AOH CHURCH OF GOD

Ac 6:1-7 And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration. 2 Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. 3 Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. 4 But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word. 5 And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch: 6 Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them. 7 And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.

Now we see the church begin to move into the daily functions of operation and a problem arises among them. Note how the Apostles handled it. They were already committed to prayer and administering the Word and were not willing to be distracted from their main assignment. They said look out among you and choose seven men that had the following qualifications: 1. Honest Report; 2. Full of the Holy Ghost; 3. Full of Wisdom; the we may appoint over this business; But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and ministry of the word. Now let's dissect this:

Seven is God's perfect number, so whenever you see the number seven, it represents perfection, maturity, and completion. Although there were over three thousand people in the church, these seven men, with honesty, the Holy Ghost, and wisdom, had the complete package to get the job done.

1. Honest Report: Honesty is the value of speaking truth and creating trust in minds of others. This includes all varieties of communication, both verbal and non-verbal. Some of the terms that describe honesty are integrity, trustworthy, righteous, and truthful. However, in my research I came across a Greek word that means gravity. This suggests that one must be well grounded in the truth.

Lk 8:15 But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.

2 Cor 8:21 Providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.

2 Cor 13:7 Now I pray to God that ye do no evil; not that we should appear approved, but that ye should do that which is honest , though we be as reprobates.

Phil 4:8 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.

1 Peter 2:12 Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.

2. Full of the Holy Ghost: This is the Spirit of God which dwells inside of you. The Greek word Paraclete means your friend. Jesus said it would lead and guide you and bring back to your remembrance the things that he taught. He also said you shall receive power to be witnesses unto him. The word power comes from the Greek word dynamos, which is where we get our English word dynamite. So you will have explosive power when you are full of the Holy Ghost. The word witness comes from the Greek word martys, which is where we get our English word, martyr, which means one who is willing to die for what he believes in. So as you can see, being full of the Holy ghost is more than a dance and a shout.

3. Full of Wisdom: Ability to judge correctly and to follow the best course of action, based on knowledge and understanding. The apostle Paul declared that the message of the cross is foolishness to the Greeks and a stumbling block to the Jews. But to those who believe, said Paul, this "foolishness of God" is "the wisdom of God" (1 Co 1:18-25).

Against the wisdom of God Paul contrasted "the wisdom of this world" (1 Co 1:20; 3:19), "human wisdom" (1 Co 2:4), "the wisdom of men" (1 Co 2:5), "the wisdom of this age" (1 Co 2:6), and "man's wisdom" (1 Co 2:13).

The biblical concept of wisdom, therefore, is quite different from the classical view of wisdom, which sought through philosophy and man's rational thought to determine the mysteries of existence and the universe. The first principle of biblical wisdom is that man should humble himself before God in reverence and worship, obedient to His commands. This idea is found especially in the WISDOM LITERATURE: the books of Job, Psalms, Proverbs, and Ecclesiastes.

In the Old Testament, the best example of a "wise man" is King Solomon (1 Ki 10:4,6-8; 2 Ch 1:7-12). And yet the same book that heaps such lavish, warm, and glowing praise upon Solomon for his reputed wisdom (1 Ki 4:29-34) also points out how Solomon's heart turned away from the Lord (1 Ki 11:1-13).
(from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary, Copyright © 1986, Thomas Nelson Publishers)

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

Ac 5:32-41 And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him. 33 When they heard that, they were cut to the heart, and took counsel to slay them. 34 Then stood there up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the people, and commanded to put the apostles forth a little space; 35 And said unto them, Ye men of Israel, take heed to yourselves what ye intend to do as touching these men. 36 For before these days rose up Theudas, boasting himself to be somebody; to whom a number of men, about four hundred, joined themselves: who was slain; and all, as many as obeyed him, were scattered, and brought to nought. 37 After this man rose up Judas of Galilee in the days of the taxing, and drew away much people after him: he also perished; and all, even as many as obeyed him, were dispersed. 38 And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought: 39 But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God. 40 And to him they agreed: and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. 41 And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.

Are these the same guys who were hiding in the upper room? Is this the same Peter that denied Jesus three times? WOW! What a difference the Holy Ghost makes. They were actually rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His Name. It seems today, most people are ashamed of the name of Jesus. They use terms like heavenly father, eternal God, supreme being, the man upstairs, the good lord, etc, but his name is JESUS! This is what offended the high priest and his council, the name of Jesus. There is power in the name of Jesus. There is salvation in the name of Jesus. There is healing in the name of Jesus. There is deliverance in the name of Jesus. How else can you explain these men, after being told twice and beaten, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for the name of Jesus? How many today would consider it a privilege to suffer shame for the name of Jesus? Prayer has been taken out of the schools and replaced with guns and violence. The ten commandments have been taken out of the courthouse and replaced with corruption. They are trying to take "one nation under God " out of the pledge of allegiance and "in God we trust" off of the money. I received an email yesterday that they are also trying to make it illegal for military chaplains to say in Jesus name in their prayers. The devil is a lie! The word declares in Phil. 2:9-11 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: 10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; 11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. The economy is in a recession. The unemployment is going through the roof. People are losing their jobs. Companies are going out of business. People are losing their homes. There is a deadly "swine flu" epidemic claiming lives now. It's time to come back to God. It's time to repent. It's time to be baptized in Jesus name. It's time to make Jesus your Lord and Savior. It's time to receive the Holy Ghost. The word declares in Acts 2:40-42 And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation. 41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. 42 And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. It's time to stop playing church and get into the church. Jesus said in Matt 16:18-19 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. 19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Keys represent power and authority. You need power which is the Holy Ghost and authority which is in the name of Jesus, to bind poverty, lack, sickness and disease. You need the fire and you need to keep the fire burning!

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

Ac 5:22-32 But when the officers came, and found them not in the prison, they returned, and told, 23 Saying, The prison truly found we shut with all safety, and the keepers standing without before the doors: but when we had opened, we found no man within. 24 Now when the high priest and the captain of the temple and the chief priests heard these things, they doubted of them whereunto this would grow. 25 Then came one and told them, saying, Behold, the men whom ye put in prison are standing in the temple, and teaching the people. 26 Then went the captain with the officers, and brought them without violence: for they feared the people, lest they should have been stoned. 27 And when they had brought them, they set them before the council: and the high priest asked them, 28 Saying, Did not we straightly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us. 29 Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men. 30 The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree. 31 Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins. 32 And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.

First of all that was a miracle in and of itself. The fact that the guards didn't even know that they were no longer in the prison. God transported them from the prison to the temple supernaturally. That should have been enough to convince them that this was a move of God. God can take you from the prison to the palace was demonstrated with Joseph, who went from being in an Egyptian prison to the second in command or the Prince of Egypt in a day. Daniel went from being dinner for the lions in the lion's den to a ruler in Babylon in a day. Although they didn't want to acknowledge that this was God's doing, they knew it was unusual and phenomenal so they were very careful how they handled the matter. They realized that the people were really paying attention and being influenced by and to what the Apostles were saying and doing. However, when they brought them before the rulers, they reprimanded them and reminded them that they had been warned not teach and preach Jesus. But I like the way they responded, "we would rather obey God than man!" That is so powerful! I mean, you need to understand, they are standing before a council of men in great authority. Theses men had the power to have them put to death and yet they did not bite their tongue. They were not at all intimidated or threatened by their power. If we could only have a small portion of this kind of courage, we would be dangerous to the enemy. Their family, friends, neighbors, and co-workers don't even know they are Christians. They are afraid of what people will think, say, or react to knowing that they are saved and filled with the Holy Ghost. It's time for the body of Christ to rise like an island in the sea and let the whole world know that Jesus is God and he is alive and he lives in me! Keep the fire burning!

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

Ac 5:17-21 Then the high priest rose up, and all they that were with him, (which is the sect of the Sadducees,) and were filled with indignation, 18 And laid their hands on the apostles, and put them in the common prison. 19 But the angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought them forth, and said, 20 Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life. 21 And when they heard that, they entered into the temple early in the morning, and taught. But the high priest came, and they that were with him, and called the council together, and all the senate of the children of Israel and sent to the prison to have them brought.

The optimum point is the words of life.

Proverb 18:21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue : and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.

Dt 30:15 See, I have set before thee this day life and good, and death and evil;

Dt 30:19 I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death , blessing and cursing: therefore choose life , that both thou and thy seed may live:

Ro 10:17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

Jn 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

Jn 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

Somebody might have to hold my mule right about now! I really get excited about this! You have to speak the word of God which are the words of life. Now in order to speak the word of God you have to know the word and in order to know the word of God you have to study the word.

Paul said in 2 Tim 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Now this suggests that you can wrongly divide the word, so you need to spend quality time studying the word. You can't just rely on what you learned in Sunday School or Vacation Bible School 20 or 30 years ago. You can't go by something you thought you heard somebody say one day. You can't rely on cliches and old wives tales. You need to study the word for yourself. This may require you to get some bible study helps, i.e., books, cd's, dvd's, etc. Enroll in a Bible College. Invest in your education of the word. These are words of life.

Heb 4:12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

The word of God is alive and powerful! There is a reason the bible is the number one selling book in the world. It's Alive. It's Life! Many best sellers come and go, but the word never gets stale and old. It is always fresh and new. That is because it is the word(s) of God and God is alive.

Ac 17:28 For in him we live, and move, and have our being ; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.

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Acts 5:11-16 And great fear came upon all the church, and upon as many as heard these things. 12 And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought among the people; (and they were all with one accord in Solomon's porch. 13 And of the rest durst no man join himself to them: but the people magnified them. 14 And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women. 15 Insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that at the least the shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow some of them. 16 There came also a multitude out of the cities round about unto Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed every one.

2 Timothy 1:7 says, For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. However, based on what had just taken place, this was actually a good thing for them to be in fear of what could possibly happen to them if they did not reverence and respect the power of God's Spirit or the Holy Ghost. The Holy Ghost is nothing to play with, yet so many people do just that. It's a good thing that we are LIVING UNDER GRACE AND NO THE LAW. Yet and still we should not take God for granted. The word declares that after this, many signs and wonders were manifested through the apostles. The people gained great faith and began to bring all of their sick to them to be healed. You need to get a visual of what took place. They brought people and just lined them up in the streets. They had so much faith that they believed folk could be healed just by the shadows of the apostles. In other words, they didn't even have to be anointed with oil. They didn't have to have hands laid on them. But just to have the shadow cast on them. WOW! That's what I'm talking about. We need that kind of fire burning again!

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

Ac 5:1-12 But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession, 2 And kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it at the apostles' feet. 3 But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land? 4 Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God. 5 And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and gave up the ghost: and great fear came on all them that heard these things. 6 And the young men arose, wound him up, and carried him out, and buried him. 7 And it was about the space of three hours after, when his wife, not knowing what was done, came in. 8 And Peter answered unto her, Tell me whether ye sold the land for so much? And she said, Yea, for so much. 9 Then Peter said unto her, How is it that ye have agreed together to tempt the Spirit of the Lord? behold, the feet of them which have buried thy husband are at the door, and shall carry thee out. 10 Then fell she down straightway at his feet, and yielded up the ghost: and the young men came in, and found her dead, and, carrying her forth, buried her by her husband. 11 And great fear came upon all the church, and upon as many as heard these things. 12 And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought among the people; (and they were all with one accord in Solomon's porch.

It's unfortunate that this couple was more concerned about impressing man rather than God. This is and has always been a problem in the world and the church. When God sent Samuel to Jesse's House to anoint the next king of Israel He said in 1 Samuel 16:7 But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart. We should be more concerned about pleasing God rather than man. We should have a personal relationship with God and not just a religious experience. The Holy Ghost is the Spirit of God dwelling within us. It is God Himself because you cannot separate Him from His Spirit. If you have His Spirit you have Him. Jesus told his disciples in John 7:37-39 In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. 38 He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. 39(But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.) You see, as long as Jesus was with them in the flesh, they had no need for the Spirit of God because they had Emanuel, which means God with us. They had God incarnate which is God wrapped up in the flesh. But once Jesus went back to his throne in glory he sent the Holy Ghost or the Spirit of God. John 14:25-26 These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you. 26 But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost , whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. Of course Acts 2:1-4 records that great out pouring of the Holy Spirit. There is no need to pretend, because you can have that same experience. Let's stop pretending and have that Holy Ghost infilling experience and keep the fire burning.

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

Acts 4:31-37 And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness. 32 And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common. 33 And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all. 34 Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold, 35 And laid them down at the apostles' feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need. 36 And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus, 37 Having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles' feet.

It is quite evident that there is power in the Holy Ghost. Can you imagine everybody selling all of their houses, land, and possessions and bringing the money to their Pastor? I know what you are thinking. This can't mean that literally. That's exactly what it means. This is not the first time this happened. According to Acts 2:41-47 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. 42 And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. 43 And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. 44 And all that believed were together, and had all things common; 45 And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. 46 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, 47 Praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved. We need another infilling of the Holy Ghost. There should be no lack among us. Every need should be met. We should have all things in common. There should be unity and strength in the Body of Christ. Let's keep the fire burning!

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

Ac 4:13-5 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus. 14 And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it. 15 But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they conferred among themselves, 16 Saying, What shall we do to these men? for that indeed a notable miracle hath been done by them is manifest to all them that dwell in Jerusalem; and we cannot deny it. 17 But that it spread no further among the people, let us straitly threaten them, that they speak henceforth to no man in this name. 18 And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus. 19 But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. 20 For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard. 21 So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding nothing how they might punish them, because of the people: for all men glorified God for that which was done. 22 For the man was above forty years old, on whom this miracle of healing was shewed. 23 And being let go, they went to their own company, and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said unto them. 24 And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said, Lord, thou art God, which hast made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is: 25 Who by the mouth of thy servant David hast said, Why did the heathen rage, and the people imagine vain things? 26 The kings of the earth stood up, and the rulers were gathered together against the Lord, and against his Christ. 27 For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel, were gathered together, 28 For to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done. 29 And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word, 30 By stretching forth thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus.

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

They brought Peter and John before the rulers, elders, and magistrates who asked them by what authority had they healed this impotent man. Acts 4:5-7 And it came to pass on the morrow, that their rulers, and elders, and scribes, 6 And Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the kindred of the high priest, were gathered together at Jerusalem. 7 And when they had set them in the midst, they asked, By what power, or by what name, have ye done this?

Peter said by the NAME OF JESUS CHRIST. There is power in the name of Jesus. Acts 4:8-12 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel, 9 If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole; 10 Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole. 11 This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. 12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

The word of God declares Phil 2:9-11 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: 10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; 11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

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Peter took the opportunity to inform the crowd that witnessed this miracle that this was done by the power of the Holy Ghost and in the NAME OF JESUS That same Jesus that they had delivered to Pontius Pilot to crucify. That same Jesus that they had rejected. In Acts 3:16 he said, And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all. However in the next verse he says they, as well as the rulers, did it out of ignorance. That this very thing that the prophets had predicted, that Christ would suffer, was fulfilled. Now repent of your sins. He further stated that you are the children of Abraham that God established covenant and promised that through his seed, all nations of the earth would be blessed.

Now note that not everybody was excited about what had taken place. According to Acts 4:1-4 And as they spake unto the people, the priests, and the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees, came upon them, 2 Being grieved that they taught the people, and preached through Jesus the resurrection from the dead. 3 And they laid hands on them, and put them in hold unto the next day: for it was now eventide. 4 Howbeit many of them which heard the word believed; and the number of the men was about five thousand. Did you see that? About five thousand men believed. That is incredible! The fire was still burning and it was getting even hotter! Whenever you can get men excited about Jesus, you really have something special. The Psalmist Declares:

Ps 107:8 Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!

Ps 107:15 Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!

Ps 107:21 Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!

Ps 107:31 Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!

LETS KEEP THE FIRE BURNING!

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

It was the great outpouring of the Holy Ghost during Pentecost that lit the fire of the early church and we need that same fire today. Three thousand souls were added to the church and the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved. In Acts 3 we see the Apostles begin to use the NAME OF JESUS. As they were going into the temple to pray there was a cripple begging at the gate. They said, Look on us and the man fastened his eyes upon them expecting something. Because they had just left Pentecost, they said silver and gold have I none but such as I have, give I to thee. In the NAME OF JESUS CHRIST rise up and walk. They took him by the arms and immediately he gained strength in his legs and ankles and walked. The man actually leaped into the Temple and all the people saw him and knew it was the same man that had been cripple and begging at the gate. When the people began to praise peter and John for the miracle, they took this opportunity to witness to them that this was done by God in the NAME OF JESUS! As you can see, this is exactly what Jesus said in Acts 1:8, that you shall receive power after the Holy Ghost has come upon you to be witnesses unto him. The BAPTISM IN Jesus NAME is for the remission of your sins. The NAME OF JESUS gives you authority. The Holy Ghost gives you power to witness. In Mk 16:17-18 Jesus said
And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents ; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. Let's keep the fire burning!

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

Why the baptism in Jesus name and not the father, son and holy ghost? I'm glad you asked. In Matthew 28:19-20 Jesus said, Go ye therefore into all nations and baptize them in the NAME of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Ghost. Father is not a name. Son is not a name. Holy Ghost is not a name. These are all titles. For example, I am a father but that is not my name. I am a son but that is not my name. I am a husband but that is not my name. Now the first time this commandment was carried out was in Acts 2:38. Peter said, repent and be baptized in the NAME of Jesus Christ for the remission of sin, and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For it is promised unto you... The next time we see this being carried out was in Acts 19:1-7, when Paul came through the upper coast to Ephesus and finding some of John's disciples. He asked them had they received the Holy Ghost since they believed. They said they had not heard whether there be any Holy ghost. He then asked unto what then were you baptized? They said unto John's baptism. Paul said John baptized unto repentance, saying unto the people they should believe on him that should come after him, that is, on Jesus Christ. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied. Acts 4:12 declares, Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name given under heaven among men whereby we must be saved.

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

The AOH Church of God is one of the oldest Apostolic organizations in the world today. It was founded by the late Bishop W.T. Phillips in Mobile, AL in 1916. The Apostolic doctrine is the actual teachings of the original twelve Apostles. They taught exactly what Jesus taught. They taught that Jesus was not only the son of God, but he was God in the flesh. John 1:1 declares that in the beginning was the word and the word was with God and the word was God. John 1:14 says the word was made flesh and dwelt among us and we beheld his glory, the glory of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. This is clearly saying that Jesus was the word which became flesh. Therefore Jesus was there from the beginning. They taught that according to John 3:1-16, you must be born again in order to see the Kingdom of God, and you must be born of the water and spirit in order to enter into the Kingdom. Water means you must be baptized in the water. The spirit means you must be baptized in the Holy Spirit. In Acts 1:8 Jesus told the disciples to stay in Jerusalem until they were endowed with power from on high. After that the Holy Ghost is come upon you, you shall receive power to be witnesses unto me. In Acts 2:1-4 the Holy Ghost was poured out and they spoke in other tongues as the Spirit gave utterance. Some thought they were drunk with new wine, but in Acts 2:14-36 Peter declared, they are not drunk as you suppose, but this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel that in the last days I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh. Sons and daughters shall prophesy. Young men shall see visions and old men shall dream dreams. In Acts 2:37-41 the people asked what must we do? Peter said, repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord God shall call. They that gladly received the word were baptized and filled with the Holy Ghost and three thousand souls was added to the church. Acts 2:42-44 says they continued steadfastly in the Apostles' doctrine and the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

Leadership Conference
March 11-13 2009
Mobile, AL

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

Annual Women's Convention
August 27, 2008 - August 29, 2009 at 7pm
Morning Sessions 10 am Night Sessions 7 pm
Phillips Temple A.O.H. Church of God
2257 St. Stephens Road
Mobile, AL 36617

Hotel Information:

Wingate Inn *
516 Springhill Plaza Court
Mobile, AL 36608
(251) 441- 1975

* Single $89.00 and Double $99.00
* Reservations are under A.O.H. Church of God National Women's Convention

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

The National Sunday School Convention.
President Elder William McKinney, Vice- Bro. Benjamin Hyman.
August 6-8, 2009
Morning Sessions 10 am NIght Sessions 7 pm
Rice Temple AOH Church of God
Montgomery, Alabama

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

The Young People's Love Joy Band National Convention will convene July 9-11 at the

Faith Tabernacle AOH Church Of God
3501 MacDonald Ave.
Richmond, CA 94805

Bishop George W. Ayers, Host Pastor
International/National Presiding Prelate

The theme for the convention this year is,
"Rekindling The Fire" 2 Tim. 1:5-7

Min. G.LaBron Smith,
National YPLJ Band President

Hotel Information for the National Youth Convention. These are the Hotels we are using: Courtyard Marriott, Holiday Inn Express, and Extended Stay. It is very important that we utilize these hotels because they help with securing better rates when we go to other cities. Ask for the AOH Church of God Youth Convention rate.

Courtyard Marriott room rates are as follows: Doubles $99.00 plus tax per night (King or Double).
The Deadline : June 9.
Phone Number : (800)-321-2211. Remember to ask for the AOH Church of God National Youth Convention.

Holiday Inn Express room rates are as follows: $84 plus tax per night (Single) and $99 plus tax per night (Double). Hot Buffet Breakfast with Continental Items.
The Deadline : June 9.
Phone number : (510)965-1900. Remember to ask for AOH Church of God.

Extended Stay room rates are as follows: $84 plus tax per night (Single); $101 plus tax per night (Double).
The Deadline: June 9
Phone Number: Please call Elder Walter Moore to reserve at this hotel. 415-244-0759

For More Information call Elder Reginald Davis (251) 753-7131

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

AOH National Conventions

The 93rd Annual Pentecost will convene June 1-10, 2008 at the Phillips Temple AOH Church of God, in Mobile, Alabama.

Monday, June 1st - All services will be held at Phillips Temple, 10:00am and 7:00pm worship services.

Motorcade, Monday June 1st - 9:30am at Phillips Temple AOH Church, everyone is asked to wear white on this day.

Annual AOH Bible Institute Alumni Breakfast-will be held on Friday, June 5th from 8am-10am in the Phillip's Temple Fellowship Hall. Tickets $15 per person.

AOH Bible Institute Commencement will be held on Friday, June 5th from 12pm to 2pm in the Phillip's Temple Sanctuary.

Annual Bishop W.T. Phillips Luncheon- will be held on Saturday, June 6th from 2-4pm.

** ANNUAL ADDRESS **
Bishop George W. Ayers
International/National Presiding Prelate
Sunday, June 7th,
Sunday School at 9:30am and the 11:00am Worship service will be held at the University of South Alabama Mitchell Center, 5918 Old Shell Road, Mobile, Alabama - 7:00pm evening service will be held at Phillips Temple

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

AOH Ministerial Conventions & Councils



South Alabama Ministerial Council - TBA
Bishop George W. Ayers, Diocesan

District 5- State of Alabama
District 20- State of Alabama
District 2- State of Alabama
District 6- State of Alabama
District 18- State of Alabama
District 23- State of Alabama


Western Ministerial Council - TBA
Bishop George W. Ayers, Diocesan

District 14- State of California
District 15- State of California
District 26- State of Washington
District 37- State of Colorado

Ohio Ministerial Council - TBA
Bishop John Mathews, Diocesan

District 9- State of Ohio


Eastern Ministerial Council - TBA
Bishop Horace Johnson, Diocesan

District 10- State of Connecticut, State of New York
District 24- State of Pennsylvania, State of Maryland

Georgia-Florida Ministerial Council - TBA
Bishop Larnie White Sr., Diocesan

District 7- State of Florida
District 16A- State of Georgia
District 16B- State of Georgia
District 25- State of Florida


Mississippi , Louisiana, Texas Ministerial Council - TBA
Bishop Jonathan Tate Sr., Diocesan

District 13- State of Texas
District 17- State of Mississippi
District 19- State of Mississippi

North-Central Alabama, Tennessee, South Carolina Ministerial Council - TBA
Bishop Horace Johnson, Diocesan

District 1- State of Alabama
District 3- State of Tennessee
District 4- State of Alabama
District 22- State of Alabama
District 28- State of Alabama
District 29- State of Alabama
District 30- State of South Carolina
District 32- State of Tennessee
District 33 - State of South Carolina
District 34- State of Alabama
District 35- State of Alabama


Northern and North-Central Ministerial Council - TBA
Bishop Phillip L. Wright, Diocesan

Districts 8- State of Illinois, State of Wisconsin
District 11- State of Michigan
District 12- State of Kentucky
District 21- State of Indiana, State of West Virginia

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

National Youth Ministry

Young Peoples Love Joy Band

Our Mission

Our mission is to inspire and guide Young People in discovering the reality of Christian faith and their God-Ordained destiny through biblical teaching. To build fellowship and unity among them that will facilitate and encourage Spiritual Growth. To provide a platform, for which they may exercise their God-given gift and talent to the Glory of Jesus Christ.

Our Conference

The goal of the National Youth Convention is to inspire youth and young adults through workshops, seminars, creative artistic expressions and biblical teachings to incorporate Christian principles into their life as a standard of living.


National Youth Ministry Officials
2007-2008


Bishop Horace M. Johnson, Jr
Executive Director


Minister G. LaBron Smith
Youth Ministry President


is. LaTanja Ayers-Davis
Youth Ministry Vice-President


Sis. Kelsi R. Walters
Youth Ministry Secretary


Min. Nerissa Salter
Youth Ministry Financial Secretary


Sis. Jacqueline D. Wright
Northeastern Youth Advisor


Min. Arinda R. Phillips
Western Youth Advisor


Min. Timothy Daniel
Southern Youth Advisor

Min. Kevin Williams
Western Youth Advisor

History and Founder of the Y.P.L.J. Band


The Late Mother Millie Allen Washington
Founder of the Y.P.L.J. Band

During the month of July in 1920, a very young lady, Millie Lee Allen looked around and saw that the few young people in the church were idle, and pondered in her heart that there must be something we can do to get them more actively involved. With this thought in mind, she conversed with her pastor, known at the time as “Bro. Willie” ( later to become the founder of the A.O.H. Church of God, Bishop William Thomas Phillips), that the young people desired to have their own little band.

At the age of 17, Millie (known as Mother Millie Washington, the wife of Bishop David Washington, who was our second consecrated bishop) began to work diligently with the A.O.H. Church youth ministry. Mother Washington stated in a personal interview, “My plans were to have classes to teach the youth.” Therefore, Millie Lee called Viola King, Mable Williams, and Mary Brown together and organized the Young Peoples Love Joy Band. The meeting was held in a borrowed church in the area of Mobile , Alabama , which was called Texas Hill. Viola King was elected president and Millie Lee taught the first lesson- Ephesians 5:1.

As the church grew, so did the Y.P.L.J. Band. Its growth was so rapid Bishop Phillips deemed it necessary to nationalize the auxiliary. Thus, the National Youth Convention was organized and convened annually at a designated A.O.H. Church .

We thank our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for giving Mother Washington this vision. For her works still stand today. The Y.P.L.J. Band exists in all our churches in the United States and abroad. We now have Y.P.L.J. Band books and lessons pertaining to the youth.





“A Seed sown years ago, has become a great Palm”
OUR HERITAGE



1963

1st National Youth Convention
Mt. Zion AOH Church ~ Dayton, Ohio

Youth Convention Mass Choir


Youth Convention Praise Service

1966

4th National Youth Convention

Greater Gospel Temple AOH Church ~ Cleveland, Ohio


Youth Convention Mass Choir


Sunday Morning Congregation

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

National Sunday School Ministry

OUR SCHOOLS



Every Church, no matter how large or small, wants an effective Sunday Church School. In order to reach this goal, the local church must put forth every effort that is needed to promote and encourage Church Education. The Sunday School is the primary force that carries out the spiritual education program of the church as set forth by the pastor, deacons, and trustees of the local church.

Many factors are essential to build an effective Sunday School. One primary factor is the appointment of a dedicated and qualified Superintendent. When selecting a Superintendent the person should be strong mentally, physically, and spiritually because of the influence he/she will have on the spiritual development of the school staff and students. The Sunday School is the “Church at Study”.

The Superintendent has a major responsibility in the selection of spiritual educators and providing training for them to support the edification of the church body.

With an effective Superintendent and teaching staff the local church aids in developing the spiritual growth of the members. The church should emphasize the importance of attending Sunday School for the growth and edification of the church body.



National Sunday School Officials
2007-2008


Bishop Larnie White, Sr.
Executive Director


Elder William McKinney
National Superintendent

Bro. Benjamin Hyman
National Assistant Superintendent

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

National Public Relations

National Public Relations Officials
2007-2008


Bishop John Matthews
Executive Director


Elder Reginald Davis
National President


Overseer Joseph Turnes
National Vive President

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

National Publication Ministry

“Publishing the Greatness of Jesus Name”






Mission Statement

The mission of the National Publication Ministry is to direct the National Publishing House for the Apostolic Overcoming Holy Church of God Inc., whereby this church would become Good Stewards, Self-Sufficient, & Cost Effective in its’ efforts to communicate effectively its’ history, message, business, outreach and itinerary to the church and community at large.








Visionaries for Publication


The Late Bishop William T. Phillips


The Late Bishop Gabriel Crutcher

Publication Ministry Officials
2007-2008


Bishop Phillip L. Wright
Executive Director


Elder Stephen Scudder
Publication Ministry President


Minister Timothy Daniel
Publication Ministry Vice President


Sis. LaTanja Ayers-Davis
Publication Ministry Secretary


Publishing House 1965


“Little Giant” #6 Letterpress


Multilith


Collator and Folder


The Ludlow type-setter


The 10x15 Chandler &
Price Automatic Press

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

National Music Ministry


“Sing unto the LORD, O ye saints of his, and give thanks at the
remembrance of his holiness.”
Psalms 30:4

Our Mission
To train singers and musicians in the ministry of Music, to create an atmosphere for God to inhabit through Praise and Worship


National Music Ministry Officials
2007-2008


Bishop George W. Ayers
Executive Director


Min G. Labron Smith
Music Ministry President


A.O.H. Church Musicians

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

National Mother's Ministry

“The aged women likewise, that they be in behavior as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things;

That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children,

To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.”Titus 2:3-4


Bishop George W. Ayers
Executive Director


Elder Verley Ayers
National Mother


Mother Dorothy Matthews
National Vice President

OUR HERITAGE


Our First National Mother
The Late Mother
Viola Phillips


The Late Mother
Millie Washington


Mother Malinda Roby

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

National Missionary Ministry

And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.

St. Luke 14:23

OUR MISSION

Is to render an instructive program devising plans and programs by which the state and district missionary may work; to prepare and send out workers into homes and foreign fields to set up new work in order to spread the doctrine of Jesus Christ.


OUR CREED

We are persuaded by the blessed Bible by daily reading, meditation and communion with my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to live an upright, saintly life, to dedicate my time and talent, influence and means of teaching to spreading the doctrine of this church at home and abroad; to win souls through personal service to humanity; to help enlighten young people at home and abroad; and make my home a center of Christian life and love.

National Officials

2007-2008


Bishop George W. Ayers
Executive Director


Elder Earnestine Crutcher
National Missionary President


The Late Rev.
Josephine Sheriff


The Late Rev.
Betty Moorer


The Late Sis.
Sadie Lancaster


The Late Rev. Cammie Stratton


The Late Rev.
Lena Nolan


The Late Rev. Celesta Ervin


The Late Rev.
Ruth Bryant


The Late Rev.
O.M. Lewis


The Late Rev.
Virginia Johnson


The Late Rev.
J.M. Sommerville


The Late Overseer Azell Cooley
Foreign Missionary