Dear Ones:
The “Ribbon-Cutting” ceremony opening the new mission building was impressive and God-honoring. The crowd was almost overwhelming, especially trying to maneuver through the vastness of this 50,000 sq. ft. facility. The craftsmanship and beauty of the building itself is incredibly flawless. I liken it to the construction of the O.T. tabernacle by Bezaleel and company, “in whom the LORD put wisdom and understanding to know how to work all manner of work for the service of the sanctuary…” Moses’ tabernacle was erected on New Year’s Day and then “filled with the glory of God” (cf. Ex.40:17f). Likewise, our new chapel was blessed with some of that same “glory” in our first service. Hopefully, this is a “preview of coming attractions.”
Next month we’ll celebrate the Incarnation of Christ when “the Word became flesh and dwelt (lit. tabernacled) among us, and we beheld His glory…” (Jno. 1:14) He (Jesus) was called Emmanuel, “God with us;” but since Pentecost He indwells the body (tabernacle) of every true believer, and is now “God in us.” (1Cor. 3:16) Hallelujah! This fact is the antidote in facing the utter corruption and demonic strongholds of this insane world. Only through God’s Word and the Spirit’s filling can we maintain our spiritual sanity and fruitfulness. We are called in this hour to demonstrate the reality of “Victory in Jesus!” It’s too soon to quit!
While we labor here, let’s focus on the “blessed hope and glorious appearing” of our Savior -- “Who shall change our vile (mortal) body that it may be fashioned like unto His glorious body…” (cf. Phil. 3:21) Think of it! When the battle is over here, we will inherit a “new body (tabernacle) in the Sky! We shall be “like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.” PTL!
This is the experience of my dear friend and fellow-servant, Bob Doom, who was just promoted to Glory. Some of you remember this gifted preacher and missionary pastor. His ministry will be sorely missed. I’m “losing” my colleagues one by one, but thankfully God is still raising up young men to faithfully proclaim His eternal Word!
Your prayerful support is so much appreciated. I seem busier than ever, and do battle some fatigue. I’m learning to “stop” and “chill” when necessary. My new book on “Pentecost” (link to website below) is gaining some traction; I’m praying that its vital message will get into the hands and hearts of God’s people. These are critical days, as you know; the “woke” mentality has now seeped into the church; and “as the church goes, so goes the world.” Let the church “wake up” and enter the fight for Truth while we still have a semblance of freedom!
I wish you a “Happy (Belated) Thanksgiving!” May you continue to “count your many blessings, name them one by one; and it will surprise you what the Lord has done.” Amen.
My love and blessing to each of you,
Bill Finnigan
1 Thess. 5:16-18