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The Gospel for the Philippines, Turlock, CA (2026)

10/31/2023

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10/29/2023

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02/20/2022

"I Can't Get No Satisfaction"

Jesus answered and said to her, "Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again, 14 but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. . ." (John 4:13-14).

We’re always looking for something. Our attention spans are short. We want immediate gratification, the easy way out. This makes us easy prey for those who seek power and control.

Politicians offer seemingly easy answers, and we fall for it. TV commercials advertise their products, and the advertisers rake in millions. They appeal to our human desires of comfort, entertainment, s*x, power, prestige, and wealth. Even Churches have gotten into the act offering a feel-good answer of comfort without discomfort. Yet, their answers give no lasting comfort or relief. One is left hungering for the next promise for a better life. I chased these “promises” and never found the promised answer. They are all a mirage.

I found an answer and it’s not from this world. It’s my Savior Jesus. “But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” And I found Him. It is Jesus. I grew up in the church, but what I experienced was more “this is what we do, and you should too.” The world offered me something seemingly real, a mirage I believed. For too long I kept chasing that mirage, and it only led me to despair.

I finally found what I was looking for and it is real. A Relationship with Jesus. I found that living water. I found that Bread of Life. I found that friend that is closer than a brother. And it’s not just the gift of salvation. No, it’s more than that.

It’s knowing He feels my pain, my insecurities. He heals me. It’s knowing he always provides. He gave me a wife. He gave me a mentor and best friend, a confidante just when I needed one. He has given me Godly friends, ironically mostly ministers who see what I see! He has given me a work that allows me to use my abilities to give Jesus the glory. I am truly blessed. It’s true, I can’t get no satisfaction in this world. You won’t either.

Hymn: “My Jesus, I love thee”

Father God, Words can never express the love I have for you. I thank You for healing my pain, my scars, and my grief. Thank You for the gift of salvation, of companionship, and of friendship. Help me to share what I have learned from You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Steven Prine, Turlock, CA

01/29/2022

“I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” (Gal 2:20).

”I am, I said, to no one there, and no one heard at all, not even the chair. I am, I cried. I am, said I. And I am lost, and I can't even say why. Leavin' me lonely still.”(words by Neil Diamond).
These words resonated with me as a young man in his teenage years and they still do. I struggled with self esteem early in life. God didn’t seem real to me and the noise of the world confused me. On one hand the world shouts out “you are wonderful! Stand up, be proud, be yourself!” On the other hand the world shouts at the same time,” You are but dust in the wind. You are nothing. Don’t you dare stand up and be yourself, you must be PC!” Talk about mixed messages! Is it any wonder why this world is in such a mess? Murder rates soaring, drug abuse, abortions on demand, alcoholism, mental illness, the list goes on and on!
But there’s an answer. “Did you ever read about a frog who dreamed of being a king
and then became one? Well, except for the names and a few other changes, if you talk about me, the story's the same one. But I got an emptiness deep inside, and I've tried but it won't let me go. and I'm not a man who likes to swear, but I've never cared for the sound of being alone.” (Words by Neil Diamond).
I was that frog. And it is Jesus who made me a prince, figuratively of course. My value is because of Him, not me. Jesus didn’t make junk! Since Jesus made me, I’m not junk!
Jesus’ message isn’t mixed. I Am He said, and still does! I am worthy, I am important, I am loved, I am cared for! Jesus’ message is clear, I am love, we are loved! It’s past time that we stand up and live up to His message. Jesus’ food was to do Gods’ will. When we eat the food Jesus ate, we can say I am I said.
Song “Jesus loves Me”
Father, thank you for loving me. Thank you for placing such marvelous value on me. My strength, my value, my worth is all through You. Help me be strong and always glory in your love. In Jesus name, Amen
Steven Prine, Turlock, CA

01/14/2022

Fools
“For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God” (1 Cor 1:18).

“God assumed from the beginning that the wise of the world would view Christians as fools, and He has not been disappointed. If I have brought any message today, it is this: Have the courage to have your wisdom regarded as stupidity. Be fools for Christ. And have the courage to suffer the contempt of the sophisticated world” (Antonin Scalia, 2012).

A friend once told me he cannot understand why intelligent people believe in God. “Steven, you amaze me. How can you possibly believe in God! It makes no sense to me.” I responded, “It amazes me how anyone can logically not believe in God!”

Unfortunately, this attitude is becoming prevalent in America. In sitcoms on TV, Christians are routinely mocked and ridiculed. Newspapers and news media constantly portray Christians as narrow minded, racists, bigots, s*xist, and foolish.

Atheists and politicians point to science as their God ignoring the One who established the rules for science in the first place. “The fool has said in his heart, "There is no God." They are corrupt, They have done abominable works. . .” (Ps 14:1). Sounds an awful lot like our politicians today!

Do not fear! Stand up! Jesus told us in Matthew 10 we would be hated on account of Him! They persecuted Jesus; do you really believe they will not persecute us? Of course, they will! But all is not lost! “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Rom 8:31).

The writer of Hebrews reminds us believers were tortured, mocked, stoned, cut in half, imprisoned, were destitute, and tormented! God tells us in Heb. 11:38 “of whom the world was not worthy.”

We have a Savior, and His name is Jesus. He conquered death and lives today! The world has no such leader or savior. The world only offers the illusion of power, control, and fame. And it is short lived and uncertain. What the world builds up it loves to bring down.

We have a Savior who has adopted us as sons. He heals all pain. He is loyal to a fault and His love is limitless and sure. He is always there, He never fails.

Be a fool for Jesus!

Song “My Hope is Built On Nothing Less”

Father, what an honor it is to be a fool in the eyes of the world. Give me strength to stand up for You, to stand up strong in the face of adversity. Help me be counted with the heroes in Hebrews 11. In Jesus name, Amen.

Steven Prine, Turlock, CA

11/25/2020

Untying a Knot
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things.. . Matthew 6:34
Life takes many strange and unexpected turns in our life, some for the best and some for the worst. When life takes a turn for the best, we rejoice, life seems easy, a joy. God desires that for His children. But what happens when life takes a turn for the worst? One loses their job, illness, a life- threatening injury, death of a family member, physically or relationship wise. Does one sink into despair, one’s stomach tied into knots?
Satan’s good at tightening knots, screwing that screw tighter and tighter. We blame ourselves for situations we have no control over; “If I had only raised my children differently”, “I should have done this”, “Where did I go wrong!” We see our children showing no respect for their parents. We blame ourselves and make excuses for them. The knot gets tighter and tighter. We try to change them, give in to their demands, nothing works! One may attempt to give in to unreasonable demands, and we only end up with resentment! The knots get tighter. Then one decides to just stop the relationship, and that doesn’t work either! We then focus on what happens if . . ..! Stop! Stop tying knots!
God wants us to experience peace and joy. But that only comes when one trusts in Him completely! When children are grown adults, they are still to honor their parents. That is the only command God has given to children. It doesn’t matter if the parents deserve respect, and many parents don’t, children are to respect their parents. Think about it; How many good fathers are in the old testament. Not many! David? Samuel? Jacob? Hardly! And when they don’t, there’s a curse.
We must learn to let God handle our worries. We can’t fix or change others. Stop trying. Let God handle it.
God wants His children to know peace and serenity. It is only when we surrender to God and place our trust in Him completely that we will know His peace. “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest (Matt 11:28).”
Let God help untie the knot.
Song: All to Jesus I Surrender
Father, I can’t fix the problems in life. I am inept and not strong enough. Help me trust in you completely, You are the great Physician, In Jesus name, Amen.
Steven Prine, Turlock,

11/14/2020

Evidence for convicting?
He who is not with Me is against Me,….. (Matt 12:30)
Jimmy Carter once said his favorite saying was from a sermon he had heard was there enough evidence of Christ in you that if put on trial, you would be convicted? I wonder about that when I look at America. In polls/questionaires, many people call themselves Christians. Whether they are or not, God knows and will decide.
Christian has come to be known as different things to different people. It’s a term loosely used. But not so with God. Jesus says if you love me, you will keep my commands(John 14:15). A command is not an opinion nor is it a preference, option or a request.
Jesus died for His church, He resurrected for His church, not for everyone, but for those who believe (Romans 1:16). Everyone has an opportunity to become a christian, in Gods’ terms. Sadly, for too many, it’s a burden many either take lightly or outright reject.
A good friend often says “Our actions tattletale on our beliefs”. One professes to be a christian, yet on Sundays is on the golf course or football game. When Christians gather for entertainment ,they instead fellowship with those who aren’t Christians.
God created the bond of marriage between a man and a woman, yet some wearing the name Christian say live and let live, it’s fine. Others wearing the name of Christ when on the cause of abortion, claim it’s a womans’ body, her choice. Others claiming to be disciples, use Gods’ or Jesus’ name in vain and think nothing of it.
Others so focus on their wallet, and personal beliefs, then go publicly vote for a party that in their platform not only support, but promotes actions that directly violate what God has said. It is call sin. An attempt to call it by a different name, spin, alternative lifestyle, addiction, etc does not change what God calls sin. I am no judge, our actions will be between God and the individual. I hope my/your actions speak loudly on our beliefs. Our actions aren’t always good, but hopefully they are consistent. Jesus’ was consistent, and we must strive for consistency as well. It’s not easy. Will the evidence of Christ convict you?
Song “Rock of Ages”
Father, life isn’t easy. Too often we lose sight of faith and our actions convict us. Please forgive us and give us courage, In Jesus name, Amen
Steven Prine, Turlock,CA ([email protected])

07/04/2020

Virtue: Moral Excellence

"Add To Your Faith, Virtue" (1 Pet. 1:5a KJV).

"...but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior..." (I Peter 1:15).

I once read about an individual who had traveled to interview for a position with a large business firm. The man had an impeccable resume, strong references, and solid experience in the field. During the interview, the man and the potential employer went for lunch at a local cafeteria. While in line, the job applicant hid a pat of butter under a slice of bread to avoid having to pay. After witnessing this behavior, the employer passed on hiring him. One pat of butter proved to be quite expensive.

The man in the story lost out because he lacked integrity. Stealing a pat of butter may not seem like much, but from an employer's standpoint, it indicated a behavior that could possibly be costly to the firm in the long run. Peter, in 2 Peter 1:5 - 7, lists virtue as an attribute of the fruit of the Spirit. Believers validate faith by adhering to high moral standards. Notice in the queue of words that virtue comes immediately after faith. I believe this to be intentional, as it would be difficult for a believer to be credible if his or her morals are askew.

I've never been one to "toot my own horn," but I recently experienced a personal situation that demonstrated the importance of virtue. I learned that an older lady in my town had requested that I deliver the eulogy at her funeral. When I asked why, one of her children said, "She believes you to be genuine in what you do." It warmed my heart, but it also reminded me that we live in a world of fruit inspectors. People notice what believers do.

When people see me, I want them to see ripening fruit and an image of Jesus.

Sing: "Let the Beauty of Jesus Be Seen in Me"

Pray: Father, may I always live a righteous and virtuous life - one that presents an image of Jesus. I give thanks for all of the blessings I have received. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Kenny Westmoreland, Celina, TN (

07/04/2020

Add Knowledge

Text: "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge; because you have rejected knowledge, I reject you from being a priest to me. And since you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children" (Hosea 4:6 ESV).

In a section of his writing, often referred to as "Confirm Your Calling and Election," Peter writes, "For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge" (II Pet. 1:5). A little later he writes, "But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (II Pet. 3:18).

It is imperative that we understand: 1) the value and the type of knowledge in which we must grow and 2) the danger of not growing.

In the early days of the church there were people who were referred to as Gnostics. Their goal was to obtain knowledge, any knowledge. Once knowledge was attained, whatever the topic, it was combined. They would declare themselves "the inventors of any sort of opinion which they may have been able to call into existence" (Against Heresies, I, 28, 1). Paul wrote to Timothy, instructing him to "guard the deposit entrusted to you. Avoid the irreverent babble and contradictions of what is falsely called knowledge, for by professing it some have swerved from the faith. Grace be with you" (I Tim. 6:20-21).

Peter is more specific. He exhorts us to grow in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. God has a special knowledge in mind and this sets a precedent for the value of any knowledge gained.

In addition to gaining the proper knowledge, we must then apply that knowledge. Our lesson text speaks of two grave errors relative to knowledge. One is a rejection of knowledge. The other is forgetting it, resulting in a failure to apply it.

Peter says, "For whoever lacks these qualities is so nearsighted that he is blind, having forgotten that he was cleansed from his former sins" (II Pet.1:9).

If we grow in grace and faith, adding the things mentioned by Peter, including the proper knowledge, he assures us, "that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption" (II Pet. 1:4).

Friends, don't be destroyed for lack of knowledge, rather grow in grace and knowledge which leads to eternal life in heaven.

Hymn: "The Precious Book Divine"

Prayer: Eternal God and Father, may we make every effort to supplement our faith to Your glory and to our salvation. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Roy Allen Crutcher, Mount Carmel, IL

07/04/2020

Add Perseverance To Your Self-Control

". . . and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness" (2 Pet. 1:6).

Peter certainly knew a lot about self-control, or should I say the lack of it! He almost cut off the head of the Priest's servant at Jesus' arrest! He caved in to the Jewish Christians from Jerusalem at Antioch and refused to eat with the Gentile Christians in their presence. And how can we forget his denial of Christ, not only once, but three times?

Shall we be less forgiving than our Lord who, foreseeing this fall, showed confidence that Peter would come around, repent, and become the great apostle Jesus knew he would become?

Tradition puts Peter in Rome under Nero's reign, and that he was captured and crucified. His request was granted that he be crucified head down because he felt unworthy to be crucified as was his Lord. His request was granted according to this tradition.

The two letters from Peter are biographical in the sense that we can learn a lot about someone from their writings. Peter was esteemed as a man, a Christian and as an apostle for what he was, despite his past foibles.

He persevered to the very end. I'm sure He often recalled Jesus' words, "The one who endures to the end will be saved" (Mt. 24:13). Peter was faithful "unto" death (Rev. 2:10), which means even if it means our death.

Perseverance is a quality built on self-control. Our emotions have a powerful effect upon our actions, or decisions, or responses. Self-control reels in emotions that tend to blind us to God's reality. The fruit of self-control is perseverance. Other translations broaden our perception of his amazing word: patience, endurance, steadfastness.

Like Peter, from time to time we fall off the tracks, we, like a poor trained hunting dog, chase our tail. And at times, worse than all that, we fall on our faces, break our noses! Plainly stated, we fail our Lord, and we fail ourselves. But like Peter, let's get up, brush off our pants, and get back in the game! Get back in the battle, fight like a warrior!

Persevere!!

Hymn: "Soldiers of Christ Arise"

Holy Father keep us from those distractions that take us away from Your purposes. Help us to see things as they are, and not as the world sees things. May we see Your presence in our lives. Open our eyes so that we may see Your marvelous plan unfolding in front of us. Empower us to be faithful in the best of times and in the worst of times. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Rob Redden, Arroyo Grande, CA

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