they shudder.” But their fear does not save them. We are deceiving ourselves by claiming we believe in God, for we have faith (yet are devoid of effort).
Brother Singh stresses that we must be realistic in our faith, for we cannot escape trials and tribulations. ‘The Jesus Attitude’ (July 5, 2023) taught us to trust God and meet life’s storms head-on. God will give us the strength to endure (to the end), but our responsibility is never to turn back.
Today, we live in perilous times because our political leadership has lost its moral compass. We cannot be influenced by someone just because they are in a position of authority. {We must be responsible citizens while being diligent not to violate the laws of God.} If we ‘seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness” then, all that we need will be added to us.
Our Pastor concludes tonight’s service by quoting the Apostle Paul’s instructions to Timothy: “The things {teachings} that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the ‘SAME’ commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also” (2 Timothy 2:2). Watering a message requires that we first repeatedly study what was said by the man of God; commit the lesson to memory—incorporate it into our heart so we can live it—then share it with other faithful men who will do likewise. Maintaining strict discipleship ensures the continuity of truth essential to the Body of Christ. The Holy Spirit speaks through one person in an assembly, God’s anointed pastor. Therefore, we must be fastidious not to change the message or add our slant. Violating the principle leads to error and apostasy.
Have you ever wondered why God described Job as a man who was "perfect and upright" when clearly he was not? Brother Singh explains that God exists in eternity, without distinction between past, present, or future. Hence God views His elect children as finished products, despite the flaws we struggle to overcome daily. Job lived an ideal Christian life long before the term Christian was coined. His reputation was that of a blessed man, and those who witnessed his attitude commended him because he delivered the poor that cried, the fatherless, and those with no one to help. Dying men blessed him, and he caused the widow's heart to sing with joy. (See Job 29: 11-13) Yet, God needed to perfect his faith, to make Job an overcomer.
There is far more fantasy believed in religion than there is reality. But, before we condemn the beliefs of others, are we sure that we practice what we preach? Do we let our light shine before men so they may see our good works and glorify our Father in heaven? Or do we hide our light under a bushel when co-workers, friends, and family are near?
We are reminded in 2 Timothy 3:12, “All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution, (while evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.) Brother Sam’s heart aches for the young people who have left the church over the past three years, perhaps seduced by the world, they are aimlessly adrift without God. He identifies with our Pastor’s agony over concern for the saints in these troubled days. We know that pestilence and severe trials shake the earth and heaven. Yet there is a purpose: “Yet once more, signifies the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain” (Hebrews 12:27).
Our focus must be developing Christ in our lives. Human nature is such that we demand glory without the cost of discipleship! Yet, God demands self-denial and taking up our cross to follow Jesus. These concepts are diametrically opposed to our carnal nature. There are no shortcuts, even though iniquitous methods pretend to offer them. Our Lord had to learn obedience before gaining glory. So, as we “seek for glory, honor, and immortality,” our example must be Jesus, “the author and finisher of our faith, who, for the joy that was set before him, endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:2)
PRIDE Weekend is celebrated in Toronto, as this article is being written. But Pride festivities do not concern the church. There are matters the city, province, and nation accommodate that have nothing to do with us. Our responsibility is to live godly, pay taxes, and be good citizens. Contrary to what some may presume, Brother Singh was not called to preach to the ungodly nation but to the elect of God in this city. So, whenever an anointed minister stands to utter the word of God, he is bound to make some people glad, some sad, and some mad. The word of God often offends saints, for it condemns our sin and hypocrisy.
The Apostle Paul emphasized the qualifications of a bishop/elder in his epistle to Titus. “An elder must be blameless, faithful to his wife, a man whose children believe and are not open to the charge of being wild and disobedient. As God’s steward, an overseer must be above reproach—not self-absorbed, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not greedy for money. Rather, he must be hospitable, loving what is good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it” (Titus 1:6–9). In nearly 50 years of faithful service, no elder has performed his duty more faithfully than Brother John.
The love of God is unfathomable. The Apostle Paul wrote, that since we are justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through Jesus, we have obtained access to this grace {the unmerited favor of God} in which we stand, and we rejoice in our hope of sharing the glory of God. Beyond that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope and hope does not disappoint us because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, which has been given to us. Brother Singh stresses that when we were not worth loving, God loved us!
Brother Singh gratefully acknowledges his earthly dad, spiritual father, Pastor Lloyd L. Goodwin, and heavenly Father. Some would call Him Jehovah, but Jesus called Him ‘our Father who art in heaven.’ Because Jesus healed a man on the Sabbath, the Jews sought to persecute and slay him, but Jesus answered them, ‘My Father worketh hitherto, and I work.” Jesus did nothing that God the Father had not authorized or instructed him to do.
The Prophet Amos wrote, “Behold, the days come, saith the Lord GOD, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the LORD” (Amos 8:11). Brother Sam sees these words indeed can apply to our nation in 2023. Preaching abounds—but the anointed word of God is a scarcity.
Yet we are without excuse in Gospel Assembly (GTA). Brother Singh is that faithful and wise servant our Lord has put in charge of this household {our assembly} to give us meat in due season! We are fed the messages necessary to save us from these evil days. The question is, “Do we digest our food, or leave it untouched on the plate?
God’s purpose in giving us ‘understanding’ is not to have it remain in our heads or intellect. The purpose of understanding is to enable us to live Godly lives guided by His law. Scripture tells us that Enoch walked with God, meaning he lived in a manner pleasing to God.
Jesus said, “Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt has lost his savor, wherewith shall it be salted?” Then he said, “Ye are the light of the world.” (Matthew 5:13-14). We cannot be the salt of the earth if our salt remains in the shaker. Effective evangelism does not start with a street crusade; it begins in our homes and with our neighbors. Moses commanded the Israelites to teach their children to observe His principles. “That thou might fear the LORD thy God, to keep all his statutes and his commandments, ...” (Deuteronomy 6:1-2)
The church world, Including Gospel Assembly, is in deep slumber. We immerse ourselves in following sports stars, movie actors, and pagan celebrations instead of living for God. Yet, we attend conventions and hype ourselves to believe that “God moved mightily in the meeting.” But, if God is truly in a meeting, people get saved—the sick get healed—people are delivered from demonic influences. When God is in a church service, the band members lay down their instruments to worship Him.
Brother Singh stresses our need to grasp “being ready.” Am I ready if my Lord comes tonight?
The wise virgins took both their lamps and extra oil. The bridegroom’s long delay necessitated the refilling of the lamps. While the bridegroom tarried, they ‘all’ slumbered and slept. Brother Singh asks how negligent one would be to have extra oil available yet not use it. The only diligent person was the watchman. At midnight, he sounded the alarm, ‘Behold, the bridegroom comes! Go out to meet him.’”
God cannot use ministers who have not been processed. Reading Hebrews 11 acquaints us with the sacrifices necessary to faithfully serve God. It took the Apostle Paul approximately 35 years of hardship and suffering before he could finally write: “I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:"
Brother Singh stresses that sin is the cause of God’s judgment. Controlling or managing the environment is impossible because God permits nature to rebel against humanity’s sin. Fires, earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes, and tornadoes are not in man’s control. God holds His people accountable for their conduct in the land within which they reside. When entering the Promised Land, “the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, ‘Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, I am the LORD your God. After the doings of the land of Egypt, wherein ye dwelt, shall ye not do, and after the doings of the land of Canaan, whither I bring you, shall ye not do neither shall ye walk in their ordinances. Ye shall do my judgments, and keep mine ordinances, to walk therein: I am the LORD your God.” (Leviticus 18:1-4).
Mississauga Gospel Assembly was blessed to have Brother Peter Abreo visit us from his assembly in Vasai, India. Previously he visited us in 2017, following participation in the Des Moines Iowa convention led by Bother Glen Goodwin, as he did on this occasion. Two and a half years ago, Brother Abreo lost his beloved wife and helpmeet Vijaya to cancer. The pain of his loss is still evident when speaking to friends in the Body of Christ.
Brother Singh’s empathy is profound: “You do not know the troubles Brother Abreo has endured. Some Christians believe that accepting Jesus frees them from all their problems.” But reality dictates something much different. “Every man called by God to the ministry will experience the negative hand of God working in their life, for without trials and tribulations, a minister cannot be perfected.”
21st Century idolatry is vastly different from that Israel often pursued. For instance, they literally worshipped a golden calf (Exodus 32) and Baal, a Canaanite god (I Kings 12). Idolatry today is exceptionally subtle. We may not bow down to graven images, but we defy the Lord our God by placing other gods before Him. These “gods” are so enmeshed in our modern lives that we don’t consider them objects of our worship. They range from our employment to our homes, from education to our children. Brother Singh stresses, “Anything that takes our commitment from serving God fully is idolatry.” Spiritual idols are seldom evil. Instead, they are valid interests given the wrong priority. We justify our haphazard service to God because of our job or family commitments. Or perhaps we rationalize missing services because of the hectic pace of modern life. God sees all our distractions as idols we choose to serve before Him.
Encouraging the saints in our assembly, Brother Sam stresses that he no longer wants to play church. He has tasted the power of God in his life. Thus, he intends to be led by the Holy Spirit, making every life decision by “casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.” Religious traditions and our own thoughts can be a trap for the enemy to exploit. Reiterating Wednesday night’s theme, “Praying Prayers vs. Saying Prayers,” our elder emphasizes talking to God like a child talks to their earthly dad. Jesus said, “Men ought always to pray and not to faint.” Our prayer language should emphasize simplicity, focusing on specific needs and intercessions coupled with faith to produce results.
Brother Singh cannot over-emphasize our need for prayer. It is lacking in our personal lives, assembly, and fellowship. The church today is powerless as a result.
The role of a called man of God is to preach a gospel concerning LIFE and DEATH. Brother Singh’s message is meant to save people from eternal death. And if he were to die tonight, there are well over 450 audio messages available in our Spotify library, on Google, and from numerous podcast providers to save people. All a person needs to do is search “My Gospel @ Desmond R Singh” in their browser to access these God-inspired messages.
It is alarming how many saints are unpreparedfor death. Any misunderstandings about death come from the evil one, not from God.
God used his servant, Desmond Singh, to deliver a critical message to our assembly today. The Body of Christ desperately needs the power of God—a genuine outpouring of the Holy Ghost. In our assemblies today, we see fakery compared to the power of God that fell at Pentecost. When the Spirit ofGod moves, it does not need human motivation. The early church fasted and prayed for ten days, “And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a mighty rushing wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting” (Acts 2:2). “And {they} began to speak with other tongues, {other languages, not nonsensical gibberish} as the Spirit gave them utterance.” Fakery invites “false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. We ought to be surprised, “for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.” (2 Corinthians 11:13-14)
Brother Vid and Brother Sam combine to encourage the saints despite the negativity and evil present in our world. Watering Wednesday’s lesson, “To Live the Word,” the elders emphasize putting the lessons we are taught into practice by doing, not just hearing them. As elect believers, we must confirm God’s calling by ensuring that our lifestyle reflects our sincerity. Incorporation of the lessons actively develops the virtues necessary to guard against stumbling in our spiritual wa;l and helps set an example that leads others away from sin. In this way, the Apostle Peter assured us that the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, will be abundantly provided to us.
If we regard the Bible as God’s lifestyle manual, we quickly realize scripture is intended to be lived, not simply preached as some idyllic principle to guide us.
It would be tragic for a person to sit in our assembly for years yet never learn to incorporate the lessons we are taught. Principles govern every aspect of human existence. Walking benefits our health— if done properly — it might be the only aerobic exercise people need. Similarly, King David wrote:“Thy word have I hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against thee (Psalm 119:11). The value of living the scriptures, not just memorizing them, is only understood when we fully grasp that “the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”
Mother’s Day is celebrated annually on the second Sunday of May. One brother criticized Brother Singh’s Facebook post in honor of mothers,mistakenly calling it a pagan observance. Brother Singh patiently corrected him, pointing out that the Body of Christ engages in many pagan observances (perhaps out of ignorance), but Mother’s Day is not one. The Haitian Brother’s critique opened the door for the Lord to give us a profound lesson on motherhood, parenting, pagan practices in the church, and a practical lesson on developing godly character.
We live in a perverted and confused world. The safety of Christ’s Church lies within the church and the foundation laid in the people’s hearts.
Watering Wednesday’s lesson, “Importance of Doctrine,” Brother Sam reflected upon Brother Singh’s return to Guyana with the gospel of the Kingdom. Jesus said, “This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come” (Matthew 24:14). The gospel of the Kingdom is unique in that it is only taught in the Body of Christ and not denomination Christianity. Brother Sam stressed that preaching this message met fierce resistance, not from the ungodly or the pagan religions but from mainstream Christianity. To comprehend such opposition, we need to understand Matthew 13:11: “Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them, it is not given.”
Jesus was particular about who received his gospel when he was on earth. When the disciples asked Jesus why he taught in parables, he said, “Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them, {the Pharisees & religious elite} it is not given”(Matthew 13:11). “Therefore, I speak to them in parables: because seeing they see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand.” (V.13) So, a nation called by God, and steeped in religion found themselves blind and deaf to God’s will. To launch Christ’s church on earth, Jesus bypassed the traditional Jewish religious sects with their learned doctors of the law to choose twelve unsophisticated disciples. Had you been among that group, you would have been branded an “unlearned and ignorant” cult follower.
Some people are probably offended by the term “my gospel.” The phrase irritates them because it does not meet the criteria of a traditional denominational format.
When Brother Singh speaks of his gospel, it is more than the good news published by Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John. He speaks about the process God designed for him, from his conversion at twelve years old until his ministry today—the entirety of his life experience (both positive and negative) is summed up in “his gospel.” It entails a calling and rejection to separate him from dependence upon family and friends. God builds leaders to minister to His elect. Every man God calls has his personal gospel, whether it was Moses, Isaiah, Peter, or the Apostle Paul. They speak only what God places in their hearts, whether people like it or not. No psychology is used to serve “meat in due season.”
Brother John heard the gospel of the Kingdom preached for the first time by Brother Goodwin in 1972, fifty-one years ago. The message has not stagnated. God’s work Is progressive and becomes more binding on the elect as evil advances. Under Brother Singh’s message, we receive “meat in due season,” appropriate for saints in each generation. And this message is not confined to our local area, but through modern technology, it now reaches God’s elect in distant locations in many countries. Sadly, some have walked away from the truth, but that is how it has always been for God’s people. Yet deception abounds as we enter the last days. Those who remain are more steadfast in their faith and commitment.
Brother John initially heard the gospel of the Kingdom preached by Brother Goodwin in 1972, fifty-one years ago. The message is not stagnant, for the word of God progresses to address the needs of His people in each generation. He stressed that God now uses Brother Singh’s voice to speak "present truth" to the elect in our vicinity and around the world as the return of Jesus draws closer each day. We live in dangerous times, and many fall away. However, we must not be disheartened. Through the ages, "a cloud of witnesses" –– fellow elect from previous generations –– also endured extreme suffering for the gospel. “These all died, having obtained a good report through faith but received not the promise” that awaits them, that is the first resurrection.
In this poignant lesson, Brother Singh addresses the reason for Christian suffering. Using Hebrews Chapter 11 (the Hebrew Hall of Faith),he helps sick, disheartened, and suffering saints understand their trials from a fresh perspective.
“By faith, Moses, when he {had} come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; Choosing rather to suffer affliction withthe people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season” (Hebrews 11:24-25). Let us not dismiss this scripture as a familiar Sunday School story,for Moses’ choice defies human nature, something each elect is called to do.
Writing to the churches of Galatia, the Apostle Paul penned: “I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you and would pervert the gospel of Christ” (Galatians 1:6-7). Brother Singh stresses that our responsibility begins when we first hear God’s word. A doctor’s advice is only as good as our willingness to follow his instructions. The same principle applies to the effectiveness of the word of God in changing our lives. How we serve God—our faithfulness—is essential if we hope to enter the Kingdom of God. Brother Singh has in common with the Apostle Paul a particularness about serving God correctly.
Reflecting on our recent lessons, in context to our period of history, we are reminded: “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call yeupon him while he is near” (Isaiah 53:6). The need to serve God that people once had has declined. Worldliness has encroached on our lives and homes somuch that faithfulness is no longer a priority for many. Moreover, the Body of Christ has become susceptible to iniquity. Pseudo-Holy Ghost experiences replace the power of God to change lives. Therefore, God has to intervene with processes that draw us back to Him. “Beloved, do not think it strangeconcerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’ssufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy” (1Peter 4:12).
Aging brings many physical discomforts. If it were not for faith, we could quickly become discouraged as the conclusion of our lives draws near. Solomon wrote: Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them” (Ecclesiastes 12:1). He called old age “the evil days.”
Tonight’s service focused on gratitude to God despite our aches and pains and the miseries often accompanying aging. And yet, death can be considered a blessing, for: “The righteous perisheth and no man layeth it to heart: and merciful men are taken away, none considering that the righteous is taken away from the evil to come” (Isaiah 57:1).
Modern Christianity tends to measure success by the numbers who hear their version of the gospel. This trend is inconsistent with scripture. Jesus was very particular about who received his gospel. His ministry was confined to those given to him by His Father. Likewise, Brother Singh’s gospel is aprecious message meant to reach the elect. We who have found life and truth in it must treasure it. “Give not that which is holy unto dogs, neither cast yeyour pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet and turn again and {tear you to pieces}” (Matthew 5:16).
Inspired by a lesson taught by Br. Desmond R. Singh, 4-23-2023,as written by Joe McCormick
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Modern Christianity tends to measure success by the numbers whohear their version of the gospel. This trend is inconsistent with scripture. Jesuswas particular about who received his gospel. His ministry was confined tothose given to him by His Father. Likewise, Brother Singh’s gospel is aprecious message meant to reach the elect. We who have found life and truth in itmust treasure it. “Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast yeyour pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet and turnagain and {tear you to pieces}” (Matthew 5:16).
This post results from an online follower requesting a sacred music recording. It is a compilation extracted from several services, and the quality of the recordings could be better. Nevertheless, the music offers heartfelt praise and honor to our heavenly Father. He measures our spirit, not our performance. We serve a majestic King who is worthy of all glory and thanksgiving. We pray this effort will be a blessing to many.
Our assembly has taken three years to return to a typical Saturday evening service after the pestilence labeled 19. The praise and worship was vibrant. Testimonies from Sister Polly, Brother Joe, and Sister Chan demonstrated the faith, hope, and endurance of taught people. Brother John delivered brief, challenging encouragement to saints from the word of God and recent lessons. We may live in perilous times, but Gospel Assembly (GTA) is prepared to endure all testing and trials in anticipation of the triumphant return of King Jesus to establish God’s Kingdom.
This compilation of sacred music is the result of requests from online followers. It has been pieced together from several services. The sound recording quality is not as perfect as we would like. A better recording is forthcoming. Please be patient.
What is important is that this music be lifted to our Heavenly Father from the heart. Our feelings and human assessment should not enter into the equation. We serve a majestic King worthy of all honor, glory, and praise. Let us enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise!
The Apostle Paul warned that the church would encounter ‘perilous times.’ He could not have envisioned it would be 2023! Compared to the enthusiasm of saints when Brother Singh first arrived in Canada 43 years ago, our love for God has severely diminished. Paul wrote: “For men shall be lovers of their own selves ... having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof…” (2 Timothy 3:1-5). The great Apostle was not referring to the geo-political chaos of the world today, moral decay in society, or the threat of nuclear war. He spoke about Christ’s church and the malaise of people who claim to serve God.
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The musical portion of our service today was devoted to songs of dedication. Worship is offered to give glory and praise to our heavenly Father. Conversely, dedication implores God to help us serve Him better by infilling us with His Spirit. As elect children, we are still in the process of being converted. We may have come far from being blatantly lost sinners, but we are by no means perfected.
Too often, we sing to please ourselves, not Almighty God. Because we are carnal, we tend to get emotionally involved in music in the sanctuary, butthose controlled by the flesh cannot please God. So, our Pastor instructed us as a dad might his children. With a tender heart, he corrected us in areaswhere we tend to fall short of God’s will.
We are living in the last of the last days, Brother Sam emphasizes. Society has dramatically changed in our lifetime, and so has the church. Deception abounds! The perilous times' Paul warned about in 2 Timothy 3 are being lived in 2023. Unless parents make the principles of God the core of family life, our children are exposed daily to modern philosophies that undermine divine authority. Watering Pastor Singh’s lesson ‘DANGERS OF A PHARISAIC SPIRIT,’ Brother Sam shows how religious traditions can blind us to truth as dispensed under the anointing of the Holy Spirit. God ordains and designs every lesson received in this assembly for a purpose: to help His elect cope with these chaotic and evil days so that they and their children might be saved. If we ignore the lessons our heavenly Father gives us, we become part of that group of whom Jesus said, “In vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.
The Scribes and Pharisees demanded to know why the disciples of Jesus broke the tradition of the elders by not washing their hands before eating.’ This simple incident reveals a lot about the religion we practice. TRADITIONS are essentially man-made rules concerning how to dress and act in church. Traditions focus on outward appearances, whereas TRUTH focuses on heart matters. To some, this may seem trivial, but to God, it is a grave issue. It caused Jesus to condemn the worship of the Jews. “Hypocrites! Isaiah did well to prophesy about you, saying: ‘These people draw near to mewith their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. In vain, they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.’”(Matthew 15:7-9) God forbid that we go blind following traditions in the Body of Christ so that God rejects our worship as vain.
The saints of Gospel Assembly church, Mississauga, were privileged to have the saints in Vasai, India join us for communion service this Easter. One of the positive aspects of modern technology is sharing the gospel worldwide via the Internet. Although the two cities have a 9.5-hour time difference, they scheduled their service to coincide with ours. Brother and Sister Singh have visited the Vasai assembly on two occasions and have been welcomed by the elect of God, eager to serve God in truth and Spirit.
Jesus celebrated the Passover meal with his disciples: “And he took bread, and gave thanks, and {broke} it, and gave unto them, saying, thisis my body which is given for you: do this in remembrance of me” (Luke 22:19). That last meal together was essential to Jesus. He was their pastor and teacher—they were his little flock. Jesus stressed, “I have desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer” (v.15).
Likewise, Brother Singh desires to be with his little flock to commemorate our Passover meal, for he has a true shepherd’s heart. In this notable lesson, our teacher takes us beyond the religious symbolism of a communion service to explain why we need to share this observance together.
Greeting the saints and ministers gathered at Brother Moses's church, (Norwalk, Connecticut) Brother Desmond Singh emphasized that we live in bad times. He said, "I find it uncomfortable to quote 2 Chronicles 7:14, "if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways…" Because ministers and saints are so full of knowledge that does not seem to register in the heart to initiate alifestyle change pleasing to God."
Encouraging the saints and ministers gathered at Brother Narain Richard's assembly, Brother Desmond Singh explained that although we enter our services carnally, WORSHIP allows us to focus solely on God. Our emphasis should be an expression like: "Thou are my strength O Lord, my heart trusteth in You!" Present your participation in the opening song as a personal offering of adoration to God—activating your faith. Unless we connect with God, we waste our time being in church. Worship prepares the soil of our hearts to receive the seed of the message under the anointing of the Holy Spirit. When the genuine Holy Spirit takes hold of us, the attitude of Jesus—becomes our attitude—including his meekness, gentleness, humility, and longsuffering for those who are not easy to love.
Ironically, God uses human tendencies to distinguish His elect from the religious crowd. The Jewish establishment rejected Jesus, the prophets, and the apostles due to prejudice. Despite our so-called sophistication today, human nature has not changed. John the Baptist received his training in the wilderness and wore a garment of camel's hair and a leather belt around his waist, and his food was locusts and wild honey. Thus, John’s education, dress, and demeanor were enough reason for all (but those whose hearts God touched) to reject his message.
For years, our fellowship allowed prejudice to determine who was a genuine Christian (in our opinions) and who was not based on adherence toa dress code and manner of speaking. Forced conformity focuses on outward appearances, but God judges the heart.
Brother Desmond Singh exposes his heart in this message, pleading with his congregation to rededicate themselves. We live in an unprecedented periodof human history. Jesus said regarding these days: “Then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no,nor ever shall be” (Matthew 24:21). The man of God addresses both the local church and those who follow his ministry online. He states: “I count it a privilege to be in church. I hope you also do.”
Watering Brother Singh’s lesson from Wednesday, Brother John Mowat gave an in-depth review of Romans Chapter One. He emphasized that Paul,a servant of Jesus Christ, was called to be an apostle, set apart for the gospel of God. Just as Jesus personally called Peter and Andrew, and the otherdisciples, so too was Paul. After establishing his authority, Paul addressed his letter to those called to belong to Jesus Christ and all God’s beloved inRome, who were called to be saints. Saints need leadership sensitive to the Spirit's leading to establish their faith in truth and correct doctrines.
It is noteworthy that Paul did not start the church in Rome. The longest of Paul’s epistles was addressed to the believers there, whom Paul hoped to visit, “that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end, ye may be established” (Romans 1:11). As we have learned from our studies of the Ephesian church, assemblies must be built on the proper foundation under the anointing of the Holy Spirit.
If God’s people are fickle, they will forsake truth for 'another' more liberal gospel, as did the churches of Galatia. Paganism was rampant in Rome and seeped into the church. Paul warned, “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness” (Romans 18:1).
All the New Testament churches founded by the Apostle Paul initially followed him faithfully. But in time, peoples’ fickleness set in, and people became attracted to “other gospels” that compromised the word of God. Writing to the churches of Galatia, he said, “Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ, who gave himself for our sins that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father” (Galatians 1:3-4). So, “Do I truly believe that Jesus gave himself for my sins so that he could deliver me from this ‘present’ evil world.”
Watering Wednesday’s lesson ‘Foundations Examined,’ Brother Sam explained that when God calls us to truth, the elect follows in faith, asdid Peter and Andrew (Matthew 4:18-19). They were the only two disciples of John who left his movement to follow Jesus. Similarly, every elected child willbe called out of religion to be part of the current move of God. Arguing doctrine with someone whose mind God has not opened to the truth is pointless. Without a revelation, we will never leave the traditions of apostate religion (Matthew 16:17).
Brother Singh welcomes questions from saints living overseas. One such question concerns the church that Jesus started; the one launched at Pentecost, and that church today. In that regard, let us understand that the purpose of the church was to prepare people for God’s coming kingdom. We must understand that none of the epistles or the words of the prophets were written for us in the 21st Century. Although we can often apply those exhortations to our modern lives, they were addressed to specific issues faced by the saints millennia ago. For instance, the church in Ephesus was started on the wrong foundation by Apollos, who taught only the baptism of John (Acts 19:1-3). Paul needed to reestablish it on the proper foundation.
Because God never errors in judgment, nothing can happen to the elect that God has not ordained. It may sometimes seem that our heavenly Father punishes his children while the ungodly prosper and enjoy life. Yet, such a perspective is nearsighted. Asaph wrote: “As for me, my feet were almost gone; my steps had well-nigh slipped, for I was envious at the foolish when I saw the prosperity of the wicked” (Psalm 73:2-3). Nevertheless, as “the called” according to His purpose, we strive for a superior future.
Brother John Mowat recounts the influence of his Godly mother, who helped shape his early childhood life. Then, watering Wednesday’s lesson, “IF BY ANY MEANS,” our most senior elder beseeched the assembly “not to receive the grace of God in vain” (2 Corinthians 6:1). We receive “meat in due season,” meaning timely messages from the throne of God, via our Pastor’s lips, words necessary to save us in these evil days. Let us not be guilty of squandering the present truth while it is available. Deception is ever-present, so we need to be rooted and grounded in the word of God so our faith is unshakable.
As we age, we become conscious of the brevity of our remaining time. That awareness should compel us to do everything humanly possible to ensure we are prepared for death. No matter what calling a person has on their life, their primary calling is to attain the resurrection of life. A mere four years before his death, the Apostle Paul said, “If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.” (Philippians 3:11) Any means meant to Paul there was no limit to what he would endure attaining his personal goal. It was not enough for the great Apostle just to be saved. His objective was to be resurrected with the Bride of Christ.
Some ministers will not endure the hardship of the apostles and prophets. Even though called by God to preach, because things were difficult, these men succumbed “to eating and drinking with the drunken.” (Mt. 24:28) They are intoxicated with the wine of the ‘Harlot’s’ fornication (Rev 17:2). This is the false church posing as Christ’s church. John’s vision saw: “upon her forehead was a name is written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.” (Rev 17:5).
Genesis records, “And it came to pass when men began to multiply on the face of the earth, and daughters were born unto them, that the sons of God saw the daughters of men that they were fair, and they took them wives of all which they chose (Genesis 6:1). The Bible is vague about the specifics of these verses. Were the sons of God the righteous line that descended from Adam? Or, where they are the sons of God as described in Job 1:6, angelic beings of some description. Beyond the information provided by scripture, we would be speculating.
The Apostle John wrote, “Beloved, believe NOT every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world” (1 John 4:1). God’s people ought not to be gullible. God must touch our eyes and ears to receive the truth (Matthew 13:16). The Pharisees, though learned in the scriptures, still rejected Jesus. The men of Berea were counted as “nobler than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind. They searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so” (Acts 17:11). Nevertheless, Paul never established a church there. History records that the Bereans eventually followed errant teachings on the Godhead. So, the study of scripture alone will not save us.
The words to the beautiful course, “YOU TOUCHED MY EYES,” are based on Matthew 13:13 & 16: Jesus said, “I speak to them {the religious elite} in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand. But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear.” Most people in religion proclaim that Jesus is Lord, yet at a superficial level. Seeing, they do not grasp the vision; hearing, they do not comprehend.
The move of God is never stagnant. It perpetually advances.
God spoke through His servant Desmond tonight. The heart of a man of God beseeched our congregation and those following him online tonight to examine ourselves, for these days are evil. Drawing from Isaiah 24 and 2 Chronicles 7:14, Pastor Singh both implored and warned us to get right with God. He reiterated that the prophets of ancient Israel spoke only when God’s people were ladened with sin and iniquity. Too many of us have one foot in the world and one in the church. We are supposed to be separate people, but we are more fascinated with fashion, politics, and sports than the word of God. A great deception is brewing, and we will be deceived unless we are firmly planted in truth.
Every child of God must hear this message. Whether we heed it or not is another matter. Nevertheless, our blood will be on our shoulders.
With the best of intentions, God’s children can sometimes get carried away. There is a “so-called” revival happening in America on the campus of a Christian University. No mature child of God in the Body of Christ should be attracted to this happening. We “henceforth {should} be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive” (Ephesians 4:13). Because people flock to a happening where emotionalism causes them to ‘jump’ does not make it a movement of God. A true revival causes people to cling to the pillars of a church structure in fear, weep in repentance, and live Godly after that. However, if your faith is built on emotionalism, it will be shaken.
Brother Sam reflected on Brother Singh’s return to Guyana after his initial visit to Des Moines, Iowa in 1975. He recalls the return of a vastly different man, a man with a revelation of the Gospel of the Kingdom in his heart. When God touches the hearts and minds of His elect, we are able to see and understand differently. A new hunger for God and truth takes hold of us. Yet, truth is a threat to traditionalism. Those whose minds were steeped in denominational apostasy treated Brother Singh in a manner like the Pharisees opposed Jesus. But those God was calling received the message gladly and embraced it, and still do today.
Contrary to what false religion teaches (that at death, the soul flies off to a better place), death means the absence of life. Because we understand “the wages of sin is death,” it is a horrible thing.
Yet to a person who is suffering, death brings welcome relief. The Apostle Paul asserted, “If in this life only we have hope in Christ, {we have reason to be} most miserable” (1 Corinthians 15:19). But as children of God, we have hope in the resurrection of the dead. Jesus is returning to this earth to resurrect the dead.
Adam and Eve existed blissfully in the Garden of Eden, under heavenly conditions, until sin entered the world. One commandment was all that was necessary to destroy the perfection they enjoyed. “But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die” (Genesis 2:17). From that single act of sin, disharmony, death, and disorder entered the world and has passed on to all humanity.
The effects of our fallen nature are felt in our environment until this day, even as we mourn the loss of Brother Phillip.
The church is a spiritual hospital. The man of God is a spiritual doctor. No matter our spiritual problem, whether we are gossipers, a liar, a thief, or a pervert—the church has a remedy for our sins—through the mercy and grace of God the Father and His Son, Christ Jesus.
Do not avoid the spiritual hospital. Run to it for deliverance and healing.
Brother and Sister Singh have labored more than half their lives leading the Mississauga Assembly. Forty-three years is longer than Moses led the Hebrew children in the wilderness. Deuteronomy means “Tell it again.” In short, tell the story of God’s miraculous deliverance of the Hebrew children from slavery in Egypt. And so, we mark anniversaries in the church to recall how God has led His people over the years, in this local assembly. A handful of saints that formed the nucleus of believers Brother John Mowat gathered in 1978 are still with us today. Their faithfulness is a testimony to our community. Their light, reflecting Jesus, shines in the darkness, and the darkness of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) will never extinguish it.
Speaking to the Hebrew believers, the author (who we believe was Paul) said he had much more to say about Jesus being their High Priest in the order of Melchizedek. Still, it was difficult to explain because they were 'spiritually dull' and didn't seem to listen. They had been believers long enough that they ought to have taught others. But instead, they needed someone to teach them again the basic things about God's word. You "become such as need milk and not of strong meat" (Hebrews 5:12). Paul was NOT talking about doctrines. He emphasized discipleship. Having all our doctrines right is meaningless if we do not apply God's word to live a holy lifestyle pleasing Him. The Scribes and Pharisees knew the letter of the law but could not recognize their Messiah!
Speaking to the Hebrew believers, the author (who we believe was Paul) said he had much more to say about Jesus being their High Priest in the order of Melchizedek. Still, it was difficult to explain because they were 'spiritually dull' and didn't seem to listen. They had been believers long enough that they ought to have taught others. But instead, they needed someone to teach them again the basic things about God's word. You "become such as need milk and not of strong meat" (Hebrews 5:12). Paul was NOT talking about doctrines. He emphasized discipleship. Having all our doctrines right is meaningless if we do not apply God's word to live a holy lifestyle pleasing Him.
God expects his elect to be strong in the face of the enemy. The Apostle Paul urged the Ephesian church, “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.” (Ephesians 6:10). The strength Paul referred to is total trust and dependence upon God. They faced fierce enemies when Israel was preparing to cross the Jordan into the Promised Land. The Lord told Joshua: “I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. Be strong and of good courage: for unto this people shalt thou divide for an inheritance the land, which I swore unto their fathers to give them” (Joshua 1:6).
Today we prepare to enter the kingdom of God. Our enemy is Satan, and his primary weapon is deception.
Watering Wednesday's lesson, "UNDERSTANDING THE WILES OF THE DEVIL," Brother Sam expounded upon Ephesians 6, reminding us that the devil motivates our flesh to war against the Spirit. (Romans 8:5). If our attitude rises to oppose the ministry, Satan instigated it. Saints who had once been saved and walked in truth found themselves foolishly beguiled by the enemy (Galatians 3:1). The Apostle Paul feared, “lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, the minds of the saints at Corinth would be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. (2 Corinthians 11:3). Focusing on Ephesians 6, our senior elder exhorted the congregation: “Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles the devious & cunning ploys employed by) the devil.” (Ephesians 6:11) His goal is to manipulate or persuade us to think, act, and rebel against God.
The devil subtly manipulates our carnal minds to lust for things we want but do not need. Thus, scripture implores us to: "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding" (Proverbs 3:5). Declaring we trust in the Lord is easy, but the reality is most of us rely more upon our "own understanding." That is, we assess situations by our feelings and perceptions more so than God's principles.
God desires that we overcome our fallen human nature that is prone to sin and wickedness. He provides a blueprint that, if followed, results in righteousness leading to eternal life. By contrast, the devil (or adversary) counterfeits God's perfect plan by offering religion that looks authentic but caters to our complacent comprehension and our appetite for self-indulgence.
All the great men of God that laid the foundation upon which Brother Singh stands today are gone. Isaiah, Paul, and Brother Lloyd L. Goodwin, to name a few, all died. Each man had a message appropriate for their day, but time passes, and evil increases subtly. For that reason, the work of God must deliver a PRESENT TRUTH necessary to meet the needs of saints today.
John the Baptist was a burning and shining light. He could not shine more light than people were ready to bear. Then the witness Jesus had was greater than that of John. Later, Jesus would give the keys of the kingdom to the disciples—to his ministry! He told them, “He that believeth on me and the works that I do..."
A correct concept of who Jesus is and God's plan for the redemption of the elect is essential to our understanding of the church. Greatly encouraged by Brothers John & Vid, the saints, are urged us to look beyond the trials and tribulations of our daily struggles to embrace God's fantastic plan. The Apostle James wrote, "My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience" (James 1:2-3). In modern English, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance." So, allow perseverance to finish its work, {even the death of a beloved spouse, or a brain tumor} so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."
Jesus was the best example of a disciple. So, the Apostle Paul urged followers to "let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus, who being in the form of God, Creator, did not think equality with God something to be grasped at, but made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross." (Philippians 2:5-8, Revised from KJV for clarity).
It is essential to know the authentic Jesus. Although denominational Christendom elevates the name of Jesus, it presents many distorted images of our Lord. Paul beautifully captured a description of the 'real' Jesus in the preceding verse. If we are to develop the mind of Christ—that is, his thought patterns, temperament, and attitude—then we must understand the genuine Jesus.
Brother Sam delivered a powerful message of encouragement to the saints in Mississauga and those who follow online. Emphasizing discipleship, he asserts that we can "let this mind be in {us}, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God" (Philippians 2:56) IF we accept the ministry as being from God and Brother Singh's teaching as the living word of God. Implementing the lessons we receive into our daily lives allows us to walk in the counsel of the Godly.
Rejection of God's anointed ministry is spiritual suicide. Jesus declared, "He that heareth you heareth me, and he that despiseth you despiseth me; and he that despiseth me despiseth him that sent me" (10:16). The NLT is clear: "Anyone who accepts your message is also accepting me. And anyone who rejects you is rejecting me. And anyone who rejects me is rejecting God, who sent me." John 13:20 adds further clarity. "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that receiveth whomsoever I SEND receiveth me, and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me."
Three stumbling blocks hindered the mentality of the Hebrew children. 1) GOLDEN CALVES, representing Egyptian idolatry. 2) BRAZEN SERPENTS representing a past move of God performed in the wilderness. 3) PHILISTINE CARTS representing apostate methods that defy the principles of God.
And if the elect of God is to be saved today from this evil world, we also need to identify and eliminate our golden calves, brazen serpents, and Philistine carts.
Brother Singh returned from his trip to Guyana with a renewed appreciation for the simplicity of the gospel. The good news of salvation can be understood and applied to ordinary lives no matter their education level or cultural achievements. So, our lesson tonight emphasized one crucial concept: Truth is progressive!
Initially, the concept may sound contrary to conventional wisdom until God opens the eyes of our understanding. So, if we are stuck with a non-progressive idea of the truth, our minds are contaminated by apostate religious thinking.
Brother & Sister Singh traveled to Guyana, South America, to dedicate Brother Murphy’s new church facility. Joining him were a host of fellow ministers from the Gospel Assembly fellowship. Nevertheless, a beautiful new building does not make a church. Instead, the church is comprised of those individuals whom God has chosen to open the eyes and ears of their understanding “because it is given unto them to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven...”
Brother & Sister Singh traveled to Guyana, South America, to dedicate Brother Murphy’s new church facility. Joining him were a host of fellow ministers from the Gospel Assembly fellowship. Nevertheless, a beautiful new building does not make a church. Instead, the church is comprised of those individuals whom God has chosen to open the eyes and ears of their understanding “because it is given unto them to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven...”
Operating our assembly with minimal staff due to COVID, Brother Singh shared incisive wisdom noted in his first Oxford Bible some 48 years ago. He was new to our fellowship then, fresh from denominational Christianity in Guyana, South America. His mentor, Brother Lloyd L Goodwin, was a profound man of God. Truth is progressive. As we grow in God, we are exposed to greater truths and more insightful applications. So, it is with those called by God to minister to His people. Join Brother Singh for this warm reminiscing. It will stir your heart.
But let us understand that Israel's journey was theirs alone. Every local assembly of God's people has its journey to endure and upon which to reflect. It Is our Deuteronomy! And each man of God has "his" gospel to preach. The Apostle Paul stated, "In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to MY gospel" (Romans 2:16). When I stand in the judgment, I will be held accountable for how I applied Brother Singh's gospel to my life. The principles of God are universal, but He sends specific instructions to deal with issues affecting each local assembly.
Brother Singh once said, "Thank God for COVID-19." It is a statement that only the elect of God would understand, for the Almighty never errors in judgment. So, there is a purpose for negatives that God allows to affect us. (See Romans 8:28.) However, it takes spiritual maturity to accept negatives as beneficial. Inevitably the church is designed to develop steadfastness in God's people. Blessed is the person who remains steadfast under trial, for when they have stood the test, they will receive the crown of life! (James 1:12)
The meticulous writings of Luke (both his gospel and the Book of Acts) have given Brother Singh a deeper insight into the working of the Holy Spirit.
Although God was merciful to us during the recent extreme weather across much of North America, it forces us to consider the seals, trumpets, and vials of the Book of Revelation.
The Apostle John saw that only the Lion of the tribe of Judah, Jesu, had triumphed to open the scroll and its seven seals." As the book's seals open, symbolic trumpet blasts warn God's people. The trumpet warnings lead to vials of judgment pouring out on the earth. Woe be us if we are ignorant o the meaning of what is happening today! Pestilence, drought, extreme storms, war, rumors of war, inflation, and societal breakdown.
No matter how we assess the pestilence labeled COVID-19, God PERMITTED IT. Judgment has common characteristics: "And it shall be, as with the people, so with the priest; as with the servant, so with his master; as with the maid, so with her mistress; as with the buyer, so with the seller; as with the lender, so with the borrower; as with the taker of usury, so with the giver of usury to him." Judgment fell equally on the beastly system and God's people. Famine looms, war rages, inflation soars, and storms rage. "The land shall be utterly emptied, and utterly spoiled: for the LORD hath spoken this word." "(Isaiah 24:2-4, / Cf: Leviticus 18:25).
Using Colossians 3, Brother John encouraged the saints in Mississauga and those online followers to set their priorities straight. Since we are raised from spiritual death with Christ, let us strive for the things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Our focus ought to be on earthy stuff at this juncture of our walk. Time is short for all of us, regardless of our age. We died to our old nature; our new life is hidden with Christ in God the Father. Therefore, our goal is the first resurrection. Then, when Jesus (the source of our life) returns, we shall also appear to meet Him in glory.
God desires that His elect children learn to live to please Him. Moreover, the church was given to us to teach us how to live for Him. And God's called ministry conveys Father God's instructions, specific to our needs for today.
The process appears simple enough, except for two factors. First is our rebellion and lingering sinful nature that undermines God's purpose. Second is the devil's subtlety in opposing God's plan by offering a counterfeit gospel. Brother Singh stresses that we need both light and darkness—exposure to good and evil—to develop the maturity necessary to live in a manner pleasing to God.
Recent lessons have focused on our commandment to "Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord" (Hebrews 12:14). Impressions from apostate religion may skew our perception of holiness. By contrast, Luke captures an accurate description of holiness that is easy to understand. Zacharias and his wife, Elisabeth, were the couple chosen by God in their old age to be the parents of John the Baptist. "And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless" (Luke 1:6).
ELDER’S EXHORTATION (12-17-22)
God demands that we be holy; for He is holy. (1 Peter 1:16). Watering Wednesday’s lesson, ‘UNDERMINING GOD'S ETERNAL PURPOSE,’ Brother Sam stressed that holiness is not an option for the elect. While we cannot achieve holiness in our power, we are expected to cooperate with God by living His principles and separating ourselves from negative worldly influences. Encouraging the saints, this senior elder shared the growth in his life as he devoted more to prayer, fasting, and study of the word.
The purpose of the church is not to entertain us spiritually. Instead, the church is to change our lives so we can live holily before God. The Apostle Paul wrote: "According as he {Father God} hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will" (Ephesians 1:4-5). Brother Singh emphasizes changing our lives. Change is conversion.
Our last lesson, "God is in Control of Every Situation," showed us that God chartered a course for the life of each of His elect children. If my problem is impatience, He will give me "tribulation that worketh patience." If your problem is idolatry, He may remove the person or thing from your life you love most. The point is that each elect is dealt with individually according to their needs.
While Biblical examples of lives like Hannah or Paul are essential for our learning, ultimately, our goal is to be like Jesus. His humility is remarkable: "though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God as a thing to be grasped" (Philippians 2:6). To comprehend the nature of the Father, we need to look no further than Jesus (John 8:19), but he is not here on earth. It is easy to follow someone to whom we are not held directly accountable.
We love to sing a chorus that echoes the title of this lesson. We sing, "Nothing comes against us that He does not see, so why should I worry when He is the ruler of creation? God Is in control, and He'll make a way!"
Joyful singing is one thing; believing the reality of the words is another. So, in this compelling message, Brother Singh reminds us that "every situation" is designed by God to expose those hidden flaws and roots of bitterness that are buried deep in our carnal nature. We might be completely unaware of its existence, but God does, and He allows negative situations to arise to deal with any remaining problems.
Brother John confidently encouraged the saints tonight, reminding them that only the elect can accept God's spoken word. The vast majority throughout the ages has rejected truth. But God maintains a remnant of believers that will never be deceived. Brother John places his trust in the messages delivered by God through Brother Singh as the words we need to hear at this hour for our eternal destiny.
We live in 'spiritual' Egypt. Pagan traditions infiltrate every aspect of our culture, yet we are called to sanctify ourselves from the ungodly traditions of the world. And by no means is it only Christmas celebrations we ought to avoid. The Apostle Paul challenged the backslidden Body of Christ at Corinth: "Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God?" (1 Corinthians 6:9). Paul's bluntness was not popular. No prophet or apostle was well received because God's word confronts our sinfulness and hypocrisy. Moreover, Jesus was killed for the same reason.
Brother Sam stressed the necessity for the saints of God to 'milk' each service to extract as much spiritual nourishment as possible from the lesson given. Reflecting on Wednesday's message, our elder cautioned against hearing or accepting the truth but living a lie. Failing to implement God's spoken word puts us in danger of the wrath of God. His righteous judgment is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men. Why? Because of our unrighteousness, we suppress the truth. (See Romans 1:8)
We are all hypocrites to some degree, for none of us can live the gospel perfectly. But, although we have not 'apprehended' that to which God called us, deeper truths compel us to make changes. Thus forgetting those errors and omissions of the past, let us press towards the mark of our high calling in Christ Jesus.
Brother Singh is honest about his past attraction to Christmas celebrations. However, 'greater' light has been given to him to change his thinking. So, the man of God has no alternative but to preach what the Holy Spirit reveals to him.
Although the New Testament church had none of the advantages 21st Century saints enjoy (the Bible in convenient formats, safe buildings to assemble in, rapid transit to attend service), "they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. Moreover, "fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles" (Acts 2:42-43).
“If we miss God in the worship, there is no point in preaching!”
By making such a factual declaration, Brother Singh stresses, “God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and truth” (John 4:24). Pentecostals praise God during worship. We do not sit idly with our hands folded to watch the service. Involvement in song, with hands raised and hearts rejoicing, connects our spirit to the Holy Spirit. Without that Spirit connection, we are like light bulbs without electricity.
Reflecting on Wednesday's lesson ANTICIPATING THE KINGDOM, Brother John reminded us that "a king {Jesus} shall reign in righteousness, and princes {the 144,000 Bride members} shall rule in judgment" because they will all possess the mind of Christ. Overcomers come out of this world, but" they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world," Jesus said. Therefore, he prayed the Father, "Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth." (John 17:17)
Isaiah prophesied a time when "A king shall reign in righteousness, and princes shall rule in judgment" (Isaiah 32:1). That time lies in our foreseeable future, but it does not exist today. These are troubling times! World leaders are inept because metaphorically, "the tail wags the dog." Prime ministers and presidents lead by carnal human thinking, fulfilling the will of the voters. Without the mind of Christ, the righteousness and justice of God do not exist.
Reflecting on the elder's exhortation Brother Sam gave on Saturday evening, 11-19-22, Brother Singh reminded us, "By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD, men depart from evil" (v.6) Mercy is not theoretical; it is an act and a response!
We need someone aggravating us to show mercy. Similarly, we need inconvenient demands from someone for help. In this manner, God forces us out of our comfort zone to serve Him. He allows negative situations to enter our lives so that we can learn to respond appropriately.
Before Br. Sam delivered stellar encouragement to the saints to "walk not in the counsel of the ungodly" in these "perilous" times, Brother Singh reminded us (based on Luke 23:32-43) of a valuable insight into the account of the thief on the cross. We do not know how the thief knew about the death, resurrection, and coming kingdom of Jesus when the disciples did not. We must never presume to judge someone's life at the point of death. That period is exclusively between the sovereign Almighty and His elect one. The hour of one's death is far more significant than their birth. Brother Singh mourns the passing of Br. Leander Ray, his friend and a fellow minister called by God.
During the worship, God's Spirit directed his thoughts to Psalm 51, and from there, our lesson emerged. After a quarter of a Century of preaching without notes, our pastor is grateful to let God lead. A lyric from our worship resonated with Brother Singh: "If this vessel you cannot use—give me a new start."
David wrote, "Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. Wash me throughly from mine iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me." (Psalm 51:1-3) David often stumbled in his walk before the Lord, but his heart was tender and penitent.
Continuing to preach the necessity of being quickened by the Holy Spirit, Brother Singh stresses God sent the prophets of Israel to deal with the rebellion and iniquity of His people. Sadly, God's people were inclined to "play religion." They observed all the feast days and ceremonial laws but substituted 'man-made traditions' for the standards of God. That deliberate deviation is called iniquity! It was a problem in the Body of Moses and also a problem in the Body of Christ. All the New Testament Churches, except for Ephesus, apostatized while the apostles were still alive. Today, Christianity is rife with iniquity—but we call it denominationalism.
Scripture speaks of two resurrections. And without a spiritual quickening will be impossible to be resurrected from the grave! We need to receive the genuine Holy Spirit to embrace the fullness of Christian life. The logical question is, can there be a counterfeit experience replicating the Holy Spirit? YES! Remember that we are engaged in spiritual warfare. The devil is the master of deception. With his vast experience in ministry, Brother Singh has encountered demonic possession masquerading as the Spirit of God, as you will discover in the audio portion of this message.
It is the spiritual resurrection that the Apostle Paul addresses in Ephesians 2:1: "And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins."
The Apostle Paul wrote that God would render to every person according to their deeds: "To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honor and immortality, eternal life: But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness—indignation and wrath" (Romans 2:6-8). Paul was eager that saints "be established in the faith."
Those whose goals are glorification in the resurrection, honor from God, immortality, and eternal life must be patient in well-doing. Our walk must be continuous, not "on again—off again" in a vacillating manner. Patient continuance in well-doing is not easy. Hence, we are reminded to "lay aside every weight and the sin which doth so easily beset us, to run with patience the race that is set before us" (Hebrews 12:1).
The Apostle Paul had one goal in focus as he neared the end of his life. "If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead" (Philippians 3:11). He did not presume to have already qualified or been perfected, but he pursued the goal and pressed on to make it because Christ Jesus has made him his own. (v. 12) Continuing to teach "Spiritual Goals," Brother Singh finds the term "any means" somewhat discomforting. God's demands on the lives of His elect are not what most modern Christians seem prepared to accept.
Elders are essential to every work of God. Just as Aaron and Hur held up the arms of Moses to defeat the Amalekite, so too, modern-day elders help implement, model, and reinforce God's spoken word to encourage the saints. Tonight, Brother John and Brother Same watered Wednesday's lesson, "Pursuing Spiritual Goals," a powerful teaching reminding us that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God.
Elders are essential to every work of God. Just as Aaron and Hur held up the arms of Moses to defeat the Amalekite, so too, modern-day elders help implement, model, and reinforce God's spoken word to encourage the saints. Tonight, Brother John and Brother Same watered Wednesday's lesson, "Pursuing Spiritual Goals," a powerful teaching reminding us that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God.
Without spiritual goals, it is impossible to serve the Lord effectively. Moses is the best biblical example of a man whose goal was clearly in focus. He "chose to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season." He rejected his lineage and privilege in the pharaoh's court because he "esteemed the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompense of the reward." (Hebrews 11:25-26). In plain English: "He thought it was better to suffer for the sake of Christ than to own the treasures of Egypt, for he was looking ahead to his great reward." (NLT)
In this poignant lesson, Brother Singh ties recent lifestyle lessons to the culmination of end-time events. Two opposing realities dominate the lives of God's elect: the mystery of the kingdom of heaven and the mystery of Babylon. Jesus said, "it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them {the non-elect} it is not given" (Matthew 13:11). Brother Singh's last post emphasized "Preparing for a Time of Trouble!" Watch any newscast; within seconds, anyone can sense the world is in grave difficulty.
Brother John Mowat stresses that we serve an Almighty God. Although billions neither know Him nor honor Him, it does not change the reality of His existence nor that He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love. We must love and serve our heavenly Father in obedience and be separate from the world's contamination. Judgment of the world has begun, and we expect to receive deliverance; let us live a lifestyle pleasing to Jesus. He gave himself for our sins to deliver us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father.
Brother Singh sees a famine for the word of God in modern Christianity. An ancient scripture is applicable for our day: "Behold, the days come, saith the Lord GOD, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the LORD" (Amos 8:11). So, today, everybody can goggle and quote scripture—yet precious few receive the word of God!
The convenience of the modern study of scripture via computers, concordances, and commentaries presents two significant problems: 1) Uncalled ministers add themselves to the work of God. 2) There is little need to seek God diligently in prayer. (Hence carnal thinking and emotionalism masquerade as leading by the Holy Spirit.)
Interestingly, the social outcasts and sinners gathered close to Jesus to hear him. The scribes and Pharisees, representing the religious elite of God’s people, remained at a distance, finding fault. It is a sad state if, once saved, God’s children feel superior to the unsaved. “For when we were yet without strength … Christ died for the ungodly” (Romans 5:6). No matter how depraved we were as sinners, regardless of our background—Hindu, Muslim, atheist— “God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
Luke 15 records that publicans {tax collectors} and sinners gathered to listen to Jesus. This, of course, caused the Pharisees and the scribes to murmur, saying, “This man receiveth sinners and eateth with them.”
We relate principles and lessons from Biblical times and apply them to our modern church experience. And yet, doing so can present a problem. We are in danger of presuming that our spiritual knowledge is superior to all other believers. Often, we criticize the Pharisees of Jesus’s day while failing to realize we may display a Pharisaical attitude ourselves! May God help us avoid a self-righteous attitude that judges others as less important to God.
Communicating with Brother Richard's congregation in Westbury, Brother Singh sought to share information necessary to better live for God. The Bible is thick because God's people were constantly in rebellion. So the prophets recorded the messages God sent via them to warn His people to return to obedience and reverence before severe judgment would reign down upon them.
Despite Israel's meticulous commitment to religious practice, God was not pleased with their efforts. Their motives for serving Him were more self-serving than devotion spawned from love. Realizing how God saw His people is helpful for our self-examination.
It is shocking to realize that the king of Kings will reject many (if not most) professing Christians for practicing Iniquity. Iniquity is probably the most misunderstood word in the Bible, yet it is vitally important. Speaking about events preceding his return, Jesus said, "Many false prophets shall rise and shall deceive many. And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold" (Matthew 24:11-12).
Previously, Brother Singh taught us that Iniquity is any religious practice NOT APPROVED by God. Our heavenly Father wills that we "enter in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leads to destruction, and MANY there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leads unto life, and FEW there be that find it" (Matthew 17:13-14). A wide gate and broad way approaches are variations of religion established according to the traditions and thinking of men.
Much of the Bible was written in response to the rebellion of God's people. The tendency of the Jews to disobey God necessitated the writings of Isaiah, Jeremiah, and other prophets. It is essential to understand that the prophets and apostles relied solely on God to know what to tell the people. Today, we ministers need the same connection with our Lord. Instead of reading a portion of Matthew or John for inspiration, we need God to inspire us to preach what His people need to hear to live for Him now.
Our Pastor loves his Bible, yet he admits that he needs much more than the scriptures. "It is the Spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, {Jesus said} they are Spirit, and they are life" (John 6:63). The Israelite children were delivered physically from Egypt, yet the spirit of Egypt remained in their hearts. By contrast, the body of Christ today continues to live in spiritual Egypt, also referred to biblically as the world. So, we examine ourselves to determine what percentage of our life is committed to Christ. Or how much of it clings to the world. We are not in church to learn religion—instead, it is to change our life!
Satan has deceived most of Christendom into believing that only the body dies—but the soul lives on. That is NOT what the Bible teaches! Martha knew her brother would rise again in the resurrection on the last day (John 11:24), but she did anticipate the miracle Jesus was about to perform. In this brief but poignant lesson, Brother Singh clarifies death and the resurrection so we, too, will not be ignorant of the hope that awaits believers.
Spiritual strongholds involve sinful habits like addictions and iniquitous traditions. Erroneous concepts about death are mighty strongholds. Only the power of God can deliver us from spiritual bondage.
Before the pandemic, we tended to make plans and hoped God could fit in. But since March 2020, some of us have learned hard lessons about sovereignty. It is God who makes plans (and those of us who have gained understanding) realize that we are the ones who must fit in. God never errors in judgment.
This lesson follows Brother Vid's testimony on what God has worked in His life (Reality of Conversion, 10-08-22). The man has gone through a trial nobody would wish to endure, but he sees himself with far more understanding of God. His testimony comes from the heart-- one we can all embrace. Brother Singh reminds us that we all must face judgment. And God's "judgment" comes in one of two forms — wrath for the ungodly—and chastisement of the child of God.
Brother Desmond R. Singh speaking at the funeral of Walt Johnson, Des Moines, Iowa, Saturday, September 1, 2022
On Saturday evenings, our elders encourage the saints. Last night, Brother Vid’s exhortation was profound yet so illuminating. When we sing choruses like YOU ARE ALL I NEED LORD, we can sing it as a declaration of our faith and dependence upon God, or we can sing a lie. We do lie to God often because there is a gap between the life we are meant to experience and our actual existence as believers. Sometimes it takes a life-altering circumstance to jar us into our total dependence upon God. Our Lord used Brother Vid to convey that only the power of God in us will give us the strength to break the yoke of sin.
Following Sister Pam Goodwin's funeral (des Moines, Iowa), Brother Singh reflected on her many admirable qualities. She was Brother Glenn Goodwin's helpmeet; an example of all a minister's wife should be. Especially commendable was her modesty, deportment, sobriety, femineity, and steadfast support of the work of God. Brother Glenn will struggle mightily without her.
No woman in the Bible better displayed those qualities than Hannah.
During his ministry, Paul wrote many epistles (or letters) to Body of Christ assemblies. We hold these writings as sacred scriptures. Yet, just as any sermon delivered under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit is God's spoken word, so are inspired letters penned by the man of God to his congregation. What follows are excerpts from a letter written by Brother Singh to the Mississauga saints on December 5th, 1996. About five months earlier, a profound man of God, Lloyd L. Goodwin, had died unexpectedly. He was Brother Singh's pastor, teacher, and mentor–as Paul was to Timothy.
God blessed Canada with four distinct seasons. As daylight hours shorten, leaves shed their many shades of green for a transition to the oranges, reds, and browns of autumn. This glorious fall color palette brings joy to souls. Brother Singh draws a parallel between the progression of nature and a well-worn Christian life! Just as nature prepares for the long winter sleep by displaying a brief spectacle of color, so too does a victorious Christian life show its best witness as it prepares for the long sleep of death. God said through His prophet: "those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt." (Daniel 12:2).
The judgment of God is falling on the earth to punish evildoers and chasten the elect. What we have witnessed since March 2020 is but a trumpet sounding—a warning—that saints need to heed. Worse judgment will soon follow. John wrote, "I beheld, and heard an angel flying through the midst of heaven, saying with a loud voice, 'Woe, woe, woe, to the inhabitants of the earth by reason of the other voices of the trumpet of the three angels, which are yet to sound!" (Revelation 8:13)
Since the garden of Eden, the devil has tirelessly counterfeited God's work on the earth.
Jesus told the Samarian woman he met at the well, "True worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth" (John 4:23-24). Moreover, Jesus told the woman, "You know not what you worship" (v. 22). If there are true worshippers, there are also false worshippers! Jesus stated, "In vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines, the commandments of men" (Matthew 15:9). Brother Singh asks, "Do we know what we worship?"
Spiritual immaturity was a concern for the Apostle Paul because, in his absence, the Corinthian church slid into apostasy. And so, it is equally a concern for Brother Singh, for every work of God is a target to be undermined by the devil. For, if someone preaches "another Jesus" than the one he proclaims, or if you receive a different spirit from the one you received in our assembly or you hear a gospel different from the one you accepted, you will readily submit to it. (See 2 Corinthians 11:4) Shepherds jealously guard their flock because our heavenly Father is a jealous God!
Brother Sam expresses his gratitude to the Lord for our assembly's countless blessings. God inhabits the praises of His people! If we fail to express our appreciation for how He intervenes in our lives, then we are not who we claim to be. "But unto {those} that fear His name, shall the Sun of righteousness arises with healing in his wings. (Malachi 4:2) Although we live in perilous times, we can have confidence in God's plan and purpose for our lives.
Both Apollos and Timothy figured prominently in the ministry of the Apostle Paul. When the Apostle Paul arrived in Ephesus (Acts 19:2-3), he found that Apollos had established the church on the wrong foundation. Although well-intentioned, it is an example of an uncalled man undermining the genuine work of God. Unfortunately, it happened in the 1st Century and continues unabated today. So, Paul rebaptized the believers in Ephesus, and they received the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 19:4-6).
Brother John's example of faithfulness for over four and half decades encourages longtime saints in our assembly to remain steadfast. Likewise, the Apostle Paul encouraged Timothy: "Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and faith unfeigned" (1 Timothy 1:5). Paul warned against pursuing myths and endless genealogies which promote speculation rather than the stewardship of God's work, anchored in faith. The goal of instructions from the ministry is to develop love from a pure heart, clear conscience, and sincere faith. Unfortunately, some stray from these ideals and turn aside to wrangle over empty talk!
The question arises: “If a child of God has a sin problem they cannot overcome, will they be forgiven?” Brother Singh asserts that if one is truly a child of God, we can overcome every sin habit! We can live free of sin in God’s strength (not our own). “In all these things, we are more than conquerors through {Christ who} loved us” (Romans 8:37). When the drives and motivations of the flesh are dealt with, the filthiness of our spirit needs cleansing. We conquer fleshly desires naturally through avoidance and denial, but spiritual contamination requires God’s help.
If ever there was a time when faithful men, called by God, were needed, it is today. Evil and sin abound. Despite the condition of the world—despite the social, economic, and political strive—there is a decline in church attendance. People find it convenient to do everything else but serve God. And yet, scripture records, “when God’s judgments are here on earth, the people in the world learn righteousness” (Isaiah 26”9). Yet, historically, the genuine work of God remains small and separate from the momentum of apostate Christianity. As a result, men of God often labor alone in obscurity.
Brother John encouraged the assembly that we are in the right place, at the right time, to receive the word of truth. God is dispensing "meat in due season" through this ministry, giving His people the instructions we need for today. The world is facing dilemmas it has never previously encountered—chaos and evil reign, except in the house of God. We can have confidence in God because of we have confidence in Brother Singh and the example he sets. So, whether we face adversity or prosperity, we can rest assured God is in control. There is peace and shelter in the midst of the storm.
The establishment of human traditions causes iniquity within the church, presenting "a form of godliness that denies the power thereof: from such turn away!" (2 Timothy 3:5). Jesus confronted the scribes and Pharisees with their hypocrisy. "Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye devour widows' houses, and for a pretense make long prayer: therefore, ye shall receive the greater damnation" (Matthew 23:14). Pretense in prayer" is the cornerstone of this lesson. Too often, we pray with ulterior motives rather than beseeching God. If I pray in such a manner as to cause someone to feel an emotional response, I am 'praying' to please myself. Such efforts do not reach the ceiling, let alone the throne of grace.
A mother's womb is a metaphor for the Body of Christ. To produce overcomers, the church must be a controlled environment, free of contamination. The building is not the church. The people constitute the church, and God places demands of discipleship on us to create the environment He expects. "She {the church} brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and to his throne." This passage describes the Bride of Christ, the 144,000 overcomers. The church must measure up to God's standards to produce the bride. The Apostle John wrote: "There was given me a reed like unto a rod: and the angel stood, saying, Rise, and measure the temple of God, and the altar, and them that worship therein" (Revelation 11:1).
Watering Br. Singh's message on "Developing Spiritual Discernment," Br. Sam emphasized that the Holy Spirit must touch both the preacher and the hearer to spark God's life into our lives. Discernment enables us to know good from evil and error from truth. It is a gift from God, not something we can achieve through human intellect. Jesus said, "If you continue in my word {my teachings}, you are truly my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." (John 8:32)
Every modern preacher claims to be anointed and to have the Spirit of God. Yet, modern Christianity is awash in apostasy. For example, consider the hundreds of denominations and sects all claiming to preach the truth despite having fundamental disagreements of doctrine! Preachers can be very sincere yet sincerely wrong!
Brother Singh contends that an uncalled preacher with a Bible is more dangerous than any terrorist with a bomb wrapped about his body! Of course, the terrorist will kill himself and a handful of people. But, on the other hand, the false prophet may destroy the souls of tens of thousands!
Today, more so than ever, the church needs "able" watchmen. Speaking prophetically, Jesus said of our time, "But as the days of {Noah} were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be" (Matthew 24:37). People went busily about life oblivious to the laws and warnings of God, just like today! They "knew not until the flood came, and took them all away, so shall the coming of the Son of man be" (v.39). The ark was a physical vessel designed to deliver those in it from the world's destruction. So in our age, Christ's church is our ark. The church is meant to save God's people from worldliness. But our boat is sinking under a spiritual flood of sin, worldliness, paganism, and false doctrine.
Today, more so than ever, the church needs "able" watchmen. Speaking prophetically, Jesus said of our time, "But as the days of {Noah} were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be" (Matthew 24:37). People went busily about life oblivious to the warnings of God! They "knew not until the flood came, and took them all away, so shall the coming of the Son of man be" (v.39) Christ's church is our ark, but our vessel is sinking under a flood of sin, worldliness, paganism, and false doctrine. Watchmen are called to the "sound of the trumpet," warning people of pending judgment. (Ezekiel 33:4)
Before Brother John exhorts the congregation, Brother Singh reveals a pastor's heart. He reminds us that we mostly say prayers instead of praying prayers. Prayer is an intimate, heartfelt dialogue with our heavenly Father. But, like our worship and service to God, we can easily fall into a dry and lifeless routine. We live near the end of the age. Troubles abound on every side. Considering the needs in our assembly and our fellowship worldwide, now is the time to approach prayer as never before. Let us pour out hearts unto our heavenly Father because our every breath is in His hands.
One of the peculiarities of the work that Jesus started was the small number of faithful followers. The most outstanding teacher who ever lived only managed to have about 120 followers by the time they gathered for Pentecost. "These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women … Peter stood up among the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about a hundred and twenty) ..." (Acts 1:15) Crowds tend to be fickle. While ministries are impressed with large numbers, God counts faithful hearts.
The purpose of worship service is to prepare our hearts to receive the preaching of the word of God. If our minds and spirits are not in tune with the worship, the most profound lesson will not penetrate our understanding. At best we will be educated but not illuminated. Intellectual comprehension will not save us, "for the letter killeth, but the Spirit giveth life" (2 Corinthians 3:6). Life is tentative, and the reality of death faces everyone. Life is too precious to be wasted on negativity. Conversion removes all traces of idolatry, quarreling, jealousy, and outbursts of anger...
Br. Vid and Br. Sam offer personal testimonies to water Br. Singh's vital message of 8-10-22 entitled "The Unconverted Heart." Conversion is a lifelong process. We face the danger of spiritual complacency developing over time. Conversion of the heart is essential to moving beyond the human tendency to worship God according to traditions handed down by our religious forefathers.
Two traditions are tough to give up: Traditional food and religion. Our roots of bitterness often spring up from within the heart when Godly authority challenges our traditions. The problem is so significant concerning our conversion that the Bible warns us to look "diligently lest any man fails of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled" (Hebrews 12:15). So, it ought not to surprise us that conflict over traditions arose between Jesus and the scribes and Pharisees.
The history of Israel, as found in the Old Testament, records God’s people as being rebellious and prone to seeking after other gods. That history helps our God-called ministry to comprehend the enormity of conversion for modern saints. We are coming out of spiritual Egypt—from backgrounds where false religion blinds people to the truth. “While men slept, {the Lord’s enemy} came and sowed tares among the wheat and went his way.” Let us be realistic! Christ’s church today does not have the power demonstrated by the New Testament church.
Brother John reviewed aspects of Wednesday night’s message “A Call to Come Out of Babylon.” His exhortation led to Br. Singh’s cautioning that the Body of Christ can become complacent like Judah, relying on the mechanics of religion rather than our heartfelt commitment to living for God. God spoke through His prophet: “Trust ye not in lying words, saying, The temple of the LORD, The temple of the LORD, The temple of the LORD, are these. For if ye throughly amend your ways and your doings; if ye throughly execute judgment between a man and his neighbor…” (Jeremiah 7:4-5).
We live in dangerous times because God’s judgment reigns down on earth. While God’s people should be protected as the Hebrew children were in the Land of Goshen from the plagues judging Egypt, the enslaved people were to live as separate people. So, the question arises: “If God judges a major city today for its sinfulness, are God’s elect so attached to that city that they will also be judged?” It is a sobering question. But, before answering, let us consider the warning issued to Israel before entering the Promised Land.
Every man "truly called" to preach the gospel has a traceable history that is inexplicable apart from the sovereignty of God. Brother Singh's account began at age twelve. Despite poverty, hardship, and immigration barriers, God led him to two residencies in America before leading him to pastor the assembly in Canada forty-two years ago. Some of the original members of that fledging congregation were present in service today. With fifty-five years of experience behind the pulpit, he can look back at a life of faithful dedication to God, despite his human frailties.
Watering the lesson from Wednesday, "Walk Worthy," Brother Sam stressed that we live in constant anxiety because we neither know nor incorporate the word of God. Instead, we feed on the nightly news filled with negativity. Succinctly summed up: "Henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, having their understanding darkened, alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their hearts." (Eph. 4:17-18). Faith and hope are the opposite of fear and dread. Feeding on the word of God strengthens us and gives us peace.
Life is not an accident meant to be pursued by randomness in the hope of good fortune. Instead, there is a purpose and meaning to every life. The purpose of the ministry, as expressed by the Apostle Paul, is to "impart unto {us} some spiritual gift, to the end, we may be established" (Romans 1:11). When we embrace the good news of God's salvation, we accept a disciplined way of life designed to please God. Jesus said, "If anyone will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me" (Luke 9:23). Our Lord never meant following him to be easy and carefree, as portrayed in the 21st Century brands of apostate Christianity. Instead, the walk (or path we follow) kills the "old man" with its hunger for "self-gratification" so a "new creature" designed in the image of Christ can emerge.
Most men tend to compromise and mellow with age. Not so, Brother Singh! Our pastor grows stronger and more determined to hold the line against the advancement of iniquity and worldliness. Sadly, the majority of preachers cannot think outside the box of denominational Christianity. Yet God's truth is never stagnant. Because of evil's constant advancement, 'present truth 'makes God's law more binding on each successive generation. Twenty-five years ago, preachers did not have to deal with Internet pornography, transgenderism, and transhumanism. So, God-called ministers rely on guidance from the Holy Spirit to meet the moral challenges of saints today.
Global weather and doomsday headlines give some preachers the license to predict the imminent return of Jesus. While we may be drawing close to that reality, we cannot ignore what Jesus said: "But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only (Matthew 24:36).
To twist scripture to fit current events is to use the word of God deceitfully. The Apostle Paul wrote, "Seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not, but have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God (2 Corinthians 4:1-2).
A preacher is supposed to be a "spiritual watchman" guarding his flock against the encroachment of sin, worldliness, and iniquity. However, if the preacher is uncalled by God, he is unqualified to perform his duty. The qualification for ministry has nothing to do with education. A person may hold several advanced degrees and still be unqualified because God did not call him! Invariably he will lead his congregation into iniquity.
Most people fail to understand the reality of "iniquity." They know that Jesus "was wounded for our transgressions {our sins}" but forget "and bruised for our iniquities." (Isaiah 53:5). So, our Lord also died to free us from the bondage of false religion.
Watering Wednesday's lesson entitled "Need for S0ber Watchmen, Brother Sam reminded us that a steeple and a cross on a building do not make it a house of God. If God has not anointed the watchman who oversees the congregation, they worship what they know not. (John 4:22). Speaking to the disciples, Jesus explained, "Every plant that my heavenly has not planted will be pulled up by its roots." Then he said, "Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch." (Matthew 15:14)
The responsibility of every called man of God is to be a watchman.
The duty of the watchman is absolute, whether physical or spiritual. Yet, God proclaimed: "For the leaders of my people— the LORD's watchmen, his shepherds— are blind and ignorant. "They are like silent watchdogs that give no warning when danger comes. They love to lie around, sleeping and dreaming. Like greedy dogs, they are never satisfied. They are ignorant shepherds, all following their own path and intent on personal gain" (Isaiah 56:10-11, NLT). Repeatedly, the watchmen of Israel became complacent in their duties. Self-interests replaced their commitment to God.
Psalm 22:3 declares that God is holy, and He inhabitest the praises of His people. Nevertheless, “God is a Spirit {being}: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.” (John 4:24). In our last lesson, we focused on the reality that “the carnal mind is enmity {or hostile} against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So, then they that are in the flesh cannot please God” (Romans 8:7-8). If we miss God in the worship service, we have missed Him for the entire service. The devil is a master counterfeiter. His subtleness can create an impression that God’s Spirit is present in our worship when He is not. Sadly, millions do not realize the difference. We must never underestimate the strength of our enemy. Far more of his ministers occupy pulpits than ministers called by God. When we read the prophets of old, they were confronting Israel’s rebellion. If the “apple of God’s eye—Israel—fell into apostasy, what makes us feel immune today?
We waste our time if we do not touch God in every service we attend! If that statement startles you, it ought not to do so. We live in "perilous days." We will never seek God with our whole hearts and minds if we cannot do it now. Jesus, the most anointed preacher ever could not change people whose hearts were unwilling to change. Jesus left Nazareth and moved his ministry to Capernaum because his people took offense to him. Hence Jesus said, "Only in his hometown and his household is a prophet without honor." Because of their unbelief, Jesus performed very few miracles there. (See Matthew 15:57-59)
Watering recent lessons, Brother John reminded us that the Bible is our lifestyle manual. It contains all the technical details of how to live a Godly life. Yet, we must serve God both in Spirit and truth. Without the Spirit of God touching the mind of His ministry, we can only gain academic knowledge from the scriptures. Not that preachers are competent in themselves to claim that anything comes unless their competence comes from God. Therefore, it is God who has raised able ministers of the New Testament; not by the letter of the law, "but of the Spirit: for the letter killeth, but the Spirit giveth life." (2 Corinthians 3:6)
Christianity describes a vertical relationship between Almighty God and lowly human beings. Yet that God/human relationship is manifested in our horizontal relationships with each other. Simply put, God expects us to share the mercy and grace we receive with those we encounter daily—even the unlovable. We are nurtured and educated to regard ourselves relatively highly. Yet, God views us realistically: “The heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked: who can know it? I the LORD search the heart, I try the reins {the mind}, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings” (Jeremiah 17:9-10). Since the heart is deceitful, let us not deceive ourselves! Our righteousness is solely dependent upon God’s redemption plan. The only difference between a godly and ungodly person is the intervention of God’s mercy and grace.
If we read the instruction manual for our motor vehicles, in the same manner some do our Bibles, many of us would put oil in the radiator and transmission fluid in the brake cylinder. Ignoring good instruction always results in catastrophic mistakes. And, because we do not read God's instruction manual, many of us are easily deceived and live in bondage with no hope of deliverance. Consequently, two enormous lies exist in Christianity: 1) salvation is free, and 2) the Christian life does not require suffering.
Watering the message on "Attributes of the Holy Spirit" (6-29-22), Brother Sam emphasized that when Jesus ascended to his Father, he did not leave us comfortless! Jesus said: "I will pray {that} the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever; even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive" (John 14:16-17). The empowerment of God's Spirit enables us to make the changes necessary to serve our heavenly Father. Nevertheless, "quickening" does not absolve us of human responsibility to serve God faithfully and walk in His ways.
The devil has successfully counterfeited everything God has done. When we sing a course like, "Jesus Fill Me with Your Spirit," demons welcome the opportunity to fulfill the experience we seek. Therefore, we must receive Godly instruction and avoid emotionalism in worship.
Brother Singh coined the term "GENUINE FAKE" to describe the hyper experience many Pentecostals believe is an encounter with the Holy Spirit. But sadly, they are mistaken. To be filled with the Holy Spirit is to be filled with the Spirit of Jesus, reflecting His nature, demeanor, and characteristics.
The Corona-pestilence continues to linger in our nations. So, if the Body of Christ continues to do the things we have always done, we will continue to receive the judgments of God, as He has always done. We cannot afford to rejoice in iniquity! Israel repeatedly made that mistake, and we are not exempt. The mere participation in worship services that God has not ordained is iniquity. And rebellion carries consequences! So, we ask ourselves: Did we learn anything over the past 28 months?
Brother John assures us that we stand on a steadfast hope despite the chaos and spiritual darkness manifested as the norm in modern society. We look forward to the return of Jesus. God is fully aware of our trials and struggles, yet at the appointed time, our Lord shall appear. Meanwhile, "there must be a people ready to meet Him." We are blessed to be led by a ministry, anointed by God, to give us "meat in due season." Brother Desmond Singh is a faithful and wise servant whom his Lord has set over his household here in Mississauga and to certain elect worldwide.
David's Psalms expressed an authentic relationship between a man and Almighty God. David was "a man after mine God's heart," we read in Acts 13:22, yet few of us understand exactly why. The answer is found in the same verse: "which shall fulfill all {My} will." And that is the ultimate goal of the elect—to fulfill God's will. In this remarkable Wednesday night lesson, Brother Singh helps us grasp that our language expresses a gradual, lifelong conversion process. From this perspective, we can better understand Jesus' encouraging words spoken to Peter, "I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren." (Luke 22:32)
Historically, "Come out of her, my people" is used as a mantra to set our fellowship apart from apostate religion. God's people are not to be "partakers of {Babylon's} sins so that we do not receive her plagues." (Revelation 18:4) Yet COVID-19 did not discriminate between the godly and the ungodly. Everyone was judged. Undoubtedly, we have misinterpreted the scripture and used it to pass judgment on other denominations. Someone will surely complain, "But our ancestors taught us that." Sometimes, we must re-evaluate concepts our ancestors taught us in a more excellent light! For many years Brother Singh was ridiculed for preaching against the "spirit of the age." Yet, the spirit of the age, "the world," and "Babylon" are one. We all carry traces of a "love for the world" in our fallen nature. Coming out of her is a continual detoxification process.
No amount of persuasion is adequate if we fail to hear the word of God with our hearts and implement it into our daily lifestyle. In many ways, the Christian life is like planting a garden. However, a bountiful yield depends upon the investment of our time, labor, and love spent on our knees. A gardener who remains on his porch admiring the plot allocated for growth will only see the infiltration of weeds and pests choking the life out of the potential of that garden. In the words of Sister Carol, we are our biggest stumbling block (as spiritual gardeners) to producing an abundant life in Christ.
Matthew 24 cautions us to be on guard and not lose focus. Jesus warned, "Take heed that no man deceives you." As the days of Noe were, so shall the coming of the Son of man be.” Life continued as normal, “until the day that Noe entered into the ark, and knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so, shall also the coming of the Son of man be." (Matt. 36-39) Spiritual blindness caused the people to "know not until the flood came." Are we not in similar circumstances today? Even though this generation (2022) is the closest in history to the return of Christ, millions of professing believers "know not." Our minds are spiritually dull from focusing on what society offers. Deceptions come in many forms: political, technological, and religious.
A lady visited our Saturday evening service intending to instruct our congregation that accepting COVID vaccinations amounts to receiving the 'mark of the beast.' She sincerely believes God called her to preach such a message. Sadly, though well-intentioned, the lady lacks spiritual stability and is "tossed to and fro, being carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men." She is the victim of 'cunning craftiness.' "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places" (Ephesians 6:12). Unfortunately, many church-going Christians are in a similar position to this unfortunate woman.
The world offers many attractive ways to spend a Saturday evening, yet a remnant of faithful saints choose to spend it worshipping their heavenly Father. Many facilities bear the label of being Christ's church. That was the situation 2000 years ago too. The Pharisees, Sadducees, and the Essenes all claimed to be the true church, but God worked in only one place. But to join the movement approved by God, one had to find where John the Baptist preached in the middle of the Jordan River. The faithful remnant always follows God's current work.
Present truth offends some, but we must not be afraid to declare it, "for God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God" (2Timothy 1:7-8). We mustn't be ashamed of 1) Jesus and 2) His anointed ministry. People were offended by the genealogy of Jesus and his lack of ''religious credentials.'' People are offended by all manner of prejudices. "{They} make a man an offender for a word and lay a snare for him that reproveth in the gate {to} turn aside the just for a thing of naught" (Isaiah 29:21). They will indict a man for his accent or name, attempting to silence a man of God before entering an assembly. People try to neutralize him with charges like "false prophet" to deprive the innocent of the present truth.
Timothy studied Paul's messages. He absorbed their essence into his thinking and incorporated them into his lifestyle. The lessons were appropriate for God's elect of that day in that culture. Unfortunately, many uncalled preachers wrongly divide the word of truth, leading people to damnation. So, Paul warned him to "shun profane and vain babblings: {errant preaching that deviated from his message} for they will increase unto more ungodliness. {For} their word {misconceptions} will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus." (2 Timothy 16-17). The term "ungodly" means unapproved by God. It is a parallel concept to "iniquity."
Thine heart was lifted up because of thy beauty, thou hast corrupted thy wisdom by reason of thy brightness ...Therefore, will I bring forth a fire from the midst of thee, it shall devour thee, and I will bring thee to ashes upon the earth in the sight of all them that behold thee.” (Ezekiel 28:17-18) Perverted ambition to attain a station higher than God intends will destroy us. Let us never allow our wisdom (doctrines) and beauty (property, musical excellence, etc.) to annihilate us! If we place novices into office in the church, they will develop the spirit of Lucifer! Moses, King David, and the Apostle Paul are examples of men God processed before He could use them. Symbolically, all the pomp and ceremony of the courts of Egypt, all the privilege and training of a Pharisee, must be removed from a called man before God can use him in ministry.
Iniquity is not found in the tavern, brothel, or pagan religion! It is found exclusively in Christ's church. Yet God's people seem oblivious to the dangers and resentful of any warnings against it. Iniquity was the cause of God sending the prophets, yet they were rejected and killed by God's people for preaching against the practice. Even today, a few prophets may exist amongst us, and how we respond to their message will reflect how the King will judge us. Speaking about final judgment, Jesus said: "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven" (Matthew 7:21)
While it is essential to be informed, let us not contaminate ourselves with negativity. King David wrote, “Blessed {spiritually prosperous} is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful” (Psalm 1:1). Yet, every news channel connects us with the very people David warned we should avoid. Distractions are so pervasive that Brother Singh states that we can barely get inspiration from God for want of searching books, commentaries, and apps to tickle peoples’ ears. A preacher that draws inspiration from any source other than God offers the counsel of the ungodly.
Watering our Wednesday lesson, Brother Sam stressed that Hannah pressed God for an answer to her problem. He reminds us that God's promises are not automatic but are granted "to them who by patient continuance in well-doing SEEK for glory and honor and immortality, eternal life." Moreover, there are qualifications required to enter the Kingdom of God. "Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? "Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God."
It takes stormy waters to build skilled sailors! God planned that Hannah would be the mother of Samuel, one of the most outstanding judges in Israel. Yet, she had to endure a process to prepare her for that honor without knowing God's will or purpose. Elkanah loved Hannah: "but the LORD had shut up her womb."(1 Samuel 1:4) Every elect child of God faces trials and tribulations. Like Israel's ordeal in the wilderness, the journey develops our faith to trust God despite the circumstances we face. For that reason, we should never try to escape from adverse events but confront them, for by overcoming obstacles, we gain strength and perseverance. Figuratively speaking, everyone needs a Peninnah!
It is a privilege to share a celebration of a 90th birthday with a faithful saint of God. She is one person who, "Let not mercy and truth forsake her, but bound them about her neck. So sister Phillips wrote them upon the table of thine heart" (Proverbs 3:3). She has set an excellent example for her family and the saints of God. Therefore, beloved brothers & sisters, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord, your labor is not in vain. (1 Corinthians 15:58)
Notice Jesus’ caution: "Take heed that no man deceives you. For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many." (Matthew 24:4-5). Let's clearly understand this statement. Jesus warned that many would come in his name preaching him as the Christ, yet they will deceive many! Religious deception is rampant. God is not the author of confusion! Brother Singh reminds us that God would not send five preachers into a community, to establish five different churches, each claiming their version of the truth. Yet there is one who benefits from chaos and deception.
Has Gospel Assembly, as a fellowship, become a 21st Century Pharisee movement? The question is blunt, but Jesus asked a similar sobering question about his return: "When the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?" (Luke 18:8) Our Lord spoke a parable (of the poor women petitioning the judge) "unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others." (v.9). We call ourselves the Body of Christ and take pride in our understanding of scripture. We believe that our doctrines are correct. Yet, there is a vast gulf between righteousness in God and self-righteousness.
A pastor's primary role is perfecting the saints: changing or converting our nature from carnality to spiritual. (Romans 8:7). It can be torturous labor, for we do not change easily! Yet if transformation were not possible, there would be no references in scripture to the term 'overcoming.' So, the God-called ministry leads us "who by patient continuance in well-doing seek for glory and honor and immortality, eternal life" (Romans 2:7). The necessity for "unity of the faith, and the knowledge of the Son of God" ought to be evident to every elect child of God. How can Christ's church call itself a body if we wrangle over an essential understanding of scripture and God's nature?
Brother Sam watered the lesson entitled Ephesians 5. "be followers of God, as dear children; walking in love." Although the instruction appears to be straightforward, it is how we follow God that matters. "Following" is not a random commitment based on feelings but instead is an understanding and commitment to discipleship. It involves enlightenment, wherein God has opened our ears and ears to receive understanding. We follow a God-called ministry in Spirit and truth. Jesus builds his church, so the gates of hell do not prevail against it.
If the Apostle Paul were to write an epistle to the saints of Mississauga today, he would tell us we need salvation from the ungodly practices of the city. He would include sports, fashion, entertainment, and many other things God's people enjoy, including pagan festivities labeled as cultural events. Like the early Christians in Rome, pagan activities and traditions contaminate us. Yet, we may not even view some as evil! God desires to save us from such corrupting influences.
We cannot presume that God is with us if we walk contrary to His lifestyle. Therefore, whenever the Israelites walked contrary to God, He sent a prophet to warn them of pending judgment. "Defile not ye yourselves in any of these things: for in all these the nations are defiled which I cast out before you: And the land is defiled: therefore I do visit the iniquity thereof upon it, and the land itself vomits out her inhabitants" (Leviticus 18:24-25)
We take many of God’s gifts—like cognitive ability—for granted until one day it is removed from us. Brother Vid shared his testimony after a personal challenge few of us will ever face. He speaks of faith, so absolute, that in his darkest days, despite the absence of abstract thinking, or complex problem-solving, he was able to trust God. God never errors in his judgment or timing. After a two-year absence, we welcome Brother Vid, one of our founding elders.
A newborn child is a bundle of uncoordinated joy! We do not expect a baby to play the violin or do calculus. Growth takes not only time but extended commitment to practice. The same applies to a babe in Christ. Changing our nature is a lifelong process of conversion, also called sanctification. We are quickened at genuine repentance to God, and His life is ignited in us. From that point onward, we must train our minds so our behavior reflects our beliefs. The Apostle Paul wrote: "You hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world..."
Humans lust for many things, from sex to power, from money to a religious fix. The Body of Christ mustn't assemble to fulfill a 'religious' lust! Remember that apostasy invaded the New Testament church while the apostles were still alive. If people would not endure instruction in righteousness back then, how much worse is today, 2000 years later? 21st Century life is ablaze with disparaging voices that seek to erase past cultural standards. A thin line separates the narrow way from the broad path: "Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, few there be that find it" (Matthew 7:14). Our heaven Father uses His called ministry to protect that thin of truth by preaching the unadulterated word of God.
Brother Sam recounts the countless blessings we have experienced as a congregation throughout the past two-plus years. While isolation has been hard for people, we have had to learn new ways of engaging in the worship of our God. Our outreach has expanded this message of the Kingdom to many people worldwide. While God has used this period to invite us into a deeper relationship with Him, our challenge is to develop the mind of Christ, meaning his nature. We need to learn to think as Jesus does according to the principles of God the Father.
Last Sunday, our pastor received a touch from the Holy Spirit while recounting the story of Billy Graham's experience in the home of John Wellesley in England. This touch initiated a deeper form of conversion in Brother Singh's life. Conversion, as we know, is both progressive and lifelong, as evidenced by Luke 22:32. It took the Apostle Paul some 32 years from the time of his encounter with Jesus on the Damascus Road until he could declare, "I am noW ready to be offered up" (2 Timothy 4:6-8).
Many of us live as spiritual underachievers. But if we learn to pray, we develop confidence in God while surrendering self-confidence. The Apostle James wrote: "The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much" (James 5:16). Most certainly, the opposite is also true. The ineffectual prayer of a righteous person avails nothing! So, we may be living right yet be ineffective witnesses because we are disconnected from the source of our power, God!
Elders play a vital role in God's ministry. While the Lord speaks to an assembly through His anointed ministers, the elders reinforce the messages delivered from the minister's lips. Thus, elders must be faithful men of good character, capable of conveying the primary teachings in practical terms to the saints. Their ability is referred to as "watering the message" -- the faithful reproduction of the core message concisely and accurately in their own words. Brother Sam & Brother John are reliable stewards of God's work in Mississauga, encouraging us to hold fast as the end of the age approaches.
The burden of a pastor for his little flock is enormous in these most trying times. Evil penetrates our homes via technology; materialism and immorality abound. Deception is rampant. And no more incredible illusion exists than self-deception! It is almost impossible to draw a person out of their iniquity if steeped in religious tradition. For instance, consider our use of the term "being out of Babylon." We deceive ourselves if we think Babylon symbolizes only apostate religion. Instead, the word is synonymous with the "spirit of the age." It is an all-encompassing ungodly influence that touches every aspect of our lives.
The Jews then murmured at Jesus because he said, "I am the bread which came down from heaven" (John 6:40-41). Murmuring indicates not only a lack of understanding but lack of faith. In this lesson, Brother Desmond Singh briefly recounts the numerous ways in which God leads our little assembly. Illumination takes time—so while we may not always comprehend the vision of the man of God — we mustn't murmur against it. Our pastor urges us to be patient and wait for things to unfold. God makes ways for His people that are impossible for men! Murmuring led the Jews to reject Jesus, and it can lead us to despise the man of God. We live in dangerous times. We need God's continual direction and guidance like the Hebrew children in the wilderness.
Marking our Passover weekend, Brother Sam broaches the subject of atonement for sin. The concept of a single sacrifice offered to atone for the world's sins was foreign to the Jews. Traditionally under the Old Testament law, an unblemished bird or animal bird had to be sacrificed to cover the sins of an individual. However, under the New Covenant: "But Christ being come a high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us." (Hebrews 9:11-12) Yet, the onus still rests with the individual. "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (1 John 1:9). The critical aspect of our atonement for sin (salvation) lies in an individual relationship between the redeemed (you and me) and our redeemer, Christ Jesus.
Every seven-year-old knows Jesus died to atone for our sins. Yet that is only half of the equation. “{He} gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father” (Galatians 1:4). The Biblical meaning of the term world is “age.” So, the greater purpose was —Jesus gave himself for our sins to rescue us from the present evil age! Those with eyes to see and ears to hear will immediately grasp the implication of 1 John 2:15. “Love not the world." Our heavenly Father intends that there be a clear distinction between the values of the world and our relationship with Him.
How should a child of God face tragedy? It is a vital question for today as judgment falls throughout the world. There are many lessons to be learned from the life of Job. He was "perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed evil." (Job 1:1) His public testimony was blameless, but God sees us differently than we do. He weighs the heart. "Every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth {prunes} it, that it may bring forth more fruit," Jesus said. (John 15:2) So, in God's eyes, Job had far greater potential than was evident to human understanding.
When God speaks to us through a form of chastisement— listen to God—not to some source that cannot offer eternal value.
Let us individually and collectively mark Spring 2022 as the most important of our lives. We live in troubling times; the world is in chaos. As judgment falls, this ministry urges, "Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove yourselves." (2Cor. 13:5) Brothers Sam and John combine to encourage us to come out of our lethargy to renew our commitment to Jesus, our Savior, Lord, & soon coming, King. Let no one ignorantly say that God does not communicate through His anointed ministry. We hear from God continuously, but for the most part, we ignore His admonition.
How we perceive the man of God reflects our attitude toward Jesus and our heavenly Father. For preaching to work effectively in our lives, we must receive it as God's word, not as the word of men (1 Thessalonians 2:13). If we cannot accept that God speaks to us through His anointed ministry, we will never change our lifestyles to please our heavenly Father. The Apostle Paul stated, "Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye, not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?" (2 Corinthians 13:5)
The Body of Moses was led out of slavery from Egypt to be a separate nation under God, yet "with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness" (1Corinthians 10:5). Similarly, we live not under the law today but under a new covenant. We claim to be the Body of Christ, yet, the question remains for each saint, "Is my life pleasing to God?"Brother Desmond Singh stated, "I want to jar your attention to the importance of not only understanding of things of God, but the necessity of walking in His path! We ought to make a new dedication to living closer to God each year." As we approach Easter weekend, we need to examine ourselves in preparation for commemorating the Lord's supper.
Brother Sam stresses that church attendance is vain (without reward) if we do not get saved. People can attend church for forty years or more yet never develop a personal relationship with Jesus. Salvation is that first initial conversion experience that opens our lives to an ongoing sanctification process. That is when the church becomes truly valuable to us. In the church, we learn to walk in humbly and in love. The lessons we are taught from the pulpit need to be implemented in our lives to develop the nature of Jesus. Gradually, we surrender our old carnal nature to be led by the Spirit.
This compelling lesson should motivate every elect child of God to ask, "Am I growing in God or clinging to traditions because it is all I have ever known?" Am I partaking 'of the bread of life' or existing on dry meat from generations long passed? The Bread of Life is the word of God as dispensed by Christ's anointed ministry today. "It is quick and powerful and sharper than any two-edged sword," designed to cut sin and hypocrisy from our lives so that we will be "raised up at the last day."
In this follow-up lesson to "I KNOW THY WORKS" (3-26-22. Brother Singh stresses, "We cannot defeat the devil carnally because he works on our carnal mind. We can only defeat him spiritually. In the Book of Hebrews, we read, "Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us." (Hebrews 12:1) What we call sacrifice today is embarrassing compared to what they willingly surrendered! Jesus will "give every man according to his work." (Revelation 22:12). So, we must be willing to lay aside every weight {unnecessary activity} and carnal desire for sin which so easily yield ourselves.
Our Lord said to the Apostle John, “Behold, I come quickly {suddenly}; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.” (Revelation 22:12) Teaching in his gentle but persistent manner, Brother Desmond stated, “We are not saved by good works, but rather saved unto good works.” He explains, when we are sincerely dedicated to the work of God, the works we do in the church develop our spiritual stability. Conversely, works performed with a carnal mindset (other than what God has purposed), will not save us. (See Matthew 7:22-23)
Although the stay of Paul and Silas was brief in Thessalonica, God planted a seed in the hearts of the saints. Later, Paul wrote to them: "For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it NOT as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe." (1 Thessalonians 2:13)
As the protocols for COVID-19 appear to be ending, after two years of intense restrictions, we ask ourselves what we have learned? What God intended as a judgment on the world is also chastisement for His people. So, let us examine ourselves and our commitment to our heavenly Father. Can we say we are a more separate people (2 Corinthians 6:17) than before the pandemic? Has our devotion to and dependence upon God deepened? The words of the Apostle Paul should now echo in our ears: "Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God." (Romans 12:2)
The Body of Christ is powerless today because we lack charity. "Though I speak with the tongues of men and angels and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass or a tinkling cymbal." (1Cor. 13:1). In this strong presentation, Brother Sam asserts that we know we are powerless, yet instead of 'tarrying' and seeking after God for the baptism of the Holy Spirit, too often, modern saints fake gifts of the Spirit. Speaking in unknown tongues is a fleshly activity that invites demonic intrusion. Only when we become humble before God can He use us. "So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God." (Romans 8:8)
The purpose of gathering as a church is not to get educated or experience a "spiritual fix." Instead, our goal is to grow in God, learning how to live in a manner that adequately gives Him due praise, honor, and glory. "God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in Spirit and in truth" (John 4:24). We are to worship Him with understanding, not in ignorance! "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord" (Colossians 3:16). King David wrote, "I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth… I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears." (Psalm 34:1 & 4) There is power and deliverance in praise!
The expression "jump the gun!" emanates from false starts in track & field events. In this insightful lesson, Brother Desmond Singh cautions us about 'jumping the gun' regarding our calling in the Lord. He reminds us: "To everything, there is a season and a time to every purpose under the heaven; a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted..." (Ecclesiastes 3:1-3). God's timing is always perfect! But when we rush ahead in our strength, our timing leads to all manner of disasters.
We live in troubling, uncertain times. Jesus said of this period in human history: "Ye shall hear of wars and rumors of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. Brother John's love for the scriptures and the work of God is evident as he encourages the saints to "hold fast the faithful word as we have been taught. He is steadfast, enabled by sound doctrine, to exhort and convince the gainsayers.
We live in an angry and hostile world! Yet, as the elect of God, we may be over-confident that we know what God is doing—that we understand His will. But do we? The Russian war against Ukrainian gives us grave pause. War is abhorrent to us. The indiscriminate killing of women and children, the suffering of the helpless and elderly, the destruction of homes, schools, and hospitals sickens us. It is easy to label President Putin as evil, a tyrant who has gone mad. But is that so? Is he a tool of the devil or a servant of God?
It is in the controlled environment of the Body of Christ that overcomers are developed. Therefore, the church must meet the standards of God—not the standards of men. The Apostle John wrote concerning his vision: "And there was given me a reed like unto a rod: and the angel stood, saying, Rise, and measure the temple of God, and the altar, and them that worship therein." (Revelation 11:1) The reed represents a measurement given by God. The temple represents the church. God will measure our message and our worship. (See: Matthew 7:21) Measuring the altar symbolizes the quality of sacrifices offered to God. (See Malachi 1:6-8) And finally, we, the children of God, are measured. (See Matthew 25:18-30)
"He that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, exhortation, and comfort." (1 Cor. 14:3) As war ravages the people of Ukraine, Brother Sam edified God's people tonight to instill peace, encouragement, and comfort from the scriptures. He urged us to stay connected to the vine. "As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me." (John 15:4) Drawing from Wednesday's lesson on Romans 12, he reminded us we are to "present our bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is our reasonable service."
While conversion (or sanctification) is a lifelong process, it should be incrementally progressive and continuous. If no progress is measurable over time, it raises legitimate questions about one's "quickening" (Ephesians 2:1). Brother Desmond Singh asserts if we could live Roman's 12, we could essentially live an overcomer's life. Writing about our two natures (honorable and dishonorable), the apostle Paul emphasized: "If a {person} therefore purge themself from these {false doctrines, disobedience, & sinful}, they shall be a vessel unto honor, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work" (2 Timothy 2:21). Although the apostle used the metaphor of a great house, he undoubtedly referred to the church, wherein we are trained as vessels of honor (fitting servants) worthy to serve our heavenly Master.
"Every person deserves a fighting chance!" Brother Singh does not care about your ethnicity or religion; whether you graduated from Yale or jail, his heart is open to anyone who needs help. He is simply one beggar showing other beggars when to find bread. Because of his openness to people—and their struggles—his witness is genuine and effective. Our lifestyle as Christians should reflect the grace of God to people in our community. If our attitude is correct, it is a powerful witness.
Christianity is a life, but religion is manufactured. The line between the two realities is barely detectable at times. Christianity leads to salvation, but the counterfeit versions lead to damnation! While we often blame the enemy for undermining the work of God (and he does), human nature in its depravity is perfectly capable of producing imitations. Therefore, the genuine gospel is simple and easily understood by anyone who truly desires to live for God.
While the gospel is simple, the conversion process is long and arduous. It begins with a 'quickening' (Ephesians 2:1), where we receive an ignition of eternal life. But that is only the beginning! What those who practice religion fail to realize is that "this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality." (1 Corinthians 15:53) God must transform our mortal bodies must be transformed into immortal bodies.
When a saint is targeted, causing them to stumble and lose their faith, that is not the time to give up on them. Brother Singh is a champion of underdogs. He supports those individuals whose credibility is eroded in the church. When we turn our backs on someone or point an accusation, we forget, "there is none righteous, no, not one! For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:10 & 23). In this remarkable lesson, we discover aspects of the Spirit or nature of Jesus that every child of God ought to strive to emulate. Empathy allowed Jesus to identify with sinners, though he was sinless himself.
Following up on Wednesday night's lesson, Brother Sam encourages the saints with a quotation from Ezekiel pertaining to the duties of a priest "They shall teach my people the difference between the holy and profane, and cause them to discern between the unclean and the clean" (Ezek. 44:23). Our assembly and fellowship are blessed to have a pastor who "rejoiceth not in iniquity but rejoiceth in the truth" (1 Cor. 13:6). Br. Sam commends Brother Desmond Singh for maintaining a standard of righteousness when the Body of Christ could easily follow worldly trends,
Brother Singh expresses his awe and incredible wonder, knowing that God the Father "hath chosen us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we {the elect} should be holy and without blame before Him in love."(Ephesians 1:4) It is incomprehensible to finite human minds that before anything existed, God loved us individually—not to accomplish fame or fortune, not to be wealthy or powerful—but to be holy and blameless before Him. So then, we must grasp that we have a higher purpose than those committed to this world's existence. Brother Singh's responsibility is to preach a message that will save us from this untoward age. He needs the inspiration of the Holy Spirit to use the right scriptures in context but to inspire us to receive the good news with gladness.
Speaking of two resurrections, one spiritual and one physical, Jesus said: "Verily, verily, I say unto you, he that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation, but is passed from death unto life. Verily, verily, I say unto you, the hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live." (John 5:24-25). In modern English, we read: "I tell you the truth, those who listen to my message {my gospel} and believe in God who sent me have eternal life. They will never be condemned for their sins, but they have already passed from death into life. And I assure you that the time is coming. Indeed, it's here now, when the dead will hear my voice—the voice of the Son of God. And those who listen will live."
How shall we learn scripture? To whom does the Lord reveal His knowledge? God's elect receive it "precept upon precept, line upon line, here a little, there a little." (Isaiah 28:10) Tonight, Brother John Mowat reflected on the coming resurrection in the manner prescribed above. The love of God's word flows from this elder's heart like lava.
Brother Singh explains a generally misunderstood scripture in modern Christianity in this inspiring lesson. Nicodemus, a Jewish leader, and Pharisee approached Jesus at night, saying, "Rabbi, we know God has sent you to teach us. Your miraculous signs are evidence that God is with you." Nicodemus was likely a secret disciple of Jesus. So, before Nicodemus could ask it, Jesus discerned his question: "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God" (John 3:3).
After separating the elect from the non-elect, Jesus said to those Jews who believed in him, "If you 'continue' in my word, then are you my disciples indeed" (John 8:31). Elsewhere he demands, "If you love me, keep my commandments" (John 14:15). Fidelity is measured by commitment to faithful action, not by the words we speak! Often Brother Singh emphasizes 'lifestyle' to demonstrate our commitment to the gospel he preaches! It is not enough to nod in agreement and exclaim Amens to the messages we hear; we are to incorporate them into our life.
Brother Sam takes a personal approach to Brother Singh's lesson on Wed. February 2nd. He shares what it is to know Christ and the power of His resurrection. (Philippians 3:10-11) Knowing someone is not a casual encounter. It involves sacrifices if, by whatever means necessary, to attain the resurrection from the dead.
Brother Desmond Singh asks awkward questions because he wants us to face the reality of our commitment to God. Of course, we are sincere in our worship, but do we truly desire more of Jesus? His nature is not what many religious movements portray! The authentic image of Jesus is this: "He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not." (Isaiah 53:2-4) Often, we worship a romanticized version of Jesus. We desire the attractive aspects of his nature that make us feel forgiven, secure, loved, and happy. Seldom do we identify with the cost he paid to redeem us.
The saints in Mississauga honor Brother and Sister Singh for their years of dedicated service to the Lord on our behalf. What maturity they have spurned in our lives! We hear Sister Singh's emotional testimony about how her pastor's ministry has impacted her life for a refreshing change. We also listen to contributions from his grandsons; two fine young men raised to honor God and their mom, under challenging circumstances.
In this memorial service, Brother Singh shared bits of his most intimate correspondence with the congregation. Many of the letters come from non-Christians—people whose lives were touched by God through contact with one of His chosen servants. Let us never underestimate the effect of a genuine witness! Solomon stated, "How much better to get wisdom than gold! To get understanding is to be chosen rather than silver." (Proverbs 16:16)
God sent the prophets of old because Israel was often in rebellion. Brother Singh has previously stated God uses imperfect men to deliver a perfect message. So, let us realize those called to the ministry struggle with their humanity as they endeavor to perform their office faithfully. If they hurt our feelings, ultimately, God has permitted it for our good. Yet, those God has elected and called accept the blunt, unapologetic delivery of the word of God because we understand how prone we are to pamper ourselves. Left to our own devices, we would never accept our cross of discipleship.
Because of the prevalence of iniquity today, God's children have lost understanding of the term blessings! The health-wealth & prosperity gospels have perverted our understanding of following Jesus. As a result, discipleship is a lost concept. Many actually view the lack of material abundance as disfavor by God.
Although God's promises are not fulfilled in a single lifespan, they are nonetheless real. Millions of people claim those promises as a foundation for their faith yet "hold the truth in unrighteousness." To avoid hypocrisy, a committed Christian manifests a lifestyle approved by our heavenly Father. To "walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise" requires a fundamental change in human nature, one initiated by the Holy Spirit. Our two senior elders urge us to "redeem the time for the days evil days." Daily signs that we are nearing the end of the age occur before our very eyes, but are we preparing our hearts in order to endure to the end and thus be saved?
The most crucial doctrine we can learn from the Bible is a Godly lifestyle! Church attendance is meaningless if we do not practice a lifestyle pleasing to God. In this foundational lesson, Brother Singh reduces our facade of Christianity to a simple equation: "Are we doing the will of our heavenly Father?" Jesus said, "Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock" (Matthew 7:24). The house is a life based on the teachings and lifestyle of Jesus.
In this lesson, Brother Singh uses the history of his ministry to remind us of where God has brought us from. Our journey is long and arduous, from being lost in trespasses and sin to repentance, then being introduced to the truth of the gospel of the kingdom, and slowly and progressively towards holiness. It is through His ministry we are instructed by God, to "walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise redeeming the time, because the days are evil." The Internet is a tool meant to enlighten, not to damn us. It only becomes a source of our damnation because we misuse it.
Brother Sam gives a brief history of Brother Singh's ministry in Canada. Appropriately, it starts with Brother Singh's introduction of the gospel of the Kingdom to the nation of Guyana. His message was revolutionary, for light penetrated the darkness of a lesser light available at that time. After humble beginnings, a core of saints responded as the Holy Spirit opened the eyes and ears of their understanding. They formed the nucleus of a work that still survives throughout North and South America today. Most revealing is the personal revelation Brother Sam himself received as a youth eager to serve God.
Complacency is a deadly fog that can descend on any congregation. In effect, we know the truth but do it not! (See Romans 1:18) This warning does not apply to the ministry only, but to us, the saints who fail to implement the word of God we receive. The most important doctrine we can learn from scripture is how to live for God. "See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil."
As we struggle to serve God yet cope with the challenges of daily life in this world, it is difficult to remember, “all things work together for good {both negative things and positive things} to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren” (Romans 8:28-29). It is humbly to realize that before God created anything, including his son, you and I were known to him in time, and we were predestined to be conformed, or molded, into persons who willing desire to have the nature of Jesus.
Noah built the ark to the precise specifications given by God to survive the flood. Now, Jesus stated, "as the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be" (Matthew 24:37). Today, we refer to Christ's church as a spiritual ark. Any church not built according to God's exact standards will be unable to offer the controlled environment necessary to produce "overcomers" for the Kingdom. Brother Singh likens the habitat of Christ's church to that of a woman's womb during pregnancy. It must provide the right atmosphere, nutrients, and security for a fetus to develop into a perfect, deliverable child.
The purpose of spiritual light is to enable the child of God to overcome this dark, corrupt world. The word of God illuminates us to overcome aspects of our fallen nature progressively, bit by bit. Coming out of darkness into light is comparable to the transition from night to dawn. Twilight is a period or state of obscurity and ambiguity where our vision is impaired. Good eyesight is dependent upon a healthy diet. Danger lurks for a child of God who does not ingest mature spiritual food. "Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!" (Isaiah 5:20)
Let us not just talk about being saved. Salvation requires our active participation, for Jesus "gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father." (Galatians 4:1)
Evidence of our salvation should include a discernable list of discarded pagan customs and traditions. Conversion necessitates change. Then, as we grow in God, He helps us eliminate all unnecessary weights, hindrances, and homage paid to the "god of this world." Brother Desmond R. Singh urges God's people: "In the day of adversity, consider!" (Ecclesiastes 7:14)
Circumstances change—the laws of a nation change. Cultures change—economic conditions change! But the righteousness of God is everlasting, and His law is truth. Brother Sam offers our heavenly Father praise and thanksgiving for bringing our assembly safety through a very trying year. Yet, we must not rest on our laurels but pursue holiness without which no one will see God.
As 2022 is about to dawn, Brother Singh draws our attention to Matthew's gospel. "Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come." (Matthew 24:22) We are to recognize the signs of "the time." Our Lord cautioned the disciples, "Take heed that no man deceives you. For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many." (Mt. 24:4-5) The greatest deception in the world today is not from another religion or a political concept but instead comes from men pretending to speak for Christ.
The four gospel writers each presented their version of the Good News. But your gospel and my gospel are even more relevant. They recount how God called us individually from darkness into light and chronicle our journey on the road to conversion. Every elect child of God experiences the transforming power of our Lord at work in our lives! And each person engages to some degree in spiritual warfare. Paul wrote, "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might." (Ephesians 6:10)
Apostate Christianity has created a poor impression over the past 2,000 years regarding the celebration of the birth of Jesus.
Drunkenness, sport, and excessive spending—along with many other pagan concepts—have been incorporated into the human perception of Christmas celebrations. Make no mistake, such notions are blasphemous to the name of Jesus. Nevertheless, correct concepts are essential to our understanding, for many of our cherished beliefs about our relationship with God center on myths, not scriptural facts! Under Brother Singh, we are learning to appreciate the significance of our Lord's birth with the reverence it deserves.
Preachers can either preach the gospel that God places in their hearts or a gospel that accommodates the whims and temperament of the congregation. Nevertheless, it puzzles Brother Singh to witness a Doctor of Theology (fluent in Greek and Hebrew, claiming to understand the mysteries of God) stand to teach on a platform decorated with Christmas trees! The man preaches Jesus as Lord yet succumbs to the allure of pagan symbolism to adorn his sanctuary! Jesus asked of such ministers, "Can the blind lead the blind? Shall they not both fall into the ditch?" (Luke 6:39).
As we approach December 25th, churches of all denominations swell to capacity, with attendees eager to celebrate the birth of Jesus. Most people fail to realize they participate in a pagan celebration. There is nothing Biblical about celebrating Christmas. The festivities, tree trimming, lights, gift-giving, and decor ultimately mock God. Placing a replica baby Jesus in a manager at the foot of a Christmas tree is blasphemy! And yet, Christmas is only one of many pagan ideologies adopted by the Roman church and embraced by apostate Christianity. Sadly, that includes the Body of Christ in some cases.
Brother John & Brother Sam combine to encourage the saints to "hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful." The world may reject the word of God that we cling to as life itself. But, they remind us, "the Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit." Brother John refutes the discouragement and negativity of the naysayers reminding us that "all Scripture that is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work."
As 2022 approaches, the children of God suffer from information overload. Therefore, brother Singh implores us to ignore Internet information and solely trust God. The Omicron variant of COVID surges and so do theories. Therefore the man of God warns us to avoid the confusion running rampant in the world. "A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself, but the simple pass on, and are punished {suffer the consequnces}," Solomon wrote (Proverbs 27:12). So Prudence means applying the caution of Godly wisdom to life.
Brother Singh does not expect the ungodly to respond to his messages, but he hopes against hope that the saints of God will hear and implement them appropriately. Blessings are the rewards for obedience; judgment is the consequence of disobedience. A preacher can only deliver the message God lays on his heart; acceptance or rejection is up to the hearers of the word. Rejection of the word gives God the right to send "strong delusion, that {ignorers} should believe a lie that they all might be damned who believed not the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness" (2 Thessalonians 2:11-12).
Brother Sam does an excellent job watering the lesson "Pursuing The Mind of Christ" (Phil 2: 5). A God-called ministry has "the mind of Christ" (1Cor 2:16) because the Holy Spirit leads them. But the congregation, the elect of God, (the called), must have their minds spiritually opened to receive the interpretation of scripture and implement it into their lives. Peter answered Jesus's question: "Who do you say that I am?" because God had revealed it to him. (Matt 16:13-20), Likewise, we saints need a revelation to accept the word of God that is preached from our pulpit. Many voices claim to speak for God, but only His called ministry does so.
In this essential lesson, Brother Singh addresses the mind of Jesus, for Paul challenged the Philippian church, "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 2:8). Our minds control our emotional responses and behavior in response to what happens around us. For that reason, Paul stated, "Be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind" (Romans 12:2). Transformation is comparable to reprogramming a computer. We are born programmed with a fallen, carnal nature that opposes the righteousness of God. The Adamic nature prevents us from advancing in our service to God and ultimately prevents us from entering the kingdom of God. "To be carnally minded is death but being spiritually minded is life and peace." (Romans 8:6).
Every man of God has a deep burden for the work he leaves behind as he approaches the end of his life! God's ministry is not like the corporate world, where after 25 years of service, a man retires to a gated community in Clearwater, Florida, to play golf. By contrast, called men of God work until their last breath to ensure that God's flock are left fed and healthy for the next minister God chooses. This principle is illustrated by the apostle Paul’s departure from Ephesus.
Our Pastor's heart is burdened as we approach the conclusion of 2021, fearing for the future of our church. Brother Singh stated, "if we are to become like Jesus, our understanding of Jesus must be correct!" Pastor Singh and elders are aging. The next generation appears to have no vision for the work of God. "I fear the evil of the world will immobilize our saints." The apostle Paul similarly feared, "lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtlety," the minds of the Corinthian saints "should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ." (2 Corinthians 11:3)
Brother Joe & Brother John combine to encourage the saints of God, as we struggle to live in the midst of a world filled with conflict and evil. An elder is an overseer inf God's household. Therefore, he must meet standards worthy of assisting the man of God. He can not be arrogant, hot-tempered, or a bully. Instead, he loves goodness, acts sensibly, desires righteousness and holiness. The application of God's word (received in the local assembly), processes him to assist the work of God to move forward. An elder learns self-control and steadfastly holds "faithful" the message as taught by the man of God to encourage others with sound teaching and by example and, when necessary, refute those who contradict it.
In this revealing lesson, Brother Singh uses two aspects of our Christian life to demonstrate why negatives are necessary for our growth and stability. Paul stated: "We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair." (2 Corinthians 4:8)
The early church experienced "trouble" on every side, meaning that it struggled against the corruption of the ungodly world to establish itself and survive. Brother Singh equates "trouble" to the process of refining raw gold into a precious metal as we know it. "That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it is tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ" (1 Peter 1:7).
If you enjoy the words of Jeremiah, Isaiah, and the Apostle Paul but dislike your local pastor, you will die lost! It is a reality of life. God sent each man He called to minister life to the people in his day. Therefore, our faithfulness in implementing what we were taught in the local assembly will judge us when we stand before God.
"Why does Brother Singh preach so stridently against iniquity?" people may ask. Two passages contain the answer: Jesus said, of the days in which we now live, "Because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold" (Matthew 24:12). That means that people's love for God, for truth, and each other grow cold. They may continue to be religious but serve God at their convenience. It happened in the past and continues today. A mere 22 years later (approximately), the Apostle Paul warned: "The mystery of iniquity doth already work" (2 Thessalonians 2:7). Today, the effects of iniquity are much more apparent.
Few saints recognize the danger of iniquity. Echoing the Apostle Peter, Brother Singh, therefore, is not negligent to remind us of these things, though we think we know them to ensure we are "established in the present truth." In this lesson, we examine how iniquity separates us from God, rendering us powerless compared to the early church.
Iniquity is probably the least understood offense in church. It is more challenging to detect, for it is a COLLECTIVE violation involving unauthorized worship—a form of religious practice that God has not approved. Therefore, all aspects of our service to God need continual scrutiny to ensure that we have not fallen into "a form of godliness but deny the power thereof" (2 Timothy 3:5). From such practices, we are warned to turn away!
If we ignorantly drift into a mechanical form of worship that offends God, we too could be rejected in the same manner as Judah. God declared, "Ah sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity, a seed of evildoers, children that are corrupters: they have forsaken the LORD, they have provoked the Holy One of Israel unto anger, they are gone away backward." (Isaiah 1:2-4)
In this troubled time in history, when the world reels in chaos, Brother John and Brother Sam combine to encourage the saints to seek restoration for our souls. We gather in God's house to offer praise and thanksgiving for His mercy and goodness to us and to free our minds of the pollution that bombards our thoughts daily. The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Jesus and his ministry because the Lord has anointed him to bring good news to the poor. He has sent his ministry to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound.
King David wrote these magnificent words: "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. (Psalm 23:1-3)
Ultimately our walk with God will lead us to a sense of peace and tranquility, as described above by the psalmist. Yet, Brother Singh explains that we may sometimes feel abandoned by our heavenly Father before finding our spiritual green pasture by still waters.
No goals are reached without planning, commitment, and sacrifice. Motivation is dependant upon several factors, as this lesson will demonstrate. It takes courage and strength never to give up. The eagle and the lion symbolize strength and courage in the Bible, characteristics that inspire children of God. The prophet Isaiah wrote: "They that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary, and they shall walk, and not faint." (Isiah 40:31)
Our church attendance accomplishes much more than saving us from our past sins, Brother Sam advocates. The struggles of life drain us of the blessings we ought to enjoy because we do not walk as children of light as we ought to do. God's plan obligates us to continue securely established and steadfast in the faith without drifting from the hope promised by the gospel that we profess to follow. Failure to receive healing and deliverance is not due to a shortage of God's faithfulness but ours!
The continuity of Christ’s church is dependant on the leadership of faithful men whose hearts are committed to the work of God. Thus, Paul wrote these instructions to his son in the faith. "The things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also" (2Timothy 2:2). In modern vernacular, "The things [the doctrine, the precepts, the admonitions, the sum of my ministry] which you have heard me teach in the presence of many witnesses, entrust [as a treasure] to reliable and faithful men who will also be capable and qualified to teach others" (AMP).
The early church would be surprised by what passes for discipleship in today's church! Yet, Brother Singh stresses that the message that built the New Testament church could not construct our assembly today or vice-versa. This observation is essential to our understanding.
PRESENT TRUTH explicitly delivers the instructions necessary to overcome the world and the evil confronting each congregation in Christ's church. Paul's letter to the Corinthians was not appropriate for the Romans, just as the epistle to Colossians was not suitable for Thessalonica. Similarly, the message to Mississauga is not explicitly meant for Johannesburg, Des Moines, or Vasai. Yet, the principles of God are common to all.
God maintains a remnant of His people on the earth that will not reject the truth or backslide into apostasy (Romans 11:5). In his humble, steadfast way, Brother John encourages our congregation by reviewing recent lessons dispensed by our ministry. First, he examines the history of Israel as God's chosen people who, though delivered from Egyptian bondage, retained the spirit of Egypt in their hearts for generations. Their rebellion repeatedly brought God's judgment upon them, yet His mercy supersedes human weakness. Then, using the example of David's sin with Bathseba, he demonstrates the right attitude for a child of God to maintain a penitent heart and contrite spirit so God's Spirit can be renewed in us.
The essence of this lesson is: "Take heed to yourselves, that your heart, be not deceived, and ye turn aside, and serve other gods, and worship them" (Deuteronomy 11:16). Other gods today are not carved of stone; they are idols of the heart that rob us of our devotion to God. Winston Churchill wrote, "Those that fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it." God's people are prone to rebellion and backsliding. It has repeatedly happened through the centuries, both in Old and New Testament history. "They forsook the LORD God of their fathers, which brought them out of the land of Egypt, and followed other gods, of the gods of the people that were round about them, and bowed themselves unto them, and provoked the LORD to anger." (Judges 2:12)
Brother Singh equates the history of God's people in the Old Testament with that of His people in the New Testament era. In 4000 years, human nature has not changed. Without conversion, we are prone to forget all that God has done for us. We grow impatient because we cannot envision the finished product the Master is painting on the canvas of our lives. Too often, we revert to rebellious behaviors, set idols in our hearts, and embrace iniquity. It happened to Israel repeatedly throughout the nation’s long history. While God took Israel out of Egypt in one day, Egypt remained in their hearts for generations. we are no different.
A Christian attitude is one tempered by the gentleness and humility of Jesus. Brother Sam points out that failing to forgive others will stall our progress with God. Referring to James 2:13, he reminds us that there will be no mercy for those who have not shown mercy to others. But if we have been merciful, God will be merciful when he judges us. Our attitude of forgiveness can cushion God's judgment upon us. Jesus said, "Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy." (Matthew 5:7). Conversely, we can also say that the unmerciful are those who refuse to forgive others, for they shall receive no mercy!
Jesus said, "Ye are the light of the world. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." (Matthew 5:14 & 16) There is probably nothing more obnoxious than an aggressively persistent person trying to SELL Jesus. Such conduct is rude and offensive. Yet, we are to let our light so shine that people notice a glow in our life, something bright and attractive, without us needing to say a word. Aight that does not reflect wisdom is false light!
In this no-nonsense message, Brother Singh stresses his goal is to illuminate the saints of God. The Apostle Paul wrote, "I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick {the living} and the {resurrected} dead at his appearing and his kingdom. {Therefore} preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine" (2 Timothy 4:1-3a).
Many people can quote the scriptures, but few people can live the essence of what is written. Brother John Mowatt lives the Bible. His love for the word of God is evident in his quiet, confident approach to life. Therefore, an elder must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach.
In this service, Brother Singh stresses we should "Serve the LORD with gladness: Come before his presence with singing." (Psalm 100:2) Saints are connected to a divine power grid. Our spirits respond joyfully to God's Spirit IF we divert our focus from our problems and feelings to our heavenly Father. We have so much for which to be thankful. "Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture." (Psalm 100:3)An attitude of gratitude will spontaneously lift our spirits each day.
This Thanksgiving, each member of our congregation can eagerly join King David, saying, "I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make her boast in the LORD: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad. O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together." (Psalm 34:1-3)
Brother Sam reminded our congregation that it is not enough to understand the will of God, but we must also do the will of God. Heart knowledge is, therefore, far more critical than head knowledge! An elder's role is essential in stirring our memories lest we forget our pastor's vital lessons. Brother Singh previously used the backslidden state (Book of Malachi) to remind us that we should never take God, a great King, for granted. In like manner, our elder urges us to remember where God has brought us from—all that he has done for us—and all that He continues to do to prepare us for entry into His kingdom. We are urged to bring our "whole tithe into the storehouse" (Malachi 3:10). We cannot rob God and expect His blessings. Violation of God's principles brings sorrow, calamity, and eventual death in our lives.
Sacrifices and works are a measure of our appreciation for God. Our tithes and offerings, physical labor, prayer are tokens of the value we place on His love and mercy. We seem incapable of appreciating who it is we serve. "We are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light." (1 Peter 2:9) In the Book of Malachi, we discover that the Jews had lost respect for God. Their offerings revealed their indifference.
Correct understanding of doctrine leads us to the ‘purpose of judgment’ (trials, tribulation, persecution & hardship) in our lives. The apostle James wrote, "count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing." (James 1:2-4) The trying of faith is a necessary step to perfect our faith. Thus, we should not be surprised when fiery trials come upon us to test us, as if something strange happened. (1 Peter 4:12)
Many people can quote scriptures, but it is quite another thing to live the scriptures so that they are the guiding principles of one's life. Brother John Mowatt is a defender of the faith, a faithful steward of God's work. His love for God's work is evident in his encouragement of the saints.
Brother Singh is adamant that every child of God in our assembly needs to understand and implement the lessons we receive. They are meant to save us! If we were utilizing the messages would not be fearful of catching COVID-19, "for God has not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind." (2 Timothy 1:7). A sound mind gives us stability and calmness despite the chaos of society. We have a responsibility to be actively involved in God's salvation plan. Therefore, "Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself and them that hear thee." (1 Timothy 4:16).
In the enlightening message, Brother Singh emphasized that God the Father and His Son are two distinct entities. “The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do: for what things soever {the Father} doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise” (John 5:19). Thus, the Apostle Paul wrote: "I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick {living} and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom." (1 Timothy 4:1) The Father is the begetter. The son is the begotten. Without a clear understanding of the nature of the Father and His Son, Jesus, we pray without knowledge—parroting religious phrases that are vain.
Prayerful worship and encouragement for our hearts are the focus of this most meaningful lesson. "The heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked: Who can know it?" Thankfully God knows the intentions of our hearts. We cannot hide from Him. He alone can change it from a heart of stone to a heart of flesh. Whether through sorrow, affliction, or on a bed of pain, the elect will be saved! Brother Sam stresses that God will apply the pressure necessary to cause us to surrender to His will and sovereignty.
It is one thing to call God our Father, but quite a different thing to have a revelation about who He is and how to be His dear child! Brother Singh stresses that many of us make professions of faith that are not realistic. Proverbs 3:5 instructs us, "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding." Yet, in a moment of crisis, most of us do not trust in the Lord. Instead, our hearts franticly turn to medical advice, secular solutions, and even the Internet for answers. Intellectual comprehension of God's spoken word does not motivate us to change our lifestyle unless it resides in our hearts.
The pestilence labeled the COVID pandemic has unnerved the children of God. Many of us are tossed to and fro by conspiracy theories and the craftiness of wild speculation as if we have no faith! COVID-19 is God's judgment leashed on the whole world. But, while thus far, God has exercised great restraint, Brother Singh observes much fickleness in the Body of Christ. It is not as if we did not know this day would come. The ministry has not shunned to declare unto us the whole counsel of God. We ought to know the church is not exempt from judgment.
Elders are essential in support of God's anointed ministry. These men do not preempt the called man of God by declaring a new application of God's word but instead reinforce his messages. This hierarchy is essential for our understanding. The Holy Spirit speaks only through one man called to lead an assembly. Paul's epistle to Titus states that a Bishop (or Elder) must "hold fast the faithful word as he has been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers (those who contradict truth). Elders are defenders of the faith!
Imagine the great lengths the apostles went to send encouragement to new converts as the gospel spread. For example, Paul wrote: "For this cause, we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God" (Colossians 1:9-10). Brother Singh stresses the necessity of prayer, not just for ourselves, but for our community, our local saints, and those suffering hardship in various locales around the globe. Prayer strengthens the elect to endure the trials they must face. Prayer opens our hearts to wisdom and spiritual understanding. “Believe in the Lord your God; so shall ye be established. Believe His prophets; so shall ye prosper.” (2 Chronicles 20:20)
Brother Singh has always taught discipleship! Self-denial and bearing our cross are necessary to submit our will to that our heavenly Father. Our opinions and desires do not matter; what God demands of us is all that counts! If we walk in Spirit, the chastisement of COVID-19 will cause us to grow in our relationship with God. Chastisement draws the elect closer to God and His ministry—but it drives the non-elect away. The devil confuses the minds of fickle saints. Conspiracy theories abound, but we waste energy and undermine our faith pursuing them. This is all we need to know: "God will bring every work into judgment, Including every secret thing, Whether good or evil" (Ecclesiastes 12:14).
Beautiful worship and inspired preaching create an environment where a child of God can grow and flourish. We strive through the application of the living word "by patient continuance in well-doing seek for glory, honor, and immortality, eternal life" (Romans 2:7). Despite personal challenges and the chaos of the world, Brother Sam encourages the saints to be "rooted and built up in Christ Jesus, and established in the faith, as we have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving" (Colossians 2:7)
While our youth prepare for a future that will include a career, marriage, and family, our senior congregation members prepare for death. Death can come swiftly to anyone, at any age, especially more so now at the end of the age. Death is never a taboo subject for a believer, for children of God need to face reality. Just as birth brought us into this world, death will usher our exit. There is no escaping that reality. Thus, Pastor Singh speaks to us about preparation for the inevitable in this very practical lesson.
We live in a unique time in human history. Isaiah, Daniel, and Jesus prophesied about the conditions of our time and what this generation of believers would face. Jesus emphasized, "Take heed that no man deceives you." (Matthew 24:4)
Brother Singh briefly reviewed 2 Timothy 2:20: "In a great house {Christ's Church} there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and earth; some to honor, and some to dishonor." The church can be viewed as a citizenship school for future citizens of the kingdom of God. Absenteeism from school is not conducive to an ideal learning experience. These sorrows are the birth pains of the soon coming of the kingdom of God. Judgment is falling on the ungodly world, and parallel chastisement is falling on the church. We need to purge our vessels, preparing ourselves for the hard times ahead.
Our senior elders, Brother John & Brother Sam, briefly recap Wednesday's lesson dealing with vessels of honor and dishonor in the church. As tribulation and judgment continue to fall, we are reminded that nothing short of a genuine conversion experience can save us. The enticements of the world beckon our youth away from the church, but conversion begins in the home. Establishing a godly environment and example is a parent's best defense for a child.
Ministers of the gospel may offer individual interpretations of certain scriptures. Brother Singh is obligated to speak what the Lord places in his heart, whether or not it agrees with traditional interpretations; whether or not offends some. Jesus said, “Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send [or bring] peace, but a sword." (Matthew 10:34) The church is not designed to boost egos. Rather, it is a potter’s house where vessels and broken down to their base elements and reshaped in the hands of the Potter. “Does not the potter have the authority to make from the same lump of clay one vessel for special occasions and another for common use?” (Romans 9:21)
As Hurricane Ida makes landfall in New Orleans sixteen years to the day after Katrina, one cannot help but ponder the judgment of God. "Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people." (Proverbs 14:34) While New Orleans has a reputation as a sin city—complete with witchcraft and voodoo—Brother Singh reminds us that God's people are often guilty of far worse sin—that is iniquity!
An elder then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behavior, given to hospitality, and apt to teach. Blessed with two senior elders who possess thEse qualities and more, Pastor Singh has able men to support his ministry. The necessity of a Holy Spirit baptism as part of our conversion process is emphasized in this message. In the last days, deception will be rampant. Jesus warned, "there shall arise false Christs and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders; insomuch that if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect." (Mt. 24:24) Let us guard our hearts and minds with all diligence.
We live in a chaotic world. The earth reels to and fro like a drunkard. (Isaiah 24:20) The prophecies of Jesus found in Matthew 24 are now our daily reality. Yet Jesus calls us to remain calm, "See that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines and pestilences, and earthquakes in divers places. All these are the beginning of sorrows." (Matthew 24:6-8)
We must face the reality of life. In this practical gospel message, Brother Desmond Singh challenges us to take control of our circumstances. Jesus said, "You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." (John 8:32) One of the first truths we need to understand is the truth about ourselves! Nobody exists in ideal circumstances, so whatever our reality is, we must accept and manage it. Stability is measured by our ability to plan our future under God's authority, despite our circumstances.
Too often, we take our local pastors for granted. We do not view them with respect due to their office. The faithfulness of local pastors, who often labor in obscurity and deprivation, will stand as a testimony against unfaithful saints on the day of judgment for their indifference. Faithfulness in scripture denotes "faith to endure to the end" (Matthew 10:22). The qualities of faithfulness include consistency, allegiance, and submission to lawful authority. Thus, the Apostle Paul entreated Timothy, "the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall also be able to teach others, also" (2 Timothy 2:2).
Brother Singh made a profound statement, reflecting the mind of Christ. "If an individual is experiencing judgment in their life, that is not the time for me to give them my opinion. It is the time for me to show compassion and mercy." Judgment is always a matter between God and the individual.
As Jesus neared the conclusion of his ministry, he issued woes upon the religious elite, saying: "Wherefore, behold, I send unto you prophets, and wise men, and scribes: and some of them ye shall kill and crucify, and some of them shall ye scourge in your synagogues, and persecute them from city to city" (Matthew 23:34). True men of God were always rejected and persecuted for the gospel. When we see popular preachers today, it causes us to wonder what kind of gospel they preach.
While the earth reels to and fro like a drunkard under judgment, we children of God ought to be examining ourselves in light of God's word. The lessons we have received are designed to save us, but we must heed and implement them. "If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin." Therefore, brother John and Brother Sam urge us to seek out information and hope from God's ministry, not CNN or YouTube.
Brother Desmond R Singh relies on the leading of the Holy Spirit each time he stands to preach or teach. The instruction of God's people is so vital that He cannot risk it to human thinking, presumptions, or philosophy. Therefore, Jesus prayed to the Father, "Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth." (John 17:17)
Scripture is essential to our life. "For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope" (Romans 15:4). Yet, it is impossible to comprehend God's truth with human intellect, (although many people try). So, at the appropriate time when God calls His elect to commence their sanctification process, He "quickens" or ignites spiritual life in us.
Brother Desmond R Singh speaks to Gospel Tabernacle Youth Meeting, Haiti, August 9, 2021, by Zoom. He encouraged the Haitian youth to set spiritual, educational, and vocational goals today that will equip them to face the challenges of a hostile world tomorrow.
This post recaps a most reassuring lesson God delivered through his servant, Brother Singh, on August 8, 2021. "We know {in hindsight from scriptural examples} that ALL things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28). Let us not be guilty of treating this passage with casual familiarity. "All things" mean both the positives and negatives of life. Sickness and poverty work equally to our benefit as health and abundance in God's plan. "All things" are given to us to test our ability to make the appropriate decisions in life according to God's word.
Elders play an essential role in Christ's church. They support God's anointed ministry by encouraging the saints and watering the messages. Watering is a term used to mean meticulous care, given the way a gardener nurtures tender plants. Saints are in various stages of maturity, yet the church provides an environment that fosters growth and development in each individual. Brother John and Brother Sam are able men with a lifetime of experience in God's work. Noteworthy qualifications of an elder include being "blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behavior, given to hospitality, apt to teach. (1 Timothy 3:2)
Much confusion and error exist about the role of the Holy Spirit in the lives of the saints. Again, hindsight helps us understand conversion. Although the disciples were with Jesus for three and a half years, they were ill-prepared to comprehend his death and resurrection, let alone launch his church. As Jesus was preparing to leave them to return to the Father, he said, "I will pray {to} the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter {advocate}, that he may abide with you forever." (John 14:16). Undoubtedly, the disciples did not understand when Jesus explained, "This is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him because he abides with you, and he will be in you." (v.17)
"Hindsight is 20/20," meaning that only by looking back on a situation can we understand God’s purpose. The pestilence labeled COVID-19 has brought significant hardship to people everywhere. But let us be mindful that what God uses to judge the world is meant as a chastisement for His children. During the past 14 months, a library of life-sustaining lessons has been posted by podcast providers to minister hope and comfort to God's people locally and internationally. We could never have anticipated that people from 41 countries would benefit from messages preached in this assembly in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. Only in hindsight can we see God's plan as it has unfolded.
Brother Sam led tonight's service, reviewing the Wednesday lesson on Christian suffering & stressing that our ultimate aim is to love God and one another more perfectly. Brother John testified how the "our God of all comfort "sustained him during the many days of ICU isolation that he endured fighting COVID-19. Tonight's service brings assurance to the saints of God that we are fed strong meat in due season, strengthening us to face trials both now and in the future. Our God is willing and able to deliver His people, but we must be prepared to listen and heed the word of God so that it changes our hearts.
The Lord used his servant, Brother Singh, to provide us with a greater illumination on suffering. So many of our local saints and those abroad are enduring hardship, chronic sickness, and pain. COVID-19 has made life very difficult for some. Our Lord knows each individual's situation, and while we often pray and hope for dramatic miracles—they are the exception, not the norm. Chastisement and suffering are part of the life of the elect.
Brother Singh asserts that by 12 or 13, every young person needs to have set both spiritual and secular goals for their life. Our spiritual goal ought to be stated similarly to that of the Apostle Paul: To apprehend or achieve that for which Christ Jesus called me. (Philippians 3:12) Our secular goal is the profession that we wish to achieve. Whether the goal is to qualify in a trade, to become a teacher, or doctor—studies and energies are then directed to achieving that end. Sacrifice is demanded to achieve both goals.
Every called man of God has been influenced, trained, and shaped by someone God called before him. Elisha followed Elijah; the disciples followed Jesus; Timothy followed Paul. That is the pattern God uses, and it has not changed through the ages. Paul Singh recounts his arrival in America from Guinea, South America, to meet and train under Brother Lloyd Goodwin in this brief remarkable message. He tells of his family's sacrifices to accompany him, the rejection he faced as a young minister. Anyone who leaves mainstream denominationalism to embrace greater truth is labeled a false prophet. That is because the ideas and goals of men manufacture religion. What begins as pure religion turns over time into iniquity. When a man of God stands against wickedness, he develops many enemies. It takes a revelation from God to see what others cannot see and hear God speaking through an anointed minister. "It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life." (John 6:68)
Just as God used Brother Goodwin to change Brother Singh's life, in turn, he has touched my life and countless others around the globe. Brother Sam follows Brother Singh to expand on his experience and what it has meant to be part of the Body of Christ.
God created Adam in His "own image" (Genesis 1:27), but Brother Singh speculates that image was lost due to the fall. So, the word "image" implies much more than a physical resemblance. It also entails the nature, characteristics, and mindset of God. Hence, the image of Christ replaces the image Adam lost. So, Jesus reflects God's glory and is the exact imprint of Father's very being. (Hebrews 1:3) Through Jesus, Brother Singh states we have the potential to have that image restored in humankind. This is what John saw in his vision: Revelation 14:1.
Millions of people think they know Jesus but do not. On judgment day, many will say to him, 'Lord! Lord! We prophesied in your name and cast out demons in your name and performed many miracles in your name.' But he will declare, "I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity" (Mt 7:22-23) Knowing Jesus is not an intellectual exercise, but an experience of the heart.
Jeremiah and the other prophets were not playboys in the pulpit. It seems the prophets of old lived apart from the rest of society and only appeared when sent by God to deliver a message. Their messages warned the people of their sin and iniquity. Then, as today, people resent having their hypocrisy exposed. Hence, the prophets and apostles were not only rejected but persecuted and martyred. God holds His people accountable for the rejection of His ministers. Jesus warned, "From the blood of Abel unto the blood of Zacharias, which perished between the altar and the temple: verily I say unto you, it shall be required of this generation." (Luke 11:51)
God has enabled the Internet to help preach the gospel to the whole world in these last days. Yet Brother Singh's goal has a narrow focus: Preaching messages designed to save individuals. Of course, hearing the gospel is essential, but allowing the gospel to effectively change our nature is the ultimate purpose. "Be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves." (James 1:22)
Many Christians wander through their spiritual life aimlessly, without a purpose or a goal. In this cardinal lesson, our Lord uses his servant to show that it is impossible for a church practicing iniquity to produce an overcome. This is an extremely serious lesson, appropriate for the day in which we live.
The Lord uses Brother Singh to give us insight into two poorly understood subjects in the church: the Spirit and our communication with God.
Gifts and fruit of the Spirit bring us to the importance of prayer. Luke wrote, "And it came to pass, that, as {Jesus} was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples." (Luke 11:1) This request is remarkable...
There is a misconception widely preached in religion today that the Bride of Christ is the whole church. In this illuminating message, Brother Singh dispels that myth with scriptural evidence to prove that Bride of Christ is comprised of a select group of saints who have overcome their sinful nature, the world, and the devil. Moreover, we are called to exactly the same commitment to God.
Because of the enormity of the revelations Paul possessed, a thorn was given him in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass him, to keep him from becoming exalted or conceited. Three times he pleaded with the Lord to be delivered. But the Lord said, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore, Paul determined that he would boast all the more gladly of his weaknesses so that the power of Christ might rest upon him. For the sake of Christ, then, he was content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when Paul was weak, then he was strong! (Read 2 Corinthians, Chapter 12).
The Book of Revelation is a book of symbolic language. We ought not to literalize symbols. Unless the Lord opens the eyes and ears of our understanding, symbolic language leaves us confused and prone to misinterpretation. For that reason, we need a God-anointed ministry to explain the meaning to us. "Because the preacher was wise, he still taught the people knowledge" (Ecclesiastes 12:9). The wisdom required to teach God’s knowledge does not come from human intelligence, seminary studies, or reading books. It comes as gifts given unto men (given unto the church), in the form of the five-fold ministry. (Ephesians 4:8).
After eighteen months of the pandemic restrictions, every elect child of God should have a deeper relationship with our Lord. We have endured unparalleled closures of every aspect of society. Never before in history have Government, Commerce, and Religion been simultaneously and universally affected. Churches were closed right along with taverns and sports arenas. Brother Singh encourages saints, "in the day of adversity consider" (Ecclesiastes 7:14).
No matter how remarkable the message delivered by a prophet, an apostle, or a called man of God may be, that message must save the preacher himself as well as the people. Brother Singh asserts that the word of God cuts both ways. A two-edged sword (Hebrews 4:12) incises both the preacher's impurities and those of the congregation. The purpose of preaching is to change us, but many of us are reluctant to change. We prefer to serve God at our convenience.
Every child of God has three fathers.
In this significant lesson, God allows us to see fatherhood in a whole new light, as delivered through His servant Brother Singh. The three fathers are—GOD the Father, who elected us according to His foreknowledge (1 Peter 1:2). The second is our earthly father, who may not be ideal in our eyes, but God selected him as our dad for a reason, and we are commanded to honor him. (Exodus 20:12) "Honor thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee." The third is our spiritual Father. "For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers[1]: for in Christ Jesus, I have begotten you through the gospel." (1 Corinthians 4:15)
This lesson is strong meat delivered in due season. For a handful of saints, under Brother Desmond Singh, Wednesday night lessons are the most penetrating for the division of soul and spirit, joints and marrow, and to expose the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
Before the conclusion of the life of an elect child of God, a deep final cleansing occurs to remove any lingering roots of bitterness (Hebrews 12:15). Roots of bitterness are stubborn sins and human traits that are ungodly. They are often buried deep in our unconscious psyche but exercise a degree of control over our nature.
Brother Sam, a senior elder in the Mississauga assembly, urges the congregation to seek a second conversion and renew a right spirit.
We expect our cardiologist and dental surgeon to post their credentials, but not so a man of God! A man called and processed by God for the ministry does not need advanced degrees conferred by men or institutions. If he has them, like the apostle Paul, he will flush them. "I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ" (Philippians 3:8).
We may be devout believers, performing all the traditions and mechanics of our religion, yet be rejected by God because of iniquity. In this jarring lesson, Brother Singh compares the Body of Christ today to Israel during the 8th Century BCE. Iniquity may be the most misunderstood offense in scripture. It offends God, and He utterly rejects it, yet it is so easy for God's people to fall into the trap of this pernicious offense. Iniquity is “any form” of religious activity that God has not approved. It typically involves human traditions and philosophy that circumvent the requirement that we "must worship Him in Spirit and truth." (John 4:24)
In Isaiah chapter one, God laments over children He reared and brought up, yet they rebelled against Him. He accuses them of being less appreciative than animals, “for an ox knows its owner and the donkey its master's crib, but Israel does not know” — God’s people are devoid of understanding.
Amidst the pestilence of COVID-19 and its associated trials, the saints of God are offered encouragement by Brother Sam, a senior elder. He asks us if we have lost our vision for the things that pertain to God? Has the hardship and light affliction of the lockdown increased our commitment to the Lord or caused us to drift slowly away from the path we were traveling? These are sobering questions, for self-examination.
Nobody is born saved. Growing up in the church does not save us! Each individual needs a personal experience with God. First-generation converts were saved out of the world, from false religion, from addictions, or the prison system, as was this writer. The changes God brought to our lives were publically visible. In many ways, we can testify, "Once I was blind, but now I see!" However, our children and grandchildren who grew up in the church also need a genuine encounter with the Lord.
It is possible to sit in a “strait-gate” church that preaches the narrow way, yet to possess a wide-gate mentality! Jesus never compromised the gospel he preached, although he faced fierce apostate opposition and rejection. "Enter ye in at the strait {tightly restricted} gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and FEW there be that find it." (Matthew 7:13-14)
Brother Singh states that God sent him both to preach the gospel to the elect and to have his spirit worked upon. God uses imperfect men to preach a perfect message. Jesus told Peter, when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren."(Luke 22:32) The apostle Paul subjected himself to a harsh regime, fearing that he could be a castaway, even after preaching to others. (1 Corinthians 9:27). God's process assures the elect that He speaks through the ministry—that they are not operating because of their intellect, training, or by plagiarizing the work of other men.
Whom do we consult? The man of God, or the Internet? God provides His servants with "present truth" sufficient to meet the needs of His people for today. If we listen to the wrong voices, we will find ourselves judged with the ungodly. Indeed, if we ignore the voice of God's ministry, we become, by our willfulness, ungodly. "God speaketh once, yea twice, yet man perceiveth it not." (Job 33:14)
The apostle Paul wrote, "See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise" (Ephesians 5:15). In modern English, the passage translates as: "Be very careful, then, how you live--not as unwise but as wise." (ibid, NIV) Brother Singh has repeatedly reminded us that head knowledge of scripture is worthless if we fail to experience a heart conversion that changes our lives. Theory cannot save us! Walking as children of light, not as children of darkness, will seal our redemption. To walk circumspectly means to live a lifestyle worthy of our calling by God.
“My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers {various} temptations {trials}; knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.” (James 1:2-4).
Many of us quote this scripture without a comprehensive understanding of the requirements that faith demands of us. In today's lesson, Brother Singh gives us a glimpse into the future work of God—the culmination of His ultimate plan. Faith is the vehicle that qualifies us to experience the Kingdom of God.
Our response to a called man of God determines the blessings we receive from his ministry. A negative attitude towards the ministry produces negative results. "{God} hath filled the hungry with good things, but the rich {those that are full} he hath sent empty away" (Luke 1:53). Religious traditionalism and dogma satiate the rich, like the Pharisees. They are too full to receive "present truth."
Preachers are quick to say, "God sent me." Sometimes it is a truthful statement, but often it is not. False prophets were a problem at the beginning of the church age and are even more so as the age draws to a close. Paul described such boasters being false apostles, deceitful workers, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ. Little wonder! Even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. So, it is not strange if his ministers also disguise themselves as ministers of righteousness. Their end will match their deeds. (See 2 Corinthians 11:13-15). Therefore, God must help the elect, those chosen for salvation, to recognize God-called preachers from uncalled preachers.
In this lesson, Brother Singh demonstrates that God demands heart knowledge, not head knowledge, from His people. To understand life in Christ, we first need to understand death. Every human being inherited eternal spiritual death because of sin entering the world through Adam & Eve. Eve. Until God quickens us, by the Holy Spirit, we are—dead men walking—physically alive but spiritually dead to the possibility of attaining eternal life. Jesus said, "For as the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth them; even so the Son quickeneth whom he will" (John 5:21). The Father quickens us from being spiritually dead; the Son will quicken the dead in Christ from the graves through resurrection at his return.
Those of us who call ourselves the Body of Christ are fond of quoting Revelation 18:4, "Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues." We have collectively implied that it is meant for our neighbors in denominational Christianity. If we are God's people, the voice from heaven speaks directly to you and me. A voice from heaven (not from the church) in the future will call us out. The question is, will our attitude be right to hear the voice and heed it? What voices primarily guide my life, CNN or God’s word? Do I value the voices of experts reflecting Babylon or the voice of the man of God? Truly we are living in the last days. If ever we need to hear the right voices, it is now!
The climax of a spiritual journey is the death of an elect child of God. If predestined for salvation (Eph. 1:5), we cannot die until the level of perfection determined for us is accomplished. Our journey follows a path predetermined before time began. It meanders through obstacles and conflicts while we part of the church, members of Christ's body, helping us transition from our carnal nature to spiritual. In the church, the souls of just men are made perfect. (Hebrews 12:23) Brother Singh states that it is in the church we "learn to love the unlovable."
Despite our fallen nature, Brother Singh encourages us that "the elect" were predestined to conform to Christ's image. As COVId-19 ravishes young and old, neighbor and stranger, sinner and saint, it is essential to remember that what God uses to judge the ungodly, is chastisement for the elect. Sickness may be part of God’s purging process just as beatings, lashes and shipwreck were to Paul. "Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow." (Ps. 51:7) Hyssop was a type of herb that was used both for medical purposes and in purification ceremonies. In the 21st Century, repentance is our hyssop!
Our attitude towards the word of God and His ministry reflects our attitude towards our heavenly Father.
Brother Singh chastised those of us, at the Mississauga Assembly, who were too busy this morning to attend service online. COVID-19 has placed unprecedented demands on our lives to be sure. Online services are not ideal, but God has ordained this method of worshipping Him collectively as a substitute for gathering in the sanctuary.
Brother Singh demonstrates that all the prophets and apostles were processed and approved by God. And He still maintains His ministry on earth today using the same method. Admittedly being called by God is a heady experience, even for the humblest of men. For that reason, the wilderness process kills the ego and personal ambition—yet it steels the individual's resolve only to accomplish only what God demands. It takes rigorous discipline to withstand the pressures of family, community, and religious traditionalism. Thus, God's foreknowledge prepares each servant for the exact conditions he will face.
In this lesson, Brother Sam (a senior elder) states that God gave us a ministry equipped to open God's word under the anointing of the Holy Ghost, put concepts together, and teach those whose minds God has illuminated to understand truth. Jesus prayed, "Sanctify them through thy truth: {Father} thy word is truth." (John 17:17) False doctrines and errant concepts cannot sanctify anyone.
Probably no doctrine is more misunderstood than the resurrection. In a previous lesson, we looked at how the serpent deceived Eve into believing she would not die if she disobeyed God (Genesis 3:4). That single act of rebellion germinated the false concept of the immortality of the soul. "The soul that sinneth, it shall die." (Ezekiel 18:20.)
Our hope —immortality, or eternal life (Romans 2:7)—is based on Biblical reality.
Yet, many who claim to have Christ cannot make this their reality, for their hope is based on fantasy. The fantasy started in the garden of Eden when the serpent convinced Eve that she would not surely die if she ate the fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil (Genesis 3:4). Since that day, many Christians have based their hope on fallacies, damnable lies, and "the doctrines of devils" (1Timothy 4:1).
In a most enlightening lesson, Brother Singh draws from Paul's epistle to the Ephesians to demonstrate God's process in the lives of the elect When we read Paul's epistles, we seldom consider the timeline of the apostle's ministry and the process he had to endure. From Paul's conversion until his death was about 28-30 years. It is not obvious that nearly half that time (14 years) was spent in isolation. Paul was far too impetuous to be an effective preacher. After two near-disastrous attempts to preach the gospel, he was banned to his hometown of Tarsus, where he worked as a tentmaker. That "cooling off" period was necessary to take the Pharisee out of Paul and develop the Spirit of Christ in him. The spirit of a man called by God is far more crucial than his education, training, or his intelligence. God must empty his vessels before He can use them.
No one had more compassion for the sick and the defenseless than Jesus. He preached the gospel to the poor, the brokenhearted, the captives, and the blind. Yet this man of tender mercy demanded that his disciples build grit. Discipleship demands that having put our hand to the plow, we never look back! (Luke 9:62) Brother Singh's exhortation today urges us to persevere through every ordeal. He no longer prays just for our healing or deliverance but that God's will be accomplished in our lives. As Jesus did for Peter, he prays that our faith fails not! (Luke 22:31-32)
God does not call everyone who listens to the gospel of Jesus Christ to understand and accept it. Jesus explained to the disciples why he spoke in parables: "it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them, it is not given" (Matthew 13:11). "Them" referred to the scribes and Pharisees, the religious elite of the day. The elite leaders were thoroughly acquainted with the law of Mosses and the prophets, but they lacked "present truth." They did not recognize their long-awaited Messiah when he was in their midst.
Many misconceptions of the role of the Holy Spirit exist. Misunderstandings exist for two primary reasons: Lack of Biblical truth and flawed understanding of personal experiences. In this crucial message, God helps us untangle our confusion by leading Brother Singh's mind to open to us Biblical reality.
We must understand our dual nature: We are born as flesh and blood but with a natural inclination to sin. That is the fallen nature that we inherited from Adam and Eve. It is the dust {carnal nature} upon which the Lord commanded the serpent in Genesis 3:16 to feed.
Brother Singh challenges us with this statement: "If I preach a lesson that offends you, figure out what it is that makes you feel that way. Is it God or a demon? The apostle Paul stated, "If our gospel is hidden {or veiled} it is hidden to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. (2 Corinthians 4:3-4)
The devil can make us feel like we are doing the right thing in Jesus' name when our worship and service to God are in vain. Paul's fear for the Corinthian church was that their minds be corrupted from the simplicity and the purity of Christ. (See 2 Corinthians 11:3) It seems that his fears were well-founded. Just as "the serpent in his craftiness deceived Eve," Corinth was seduced by Apollos, who appeared as a minister of righteousness to be used by Satan. The church soon fell into apostasy and despite Paul's valiant efforts, it never recovered.
The commissioning of the disciples (Matthew 10) was the beginning of Christ's called ministry. The disciples sent out without money and only the clothes on their back. Jesus instructed them to cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out demons. He explained, "You freely received cleansing; give it without expecting payment. " (Mt. 10:8)Today, we market the gospel like every other commodity. A designer-Jesus is available to fit every consumer's demand. The ministry like other professions seeks stability, security, and a decent pension plan. It is a far cry from what Jesus intended.
Every called man of God is processed before he can fulfill the ministry intended for him. Scripture is full of examples that we tend to ignore. While by faith Moses refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter, we forget that he murdered an Egyptian overlord in his carnal strength. That impetuous act drove him into the wilderness for forty years to escape justice. Yet, in God’s plan, it provided the time necessary to eliminate the mentality of an "Egyptian prince" from Moses so that God could use him. When Moses could no longer speak, God could use him.
Brother Singh challenges us to follow him as he follows the Lord. It is 21st Century arrogance that causes some people to believe that the God-called ministers are ordinary men, who we listen to at our discretion. People in the early church understood differently: "And you became followers of us {the ministry}, and the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with the joy of the Holy Ghost." (1 Thess. 1:6) By following the ministry, we follow the Lord. To defy or ignore those God placed over us puts us outside His will, making our salvation is impossible.
As Ontario Canada plunges back into a very strict "stay at home protocol" due to the 3rd wave of COVID-19, Brother Singh reminds us that trials, tribulations, and testing must process the elect! The circumstances that judge the ungodly chasten God's children. Yet we often fail to recognize and value the process. If we fail to respond appropriately, God will deal with us much more severely. He always accomplishes His will. We either fall on the Rock {Jesus} and be broken, or the Rock will grind us to powder. (See Matthew 21:42-45)
Following the miracle of the loaves and fishes, Jesus reminded the crowd of followers not to labor for the food that perishes but rather for food that results in eternal life. Yes, typical of so many of us, the Jews asked for a sign from Jesus so that they might see it and believe. Jesus finally explained, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty." Yet, they did not believe. As we commemorate the sacrifice Jesus made for the sins of the world, let us renew our commitment to him, knowing that here there is no miracle more significant than that of salvation; for moving from darkness to light and the hope of eternal life.
This post is an unexpected sequel to "The Church & The Harlot" (03-31-21). God directs Brother Singh's messages by guiding his mind and preaching at the podium.
The church today is emerging from 2000 years of apostasy. While we strive for the pure doctrine of Christ and the apostles, we do not know precisely how the early church was built or functioned. We are wearing "stained garments," presuming they are righteous, but we fool ourselves. We have incorporated many apostate and pagan practices into the church and tend to ignore their origin and appropriateness before God.
Brother Desmond Singh reminds us that the Book of Revelations is a book of symbols. The visions the apostle John received on the isle of Patmos were prophetic glimpses into the future concerning end-time events. Hence in Revelations, we see Christ's church described in Chapter 12 as a virtuous woman clothed with the sun. By contrast, in Chapter 17, we discover a whore described as representing false religion. These are important images for us to interpret, for their meaning has profound implications for our lives.
It is one thing to read Galatians 1:4, "{Jesus} gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world..." Yet, it is quite another reality to comprehend, that we need deliverance ... Although we claim freedom in Christ, most of us remain captives," as Brother Desmond Singh establishes. Self-denial is difficult for us because we are trapped in a world that is Egyptian in its mentality, a world operating contrary to God's principles. To save us, God must save us from what we enjoy doing! We are prisoners of this world, literal captives! Discipleship is designed to "liberate" us from our prisons.
Brother Singh sees the strong possibility of COVID-19 (or its variants) remaining with us for a very long time. He warns that the day may soon come when we will long to hear the word of God preached but be unable to find it. If our Lord warned Ephesus, he could snatch away their candlestick (Revelation 2:5), how could we possibly consider ourselves immune to the same judgment?
There are two aspects to salvation. The first is being saved from our sins; the second is salvation from this present evil world. Everyone can quote John 3:16, yet if this is the only part of salvation we understand, we are missing half of God's plan: "Jesus gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father." (Galatians 1:4) In this message, Brother Singh emphasizes the necessity of sanctifying ourselves from the contaminating influences of the world.
Brother Desmond Singh categorically states, "COVID-19 is a means of chastisement to remind God's people of the reality of serving Him, and the consequences of disobedience." From a personal perspective, this trial has been a period of growth for our pastor, and he is grateful that it has caused him to draw closer to God and seek His will for the Church. Our Lord's goal is "present to himself a glorious church, without having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish" (Ephesians 5:27). He will accomplish that goal with or without the cooperation of our local assembly.
In today's message, Brother Singh focused a glimpse of God—a revelation—that would cause us to reverence Him at all times, especially in His sanctuary. God said through Moses: "Speak unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, and say unto them, Ye shall be holy: for I the LORD your God am holy ... I am the LORD your God." (Leviticus 19:2 & 4)
"You shall ... reverence my sanctuary: I am the LORD." (Leviticus 19:30) It grieves the man of God when we enter the Church building with a boisterous carnal attitude. Naturally, we are happy to see fellow saints, but let us remember we are not meeting in the shopping mall. We come to God's house for a specific reason—that is to honor and worship Him and to receive strength so we can live for Him.
Massive crowds praising Jesus and seeking health and prosperity seem to contradict "the way" taught by Jesus. Yet, people have different interpretations of scripture, and they will follow the vision of their leaders. Nevertheless, holiness is more important than doctrinal agreement. A man whose heart is right before God may be in better standing than one who ascribes to the letter of the law. Brother Singh's goal is to promote a gospel leading to life, not death.
The title of today's lesson reflects three basic tendencies prevalent in the lives of God's people throughout history: Idolatry, nostalgic tradition, and failure to maintain God's "due order." It is in the heart of men to worship, but with that desire come gods of our own choosing.
As the second wave of COVID-19 eases, we anticipate the reestablishment of our regular worship services. Brother Singh contends that if the Church had been functioning to God's satisfaction, He would not have chastised as we were for the past year. Our Pastor will make changes to our worship. The "due order" ( 1 Chronicles 15:13 )will be reestablished. Jesus hates iniquity, thus holiness will be restored to our sanctuary.
Paul, writing to Timothy, instructed the young pastor to remain at Ephesus so that he might "charge {or command} some to teach no other doctrine, nor give heed to fables and endless genealogies (which minister questions, rather than godly edification which strengthens faith)"(1 Timothy 1:3-4). In tonight's lesson, Paul Singh emphasized that theoretic doctrinal error is not nearly as pernicious or deadly as false doctrine concerning lifestyle! Simply put, holiness is more important than the tenets of one's theology.
In this lesson, Brother Singh gave us an overview of his journey from pagan origins to the Body of Christ. Every elect child of God seeks the truth (even though it may not be apparent to us during our journey). We intuitively yearn for something more, but God must lead us to it step by step. The truth is reality! Yet, God must open our spiritual ears and eyes to recognize it (Matthew 13:16). For that reason, Paul cautioned, "Today if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation" (Hebrews 3:15).
A building with a steeple does not make a church. Calling ourselves the Body of Christ does not mean that God recognizes us as such. Like Sardis, we could have a reputation, yet God sees us as dead. If we seek an assembly to model ourselves after, we need to go back to the Book of Acts. We cannot measure ourselves against the standards established by Brother William Sowders but instead to the Church that emerged from the upper room.
In this foundational message, Brother Singh establishes why TRUTH is paramount in the lives of God's elect. The early Church faced many competing ideologies for the hearts and minds of God's people. Jewish fables and Greek philosophy abounded. Interwoven into the culture and traditions of Jewish life, myths, and genealogies pressured Jewish converts to adhere to practices handed down from previous generations. It is almost impossible for 21st Century Christians to understand the grip these influences held, yet we can compare the modern assault on the Church from atheism and gender identity politics. Many false concepts indoctrinate our youth in our schools.
"Deception" is a primary tool of the devil. People naively buy genuine fakes all the time, from Rolex watches to Gucci bags, and Christianity is no exception. When Satan destroys a church, he does not close it down. Instead, he renders the Church impotent so it cannot produce overcomers. Worse, the congregation is blissfully unaware, and we deceive ourselves through hypocrisy, fooling ourselves into be believing we are righteous when we are not! Brother Singh stresses that we fondly quote Revelation 18:4, "Come out of her, my people, ..." presumptuously assumING the warning refers to every denomination, except the "us."
If self-righteousness could save us, from our fallen nature, there would have been no need for Jesus to die.
Brother Singh emphasizes that discipleship requires self-denial. Using Philippians Chapter 3 to encourage fellow-ministers, he minded us that the apostle Paul "flushed" the very status symbols that we covet today! Ignoring the 21st-century customs and norms is not easy. Success in the world demands education, accreditation, titles, and the trappings of material success. To "love not the world" is counter-intuitive! Yet to be genuine followers of Jesus, we are required to go against the grain.
Brother Singh shows us that the illumination of his heart enabled Joshua to have a servant's attitude. Carnal-mindedness caused Aaron to be a people-pleaser. Joshua waited faithfully for Moses at the mountain's base while Aaron caved to a peoples' fickle demands to build and worship a golden calf. There is a discernible difference in the sound of carnal-worship and the sound of Spirit-led worship. (Exodus 32:17-18) Carnal worship is chaotic and frantic (even war-like); spiritual worship is melodic with praise and adoration to God.
Paul instructed the Ephesian church to "be strong in the Lord and the power of his might" (Ephesians 6:10). Hearing the word of God with our ears educates us. It is an intellectual process. Listening with our heart illuminates us. It changes our lifestyle, attitude, behavior, and thought processes. When the "word" resides in our heart, it strengthens the inner man. (See Romans 7:22).
Brother Desmond Singh used parts of Revelation (Chapters 1-3) to demonstrate that Body assemblies have flaws. Of the seven churches listed in Asia Minor, five were rebuked by our Lord. This fact should shock none of us. While we may be vibrant assemblies today, we can slip into apostasy tomorrow. The essential message to Sardis from God was: "I know your works. Although you have a reputation as a lively church, you are dead!" (Revelation 3:1) What a grievous indictment by God! And yet, Mississauga or any other Body assembly may be viewed by God dead despite our reputation, if we fail to meet His standards.
If I hold anything in preeminence to the demands of God, I am involved in idolatry. For this reason, Brother Singh urges us continually to examine ourselves to see if we are in the faith. The worst kind of fool is one who fools himself. Denial of my iniquity will mean nothing when I stand in the Judgment (Matthew 7:21-23). The pastor's role is to cleanse God's children—the devils' role is to pollute that which God has cleansed.
It is not without good cause that Brother Singh holds an uncompromising position against worldly views and practices. The apostle Paul planted a vibrant church at Corinth to have it backslide to damnation under apostate leadership after he departed. God called His chosen people "a sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity ..." (Isaiah 1:4). Despite having been delivered from the bondage of slavery, God's people backslid to the point of desiring the rudiments of their former masters' lifestyle. In plain language, "God asked, "What do you gain by going to Egypt to drink the waters of the Nile? Or what do you gain by going to Assyria to drink the waters of the Euphrates?" (Jeremiah 2:18)
We are not here by accident. God chose the elect with a purpose in mind. Although we were not born righteous and holy, but rather with a fallen, depraved nature, yet it pleased God to choose us to spend eternity with Him. "Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world" (Matthew 25:34).
Brother Singh stresses God's focus is not the lumps in your clay, but instead to remake us from vessels of dishonor into vessels of honor. God's goal is to free us and release us from the problems that hinder us from experiencing abundant life!
Every child of God needs to be sensitive to God's voice. "God speaketh once, yea twice, {indeed multiple times} yet man perceiveth it not." (Job 33:14) God speaks primarily through His anointed ministry. To ignore the man of God is to ignore our Lord. When things go awry in our life, we need to consider if God is applying additional pressure to help us submit to His will.
The Church's purpose is to produce overcomers: both bride members (Revelation 14:3-5) and saints (Revelation 2: 9-10). Satan's purpose is to oppose the work of God. If he can cause the Church to fail in its intended purpose, then he has succeeded. Brother Singh explains that the devil succeeds when he turns an organism into an organization, corrupts God's saints' purity, or dilutes the ministry. If the Church were to fail, Jesus would be unable to establish the kingdom.
Brother Singh encourages us to think outside the limits of our understanding. Using the vastness and unfathomable design of the universe, he explained, we serve a God with a plan beyond human comprehension. He stressed the difference between time and eternity, so we might grasp the reality that God "hath chosen us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love" (Ephesians 1:4).
If we are "elected" individually by God to be in His kingdom, we cannot die the first death until all necessary changes to our Adamic nature have been accomplished. Only then can I say with Paul, "I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God..." (Galatians 2:20). So our purpose—from the moment we accept Christ until we die—is to be transformed into the "likeness" of Jesus. Bear in mind, our earthly ancestors, Adam and Eve, were created in God's image and likeness. (Genesis 1:26) We retain the "image" but not the "likeness" (that is the nature of our Lord, Jesus). Brother Singh has taught us that not only is it God's plan to restore His nature to His elect, but far beyond — to give us immortality.
The source of our information and its validity has never been as important anytime in human history as today! Webs of deception attempt to entangle us; the Internet poses a significant threat to a child of God if misused. It is a tool that we use for good, but we cannot be naive to its potential for evil. Brother Singh warns the Internet ought not to guide the lives of children of God. Let God's word be a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path!
Brother and Sister Singh share their testimonies concerning their ministry in Canada. A man of God cannot function alone. Sister Chandre and daughter Nadine have been integral team players helping to fulfill the calling on Desmond R. Singh's life. May God continue to sustain and lead them, especially during these difficult days marked by the COVID-19 pestilence.
Brother Singh describes our present comprehension of God's plan as that of an observer watching a master artist prepare the background on a canvas. The artist has the eventual image clearly in his perspective, but we incapable of imagining the finished product. So vast and comprehensive is God's eventual plan that we are limited to accepting it in faith. The finite creature cannot grasp infinity. We frustrate ourselves to overcome our sinful, fallen nature, but God already sees us as a finished product, as eventual overcomers.
Collectively speaking, we gravely underestimate our penchant for sin. No one needs to teach a cute little toddler to lie—we have all witnessed it countless times. Our appetite for wickedness is in our fallen nature. And, if this writer grasps any understanding of tonight's lesson, delivered by God through his servant, Brother Singh, it is our need for the Holy Spirit to overcome our carnal nature.
No one has penned more perfect words than Paul to describing the potential we have to overcome our fallen nature: {God the Father}, "hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son, in whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature." (Colossians 1:13-15)
As COVID-19 ravages the world, we see both saints and the ungodly sick and dying. In the face of judgment, let us not jump to CONCLUSIONS! We need to examine ourselves, not our brothers and sisters. James wrote that we are to "count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations {trials and affliictions}..." (See: James 1:2-4). The suffering and death of a saint could be their final step to perfection. That trial is between the individual and God.
Our attitudes as believers matter to God! The essence of the lesson Brother Singh preached today is that our perspectives need to be tempered by Christ's Spirit.
Brother Singh asserts that much of what we know as the New Testament would not exist without Luke's contribution. He wrote not only the gospel bearing his name but the Book of Acts. In Colossians 4:14, Paul refers to him as the beloved physician. The great apostle was often in poor health thus, without Luke, perhaps could not have accomplished his ministry. Of all the New Testament writers, Luke is the only one that recounts what happened on the Day of Pentecost. This omission is startling, for what transpired that day launched Christ's church. It leaves Brother Singh wondering why John, Peter, James, and Jude made no mention of the event.
What would you do if you were God for a day? It is a profound question that Brother Singh asks us to consider. Many of us would eliminate the devil, cancer, and poverty. And God, who is sovereign in all things, could rid the world of every sickness, evil, and sorrow with the snap of his fingers. But He does not! "Who is he that saith, and it cometh to pass when the Lord commandeth it not?" (Lam 3:37)
Because God has determined the outcome of all things from the beginning (Isa. 46:10), nothing catches Him by surprise. Many Americans were shocked by the results of the presidential election, but not God! He has a reason for everything. He is firmly in control. We must trust Him in every circumstance.
The Lord told Jeremiah: "I have this day set thee over the nations and the kingdoms, to root out, and to pull down, and to destroy, and to throw down, to build, and to plant." (v. 10) Brother illustrates this passage as a gardener preparing the soil before planting. Root out the rocks and debris, pull down vines and thistles, break up the clay chunks, and prepare the seedbed. Like the church today, Judah often backslid. They immeshed themselves in paganism, defying the Lord. God rebuked His people frequently sending them into captivity or severely judging them. Before chastising them, Jeremiah was to root out their pagan practices, pull down the altars and heathen idols, and throw down the arrogance of the priests.
Fables, false doctrines, pagan idols, and apostate religion defile us. God's desire is to cleanse us if we seek the Lord and desire Him as our beloved. "By night on my bed, I sought him {Jesus} whom my soul loveth: I sought him, but I found him not." (Song of Solomon 3:1) The problem is that we seek our beloved Lord in all the wrong places. We seek him in education through seminaries and Bible colleges, but "if we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth" (1 John 1:15). We seek him in the broadway, of denominational religion, but "broad is the way that leadeth to destruction" (Mt 7:13). We seek Him in traditions, but our fathers have inherited lies (Jer. 16:19).
This was a different Wednesday night in the Body of Christ. After a ruthless self-examination, Brother Singh shared his failures as a minister and child of God with the congregation. Deeply moved, this writer felt convicted of his ineffectiveness as a witness for Christ. What is our Christian purpose, if not to be a hiding place from the destructive winds of today's morally bankrupt society? Should I not be a safe anchorage for my neighbor who is batter by the storms of life?
It is noteworthy that many Christians today expect to go to heaven when that was not the apostles' expectation. They anticipated the establishment of the Kingdom of God (Acts 1:3). "When they, therefore, were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore the kingdom again to Israel? And he said unto them, "It is not for you to know the times or the seasons..." (Acts 1:6-7).
Heaven is a 20th-century apostate fallacy that developed, only God knows where. Brother Singh states emphatically, "The church cannot afford to fail. It is to provide Jesus with a staff to rule and reign here on earth."
We allude to it each time we pray the Our Father. Yet, it is appalling that so many Christians skeptically react when presented with reality. The Kingdom of God is to be established right here on—terra firma— planet earth. Half-truths, myths, and lies abound in Christian dogmas, thanks to the doctrines of men and devils.
Thankfully, there is a remnant of believers that tenaciously cling to Biblical truth. Refusing to be deceived, they steadfastly walk the narrow way, seeking to enter the strait Gate. (Matthew 7:13)
"The greatest enemy to missions are prejudice and indifference, with spiritual blindness, the mother of them both," Brother Singh states.
Blinded from the truth, people accept fairytales about death, errantly believing that the soul lives on after the body dies. In a poignant, short message, Brother Singh reviews death's reality and offers us the resurrection's hope. Faith is based on Biblical truths, not myths and pagan superstition.
Every man God calls is taken through a unique process to develop him into an effective minister. Men of God must be patient and long-suffering, yet be courageous enough to confront and kill a wolf when it threatens the flock. They must be humble, yet unbendable in the face of rebellion and rejection.
In the final message of 2020, Brother Desmond Singh presents his testimony. He traces his walk with God from childhood to his ministry today. Each step of the journey helped prepare him. A man of God is far more important than a president or prime minister. To know your pastor is to know Christ's ambassador.
It is not coincidental that our Lord has used marriage to illustrate the sanctity and intimacy of His relationship with the church. "Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; that he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word." What was our Lord's goal? "That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. So {too} ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself." (Ephesians 5:24-28)
No husband wants a Don Juan making passes at his wife. Each time we entertain false worship, and pagan customs, we are flirting with Satan—the deceiver and spoiler— giving him access to interfere with our relationship with Christ. Like a promiscuous wife, we jeopardize our marriage vows for the sake of a handful of carnal pleasures. Pastor Singh jealously guards his assembly (and indeed, the whole of God's work). He is "jealous over us with godly jealousy: for he has espoused us to one husband, that he may present us as a chaste virgin to Christ." (2 Corinthians 11:2)
The priests and people of ancient Israel dreaded the arrival of prophets. They only appeared when delivering a strong warning from God or to pronounce judgment. Because rebellion and backslidden habits were commonplace, the prophets were deeply resented.
Brother Desmond Singh takes no pleasure in pointing out our errant and backslidden ways of serving God. By nature, he is soft-hearted, but as a called man of God, he stands as a "brazen wall" against fables and pagan customs that have crept into the body of Christ(Jer. 15:20). He delivers the word of God without apology.
In this practical lesson, brother Singh shows that every believer must make "pro & con" choices to reach their spiritual goals. Paul wrote, "Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove yourselves." (2 Corinthians 13:5) The apostle continued, "Test yourselves. Do you not realize that Jesus Christ is in you? That is unless you fail to meet the test!" (Paraphrased)
Knowing whether or not we are in "the faith" is critical. Brother Singh has warned about following another gospel or another Jesus. In these last days, fake messengers will present choices to us. We will have to decide to follow the truth or a lie. We will have to decide whether to cling to our earthly comfort and security or to trust the promises of Christ. If we are not established and grounded in faith today, we will not make the right choices under duress tomorrow.
We fail to comprehend the love of God. "He hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:” (Eph. 1:4) The transformation required to take us from lost wretches to be holy and blameless must take place in the church; in Christ's church. It is an arduous process.
It is imperative then, that the church be a measured place; not by our standards, but by God's (Revelation 11:1). Since COVID-19 began, Pastor Singh now evaluates every aspect our this assembly's service to God. We used to view the scripture above as some future measurement. Now our Pastor sees it differently. The Bible already discloses God's requirements, but we have allowed human dogmas and traditions to dictate worship patterns contrary to God's ordinances.
There is a reason many of us remain immature in our Christian life. Jesus said, "You did not choose me, but I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce fruit and that your fruit should remain, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he will give you." (John 15:16) The fruit that we are to produce is the fruit of the Spirit: "love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. (Galatians 5:22-23) God calls us to be transformed from the works of the flesh (vs. 19-21) to exhibit the nature of Jesus! Fruit takes time and careful nurturing to grow.
Brother Singh often uses the passage Galatians 1:4 because it is just theory stored in our heads for most of us. Deep down inside, we do not believe God's word. We recite the words, but in reality, our lifestyle does not reflect our conviction. Our faith is too weak to accept unconditionally in God's master plan. So, we cling to a love affair with the world. People become insensitive to their reality! We know what is right, yet continue to do that which is wrong, Brother Singh laments. Sometimes we do no want to know what is right because we prefer to continue in a pet sin or destructive habit.
Spiritually, "The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us, therefore, cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light." (Rom. 13:12). This present age is in gross spiritual darkness, Brother Singh cautions. If we believe we live in "perilous times," we ought to be alert for trumpet warnings. Our enemy is exceptionally sophisticated; therefore, the help of the Holy Spirit through God's anointed ministry.
Pagan concepts embedded themselves into Christianity so deeply most people do not think about their origin. The devil counts on our complacency to enhance his subtlety. That was the genesis of deception in the Garden of Eden.
As long as the world has its idols to worship, it will not repent of its sin, including most of us in the Body of Christ. As long as we have medical insurance, bank accounts, and the internet, we carry on as before. Because we have gone spiritually blind, we do not foresee the destruction of those idols. God's people are overpowered and in awe of the influence of Babylon. Medical science has been a great benefit to us, but our faith must be in God. Seek His healing before running to the doctor.
Brother Singh warns, "Don't find a reason to justify your hypocrisy; find reasons to enjoy the benefits of sanctification."
In this beautiful message, Brother Singh appeals to our hearts' comprehension, not our intellectual understanding. Paul required more than 14 years of isolation to undo what Phariseeism had done to him. We forget that champions of our faith needed transformation. Paul wrote: "... be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind..." (See: Romans 12:1-2).
God brought Brother Singh into this fellowship to minister to the elect. The Lord has given Brother Singh many transforming lessons to preach during the COVID-19 lockdown. He has enlightened the elect and those elders and preachers that are open to His leading. The non-elect hear the words yet remain without comprehension. "For God speaketh once, yea twice, yet man perceiveth it not." (Job 33:14) We cannot change that reality.
If our concept of Jesus is incorrect, our whole spiritual life is flawed, establishing us on a wrong foundation. Metaphorically, Jesus said a house built on sand would be swept away by the flood of trials beating against that house. (Matthew 7:27).
If our understanding of Jesus is flawed, we will follow "ANOTHER GOSPEL" (Galatians 1:6). Jesus said, "Enter ye in at the strait {constricted} gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and FEW there be that find it" (Matthew 7:13-14). The nature of humankind is to desire the benefits of eternal life, but not the qualifications demanded of us. "If ye love me, keep my commandments." (John 14:15)
Brother Singh states categorically, "When you pervert the gospel, it loses its power and impact." The apostle Paul wrote to the churches of Galatia, "I marvel that you are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ." (Galatians 1:6-7)
Like the Corinthian church and so many others, Galatia's churches (Antioch, Derbe, Lystra, and Iconium) had all backslidden from the foundation Paul had established them on. They had not only fallen into apostasy but held the great apostle in contempt.
It is a continuous struggle for Brother Singh to preach the truth in this pagan, corrupt world. We are so polluted with false doctrines that spiritual reality sounds foreign to people's ears! For that reason, Paul stressed that God chose us in Him before the creation of the world, to live holy and blameless before Him in love. (Ephesians 1:4)
Metaphorically speaking, God calls us with a harlot's mentality and transforms our thoughts into the purity of virgins! He calls us from being beggars on a dunghill, to set us among princes! Yet, transformation requires a diet of pure spiritual food. We need detoxication from false doctrines and polluted principles to purify our minds and hearts. Paul feared the corruption of the converts' minds (as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtlety) from the simplicity that is in Christ (2 Cor. 11:3).
A husband must represent Christ as the head of his household. He can neither be a wimp ruled by his wife nor a dogma brute who controls by force. The nature of Jesus was to be firm and resolute in his convictions, yet compassionate and tender in their application. Brother Singh stresses patience. A husband & father must grant the time necessary for his wife and children to submit to his godly authority willingly.
Using the model of a godly husband, Brother Singh relates the principle to leadership in the church. "If a pastor goes spiritually blind, he can only lead a blind congregation," he warns, "and both shall fall in the ditch." (Matthew 15:14) A pastor must be flexible in his administration yet not compromise with evil. Comparing a congregation to a wife, Paul's great concern was"that, as the serpent deceived Eve through his subtlety, the minds of the those in the assembly be led astray from the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ. (2 Corinthians 13:11:3)
Brother Singh urges our assembly and the fellowship to "stop glorying in our denominational traditions! If we resent the term denomination, he points out that it becomes an organization when an organism dies. Imposing a list of 'Does & Don'ts' on a movement extinguishes the organism's life, and it morphs into a denomination.
Brother Singh challenges the Body of Christ to consider what we do that displeases God. Let's repent and turn back from practicing any form of iniquity. Uncalled ministers and elders undermine the work of God. Because the Spirit does not lead them, they turn to education and apostate teachings for inspiration. Christ's church cannot function effectively that way. Paul reminded Timothy that this happened in Ephesus. "Charge some that they teach no other doctrine, neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith." (1 Timothy 1:4)
The pestilence we label as COVID-19 gives us reason to consider what is essential in life and vain. Brother Singh reminds us that no matter how prosperous we are, no matter how popular or accomplished, we all must face death. "They that trust in their wealth, and boast themselves in the multitude of their riches; None of them can by any means redeem his brother, nor give God a ransom for him." (Psalm 49:6-7) Careful preparation for difficult days ahead is wise, but preparation for our soul's destiny ought to be our primary concern.
The "mechanics of religion" are a trap the Body of Christ finds itself caught in. We do all the things required of us yet t without love! Our religious fervor is not producing what it should produce. Like the Body of Christ at Ephesus, the Lord may well accuse us: "I have somewhat against thee because thou hast left thy first love." (Revelation 2:4).
Brother Singh did not seek to be a watchman. God called him to this role. A pastor is a watchman. He needs to foresee the evil approaching and sound the appropriate alarm to warn the people. Our blood is required of him if he fails to perform his duty (Ezekiel 33:6). God forbid that we grow weary of hearing "disaster sirens" delivered through God's ministry. As God judges the nations, He does not expect them to repent but rather His people to do so. The Lord will save those who respond; He will punish those who do not.
Historically, God's children have been wayward. That has not changed through the generations. "Woe to the rebellious children, saith the LORD, that take counsel, but not of me; and that cover with a covering, but not of my spirit, that they may add sin to sin." (Isaiah 30:1)
Death is a reality we all must face. It comes both to the old and the young. It can come swiftly and unexpectedly, or slowly and torturously. Any notion that life continues after death is scripturally errant. The origins of such belief have their roots in paganism. We do a great disservice to families in mourning if we try to comfort them with fantasies about "so-and-so" being in a better place, happy amongst the angels.
Brother Singh points out that the phrase rest "Rest In Peace" is an appropriate quotation for indeed the dead do rest in peace until the resurrection.
Scripture assures us, "we know that all things work together for good for those who love God." (Romans 8:28) That is for the elect, "those who called according to his purpose." ALL THINGS mean both the positives and negatives of life. The pestilence (called COVID-19) works for our good. This statement will make no sense to the non-elect, but a child of God will understand upon hearing it and rejoice in their spirit.
The election of God is beyond human comprehension. Moreover, technically we are never out of God's will, for he knows the path with will take to our destination. God charted our lives in his mind long before our birth. Brother Singh beautifully explains God's salvation plan for the elect of God.
Surprisingly, many Christians fail to see the pestilence racking the world, labeled COVID-19, as God's judgment. It is presumptuous if we believe that judgment is meant only for other people. "For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begins with us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?" (1 Peter 4:17) And if God's people are not responding positively to "present truth" as delivered from our pulpit, is it any wonder some of us are sick and struggling with life?
Brother Singh asks one of those questions that make some squirm uncomfortably: "Why is the world's greatest Christian nation, America, the most devasted by this pestilence?" The answer will surprise many.
Brother Singh assures us that despite being in the midst of hell, breaking loose around him, he is satisfied he receives the living water offered us through Christ, Jesus. (John 4:14) Salvation prompts the Holy Ghost to work in our lives. Salvation separates fantasy from reality. A real salvation experience results in a genuine Holy Ghost baptism. Paul made clear, "if our gospel is hidden, it is hidden to them that are lost, because the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which do not believe." (2 Corinthians 4:3-4) Let us understand; there is a difference between fantasy and reality. There is a difference between faking a Holy Spirit experience and a genuine baptism in the Spirit. Believing in a fable is spiritual blindness; it cannot lead to eternal life.
"Reality" for the elect of God is this: "We have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us." (2 Cor. 4:7)
e have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.
Live-streaming is here to stay for the foreseeable future. How the saints of God participate in this mode of delivery will measure our relationship with God. If we treat online services as being in God's sanctuary and conduct ourselves accordingly, we will personally benefit. Recently Brother Singh stated, "COVID-19 has improved the lives of every elect child of God!"Our attitude during a live-streamed service is all-important. "Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water." (Hebrews 10:22)
The beastly system may provide the technology we use to hold church, but God allows it to test and try our faith. We will face far more difficult trials in the days ahead. Therefore, "let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works. (Hebrews 10: 23-24)
COVID-19 has improved the lives of every elect child of God! Yet, humankind is reeling to and fro in confusion. Brother Singh states, "If your life is depressed and challenged, then you have not listened to me over the past eight months."
God says, "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts." (Isaiah 55:9) For sincere children of God, there is no need to fear. Pastor Singh offers this assurance: We learn to do what God wants by surrendering our will to His. We can learn to develop the mind of Christ by understanding how Jesus thinks, for his thoughts are in line with the Father's." (John 5:19; 6:38)
The Body of Christ at Ephesus survived to be commended in Revelation 2:1-2. The other body churches Paul planted and ministered apostatized. When a man of God moves on or dies, the movement often stagnates, yet religion still flourishes. Traditions and man-made doctrines emerge — when present truth stagnates — denominations form.
Devoid of "present truth," a church loses its life-force, that of the Holy Spirit. An uncalled preacher CANNOT be led "into all truth." (John 16:13) The Body of Christ is a living organism. But without present truth, the Body of Christ is in grave danger of becoming an organization. It happened historically; it still happens today. Brother Singh asserts, "An organism dies to be an organization!"
PREACHING IS INTENDED TO CHANGE HEARTS, NOT TO ENTERTAIN. Paul warned Timothy that perilous times would come in the last days. (2 Tim. 3:1) Little did the great apostle know that the last days would be 2020. We look south with great concern and empathy for America, as the greatest nation on earth. Godly principles seem to have abandoned in the name of political expediency and corporate profits.
Indeed people are "lovers of themselves, money lovers, boasters, arrogant, abusive, and disobedient to their parents. WE are ungrateful, unholy, inhuman, implacable, slanderers, profligates, brutes, haters of good. Treachery abounds. People are reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, holding to the outward form of godliness but denying its power." (2 Tim. 3:2-5)
"TRUTH HAS NO NEED FOR APOLOGIES!" Brother Singh assets. Reality dictates that despite the labor of our spiritual fathers (stretching from Abraham, through Paul to Brother Sowders, then Brother Goodwin and into today), that golden calves still reside in the hearts of God's people. Similarly, many of us hang onto our traditional apostate or pagan beliefs and deep-seated prejudices long after we have come to a knowledge of the truth.
"Don't live in the past. Live your life for today. God bless Brother Sowders, Brother Goodwin, and all the great men who laid the foundation. But you have to live today, facing problems that never existed in Peter's time, or Brother Goodwin's.
We are POWERLESS if we are PRAYERLESS! America has recorded more COVID infections and deaths than any other country in the world. It is not coincidental that America has more Gospel Assembly churches than any other nation! "Why?" Brother Singh asks. He concludes that we have a problem with conversion and discipleship. "We PERFORM RELIGION instead of living for God." Judgment falls because the church has failed! The man of God is blunt. "I see the failure of the church! If you do not see that, I can't help you. Blind people cannot see."
The onus is on God's children to embrace truth and the ministry He has called to preach the gospel. To reject a man called by God is to reject both Christ and the Father! When commissioning the disciples, Jesus said, "He that receiveth whomsoever I send receiveth me; and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me (Matthew 10:40). But there is a caveat, for the reverse is also true. Anyone who rejects Christ's ministry, Jesus warned "it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment." (Matthew 10: 14-15)
A spiritual war rages between light and darkness for the loyalty of God's children. Our heavenly Father offers us "glory and honor and immortality, eternal life, but in exchange for our commitment to patient continuance in well-doing. By contrast, the god of this world offers us instant gratification. Through subtility, he lures us away by placing every tool and convenience at our disposal. These appeal to our base appetites: lust of the eyes, the lust of the flesh, our pride of life." Why pray for healing if you can pop a pill? Why wait on the Lord to provide when a credit card gives it to us today? To overcome and defeat Satan, we need to understand and recognize him in our lives.
Most of us fail to understand the reality and significance of the spiritual warfare we are engaged in daily. The apostle Paul stated, "we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but principalities ... against spiritual wickedness in high places." (Ephesians 6:12) Without a genuine conversion experience, we are "cannon fodder," to use a colloquial term. Let us not confuse holiness with the traditional customs of our religion. To fight a spiritual war, we MUST be spiritual, not carnal.
We can faithfully attend church, pray, and even memorize volumes of scripture, "but without a genuine conversion, a storm will rock your boat, and you will backslide!" Brother Singh emphasized. Conversion involves a transforming of our minds (Romans 12:2). Without transformation, we are nothing more than paper tigers pretending to Christian soldiers.
"O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth..." (Galatians 3:1)
Paul's question is startling. Let us not forget the apostle was writing to Body assemblies! Pastor Singh points out "bewitched" is a term denoting demonic deception. It suggests falling under the spell of an evil force. Knowing the truth and then turning aside is akin to signing our own spiritual death warrant. (Luke 10:12)
The Lord has led Pastor to focus on deception recently. All duplicity (or dissimulation) has its roots in Satan. He deceived Eve through subtility and has continued to undermine the work of God throughout the ages. Today, at the end of the age, deception is rampant!
The Bible describes three distinct bodies: 1) The Body of Moses, 2) The Body of Christ, 3) The body of the beast.
The Body of Moses is known as the church in the wilderness (Acts 7:38), describing Isreal being lead out of Egypt. The Body of Christ is that remnant (Romans 11:5) of faithful followers of Jesus, who strive to walk the narrow way and enter the strait gate that leads to life. (Matthew 7:14) The beast's body is reflected by those seeking a wide gate and broad path approach that leads to destruction (Matthew 7:13). Many choose the easy path, deceived that it is "the way." Jesus also described them as"tares" sown by the enemy while men slept (Matthew 13: 24-26) In this powerful exposition, Pastor Singh looks at deception as a test for the saints of God.
While many divisions and interpretations claim to hold the truth within Christianity, we believe there is one true church on the earth, and it is called the Body of Christ. It is a body consisting of many members with one head, Jesus. We, in Gospel Assembly Church, call ourselves the Body, the burning question is, "Does God recognize us as so?" For that reason, Pastor Singh admonishes that we need to examine ourselves daily. Corinth was once a Body church. So were the churches in Jerusalem, Galatia, and the churches of Asia Minor. All apostatized! A Body church can be faithful today but gone tomorrow! For that reason, Jude urged that we must earnestly, "contend for the faith."
God's purpose for the church is to transform us into the image of His Son. When Jesus ascended to the Father, he gave gifts "unto men!" (Ephesians 4:8). Those gifts are the gifts of ministry given to the church. (Ephesians 4:11) Pastor Singh stresses that many talented and well-educated people presume to be qualified for ministry. Some even "manufacture" gifts, BUT anyone called by God has their "gifts" bestowed by Him. Why? 1. For the perfecting of the saints. 2. For the work of the ministry. 3. For the edifying of the body of Christ. (Ephesians 4:12)
Jesus was never complicated. Pastor Singh asks, "Is there any gift of God the devil has not corrupted?" The answer is no! For that reason, the apostle Paul wrote, "But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtlety, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ." (2 Corinthians 11:13)
Some of us cannot detach ourselves from the love of the world because we need a fresh conversion, Pastor Singh states. "We can attend church in a backslidden state." We substitute the symbols of Christianity for a genuine conversion experience. Israel often found itself laden with iniquity (Isa. 1:4), with religious practices that did not please God. The Body of Christ finds itself in a similar state today. The Body of Christ has fallen from the vision and standards it maintained when Pastor Singh joined the fellowship. The chastening of the church, by COVID-19, causes Brother Singh to reconsider every aspect of service to God: "What I do in the local church; what I do in the fellowship; where I go and what meetings I attend!" All aspects of our dedication to God need examination, both at an individual level and Body level.
Pastor Singh differentiates between first and second-generation Christians. Saved out of the world, first-generation Christians often experience dramatic conversions from a life of sin. Second-generation Christians are their children, who have grown up in the church. They often are presumed to be saved when, in fact, they usually are not. The second-generation also need a personal experience with Christ because they, though raised in a Christian environment, were also "shaped in iniquity; in sin, their parents conceived them." (Ps. 51:5)
"By the time you reach the third-generation, and beyond, we find traditionalism masquerading as salvation," Pastor Singh emphasizes. Traditionalism results in a church full of unconverted people. They act out the mechanics of religion, believing they are saved when they are not. This condition confronted Jesus found when he "came unto his own, but his own received him not." (John 1:11)
In a direct challenge to our assembly, Pastor Singh kicks some proverbial sacred cows. He implores us to examine how and what we substitute for the worship of God. Symbols, such as the cross, give us a false sense of connection with God. Most of the music we love contains false doctrine. Hymns such as "Amazing Grace" draw our focus away from God unto a manifestation of His benevolence. Hence we come to God with carnal minds. No wonder Paul used the phrase God's word is"hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing." (Hebrews 5:11)
The easiest way to destroy the church is from within. Jesus prophesied this would happen in Matthew 13:24: "While men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way." As long as the apostles remained alive, they were able to defend the church against apostasy for the most part.
Deviating from truth undermines the work of God. In this penetrating message, Pastor Singh shows the subtlety of Satan, who needs only to plant one grievous wolf in an assembly to destroy the flock. This is essential listening for pastors, elders, and saints in the Body of Christ.
While God does not need our tithes and offering, what we give to support God's work on earth, reflects the value we place on our salvation. Pastor Singh draws on two extraordinary sacrifices made to God in this insightful message that set the standard by which all offerings are judged. It is important to note a church cannot operate on faith alone. Mortgage payments, utilities, and operating expenses are a reality. God helps his children, but He does not pay our monthly overhead.
Paul's two epistles to the church in Corinth were letters of correction sent to an apostatizing assembly. Paul established the church on the right foundation, yet it quickly became carnal under Apollus's influence. It was a lively assembly, but an undisciplined one. Despite the mechanics of religious activity, the church had taken on a spirit of disorder and emotionalism. The Corinthian church lost the simplicity of Christ, leaving itself open to the beguilement that deceived Eve—thus providing an insightful lesson for the Body of Christ today.
Listeners (with ears to hear) will discern God leading Pastor Singh while at the pulpit. He is an extemporaneous preacher, meaning that he never prepares a sermon beforehand. To those unfamiliar with how the Holy Spirit guides the ministry, this message is quite revealing. September 27, 2020
The church tries to make God fit our timetable. Yet, He will never accept our insolence! Consequently, God must judge both the church and the ungodly world! Since we are incapable, or unwilling, to separate ourselves from worldly attachment, He must destroy all the idols and false gods humankind has placed before him.
Pastor Desmond Singh examines our hypocrisy by projecting "what-if scenarios." What we might do "IF" I were God. Ending war, death, disease, poverty, and eliminating the devil are just some of our vain imaginations. Although he could, God does not operate that way. And we need to conform to his thinking, not man's! September 27, 2020
In his message, Saturday, September 26th, Brother Sigh showed that Christian maturity is earned, not claimed. If we are Christ's, then we are "heirs" according to the promise. But an heir, "as long as he's a child, differs nothing from a servant, though he is lord of all." (Gal. 4:1) In other words, a prince goes through a grueling regime of education, protocol, and military training before crowned as a king.
Many Christians expect to sit on thrones in the kingdom yet are unwilling to learn obedience by the things which Jesus suffered (Hebrews 5:8). They will be sorely disappointed.
We tend to regard the Bible as if it was written for us when it was not. For instance, Hebrews explicitly focused on the Jews; Timothy's letters were personal to him. The epistles to Corinth and Galatia dealt with issues in those particular churches. We can undoubtedly apply concepts of these writings to our lives today. Pastor Singh explains that we extract from scripture what is appropriate for our time and circumstances.
The word "scripture" means writings. God did not inspire everything written in the Bible. A preacher needs to understand the context to avoid misapplying Biblical passages when guiding his congregation today. Proverbs 10:22 is one such quote. God must lead a minister when in using scripture so that his application is correct. Moreover, we need men to be inspired by God to give us "present truth" to save us from this present evil age! September 23, 2020
Salt is a perfect metaphor for an effective Christian witness. We should add flavor to peoples' lives by exhibiting a calm demeanor, sober judgment, wise counsel, and rational thinking. Our family and neighbors ought to be glad to have us around. We need not be preachy or be overtly religious, (that is obnoxious) but instead, display the "fruit of the Spirit." Of course, to show the fruit, we must have the fruit!
Pastor Desmond Singh admonished our Assembly that we are to be salt of Mississauga. People should see something different about us and be glad for our presence. Season your demeanor with grace, for it is a persuasive witness! (September 20, 2020)
Ideally, the man of God would receive specific details when he warns the elect of pending danger or judgment. But, Pastor Singh asserts, "We lack the power of God." Instead, we cling desperately to our foundation and traditions. Some of those traditions are good, while others need abandonment in favor of "fresh manna from heaven." Until the church is measured and power is given to the two witnesses (Rev. 11:3), we must cling to what we have. Nevertheless, we ought to examine ourselves for iniquity. If God has not ordained practices the church uses, it is inequity! Judgment befalls all who committed fornication, with the great whore, and are intoxicated by the wine of her fornication. (Rev. 17) September 13, 2020
The trumpet warnings of Revelation 9 herald more terrible judgments yet to come. Pastor Singh states that COVID-19 is but a mild retribution compared to what soon will follow. However, "the rest of the men who were not killed by these plagues yet repented not..." of their sins. (Rev. 9:20) The trumpets do not remove men's idols. As long as credit and banking, merchandise, and homes lean on, few people will repent.
"In the last days, perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy ..." (2 Timothy 3:1-2). Paul was not describing the conditions in the world, but rather in the church. We, the saints of today, are those who practice a "form of godliness, but deny the power thereof." Are we blind to our plight in these last onerous days?
Pastor Singh challenges us in this poignant message to be realistic in our dedication to God; to examine and acknowledge our hypocrisy. We claim to have the most accurate interpretation of scripture, to worship the Father in truth and spirit, to be the Body of Christ. Yet, the question remains, can we live up to our self-promotion? He stresses that if a church prays more than we do, our righteousness DOES NOT exceed theirs. If our attendance is inferior to theirs, our righteous DOES NOT exceed theirs. If their dedication to God's work exceeds ours, then we shall by no means enter the kingdom of heaven! (September 19, 2020)
For the world, the pandemic has created an unprecedented crisis. Conversely, it has provided opportunities to separate ourselves further from the world and strengthen the elect's faith. Human intelligence and morality cannot save a person from spiritual darkness and death. Education and theology cannot cure spiritual blindness. We need illumination that comes with conversion. "In {Jesus} was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not." (John 1:4-5) In other words, darkness could not overpower or extinguish the light. (September 9. 2020)
Revelation 11 describes a future event, the apostle John saw in a vision. John was told to measure the temple of God {that is the church}; the altar {the sacrifices}; and those that worship therein {the elect children of God}. Christ's Body must meet God's standard, not one by our traditions. God must give His ministry "fresh manna" (a message) relevant to meet the challenges this dispensation faces. Power will be given to His two witnesses to preach for 3-1/2 years. The Holy Spirit must empower the church in the last days, similar to what launched the church in Acts 2. It is still possible to put overcomers into the Bride of Christ, but not in the strength we have today! September 6, 2020
Pastor Singh stated, “When God judges a people or land, He expects that land to respond appropriately according to His demands. If judgment persists, it means the land has not responded.” Using 2 Corinthians 13:5, Pastor Singh reminds us that we are to continually examine ourselves to assess if we are in the faith––in the Body of Christ––especially during periods of judgment, like COVID-19. He then asks us the uncomfortable question: “Are you converted, or merely attending church?” Brother Singh asserts, “There is absolutely no way you can live for God if you are unconverted!” This heartrending message startles us from our complacency to the urgency of the hour. September 5, 2020
Ponder this question: Would Jesus be accepted in our assembly today if he entered unannounced? Would we welcome Jeremiah or Isaiah with their hardline preaching and peculiar notorieties God placed on them as His servants? The Body of Christ thinks it is exceptional in God's eyes, but are we correct? In this sobering message, Brother Singh challenges us to evaluate our religion. He implores us to discover and develop the spirit of Jesus. Let us be authentic Christians, not caricatures of the real thing! September 2, 2020
Pastor Singh demonstrates the criteria God uses for the continuation of His work in this concise and impactful lesson. As Moses drew near the end of his life, one might assume that the mantle of leadership would pass to Aaron or one of the seventy elders in ancient Israel. Discover the qualities Joshua possessed that the others did not. This lesson is essential for every assembly to understand. God's ways are truly higher than the ways of men! December 30, 2018
As Hurricane Laura slammed into Lousiana's coastline, Pastor Singh directed our hearts and minds to the mercy of God. Pleading for the safety of both the elect and the ungodly, Brother Singh reminds us that we all deserve God's judgment. "The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy. He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities." (Psalm 103:8 &10) Our Pastor's heart is sensitive towards those who struggle to overcome their fallen nature. He beautifully contrasts the dual nature of King David: his humanity, and his desire to serve God. Each person struggles with life, yet our God is merciful towards us. August 26, 2020
Pastor Singh states: "I am not worried about how much you know about God, only how able you are to live for Him in this present evil, world." A child of God must be able to differentiate between the world and the church, light, and darkness. We live in the world, but we are not to be part of it. We are to be separate from the religious world, the commercial world, and the political world. Christ's church is to be sanctified by the Father's word, for His word is truth! (John 17:17) God took Israel out of Egypt; the church must remain in spiritual Egypt, yet remain separate from it. God's word sanctifies us from both the world and the evil one. August 23, 2020
The Christian life must be built on reality, not fantasy. Both our doctrines and understanding of our experience must be real. Pastor Singh warns of the dangers of faking a Holy Ghost experience. He states, "Most people in this world serve themselves rather than serve God." The possibility of backsliding lies within every individual and every church. Gullible Christians are easily deceived. Mature Christians, like those at Ephesus, have their spirits exercised so that they were able to try apostles, whether they be of God or not! As we enter the end of the age, we must be able to recognize the difference between the flesh and the Spirit, truth, and deception. (August 22, 2020)
Two essential elements of the early church seem to be lacking in today's church. A) The genuine-baptism of the Holy Ghost in all officeholders' lives. B) The dedicated commitment possessed by deacons, elders, and bishops. Few men today could live up to the standards demanded by the apostles in the early church. We have lowered our standards, but God has not. As we live out the last days at the end of the age, Pastor Singh urges the church to rededicate itself to please our Lord, not ourselves. August 19, 2020
In this lesson, Pastor Singh confronts us with our reality. "The children of God are responsible for the COVID Pandemic that is affecting the whole world!" Quoting 1 Peter 4:17, he shows us that if we were living according to God's law, judgment would not be necessary. Jesus is returning for a church without spot or wrinkle. Yet we allow ourselves to be "spotted," contaminated by the beastly system's enticements and thereby worship the dragon. (Revelation 13:3-4) Pastor Singh has preached holiness and discipleship since he arrived in Canada over 40 years ago. He makes an impassioned plea for repentance, but will we, the children of God, respond or remain complacent? August 16, 2020
Jesus said, "Because iniquity shall abound the love of many will wax cold." Often, the Body of Christ prides itself as the epitome of what God wants His people to be. It is a presumptuous thinking, for iniquity is subtle and can easily creep into our lives. Using Isaiah Chapter 1, Pastor Singh challenges us to examine our methods of worshiping and serving God. Israel had all the mechanics of religion right, but God rejected their practices. This message challenges us to consider if we are pleasing God or ourselves, even allowing pagan and apostate practices to influence us. (August 8, 2020)
Pastor Singh sets an extraordinary example for our assembly. He listens to the word of God continually. His messages captured on his cellphone, continuously feed his mind. It is an example of technology put to good use. "Walking with Jesus" begins early each morning with our thoughts focused on the reality of our Lord's presence. Jesus did nothing outside of the will of the Father. We can emulate that example by following our local pastor's ways, which be in Christ. (1 Corinthians 4:17) Our inherently fallen nature is preoccupied with worldly interests. Unless we deliberately learn to focus on an intimate relationship with our Lord, we will never learn to walk in the Spirit. (August 8, 2020)
Noah's ark delivered Noah, his family, and the animals safely through the flood. Today, it is not water that threatens the family of God, but a tsunami of ungodliness. War is being waged against the saints. The church is the ark of God for these final days during the great tribulation. Yet, the vessel we depend upon to save us submerges with worldliness. We have contaminated our ark and sabotaged our vessel. "If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and heal their land."As judgment falls, Pastor Desmond Singh warns it is not enough to know scripture; we must apply it to our lives and obey it! August 12, 2020
Today, iniquity is more prevalent than truth. Jesus said, "because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold." Pastor Desmond Singh asks, "How do you think the devil undermines your faith? The devil does not drill holes in the foundation of the church to weaken it? No! The devil undermines our faith by encouraging us to cling to roots of bitterness; to dance before our golden calves; to lift a bronze serpent for our healing. "Roots of bitterness" are those personal grudges and prejudices that enslave us. Our golden calves are pagan or apostate idols we overtly or covertly worship in our lives. We look to a "bronze serpent" symbolically each time we cling to something God did once in the past. The devil is the father of all false religion, false doctrines, and all "forms of idolatry." The Body of Christ is not impervious to deception. We must examine ourselves diligently and DO the will of the of our heavenly Father. (Matthew 7:21) February 26, 2020
The scriptures challenge us to become blameless and harmless, children of God without blemish while living in the middle of a crooked and perverse generation, and yet we are to be seen as lights in the world. (Phil. 2:15) Compromise diminishes our witness for Christ, but so too does being arrogant, condescending Christians. Israel was taken physically out of Egypt in one day. Conversely, the church remains in Egypt but yet is to be sanctified. Speaking as a wise father, Pastor Singh counsels us to let our light so shine before men, that the world may see our good works and glorify our Father in heaven. (01-08-20)
We live in an unprecedented period of history when we need to examine everything in light of God's word. Pastor Singh reminds us that COVID-19 did not happen by accident. There is a reason for it. What is a judgment for the ungodly, chastens a child of God! "Once more, I will shake not only the earth but heaven as well ... for the removal of what needs removing ... so that the unshakable may remain.…" (Heb. 12:26-27). Using Job as an example, Pastor Singh demonstrates that all elect children of God will be processed to be purified. An invaluable lesson for every saint enduring suffering. (August 9, 2020)
It is in the church that "the souls of just men are made perfect." But as the COVID pandemic has made assembling of the local churches restricted if not impossible. Modern technology has provided us a means of preaching the gospel through live-streaming. Like all blessings from God, the devil's role is to turn the same technology into a curse. We must resist his snares. In this practical lesson, Pastor Singh instructs us on how to maintain "due order in God's" house. No matter how the Body of Christ meets, we need to be of one mind and one accord. (August 8, 2020)
In this timeless message, Pastor Singh forewarned our Assembly in 2014 that God would have to judge North America based on our declining commitment. His prognostic words now form part of our foundation. Yet we often remain complacent, knowing full well that accomplishing our spiritual goals demands sacrifice. Sin impedes our prayer and dedication. As judgment falls on the world in 2020, some saints fail to recognize chastisement. Many of us deny that we are terminally ill spiritually. We have become spiritual zombies, "having a form of godliness but denying the power thereof." (2014)
Each child of God needs a realistic understanding scripture upon which to build their faith. We "press toward the mark for the prize of God's high calling in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 3:14). That high calling is to be a member of Christ's bride. It is like striving for 100% in a calculus exam, a goal all aspire to achieve, but precious few attain. Using Revelation 14, Pastor Singh shows us the qualifications a bride member must meet. Most of us will not be overcomers. But falling short of perfection is no reason not to strive for it. The resurrection of life (John 5:28) is our ultimate goal. (August 2, 2020)
During times of judgment, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, self-examination is critical. We Christians can be very good at pointing figures at others while ignoring our rebellion and hypocrisy. We have failed to meet God's standards, both collectively and individually. Pastor Singh warns that we cannot claim to be out of spiritual Babylon if we are still sipping the wine of her fornication. "Come out of her my people" (Rev. 18:4) refers to a condition of our hearts! We fail to realize our addiction to the things of the world that God will soon destroy. (August 1, 2020)
It is one thing to know the word of God, but quite another to abide in it. "If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you." (John 15:7) An elect child of God needs to "drink waters out of their own cistern, and running waters out of their own well." (Pr. 5:15) If God has led us to the truth, it is a dangerous thing to resist the ministry. Pastor Singh warns that there is a contrary spirit working in religion that is not the Spirit of Christ. Following other "preachers" for whatever reason, contaminates the mind and erodes our faith. (June 2018)
When a nation is judged, some children of God will respond to chastening and improve their commitment. Others will use it as an opportunity to backslide and leave the church. In the information age, it is hard to decipher truth from misinformation. Never has there been a greater need for the Holy Spirit to inspire the ministry to preach what God desires His people to hear. God's plan for spreading the gospel is different than ours. Jesus taught in parables so that "hearing {some} would hear but not understand, and seeing {some} would see, and shall not perceive." But blessed are your eyes if they see: and your ears, if they hear. (July 29, 2020)
Every man called by God will have his authority challenged. It will not be challenged by the secular world, but rather by the established religious world. The apostle John wrote: "Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits {preachers} whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world." (1 John 4:1) God's people must not be gullible. We are not to be "tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine... " This an essential lesson to absorbed into the heart of every elect child of God. (December 2, 2018)
A genuine Holy Ghost experience leads us into all truth. A preacher can only preach the gospel, but it is God who provides individuals with a revelation. There is no reality more significant than that of understanding the nature and kinship of Jesus. He was "declared to be the Son of God with power... by the resurrection from the dead." (Romans 1:4) In this critical lesson, Pastor Singh shows us from Scripture that a correct understanding of Jesus is essential for every elect child of God, lest we follow another Jesus. (July 26, 2020)
Preachers are plentiful, but God-called ministers are in short supply. Elihu declared, "If there be a messenger (a preacher) with him, an interpreter, one among a thousand, to shew unto man his uprightness." (Job 33:23) Pastor Singh identifies three main preaching styles: Entertaining, educating, and illuminating. Each method has a role in fulfilling God's purpose, but effective preaching ought to illuminate those being saved by pointing to righteousness. (July 25, 2020)
Hearing the word of God is one thing; implementing God's word in our lives is another! In these last days, many voices claim to speak for God. A child of God needs to distinguish an authentic voice in order not to be deceived. The Body of Christ is unique in that each assembly has a message delivered particularly to it. What is delivered to Mississauga, will differ from Des Moines, Vasai, Hartford, or Almont! We share the same foundation, but the particulars of how God's word is applied is exclusive for the local assembly. Pastor Singh stresses the need for following our local pastors. (July 22, 2020)
If we are honest, we will discover that much of what we do in worship is because of tradition. In this message, Pastor Singh challenges us to determine what God wants, rather than what pleases us. God is spirit. He demands that we worship him in spirit and truth. What is the origin of our ways? Could they mimic apostate religion or even pagan practices? Sobering but necessary questions are addressed. (July 19. 2020)
The apostle Paul wrote to Timothy: "And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also." (2 Timothy 2:2). Continuity of the message handed down from the Father, through the Son, and to the anointed ministry is essential. Without strong leadership, the work of God quickly is undermined by fickle tendencies to revert to pagan and apostate practices. A faithful servant of God must eliminate every trace of golden calves and brazen serpents that threaten to undermine faithfulness. (July 18, 2020)
In horticulture, pruning is the removal or reduction of parts of a tree or vine that are not requisite to growth or production. The bible calls spiritual pruning, "purging. " "Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit." (John 15:2) One of the hardest concepts for modern Christians is to understand the need for purging. God uses Pastor Singh to correct our misconceptions about life in Christ. (July 15, 2020)
The apostle Paul started the church at Corinth, but it failed. Apollos founded the church at Ephesus and it succeeded to be commended by Jesus in Revelation 2. WHY? In this remarkable lesson, Pastor Singh teaches us why good churches slide into apostasy and why others endure. Essential realities for every believer today to understand and value. (September 4, 2019)
Using Isaiah 24, Pastor Singh demonstrates the parallels between prophecy uttered 2700 years ago, and what we are witnessing today as the judgment of COVID-19 sweeps the world. "Behold, the LORD makes the earth empty, and makes it waste, and turns it upside down, and scatters abroad the inhabitants thereof." While God has been merciful to our Assembly, have we responded to Him with gratitude and improved dedication? Or, have we been caught up with the chaos and concerns of the ungodly. (July 12, 2020)
Paul wrote instructions to Timothy, "that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in God's house, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth" (1 Timothy 3:15). God's sanctuary is to be reverenced. There is a due order than enables the congregation to milk the most out of each service. Even when listening to messages at home, our conduct ought to please God. (July 11, 2020)
"Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils." (1 Timothy 4:1) Paul's sobering warning speaks of the state of the Christian church today.
Timothy 3 is the third and final installment in this excellent series. The Lord has placed many unique thoughts in Pastor's Singh's mind over the past couple of years. In these last days, he earnestly awaits the Lord to raise "seven thunders" to utter new instructions to God's people (Rev. 10:4), a message the world has never previously heard. (July 8, 2020)
Pastor Singh anticipates an onslaught of persecution against the church before the Bride of Christ is caught up to heaven. Carnal weapons are useless in spiritual warfare. The Bride of Christ consists of overcomers. They overcome all the obstacles that hinder God's work. (1 John 2:16) Yet, all believers are engaged in "spiritual battle." For this reason, we must put on the full armor of God. (Ephesians 6:17)
(May 5, 2020)
Timothy is a perfect case study in discipleship. A disciple follows the doctrines and develops the vision of the teacher. He knows how to adapt the principles and precepts of the master and can apply them effectively to meet the local assembly's needs. Timothy was steadfast, reliable, and trustworthy when taking over any church God planted under Paul's ministry. (July 5, 2020)
Every pastor longs for a disciple who will carry on God's work in the pastor's absence. Paul charged Timothy to "teach no other doctrine, nor give heed to fables and endless genealogies..." We need a realistic faith built of the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the cornerstone. Continuity of the message is essential. A belief that gives sway to myths and fantasies is no faith at all. (July 5, 2020)
In each child of God resides a root of bitterness (Hebrews 12:15). It is residue from our fallen nature that the Lord must expose to perfect us. Moses for instance needed the stubborn rebellion of his people to expose the anger in his heart. Pastor Singh also explains the difference between the wrath of God and the chastening of God in this impactful lesson. (June 28, 2020)
Have you considered what God had in mind for you and me when he allowed the COVID-19 pestilence to ravage our land? Our attitude towards trials and obstacles will determine our spiritual prosperity in the church. It is in the church that we learn to conquer our spiritual giants. If we focus on worldly-advice, we will be overwhelmed by fear or wonder after the beast. A child of God needs their spiritual antenna turned in to Jesus through his anointed ministry. (June 27, 2020)
What was different between Joshua and Aaron? Both served Moses, one as a servant, the other as a priest. At the end of Moses's life, God bypassed Aaron choosing Joshua to carry on Moses's work. The reasons are significant! Pastor Singh gives us essential insight into the spirit of a servant and how God uses it to further His work.
(June 24, 2020)
In a great house {that is the church}, there are not only gold and silver vessels but also those made wood and clay. Some are vessels of honor, while some are vessels of dishonor. (2 Timothy 2:20) On the day of Sister June Goodwin's funeral service in the Des Moines Iowa Assembly, Brother Singh pays tribute to a stalwart saint. He uses the occasion to bring a valuable object lesson.
(Delivered to the saints in Mississauga and those following around the world, June 21st, 2020).
"Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from thy presence, and take not thy holy spirit from me." Using Psalm 51, Pastor Singh teaches us that it is not enough to blot out our transgressions, but we need the root cause of our sin habits eliminated. An essential message for every child of God, progressing along the road to sanctification.
(Preached to the saints in Mississauga and those following internationally, June 20, 2020)
Many Christians believe the Christian life should be happy, healthy, and wealthy. But, did Jesus preach such a gospel? Did Peter or Paul teach a carefree Christian life? No! James wrote: "Brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations {or trials}. Temptation and trials are the hallmarks of genuine Christian conversion. Pastor Singh teaches on the necessity of understanding the trials we face and their purpose in our sanctification process.
(Taught to the saints in Mississauga, and those following internationally, via live streaming during the COVID crisis June 17, 2020)
Sanctification is progressive. It takes time to overcome our fallen human nature, surrender our love of the world, and learn to resist temptation. This reality is beautifully described in 2 Peter 1:4-6. When taught by God's anointed ministry, the lesson motivates our hearts to seek the divine nature offered to us through Christ Jesus.
(Delivered by live-streaming to the saints in Mississauga to those following around the world, June 14, 2020)
What is meant by the apostle's doctrine? (Acts 2:42) Did the early church argue over godhead interpretations, the resurrection of the dead, or immortality, as we often do today? In this penetrating lesson, Pastor Singh, using the epistle to Titus, clearly explains the meaning of the term and how it differs from our misconceptions.
(Live-streamed to the saints in Mississauga, and abroad, June 13, 2020 during the COVID lockdown)
"To everything, there is a season; a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to harvest; A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build-up." (Eccl. 3:1-3) The world is experiencing such a season. The institutions and organizations we counted on are teetering. Civility has given way to anarchy. God warned in Hebrews 12:26, "Yet once more I shake not the earth only, but also heaven." Little could we have imagined, a mere four months after Pastor Singh preached this message, how different our world would be.
(A lesson delivered to the saints in Mississauga Assembly, February 26, 2020)
People often quote Jesus, saying, "the truth shall make you free." Yet, the truth about ourselves is the essential truth we can discover. It is in the church that our lives are examined against scripture under the leading of the Holy Spirit. Pastor Singh concludes this outstanding mini-lesson on the spirit of Jesus. It is a reality check for every child of God.
(Delivered to the saints in GTA Gospel Assembly and those followers around the world, June 8, 2020. "Lead and protect us, O Lord, in these last days.")
When Jesus enters some Pentecostal services today, he might assume he is in a nightclub rather than God's sanctuary. Confronted by disco-style lighting, pounding Christian rock music, flamboyant preaching, people zoned out in ecstatic-trances, our Lord might think he was attending a Stones concert. Does such a scene "worship the Father in spirit and truth?" Has the church inadvertently adopted pagan rituals believing they honor God? In a compelling two-part presentation, Pastor Singh confronts our perceptions of the Holy Spirit and worship. (Delivered to the saints in Mississauga, and followers abroad, via live-streaming on Saturday June 6, 2020, during the COVID lockdown.)
While most of the apostle Paul's epistles were corrective letters written to churches that had backslidden, the Church at Colossae was remarkable. Though not started by Paul, Colossae, built on a proper foundation, functioned as intended. Hence, Paul's exhortation urged the Colossians to continue in a godly lifestyle. Pastor Singh compels us to likewise "walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God." (A Livestream message delivered to the saints at Gospel Assembly, Mississauga, and those listening abroad, during the COVID lockdown.)
The duty of a prophet in ancient Israel was to be a watchman warning God's people of pending judgment (Ezekiel 3:17). Today the role has not changed. A few precious men of God, stand-alone to give warning to God's people and His priests "{My people} are drunken, but not with wine; they stagger, but not with strong drink. For the Lord hath poured out upon you the spirit of deep sleep…" (Isaiah 29:9-10) In this powerful message, Brother Singh sounds a "harsh" wakeup call to our reality and the demands of God.(Podcast May 30, 2020, to the saints in GTA, Gospel Assembly, and those listening from abroad.)
An often-quoted scripture is Proverbs 10:22: "The blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it." Yet, foxes have dens to live in, and birds have nests, but the Son of Man had no place even to lay his head, Matthew's gospel also tells us. What are Christians in the 21st Century to make of these seemingly contradictory statements? Should blessings be thought of in material terms? In this thought-provoking lesson, Pastor Singh shows how Jesus redefined the term "blessings of the Lord."
(Delivered by Pastor Singh to the GTA Assembly on January 5, 2019)
As the world struggles with COVID-19, can there be any doubt that we are near the end of the age? End-time prophecy is being fulfilled daily before our eyes! Never has it been more critical for the children of God to be alert, guarding ourselves against deception. In this brief but poignant message, Pastor Singh explains the parable of the ten virgins (Matthew 25) and the meaning of the statement, "they all slumbered and slept!" (Delivered to the saints at GTA Gospel Assembly, 02-23-2020, at the 40th Anniversary weekend of ministry in Canada)
Much sinister evil exists in the church today, masquerading as righteousness before God. Pastor Singh explains the differences between the early church in the days of the apostles compared to the church today. This is a powerful lesson, essential to every elect child of God. We need to understand the difference between scripture and the word of God. (Preached to the GTA Assembly, January 19, 2020)
Is our soul immortal? What does soul sleep mean? Who is presently in heaven? These are essential questions the elect children of God need to thoroughly understand.
Paul said, “if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain” (1Cor. 15:13-14).
Pastor Singh teaches on the resurrection of dead, the hope of every believer. It is paramount that we thoroughly understand this doctrine.
The Body of Christ today has the Bible and numerous advantages that the early church did not have. Yet, the modern church lacks something essential that the early church had in abundance. Pastor Singh delivers a poignant comparison of the difference between the two churches, now and then.