Kingdom of God: Yesterday - Forever
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Only members of the Kingdom of God have hope of inheriting eternal life.  That is, of spending the time between death of the mortal body and the resurrection in the bosom of Abraham, being resurrected in the first resurrection, and inheriting the earth in the celestial glory for eternity.  Discovering whether the kingdom exists and what is required to become a member should demand our utmost attention.

  Joseph Smith wrote, “All men know that they must die. And it is important that we should understand the reasons and causes of our exposure to the vicissitudes of life and of death, and the designs and purposes of God in our coming into the world, our sufferings here, and our departure hence. What is the object of our coming into existence, then dying and falling away, to be here no more? It is but reasonable to suppose that God would reveal something in reference to the matter, and it is a subject we ought to study more than any other. We ought to study it day and night, for the world is ignorant in reference to their true condition and relation. If we have any claim on our Heavenly Father for anything, it is for knowledge on this important subject. Could we read and comprehend all that has been written from the days of Adam, on the relation of man to God and the angels in a future state, we should know very little about it. Reading the experience of others, or the revelation given to them, can never give us a comprehensive view of our condition and true relation to God. Knowledge of these things can only be obtained by experience through the ordinances of God set forth for that purpose.

  “We are only capable of comprehending that certain things exist, which we may acquire by certain fixed principles. If men would acquire salvation, they have got to be subject, before they leave this world, to certain rules and principles, which were fixed by an unalterable decree before the world was.

The disappointment of hopes and expectations at the resurrection would be indescribably dreadful.” (History of the Church, Vol. 6, p. 50)

The kingdom is organized with laws, officers, and one gate into the kingdom—the gospel. “16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.” ( Rom. 1) The first principles of the gospel are faith, repentance, baptism of water, baptism of the Spirit, and the holy Eucharist.  “13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: 14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” (Matt. 7) Only a person holding the Melchisedec Priesthood is authorized by God to administer the saving ordinances of the gospel.  “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.” (Matt. 16)

KINGDOM: ADAM TO MALACHI
KINGDOM: DAYS OF JESUS
KINGDOM: TO THE SPIRITS IN PRISON
 KINGDOM: AFTER JESUS
KINGDOM: IN THE LATTER DAYS
KINGDOM: TODAY
 KINGDOM TO COME

 KINGDOM: ADAM TO MALACHI

Jesus told us, “33 Seek ye first the kingdom of God , and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matt. 6)  The kingdom of God exists on the earth any time there is one remaining that holds the Melchisedec Priesthood.  Adam was a Prophet and Lawgiver which is the highest office of the Melchisedec Priesthood.  We know this because he taught the same law of God which Moses later restored.  After the fall, the people soon divided into the sons of God (saints) and the sons and daughters of men.  The kingdom remained on the earth with those sons of God that held the Melchisedec Priesthood.  Noah was also a Prophet and Lawgiver. By 1656 years after the fall of Adam and Eve, Methuselah died, and only Noah and his family of eight were left loyal to the kingdom of God and holding the Melchisedec Priesthood.   Josephus tells us that in Adam’s prophecies he told “That the world was to be destroyed at one time by the force of fire, and at another time by the violence and quantity of water.” The later has been fulfilled that the former soon will.
    And so the people of the world were completely destroyed by the great flood; except for Noah and his family of eight.  The Melchisedec Priesthood and the kingdom continued after the flood under the leadership of Noah for 350 years when the leadership passed to other sons of God to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Thirty years after Jacob journeyed into Egypt , to join his son Joseph and after his death; the Israelites were taken captive and turned into slaves.  They remained in captivity for 400 years.  During this time the Melchisedec Priesthood and the kingdom of God was lost among the Israelites.  Then God called Moses as a Prophet and Lawgiver and delivered the Israelites out of Egypt . He returned to them the laws that had been given to Adam; but they rebelled and were placed under an added temporal law until Jesus.  The Prophets, Judges, and Kings all held the Melchisedec Priesthood; but, the people were ruled by the added law.  The kingdom of God continued under Prophets until about 400 years before Jesus with the last Prophet, Malachi.

KINGDOM: DAYS OF JESUS

  There are only two orders of the priesthood noted in the Bible.  The Melchisedec Priesthood is the higher and was instituted on the earth with Adam.  The lower Aaronic/Levitical Priesthood was instituted by God under Moses.  Jesus went to John the Baptist for baptism of water because John held authority from God as a Priest of the Levitical Priesthood to baptize with water; but, not with the Spirit.  “11 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire.” (Matt. 3)  After this baptism of water, Jesus spent forty days in the wilderness and was tempted of Satan.  “11 Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.” (Matt. 4)

What did the angels administer to Him?  Jesus was ordained and restored the higher Melchisedec Priesthood by ordination of the Father; which priesthood holds authority from God to baptize with the Spirit and administer the other saving ordinances of the gospel.  “4 And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron. 5 So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an high priest; but he [the Father] that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee. 10 Called of God an high priest after the order of Melchisedec.” (Heb. 5) “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.” (Matt. 16)

Jesus was ordained to the highest office of the Melchisedec Priesthood: Apostle, Prophet, and Lawgiver the same as Adam, Noah, Moses and others before Him.  Thus He held all of the lower offices, including that of High Priest.  No one holds authority from God to preach the gospel or administer its saving ordinances without being called by the spirit of prophecy and being ordained by one holding at least as high an office.  “22 Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection.” (Acts 1)  “14 Neglect not the gift [of the Melchisedec Priesthood] that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.” (1 Tim. 4)  “22 For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you. 23 And it shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people.” (Acts 3)  “18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed [ordained] me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.” (Luke 4)

After His ordination to the Melchisedec Priesthood, “17 From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand [or among you].” (Matt. 4) Jesus then organized the kingdom on earth with all of the officers of the Melchisedec Priesthood; as none can enter the kingdom of God without the administration of one of these officers.  “11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists [high priests]; and some, pastors [elders] and teachers; 12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.” (Eph. 4) No one could claim that we have “all come in the unity of the faith.”

Jesus told us, “13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: 14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” (Matt. 7)  That straight gate is faith, repentance and the ordinances of the gospel including baptism of water and the spirit, and the holy Eucharist. “5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God .” (John 3)  “53 Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you.” (John 6)

Eusebius Pamphilus, bishop of Caesarea in Palestine, one of the noted fathers of the church, who flourished in the fourth century, wrote a whole chapter in his “Ecclesiastical History,” to prove that the gospel of Christ was no new thing; but was preached, not only in the days of Abraham, but long before his day.  This is undoubted authority; for Eusebius had a good opportunity to become acquainted with the history of this most important doctrine.

The fullness of the gospel includes both the word of the gospel and the power of the gospel which is the priesthood called of God and empowered to act in His name.  “5 For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake.” (1 Thess. 1)  Every country/kingdom has officers to administer the affairs of that country/kingdom.  No one can become a legal citizen without following the naturalization process of that country/kingdom.  This is no different than the kingdom of God .  Only those holding the Melchisedec Priesthood are called and empowered by God to administer all the saving ordinances of the gospel.  When the Melchisedec Priesthood is lost the gate into the kingdom is also lost.  Men retain this priesthood only through obedience to the law of God.  He will not keep in office those who disobey Him.

Anytime God makes the kingdom available to man through the calling and ordination of a person to the Melchisedec Priesthood it is called a dispensation.  There are individual, minor, and major dispensations. Every ordination to the holy priesthood is an individual dispensation.   John the Baptist opened a minor dispensation to prepare the way for Jesus.  Jesus opened the major Dispensation of the Meridian of Time.  This was a closed dispensation.  The Apostles were forbidden to take the gospel to the Gentiles.  It was open only to the Jews.

  KINGDOM: TO THE SPIRITS IN PRISON

  After His death, Jesus opened a dispensation of the gospel to the spirits in prison (inappropriately called hell).  “18 For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh [the mortal body was dead], but quickened by the Spirit [His spirit is eternal]: 19 By which also he went [in the spirit] and preached unto the spirits in prison.” (1 Pet. 3)

The gate into the kingdom (gospel) was opened to the spirits in prison who either did not hear the gospel in mortal life, or were deceived by the craftiness of men.  Those who do not repent of their evil deeds and change their behavior to live by the laws of God cannot enter the kingdom. “6 For for this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.” (1 Pet. 4)  The honorable men of the earth who accept the gospel in the spirit can be baptized for the dead, be forgiven of their minor sins, and enter the kingdom of God through baptism for the dead.  “29 Else what shall they do which are baptized for the dead, if the dead rise not at all?  why are they then baptized for the dead?” (1 Cor. 15)  Here is a principle of the gospel that has been entirely lost to sectarian Christianity.

Jesus was rejected by the Jews; and through their persistence had Jesus crucified.  He spent three days preaching the gospel to the spirits in prison.  Then, since there was no sin found in Him, the Father raised Him from the grave with an immortal physical body, gave Him all power including power over our resurrection, and sits on the right hand of the Father.  “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.” (Acts 4) “18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.” (Matt. 28) “18 I am he that liveth [from the beginning of this creation], and was dead [spent three days in hell]; and, behold, I am alive for evermore [as a resurrected Savior], Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.” (Rev. 1)  “3 Who [Jesus] being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high... 9 Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows. 10 And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of thine hands: 11 They shall perish; but thou remainest; and they all shall wax old as doth a garment; 12 And as a vesture shalt thou fold them up, and they shall be changed: but thou art the same, and thy years shall not fail. 13 But to which of the angels said he [the Father] at any time, Sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool? 14 Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?” (Heb. 1)

  KINGDOM: AFTER JESUS

  At the death of Jesus, the first phase of the Dispensation of the Meridian of Time was closed.  The major dispensation to the spirits in prison will continue until the second resurrection.  After Jesus resurrection, through Peter, He opened the second phase:  a dispensation to the Gentiles.  “16 He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me?  He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee.  He saith unto him, Feed my sheep.” (John 21)  To the remaining eleven Apostles He said, “19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” (Matt. 28) But, the Gentiles also rejected the gospel.  “7 For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way.” (2 Thess. 2)

It is not known how long the kingdom and the Melchisedec Priesthood continued after John.  John, the last of the Apostles, is believed to have died in Ephesus in 99 AD.   Eusebius alludes to High Priests remaining for a couple generations.  Many of the Arians fled to Ireland and may have retained the office of elder for some time.  The gospel and Melchisedec Priesthood were to be taken from the earth for 1,260 years.  “5 And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months [1,260 years]. 6 And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven. 7 And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations.” (Rev. 13; see also Rev. 12:6, 14)  The Prophet Amos saw this time as did other Prophets of God.  “11 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: 12 And they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the LORD, and shall not find it.” (Amos 8) “19 O LORD, my strength, and my fortress, and my refuge in the day of affliction, the Gentiles shall come unto thee from the ends of the earth, and shall say, Surely our fathers have inherited lies, vanity, and things wherein there is no profit. 20 Shall a man make gods unto himself, and they are no gods?” (Jer. 16)

In 325 AD the unbaptized, pagan Roman Emperor, Constantine , reorganized the Christian church according to the pagan doctrines which he believed.  He was a loyal follower of the sun god.  He changed the identity of God to the Trinitarian sun god of paganism and made Christianity polytheistic rather than the monotheistic system that existed with all the Prophets of God.  “9 Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and there is none else; I am God, and there is none like me.” (Isa. 46)  The ancient pagan symbol for the Trinity was the cross; which Constantine made the official symbol of the Catholic Church.  He turned God into a Trinitarian non-entity. He turned Jesus into a demigod like those in Greece and Rome .  Jesus was not born of an adulterous relationship with one of His creatures by a ghost. He was of the seed of Abraham, the tribe of Judah , and house of David through his father Joseph. “17 Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. 18 For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted.” (Heb. 2) Jesus was tempted of Satan.  “13 Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man.” (James 1) He changed the Sabbath to “the venerable day of the sun.”  The Sabbath was given as a perpetual covenant after the creation.  “16 Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the sabbath, to observe the sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant.  17 It is a sign between me and the children of Israel for ever: for in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed.” (Ex. 31) In 570 AD the Bishop of Rome thought to stand as God on earth and head of the entire Christian faith.  No one was to enter the kingdom of God for 1,260 years.

  KINGDOM: IN THE LATTER DAYS

  Then the Dispensation of the Fullness of Time was to be opened to the Gentiles.  “6 And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people.” (Rev. 14)  On April 6, 1830, exactly 1,260 years after the first Bishop thought to stand at the head of the Christian church, Joseph Smith, having been ordained under the hands of angels to the same Prophetic office as Moses and Jesus, organized the Church of Christ with all of the same officers as the kingdom was organized by Jesus.  The prophecies were fulfilled.  The church later became known as The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.  The kingdom of God was once again on the earth.  It has been estimated that there were about 200,000 latter day saints under Joseph; but, this estimate is most likely high.

The kingdom of God and Church of the Firstborn exists on the earth anytime at least one officer of the Melchisedec Priesthood remains on the earth.  The Church of Christ can exist only when a Prophet has been called of God to stand at the head.

The Gentiles, like those in the former days, refused to live according to the laws of God that were given to them.  God had given four revelations through Joseph that in the event Joseph was to be taken that Joseph would appoint “another” in his stead.  “4 But verily, verily, I say unto you, that none else shall be appointed unto this gift except it be through him; for if it be taken from him he shall not have power except to appoint another in his stead. 5 And this shall be a law unto you, that ye receive not the teachings of any that shall come before you as revelations or commandments; 6 And this I give unto you that you may not be deceived, that you may know they are not of me. 7 For verily I say unto you, that he that is ordained of me shall come in at the gate and be ordained as I have told you before, to teach those revelations which you have received and shall receive through him whom I have appointed.” (D&C 43)

On June 18th, Joseph received his last revelation in a vision and was told that James J. Strang was to lead the flock.  That same evening he dictated a Letter of Appointment to James J. Strang in Burlington , Wisconsin .  It was mailed by regular course of mail in Nauvoo the following day.  On June 27, 1844 , while supposedly under the protective custody of the Governor of Illinois, Joseph was shot and murdered by a mob. The same hour that Joseph was murdered, James (400 miles away) claimed to have been ordained under the hands of angel(s) to the Prophetic Office; as Joseph’s successor.  James received the Letter of Appointment on July 9, 1856 , by regular course of mail.  James was the ONLY person to claim both a direct calling by Joseph Smith and an ordination under the hands of angels. The kingdom continued under the leadership of James.

On July 8, 1850 , the kingdom of God was organized with dominion on Beaver Island . That is, as a Theocracy like under Moses.  The officers of the kingdom were also civil officers.  “8 And thou, O tower of the flock [James J. Strang], the strong hold of the daughter of Zion , unto thee shall it come, even the first dominion; the kingdom shall come to the daughter of Jerusalem . 9 Now why dost thou cry out aloud?  is there no king in thee?  is thy counseller perished?  for pangs have taken thee as a woman in travail. 10 Be in pain, and labour to bring forth, O daughter of Zion, like a woman in travail: for now shalt thou go forth out of the city, and thou shalt dwell in the field, and thou shalt go even to Babylon; there shalt thou be delivered; there the LORD shall redeem thee from the hand of thine enemies.” (Micah 4)

Again, the Gentiles failed to live according to the laws of God.  James was shot on Beaver Island on June 20, 1856 , and was taken back to Burlington where he died on July 9, 1856 .  There was no successor.  The gentiles had failed, like the Jews and former gentiles before them.  The saints were driven from Beaver Island , their property stolen, and they were scattered.  Some of the Apostles attempted to gather the saints together but failed.  Isaiah saw this time.  “5 The earth also is defiled under the inhabitants thereof; because they have transgressed the laws, changed the ordinance, broken the everlasting covenant. 6 Therefore hath the curse devoured the earth, and they that dwell therein are desolate: therefore the inhabitants of the earth are burned, and few men left.” (Isa. 24)

Joseph Smith and James J. Strang were both given dual missions on the earth—one in mortality and one in immortality.  Joseph, the son of Jacob, received promises concerning his seed through Joseph Smith and James J. Strang. Joseph was of the tribe of Joseph and James was of the tribe of Judah .  “6 For Joseph truly testified, saying: A seer shall the Lord my God raise up, who shall be a choice seer unto the fruit of my loins. 7 Yea, Joseph truly said: Thus saith the Lord unto me: A choice seer will I raise up out of the fruit of thy loins; and he shall be esteemed highly among the fruit of thy loins.  And unto him will I give commandment that he shall do a work for the fruit of thy loins, his brethren, which shall be of great worth unto them, even to the bringing of them to the knowledge of the covenants which I have made with thy fathers. 8 And I will give unto him a commandment that he shall do none other work, save the work which I shall command him.  And I will make him great in mine eyes; for he shall do my work. 9 And he shall be great like unto Moses, whom I have said I would raise up unto you, to deliver my people, O house of Israel. 10 And Moses will I raise up, to deliver thy people out of the land of Egypt. 11 But a seer will I raise up out of the fruit of thy loins; and unto him will I give power to bring forth my word unto the seed of thy loins--and NOT TO THE BRINGING FORTH MY WORD ONLY [his mission in mortality], saith the Lord, BUT TO THE CONVINCING THEM OF MY WORD, WHICH SHALL HAVE ALREADY GONE FORTH AMONT THEM. 12 Wherefore, the fruit of thy loins shall write [Book of Mormon]; and the fruit of the loins of Judah shall write [Book of the Law]; and that which shall be written by the fruit of thy loins, and also that which shall be written by the fruit of the loins of Judah, shall grow together, unto the confounding of false doctrines and laying down of contentions, and establishing peace among the fruit of thy loins, and bringing them to the knowledge of their fathers in the latter days, and also to the knowledge of my covenants, saith the Lord.” (2 Nephi 3)

When the angel ordained James to the Prophetic Office, he said, “13. In righteousness shalt thou rule: thou shalt redeem the poor and the needy from suffering and violence; and to thee God giveth judgment for them. Thou shalt deliver the prey from the spoiler; for God, thy God, hath put them in thy hand. 14. And in weakness will he make thee strong.  Thou shalt rule among his people.  Thou shalt break in pieces the rod of the oppressor, and the yoke of the unjust ruler. They shall flee away, but the way of peace shall they not find. 15. While the day of the wicked abideth, shalt thou prepare a refuge for the oppressed, and for the poor and needy. Unto thee shall they come, and their brethren who are scattered shall come with them; and the destruction of the ungodly shall quickly follow; for it already worketh.” (Book of the Law of the Lord, p. 171)

On August 25, 1846 , the Prophet James received a revelation concerning Beaver Island in which he was told, “4. And upon this land where thou standest shall the gospel of the kingdom be established among the Lamanites [Native Americans], and from thence shall it go forth to their tribes.  And blessing and honor and great glory shall be on those that teach them, for he will make their arm strong, and their bow shall abide in strength, and they shall not bow to the oppressor; and the power of the Gentile shall not be on them, for the arm of God shall be with them to support. 5. And here shall the Lamanites come to learn the law of the Lord their God, who hath preserved them, that they be not utterly destroyed.  And other barbarians shall come also, and shall learn ways of holiness; for the Lord their God shall teach them, and his people shall instruct them, and shall go forth as ministers of truth unto all people.”

It was exactly forty years from the death of Jesus to the fall of Jerusalem .  The Dispensation of the Fullness of times is to be an almost mirror image of the former.  The Jews received the gospel first and rejected it.  The Gentiles received the gospel next and they rejected it.  The dispensation was officially closed when the Bishop of Rome thought to stand as God on earth and head of the Christian church.  Then came the terrible 1,260 years when no one entered the kingdom.  Next was the first phase of the Dispensation of the Fullness of Times which was opened to the gentiles by Joseph Smith and continued by James J. Strang. Again they rejected it, the Prophets were martyred, and the dispensation closed. “24 And they [Jews] shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled.” (Luke 21) This was fulfilled after the six-day war in 1967.

  KINGDOM:  TODAY

  The Melchisedec Priesthood was not lost.  James ordained L. D. Hickey one of the Twelve Apostles, who ordained Samuel Martin a high priest, who ordained Lloyd Flanders a high priest, who ordained Samuel E. West an elder, who has ordained other elders.  An unbroken chain of the Melchisedec Priesthood remains today. There is hope because the Melchisedec Priesthood and the original gospel as taught by Jesus exist today.  The gate into the kingdom is still open. A remnant of the Melchisedec Priesthood remains to this time.

My family has resided in Shreveport , Louisiana , since 1970.  In 1996, my mother was dying because of a heart problem.  She was admitted to a hospital in Milwaukee , Wisconsin , known for its amazing work with heart patients.  My wife, Mary, and I flew to Wisconsin to be with her.  The surgeon gave her only a 50/50 chance of surviving the surgery.  She had the greatest faith of anyone I have known and told the doctor that she had faith he would be able to save her—and he did.  She spent about a week in the hospital.  I came away from that event with her faith.  I immediately began working full-time in gospel work.  I spent many afternoons going door to door with the gospel; but, all were like contented cows.  I spent years restoring church documents to give everyone seeking truth a broader frame of reference.  I started several web sites in an effort to reach people on the Internet with the truth of the gospel and priesthood.

My middle daughter, Dawn, married Dean Barnett.  My youngest daughter, Sherry, married Robert Murray.  They, with other members of my family, attend our Sabbath meetings.  In the beginning of 1997, I realized that a special sign was about to be given.  In April, the birth star of Abraham (comet Hale-Bopp) appeared.  Dean accepted the gospel and was baptized on April 24, 1997 .  Robert accepted the gospel and was baptized on May 1, 1997 .  Both are now elders in the kingdom.  The light was beginning to shine.

Using the generation formula (40 years to a generation) I expected a notable event to occur in 2007.  There were ministries around the world that expressed the same feeling on the Internet.  In 2007 a new comet, ten times brighter than Haley’s Comet—Comet Macholz—appeared and could be seen with the naked eye. It could only be a sign of the times.  Truly, 2007, was a special year and a sad year.  It appears to have been the beginning of the fall of world economies.  In Nairobi , Kenya , Elder Stephen continued to provide information of new branches and new members and various manifestations of the Spirit. In June Stephen wrote, “...we have 57 Elders in Kenya , 27 branches and close to 2100 members.”  Today there are 124 branches and thousands of latter day saints in Kenya .  Many were also brought into the kingdom in Uganda .  Sadly, James Mubiru, who led the kingdom in Uganda , apostatized and led many saints astray; but four other elders worked to pick up the pieces and keep the kingdom organized with three branches.  There were also other notable events in 2007.

In early 2008, Elder Stephen Munyora, in Kenya, received a vision in which he was told, "A thousand may fall at your side and ten thousand at your right hand but it shall not come near you because you have made the LORD your refuge; and so great terror shall strike at the heart of those who have ruled the nations by control and manipulation - by trade and by extortion - as they see their idols collapse before them. And so the great shaking and the judgments upon the Earth shall begin. They exchange the worship of me, the Living God, for that of stocks and shares and gold and bonds - for the worship of oil and armaments. They have exchanged their souls for that which cannot save them. For so it is that as their life expires, all they have amassed in the high places of the Earth, all their idols shall stand silent."

The mission of Jesus was to last only three years; but, He prayed to God for his mission to be extended and His prayer was answered.  “6 He spake also this parable; A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none. 7 Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground? 8 And he answering said unto him, Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it: 9 And if it bear fruit, well: and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down.” (Luke 13)

According to the prophecy of Micah and the words of the angel who ordained James J. Strang, there is to be a gathering of the saints to a place of refuge before the great desolation and the terrible day of the Lord.  The Mayan Calendar is the most accurate in the world.  It comes to an end in 2012.  Other calendars agree.  We do not know the exact time of Jesus return; but, there are to be many terrible things happen to man before He returns.  It seems man’s greed and worship of the delicacies of the world are beginning to turn against him.  After this comes the desolation declared by God’s holy Prophets.  The time is growing short; but, the light is getting brighter.

A new time and season has opened.  Here in Zion a woman in Oklahoma entered the kingdom in September, 1997. Her husband entered the kingdom in 1999.  It seems a minor preparatory dispensation, similar to that of John the Baptist, was opened in 2005 and blossomed in 2007. A man from California , a man from Baton Rouge , and a man from Texas entered the kingdom in 2005.  A man from Arizona , another man from Texas , a man from South Carolina , and a woman from Canada entered the kingdom in 2006. A man from Hawaii entered the kingdom in 2007.  In 2008 a man from Virginia, a man from Tennessee , and another man from Texas entered the kingdom and were ordained elders.  They are working hard to promote the kingdom. There is more interest being shown in the kingdom today than at any time since the death of James J. Strang.

On October 28, 2004 , the Pastor of an Assembly of God Church in Nairobi , Kenya sent me an email.  The story of the growth of the kingdom in Africa should be an inspiration to all.  It began in Nairobi , Kenya and has spread to Uganda , Botswana , Djibouti , Ghana , Israel , and India .  There are now many inquirers of truth around the world.  Truly, the light is burning brighter; but the time before the gathering and the desolation is growing shorter.

On October 28, 2004 , Pastor Stephen Munyora of an Assembly of God Church in Nairobi , Kenya contacted me by email.  He wrote, “So the day I first contacted you I had gone through your website for some days but remember it was in a divine way.” On November 2, he wrote that he was ready for instruction, asked me to take him as my young Timothy, confirm him into the kingdom of God ; and that he was ready for the true restored priesthood of God.  The next day he quit the Assembly of God church.  “I feel a lot of joy when I read and find you talking about the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob who also is our God. I really like that.”  “And God said moreover unto Moses, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel , The LORD God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, hath sent me unto you: this is my name for ever, and this is my memorial unto all generations.” (Ex. 3:15)

Stephen Njenga Munyora was born on November 14, 1974 , in Central Province , Magumu Location, Kenya .  He started grade school in 1982, finished eighth grade in 1989, and finished High School in 1993.  He then entered the Assembly of God seminary where he graduated with a degree in Bible Studies and Theology.  After a pastor of the Assembly of God church in Nairobi retired, he became pastor of that church. Stephen was known in Kenya on national TV for his work in the Assembly of God church. His wife Rose is a volunteer with a home for orphans and underprivileged children.

He told of the Lord visiting him on November 17, 1998 ; but, the time was yet future when he would take his place in preparation for our Lord’s return.  “But what am saying is that since I come to have contacts with you I cannot have enough words to express what I have been experiencing and I will only feel satisfaction when this ordination is complete. Dreams and visions have become too monotonous to me even I am used to them.

 “Concerning God of Abraham Isaac and Jacob I learned much concerning that in 1998 as I was telling you.  It is the time I understood that God was preparing me concerning the forthcoming ministry. I feel inadequate to analyze that much for the time of it has not yet come; but am prepared for the perfect will of God to be done.”

“By the way do you know the Lord has ever told me concerning the ministry I was working in. He confirmed to me that it was wasted years that is the direct term the Lord used. He told me about a time (let me use the direct words I got from Him), ‘I am about to give you out to an army who fear nothing but breaking my laws and desire nothing but my Kingdom to come.’ My eyes by then were not enlightened to understand what really the Lord meant.

  “Finally, it is a long story but the message was for a time when it will be too late for them that take my Kingdom to fulfill their greedy purposes; but He promised that they will stand in the door and witness when it is crossed and they will get the message when IT IS TOO LATE.”

We immediately began to make plans for him to travel to the USA .  He wrote, “I don’t have enough words to express my joy; but the grace of God that passes all understanding will let you understand the extreme joy in me.”

Stephen had his first interview for a visa with the U. S. Embassy on November 23, 2004 .  The original Letter of Invitation that I had sent to him for the visa was not delivered.  I sent a photo copy to the Embassy; but they would not accept it.  He wrote, “I am just from the Embassy frustrated, because of the failure to have received the original, under all means the Embassy did not consider the Invitation Letter being formal, and I had bad feelings. I don't have a vocabulary to express what I’m feeling.  It is only by the respect I have for you that I don’t say that I am finished.”

On November 29, 2004 , he sent a text messaged to Mary, “Since Friday evening I have been very sick, I was escorted to the hospital something I have never experienced through my entire life. I was admitted and I was discharged yesterday after receiving four drips.  At the moment I have not felt completely well. Saturday night I had called Rose for I was to write my will.  Imagine I suffocated in bathroom and became unconscious. I need your prayers.”  This was the first miraculous healing and the first time he escaped the desires of Satan to destroy him.

Stephen was given a second interview with the Embassy on December 20, 2004 .  The woman who interviewed him recognized him; as he was often on national media.  She did not feel that he should change his religious orientation and even made him return in the afternoon to lecture him on the subject. He wrote, “Dear Samuel, if it is to answer question I have done my best.  If it is the documents, your invitation was perfect and actually I was convinced beyond doubt that they have to issue me with the visa. I tell you that lady tried her best where she can get me to no avail; but at the end of the day she lectured me concerning that church [Utah LDS church]. It has a bad record, even words you can not dare to talk about; but all is the work of the enemy. I have gone to my house to rest for I did not sleep last night.

 “She seems to have heard my preaching on the TV because she was calling me by name. We talked over thirty minutes trying to convince her we have nothing in common with the church I was telling you of the latter day here in Nairobi [Utah LDS]; but all in vain.

 “She has refused me a visa and claimed that I am not genuinely coming for that purpose and she stamped my passport that I cannot apply again until 20 Dec 2005 ; and she still was escorting me with words that it had to be issued with a visa, if I am to be going with that church. She quoted it has a bad reputation.

  “But under all means and cost I cannot and I am not ready to renounce the faith, God directed me to it with a purpose and He has a reason for all this.”

I wrote to the Consular General, Mr. David Stone, concerning this atrocity.  Mr. Stone eventually granted Stephen another interview for an additional $120.  Stephen went to this third interview with all the necessary documents and evidences required by the Embassy for a visa.  He wrote that although the counselor could not give a reason for denying him the visa that he was still refused a visa.  He also wrote the counselor “even told me that he had no doubt of my coming back to Kenya .”  The previous interviewer claimed she refused the visa because he was trying to immigrate.  I should have known that in such government positions they have a code to protect their own.

On March 14, 2005 , Stephen was able to get a visa to the United Arab Emirates .  We began planning a trip to Dubai .  My son-in-law Robert said that if my son-in-law Dean could not go that he would.  Dean was able to book the same flights.

On March 21, Stephen wrote, “I have realized of late that God has been working behind the scene and before the year 2007, He is ready to act in various ways that will be a wonderful chance for the world to realize the true gospel, I have discoursed that He is preaching and working before we enter into the scene. I discovered that in Nakuru.”

On March 24, he wrote, “Samuel I understand that time is running and seasons changes.  Solomon said that it is good for the wise to understand seasons. He named an insect sought of that is very good in understanding seasons, and He said that we should learn a lesson from it. What am trying to say is that, God has given me a good opportunity to start the [true] church of latter day saints in Kenya .  This is a golden opportunity.  It needs to be used wisely.  The devil has tried to fight in various ways”

On April 8, when Stephen realized that we were finally going to meet in Dubai , he wrote, “I was happy, extremely overjoyed that I could not be able to control myself when I heard that we are going to meet with Dean. My God, tears come down from heavens and fill you with his blessings and continue walking hand in hand with you.

 “Now I want to have finished with this travel arrangements early next week and start praising God, and worshiping him meaning business, for what He has done. Imagine I have started forgetting the pains I have gone through those months. I cannot be able to continue. I just want to rush somewhere and behave like somebody who was weary and labored and the Lord give Him rest. When a time like this comes I just forget who I am, remove everything in my table room, and shout the time has come to praise my God... that is utterly what is going to happen today. I have to sing for Him a new song.”

I packed about eighty pounds of books for Stephen.  Dean and I left Thursday night.  All flights were on schedule; and we arrived in Dubai around 8:20 on Friday, April 22.  It took a couple hours to get through immigration and customs.  When we reached the hotel, Stephen ran down the steps (almost knocking over a doorman) and we embraced for a considerable time.  Then it was Dean’s turn.

On April 23, 2005 , I baptized Stephen with water.  Then Dean and I confirmed him into the kingdom of God with me acting as voice.  Then we had a sacrament meeting; and we later ordained him an Elder in the Melchisedec Priesthood—again with me acting as voice.  We spent Saturday, Sunday, and Monday discussing various doctrinal subjects.

 

The church and kingdom of God in Africa began its first growth the next Sabbath on April 30, 2005 , with the baptism of three. On May 19, 2005 , Stephen wrote, “Also I have a guy who come to me on Monday; but I didn’t know that he was sick. I prayed and anointed him after some funny manifestation started appearing to him.  It became serious to the point of I thought of taking him to the hospital. He has come from a mystical background and that is what could not stand in my house. When I was writing to Mary last night I was counseling him in my room. I bound that spirit and he is alright now.”  Other baptisms and two ordinations of Elders followed shortly.

 

Stephen advised me that any group meeting with more than six people must be a registered society with the Kenyan Government.  A meeting of more than six people is considered illegal and the people may be arrested. Stephen made application with the government to be a registered society as soon as he got home; but, it takes six months in Kenya to receive a registration.

 

On May 22, Stephen’s wife Rose wrote to me, “I've heard the teachings provided by my husband saying that there are five crowns awaiting us in Zion: crown of life, crown of glory, incorruptible crown, crown of life, and crown of rejoicing.  I would not like to miss either.  That is why I put every effort not to miss the rest set ahead of me and be a partaker of the great promise. And so therefore let us not be ignorant of this great promise so that we may not do what others did.  They were consumed in a number of thousands by the wrath of God. But I thank God that we are not now one of them.  We have already discovered the narrow way that leads us to the great promise.”

 

On May 23, Rose wrote to me, I am sorry to inform you that Stephen, Peter, Festus and Phillip [new convert] were arrested by the police last week on operating an illegal meeting. They warned Stephen against that; but Stephen thought that by showing papers proving that the registration is in process that could be sufficient evidence and allow us go on and he ignored the rule. But in my house last Sabbath they came to Stephen and we gave them contacts of our lawyer.  They went but soon they soon come back later and arrested them.  The rest were released today on security bond. Stephen is still in custody.  They are saying that he will appear in commercial court tomorrow morning. Rose.”

 

The police severely beat him while he was in jail.  This required him to be taken to the hospital as soon as he was released.  After he was released from the hospital, Rose wrote on me, “He is bleeding and throwing up. We have known that the [ Utah ] Church of Latter Day Saints here is the one who most likely betrayed us.  They thought that we don’t have foundation and we would confess to being their members. Kenya corruption is exercised and no justice. Dear father, we are sorry for that mistake, but Stephen tried to urge Festus towards that but they claimed that they could not be able to teach this early and they can easily cause mistakes that will need Stephen to take a lot of time working on. Stephen is out of jail but he is very sick at the moment due to jail mistreatment's, we are sorry for that but we are going to improve. I apologize on behalf of them. Rose.”

 

Stephen wrote of a vision. “One day before my arrest [for having a meeting of more than six people], I was on my way home. I was in a dangerous place known of criminals. It was some minutes to eight pm . I decided instead of following the foot path I would use a highway used by vehicles because that was a bit safe. I approached a place with a bridge. In the center of the bridge I felt something extraordinary and my strength of walking was no more.  The night became so dark that I could not be able to see the next one inch.  It became difficult to make an extra move in either side. I became confused and fear filled all my being. I decided because a car could meet me there and knock me dead, I felt that I have to kneel, and crawl to the end of the bridge.  No sooner had I done that than a supernatural light, with no source lighted, was so strong that I could be able to see the stains that were in my long trouser. I could not be able to withstand the light, so I decided to cover my face with the edge of my coat. In that situation a voice spoke to me. ‘I am bringing restitution to my people in this Nation. They have rejected my law of covenant and they are following a wrong way of worship.  You have an assignment to prepare my Saviors wife, and if you won’t I will bring deliverance from elsewhere; but for you, will perish.’ I was carried to a garbage center and He told me, ‘I have chosen this place as a place where you will have pillars to testify of my law that has been rejected in this Nation. Men will be coming from nations to learn of my law and how to keep it.’ Then an untidy gentleman stood from nowhere and said, ‘this place is mine and it is the one that has made me this way.’  He was full of something that looked like oil all over and very much untidy. The voice said, ‘After this baptize Him.’ I will usher you to the destiny. Learn to lean on me.’ I heard some people from a distance saying he is drunk. I came back to my senses and told two guys who were standing besides me that I am not feeling well and they escorted me.

    “From then I became so fearful fearing not such a thing to happen to me again, and what followed was my arrest, admonition in the hospital where [Paul] Kinyanjui met me. I promised him that after my discharge I would baptize him. Immediately I was discharged. I could not be able to take even a glass of water in my house, but it was surprising to tell my wife that I have to go and talk to Kenyanjui or else I perish. I have been recalling the first day I went to Eldoret. Paul, before any other thing else was talked about, spoke of the premises.  But, I was not comfortable to hear that it has been a pub.  But in that situation I recalled about the garbage center.

     “Dad I have an assignment and it is not yet over. I have to prepare the Saviors wife that I believe is the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.  Please, failure to complete the assignment the caller said I will perish.  I don’t want to perish.  Allow me to do what He has said. I remember in the first letter I wrote to you during our introduction, I mentioned about some years back when He asked me concerning an army of ten, who fear nothing but sin and desire nothing but the Kingdom of God to come. I remembered that when I had a queue of six men ready to be baptized yesterday. I agree with you concerning the happenings before baptism and that is what always I have been talking about.”

While in the hospital, after being beaten in jail, Stephen met Paul Kenyanyui.  When Stephen begins discussing the gospel, the influence of the Holy Spirit is immediately recognizable.  After a discussion in the hospital, Paul wanted to be baptized.

 

The day after Stephen was released from the hospital, although very weak, he took a bus to Eldoret—about six hours from Nairobi . On May 27, Stephen wrote, “I’m discharged. I’m on my way to Eldoret six hours drive from Nairobi . For tomorrow under all circumstances I have to go.” There he baptized several—including Paul Kenyanjui—and ordained Paul an Elder.  Elder Paul donated his pub for a School of the Ministry saying he could not conduct such a business after being forgiven of his sins.

 

Stephen wrote of a dream. “There was another day I was sleeping. I was carried and I had a dream. I was feeling as if there was some one brutal who was knocking at our door. I tried to wake up but it was not possible. In that time I saw myself in a church whereby there was a wedding going on. The groom was in the church waiting for the bride.  The gentleman was very clean and neat. As we were waiting for the bride an old lady came in, very much untidy and she wore natters and she carried a huge luggage on her back. The mother of the gentleman stood and asked her, why are you wearing gowns for a burial service in a place of your wedding? Another neat man who was in front stopped her and he said that is the way it is today. He started preaching a message that was out of topic according to me. But I heard him asking the lady, do you know that you are tied to nothing, carrying a huge luggage and he cannot marry you.  You have dressed contrary of the law of marriage.  Those words touched me and I stood and proclaimed in a loud voice, why then his father deceiving her? He is the one who advised her in the long way.  Then the man who was talking told me, ‘you, young man, can you go all over and advice the ladies who are intending to marry the way they should be properly dressed.’ I answered yes I will, and then he authorized me to go and sign a paper that I have accepted to do that assignment. When I was waking up to go where he was, he said I will not go alone. I saw Rose crying and I woke up.”

 

“I am feeling very tired to the point I cannot differentiate Moses and Aaron.  It has not been easy to be in the place we are now; but the grace of God that passes all understanding has been capable to carry us through. I have decided to do the will of the one who called me despite many obstacles I am meeting on the way.  There was a time when I was in a situation and I wrote to you, and I informed you that I am asking my God, why me? Where is the answer to the many questions those are raising in my going of faith? But through the perfect inspiration, I have been convinced beyond doubt that the grace of God is sufficient.  For we need to persevere, for after we have done the will of God, then we shall receive the promise of God and that is to enter to the rest set ahead of us, and not only me but also for them that wait for his coming patiently.”

 

On May 31, Stephen wrote, “Dear dad, I have come from far. I am not a spiritual infant and I cannot be easily driven away by the traps of the Devil. I told several times that I understand what Timothy was instructed by Paul and whenever I look at this I always have a picture of you as Paul and me like Timothy; and what God has assured me is that, this mission is dedicated to Him. The brother in Eldoret is new, he happened to go through the article I wrote some time in the news paper and the conversation began.  One favor that God has given me is that I am not straining to convenience any one after a short discussion I LEAVE FOR ONE TO DECIDE. And in that I have seen God.”

 

On June 3, 2005 , Stephen wrote me, “If you can flash back to the way I was called from charismatic faith to where I am today, then you would definitely realize that the mission ahead of me is completely beyond personal knowledge for even us here with my family we were not aware of. My life has changed completely and the Lord I am serving has given me a burden more than ever before concerning this calling.”

 

On June 14, he wrote, “We understand now concerning my calling and God has warned me several times and even I was surprised Him telling me that He is my boss and He will supply my needs according to his riches in glory. The issue of Eldoret is simple and more specific than all the other things we have done and it will avail much.”

 

On June 19, he wrote, “I always tell the members here, when they enter to this Kingdom then they should put every effort to be Gods forever, for the only blessed race is the one that belongs to God.  When they are alive God, loves them and when they die, God will never leave nor forsake them. Love the Lord your God with all your mind and that means 100%. Paul said put the full armor, meaning 100%.”

On August 17, Stephen wrote, “What do I say, up to that extent, if God is for us who can be against us?  The missionary journeys here are becoming much encouraging and the gifts of God which are irrevocable are becoming consistent. I have a knowledge that He is preparing a big army to testify about the call, gift, and the goodness of Zion which is just at hand, and so what? We should not become weary on doing what is right for after we accomplish the will of God, keep his laws and seek the kingdom of GOD WHOLE HEARTED, then He will not hesitate to redeem us from the darkness of dogmatists that are leading men away thinking that they are in the right way and in the proper knowledge of God.”

Bernard Ngigi Mithia received an angel of the Lord who told him of the evil in the church he fellowshipped.  Jesus also evidently appeared to him (“before I come back”) and told him how to find the true path through Stephen.  He attended the Sabbath meeting on August 20, “he claimed to have encountered with an angel along Rift Valley and they had a conversation together.  He was asked about the fellowship he used to attend and how sure he was that it was Godly for him to serve there. He claimed to have wasted a lot of his money and properties due to the leaders of that fellowship could come and give him false reports that the Lord is interested in his properties and they would claim that it is the Lord who speaks about that etc. [am shortening]. Now he claims that on one Thursday last month he was coming from one of the markets some late hours and on his way home he heard a loud voice calling his name.

“He turned around to see who was speaking to him terribly. When he turned back he saw someone who was very neat with blaze of fire on his background.  He fell down and the angel who was speaking to him said ‘kim kim I have come to rescue you and to direct you to the proper church before I come back due to at the moment you are on your highway to the grave having people who lead you towards the chambers of death.  Go into a double eight hotel and ask for Pastor Munyora from there.  They will know him by that name.  Explain to him what you have encountered and hide nothing and add nothing.  He will guide you to the whole truth [I am translating] and from then on you will receive a position of a better service that will rescue you and your family.’ He had a lot of stories; but I am trying to make it brief.”

On August 19, 2005 , I received an email from James Mubiru in Uganda. He had been a Utah Mormon Elder.  God led him to me.  After a couple emails, Stephen and Peter took a bus from Nairobi to Kampala , Uganda , on October 7, 2005 .  He baptized James and his brother Samuel. On October 9, he baptized sixteen grownups and five children over the age of eight; and ordained James an Elder.

On September 2, 2005 , Stephen was involved in a severe accident. He wrote, Yesterday I was traveling home, and when we reached half the way, the roads here some are one way traffic, so it happened the driver decided to overtake a vehicle that was ahead without confirming whether there was another vehicle coming.  In that case they head collided with another lorry, and the minibus I was in rolled several times.  It was destroyed beyond repair; but funny some died at the spot another survived minor, some of their body parts away, but to me there was not even a drop of my blood.  I did not even go to the hospital. I boarded another car and went home. I did not become shocked even of the incident and I felt just okay.  That is a miracle of the year.”

After Stephen and Peter arrived home in Nairobi , Peter agreed to help a man on the bus purchase a cell phone.  Three days later Stephen discovered that he was missing. “Peter is missing. When we alighted from Uganda , Peter told me he will take another guy they meet in the bus to buy cell phones. I left him my briefcase and we agreed to meet in my house. I waited until this morning when his sister called me.  We have traced him in the police station; but no where to be found.”

Three days later Peter was found.  Stephen wrote me on October 16, “Praise God. At last I know where Peter is. The guys he went with were bad people. He is in police custody in Naivasha. He was conveyed to that cell by criminal investigation. I have to get them in the morning. ... Nairobi to Naivasha is an hour and a half drive. ...I will need to travel to Naivasha and then I know where to start. I have not known how it went; but the guy I left him with was not genuinely in need of a phone. He deceived Peter that he wanted somewhere to buy a phone and he claimed to be new in Nairobi and he wanted to walk with Peter to diverge Kenya police; but he had bad medicine. That is one step forward. I was planning to go to the mortuary tomorrow; but, thank God he is alive.”

On October 13, Francis Ndungu Kagwima had sent me an email inquiring about spiritual truth.  After answering him, he wrote me on October 18, “I am delighted to write this afternoon and am very happy for your continued and consistent reply that I have dropped on my desk. The content was warmly welcome and embraced by the entire family. We are grateful and rejoicing as a deer that has just seen a stream of flowing water in a desert.

“We hereby eagerly wait to receive the mentioned elder greatly and I assure you that he will be in safe hands; all I would like you to do is to inform me when he is getting here soonest possible.

“My family and I are looking forward to receive a servant of the most high and host him as Abraham did, for we are certain that by receiving him we are receiving an angel of God. We are very thirsty to hear the great news of the kingdom that he is bringing to us and the worship of the true God.

“We know after we receive the news our lives will be fully changed and we shall have a chance to be members of the true church and our names will be written in the book of life.

“We have been looking forward to a time like this when we can get a chance to receive the true gospel, since we heard about it in the Media [Kameme Kayu Kamuingi Fm] and we consider ourselves privileged to receive the servant of God.”

I contacted Stephen and told him I felt it was urgent for him to visit Francis.  He responded, “I will see them (Francis) tomorrow. I will wake up and travel to Kinangop. It is a bit far from Nairobi ; but for sake of the kingdom I will go; but I would fear them to insist me to spend. I have no shirt to change. OK, I am leaving for south Kinangop tomorrow. People of that place respect anyone who goes to them in the name of God.”

The next day Francis wrote me, “It was with tremendous blessing this morning to receive a God’s servant in my house. He got to my house early this morning and we took our breakfast together. That proved to me that love could be as quick as lightening. We took hours studying the word of God together with my wife Agnes and my son and wife Nganga.
    

We are all ready for baptism when Elder Stephen who we accepted for his love and open spirit, will advice when to take place, the reason why it became impossible today is because of the SAINT held in the police custody and when he informed me about that he is a student and he can be realized after a surrender of a logbook or a security of the equivalent, I advised him to go together to the station. I asked my lawyer to accompany us. When we got there, we found that he was held as a red handed suspect; but he was unjustly arrested. In cases like that the criminal investigation department is not allowed to realize some one without a sufficient security bond. And that case, unless God intervenes, it will take quite some time, not less than two years. ...I have to consider the life of a saint as of paramount importance than any kind of money if there is no way out before Friday, I will then surrender my logbook but that will give the impossibility of one of my vehicles to be on the road for unknown period of time.”

The next day, Stephen wrote, “I am on my way home. I met Francis and the family in the morning and then we went to see Peter.” “I have just received a call from [Francis] Ndungu and they will be coming here for baptism on the 29th.”

As it turns out the man on the bus, who Peter befriended was a criminal, kidnapped him, and then Peter was arrested with the criminals.  Had Peter resisted, the police would have shot him. Arrangements were made with the help of Francis’ attorney to get Peter released on the 21st.  They demanded a security to release Peter.  Francis gave Stephen the security using his own vehicle.

When Stephen got to the police station on October 21, 2005 , the chief of the police demanded a great deal of bribe money before he would release Peter.  Stephen advised him the only money he had was some loose change.  The officer demanded that Stephen sell his cell phone for $70 and then he would release Peter.  Stephen advised him that he would reap what he sowed; and shook the dust off his feet as a testimony against him.

Peter was freed from custody on October 21.  Stephen text messaged, “I am still in the station. They are demanding I see the boss here and he is demanding money (corruption). We have already signed security. I have to collect the amount from a second hand shop and leave my cell phone. They will release him when I give them $70, for they are about to close. That is why I have decided to get that money and pay later with 10% interest. He [Peter] is just quite not in a good mood; but he was kidnapped and when cid [police] met the guys he could not have time to explain for if he could resist they could shoot.”

The national radio stations invited Stephen to present gospel messages on October 23, and then answer questions.  I advised him to mention the case of Peter.  He told the story of Peter and how he was unjustly held and the policeman required a bribe to release him. The next day Stephen text messaged, “It is unbelievable.  The ocpd of the police station was sucked today. You can get that in the newspaper tomorrow. The boss who was oppressing me in the case has lost his job. It is in the news.”

Francis wrote me, “The good story of the day is the miracle the God of Abraham performed after the strain to get Peter out of jail.  The whole nation has come to know that a man who believed he was somebody in the sight of God, was nobody; and two young guys who he didn't want to respect were somebody in the sight of God. Stephen just mentioned that in the media Sunday morning and yesterday that guy who required a huge amount of money was escorted to anti-corruption headquarters like nobodies business. The nation media group is indicating it clearly in the head line... sucked in heaven... Stephen mentioned to me that I will get my logbook back. I am sincerely happy and delighted about it.”

On October 28, 2005 , Stephen wrote me, “Wake and sing a new song for the God of Jacob has done great things. I am to baptize over twenty people tomorrow [including Francis, his wife, and son]. I have just realized today is Friday. What a great thing He has done. I advised dad a time will come when many will be coming to inquire from us about God of Jacob.”

On Sunday Francis wrote, “You have just blessed my soul by your beginning words, the spirit bear witness that I am now a child of God, born of water and spirit and having the Melchizedek priesthood.  What a joy flows in my bones.  The happiness that is contained in my heart words cannot explain, and the pleasure of the welcome by sons of God is wonderful.  Now you are my brother, we are in the same race and we shall be together and the bonds of our spirits will ever glorify God.”

Stephen organized a School of the Ministry in the building donated by Elder Paul Kenyanjui from November 1, through November 11, in Eldoret. Sixteen attended classes.  “Dad this is Stephen with my own hands writing down this. The classes are doing well. I will be back on Sunday after my radio program. I tell you, when you see all of them in Eldoret walking and kneeling together for prayer you just see God. There are a lot of things happening there and I wish one person from Zion will ever visit them and see the doings of their God. Eldoret at the evening they are holding a service and the attendance is very high for the day. I have been there when outside there has been fifty. The vision God gave me concerning the pillar when I was in a bridge is now confirmed.”

On November 7, 2005 , the police officer that had harassed Peter asked forgiveness. “The guy that tormented Peter that dad advised me to shake foot at is begging forgiveness and blessings. He is saying that he is dying. He sent the wife to call me. I have forgiven him. The wife wants me to go and release him for the sake of the children.”

Stephen returned from Eldoret to Nairobi the next day.  “I am in Nairobi . He is held custody by anti-corruption unit in Nairobi . The wife is crying and the kids are starving. I have asked the anti-corruption authority to release the guy. The officer is now free. He has come to know that through all that has happened God was calling him.  He accepted the gospel and he has refused to go home and wait for baptism. I have to use my fair back to hire a swimming pool.  We have been together after he was released and they have come to be good friends of mine. We have taken refreshment together and I have given them some money to feed their children as an indication of how much I have accepted to forgive him.”

The next day Stephen wrote me, “My intention on coming to Nairobi was not to make Julius [the cop] a disciple; but to practice what we teach because I would not like to be a Pharisee who tells other what to do and he is going different. I thank God I know better what I teach, what I believe and before I preach to others I have the assurance of the kingdom. You may be surprised that God loved Julius very much.  That all my strains regarding the case of Peter ended up making a strong relationship between Julius and my Father in Heaven.”

“Movements of God are mysterious. I did not share the gospel in any way with Julius; but I told him several strong words after his release. I even told him that I was not ready to baptize him yesterday; but he felt as if he was falling to the wrath of God in the next minute and found that his protection was only behind accepting the gospel practiced my men who pity his life.”

Stephen then tried to get Julius reinstated in his job.  “Through the power bestowed in me I feel that I would need a time with the one in charge before I leave for Eldoret. I testify the intention of God we preach towards the life of Julius and share with them what God told me last night and then I leave them to think about it. If they found it good and respect one who goes to them in the name of the Lord then, then they will give him back his job.  If they don’t I will have completed my mission.”

On November 30, Stephen wrote, “Tell dad I have felt good spirit with Julius and he is now a son of the kingdom. [Did he get his job back?] Not yet, but he will be transferred. He got an appointment letter.”

On November 15, Stephen told of guidance by an angel of the Lord. “But, when I was on the way asking God many questions and speaking on self, I was encouraged when God answered my many questions by telling me that there is no temptation, no trial, no humiliations, no insults that have seized us except what is common to man.  The very saints and heroes we talk and read about under gone all that and they overcame. God we serve will never allow us to be tempted beyond what we can bare. The present sufferings cannot be compared with the glory to come. The conclusion was, I do take watch over you, I will never leave nor forsake you, the way I was with my prophets I lead them to different places, wondered in desert the same way I shall be with you.”

On November 18, Stephen wrote to me, “My father Samuel, I have all the joy to send this short epistle to a brother who has been called by God of Abraham and Jacob, sanctified and been elected for a high mission in Christ Jesus. I believe with all my heart wherever you hear from me despite the culture and social boundaries I do warm your heart and encourage you for this great assignment we have been assigned to carry in oneness, looking forward towards the reward that has been kept ahead of us. May the grace of God that surpasses all understanding be with you now and forever till we meet again and embrace each other because the race is not simple; but we are guaranteed victory.

Paul the apostle when he was in prison, where he wrote several Epistles, when he started recalling all the saints he has uncounted in his life, how some loved the world and done away with the gospel Paul preached to them, others abandoned him in the hour of need, others stood with him even if the situation could be cumbersome. He could not fail to send greetings to the house of Pilsila and Akular and the house of Onesforo. I do thank God  for the unforgettable effort you have done towards the work of the ministry that I carry knowing I bear the marks of it on my body.”

On December 1, 2005 , Stephen wrote, “I hope this finds you and mummy at a very good mood and a spirit that is very ready to understand the voice of the Holy Ghost. I had a vision last night that made my heart to become a blaze and it has made my day. I pray the Father of our fore fathers: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob to make it come to pass. It was as them that dreamed when we received the news that we are to be gathered back to Zion .

“I was in a very clean place, and I saw a very big lake with pure water, and imagined the water to be warm and desired very much to get in and start swimming. I jumped into the lake with my garments and I felt very good in it. After then I walked with some few saints towards a place in the vision. I got at home and I left them there and went to milk my cows that were outside, the confidence that was in me was that my life has changed and I felt that there are good things going on. After the milking we carried the milk with my brother and entered to my well furnished house better than the one I stay in here in Kenya , that is far as I can remember; but when I asked the Lord the meaning of it I have part of it. The lake meant a big multitude of people and the milk is the outcome of a product. The home is the tent of this body and the confidence come from the Gospel I preach.  That has made my day and I could not feel settled until I mention that to you.”

On December 16, Stephen wrote, “I hope this finds you and mum in good health. I thank God of Jacob to have helped me this far. I tell you I am continuing to trust him all the way because for the few months I have been in the ministry of the true church I have seen him and I cannot talk of even a single day I failed to see Him. My responsibility is to do the work of the ministry focusing my eyes towards the reward and the prize I will receive when I finish my race and hand over the flock that was entrusted to me when I was in this life. I have tried every way possible to see every flock remain in the race and I am still trying to encourage the one. It may seem to be the last that my father is not interested with number one, two or three; but whosoever will finish the race, will be declared as a winner.

“I have to hold firmly my rod and my staff so that the enemy may not devour any sheep in the flock and teaching them to recognize the voice of the stranger so that they may not follow him. We have heard a lot now and the conclusion of the matter is let us fear God and keeps His commandments for that is the whole duty for a man, for God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing whether was it good or evil. What encourages me is how I was when I was called to serve the true God.  I was neither wise nor influential nor was I of a noble birth; but after my birth of water and Spirit I began the gospel that is a stumbling block to some and to others is foolishness but to my God it is His power.

“I know I am not permanent in this world.  It is a matter of time, I fly away and be called no more but all that I have done in this body for the sake of the gospel will follow me, my prayer is that I may do good especially to those who belong to the family of the believers, that is the marks in my body. I sometime feel as if I can mount up like an eagle and get to the source of this gospel and bring it down to man, the heart desires that but the body have no strength. I have no debt with any rank in this would nor do I have a debt of knowing anything done before one has become a member of the church of the first-born for if knowing that will end up destroying the relationship between brothers then it is of no help. And I rest on the past experience I was taught is fatal to true holiness and it is unfruitful in the Lords service. I know that I have good Elders here who are going to Zion and teaching the true doctrine, and that is all I need to know. Anyone who accuses things that are different to that, he is not sent for a good purpose and I should not pay attention.”

Stephen was asked by a group of 66 in Lodwar, [Northern] Kenya , to travel there and baptize them. On December 18, he wrote, “Muchemi is a brother who I discovered that he has zeal of God in him, what had delayed me from ordaining him an Elder was that I could see him over exaggerating things and I tried to coach him on that but now I have no reason of not ordaining him an Elder.”

On December 20, he wrote, “I am leaving for Lodwar today and I hope I will be back on Sunday. I like this mission because it has a very good outcome.”

On December 27, he wrote, “I am very fine. I had a rough trip in Lodwar. I left Rose to send you photos and behind us there is a house where I was sleeping. There were 48 and still 16 awaiting baptism in Meru. I baptized 48 in Lodwar in pits and those people are dying of starvation. I will have a baptism here on Sunday.”

On December 30, he wrote, “I do not have sufficient words to explain to you how Lodwar condition is, but if I can try to I tell you that place is worse.  No roads, no communication through telephone; and I think it can be of no help to them.  That place is beyond what words can explain; but I hope you understand what is hunger sleeping hungry and not certain of what to eat tomorrow. Not even some water to wipe your face and the limbs of your body can be even counted.  It is actually terrible when you look at them you discover your situation after a flow of tears.”

On January 2, 2006 , Stephen wrote, “The President announced the famine in Lodwar as a National Disaster and that has provided us who have donation to use the Military Lorries or to be in touch with the United Nations offices. The media station I commonly use is also available to convey the donations to Lodwar. I have to visit one of these offices today and organize one of our Elders to travel with them to Lodwar.  My used clothes and some others we collected on the Sabbath and will be taken over there.”

The saints in Zion and in Kenya with the help of the news media sent hundreds of pounds of food to the saints in Lodwar.  The food sent by the government never reached Lodwar because of corruption; even though the boxes were stamped “Not for Sale .”  On December 5, Stephen wrote, “I have sent an Elder [Francis] to Lodwar this morning.”

Stephen had been communicating with a group in Djibouti , a country on the eastern side of Ethiopia , requesting baptism.  On January 3, Stephen wrote, “I am still getting mails from the family in Djibouti that they are very anxious to get baptism and confirmation.”  The rest of the story of the people in Djibouti is found in that section.

On January 16, Rose wrote, “We are standing on a higher ground and when we look we can see the knowledge of many who are just about to be judged.  Then we should stand firm in the unity and the fellowship of the saints because we shall rejoice when we get to Zion where our Lord will reign forever. Behold, He is coming holding the clouds of heaven and every eye shall see Him and in that day they will know how precious, how good, and profitable for us to walk in the path of the light and the naughty words of their mouth will come to an end and they fall because of the one they have served in this life. I will be happy when I leave this life as a conqueror. Heavens will receive me and angels rejoice to have come out as a winner. There is nothing me and my family desires more than being partakers and heirs in Zion . There are many and very many who enjoyed the fruits and goodness of this land and now there are no more.”

On January 17, Vijay in New Delhi , India , wrote Stephen, “It’s nice to hear you again. I am pleased to know that you can pay a visit to me and share the true gospel with us. I will welcome you and your family and sponsor your trip to India . I am in suburb of New Delhi and the place is called Gurgaon the IT hub. Please let me know as to when you can plan be made to India and for how many days so your program in India could be arranged accordingly.  In Delhi I have a nice house, good to stay, and you will really enjoy your trip to India .”

On January 18, 2006 , Stephen wrote, “Though I am in a lot of strains and struggles, I trust the Lord that He will carry me all the way. Despise the plans of the devil, I still have a chance to meditate of the great and wonderful time awaits me when this life is over. I have several items of good news. One is from a guy from India who is interested in the truth. The other one is of a family in Philippines ready to enter into the kingdom and that wipes my tears and says praise God because the power of the gospel is continuing.”

On January 23, he wrote, “I am very much concerned regarding the people in Djibouti and in Philippians but the saint to be from India has sent me a return ticket to India ; but it is my responsibility to get the visa which I am working on now. Dad I am getting very much disturbed and God knows I am not in peace until we are united together with all the others awaiting baptism. I tell you I am not comfortable even staying in my house. I am feeling as if I owe someone money and he is coming to debt it. It has circulated in my mind when I hear a knock on my door I feel as if one has come to correct his debt just realize what is disturbing me.

“Words cannot express what I will feel to have all this in the Kingdom. I have not been informed concerning Vijay’s family but all I know is that he is married with three kids and I am waiting for a family photo that he has already posted.”

On January 24, Stephen wrote, “Sorry in case I have been impatient, though Timothy was asked by Paul to be in hast in spreading the gospel; preaching the word in and out of season, time is very much gone and the door soon will be shut. It is not our time to eat and drink and have refreshment as if we are not certain of our calling. Whoever now cries for help we should not hesitate to do everything possible to save the few we can; because time is short and anything may happen after the next eleven months.

“When in the Sabbath in different places, two Elders were carried by the Spirit and they have proclaimed that there is something extraordinary that will come to this world after the next few months; and we have warned the saints to remain faithful to their calling.  The Kingdom of God is at hand.”

On January 30, he wrote, “I haven’t much to inform you concerning the friends in Philippians but I have pretty to tell about the gentleman in India . We first met in the hotel in Emirates when I was waiting for you; they used to live in the same hotel with his friends from Philippians. We took photos together and he asked me of my address; and he was flying back home the very evening you were arriving. I provided my contacts to him and when he got home he responded, since then he became my friend and the issue of learning our religion and he believed and came in. I have been sending articles to him and informing him the requirements to be called a child of God and the risk of serving a God who cannot hear, see and never answers ones prayers. It is through that fact he was convinced and the acceptance of the gospel come in.”

On February 4, he wrote, “The breaking news is New Zealand donated dog food to the Lodwar starving people.”

On February 6, Rose wrote, “Stephen is very sick. I took him to the hospital after constant bleeding from the mouth. He also has a nose bleed.”

On February 10, Stephen wrote, “I will not hear the terror of night nor the arrow that flies by day. I will only see the wicked punished. Mum when I get out of this situation I start meetings to reach thousands for the kingdom. The Doctor said that I had TB; but now confirmed that I am not having it. I can go home tomorrow or Monday.”

On February 11, he wrote, “A lady from Switzerland was baptized in Mombassa today and she brought public address system worth $3,000 for the church.”

On February 16, he wrote, “I am home. I am having a serious stomach problem. It has been paining off and on.”

On February 19, he wrote, “I am assigned to lead two thousand people to the kingdom before December and that is what will decide of death or life. I have prayed for a team for a long time. It has been my heart’s desire for a long time praising God. I know now there is an explosion in a revolution just about to begin.”

“I will be holding an open air meeting in Caltex—two KM from Nairobi .

On February 22, he wrote, “I am not worried of the attacks of the devil; but I have full trust in God and I will certainly see the wicked judged and the righteous uplifted. We are now in the situation of test with my faith but the word tells me because I have kept the word of endurance He will also keep me from the hour of test. Dad, the God I serve is so good, more than what people think He is.”

On February 23, he wrote, “Mum, we are in Caltex in a meeting and it is attended by over a thousand people—too noisy.”

On February 26, he wrote, “We have finished with Caltex mission and I am going right away to baptize nine for the next ten minutes.”

On February 28, he wrote, “It is true that I mentioned to you that there was a lady from Switzerland that donated public address worth $3000, not solid money but she brought the address with Elder Kimani and this is what I was using in Caltex and continue to use in open air meetings. It is of great help to us here and will help in bringing many to the Kingdom.”

“I have received a call from a professor from Kenyatta University . I will have lunch with them tomorrow and share much about the truth.”

On March 1, he wrote, “Muchemi [in Lodwar] is requesting for a bag of maize, beans, and rice that will sustain them for some days. I have a free transport from the media who are conveying food.”

On March 2, he wrote, “I preached in a bus after I was caught by the Spirit and request Alex and other three we are planning baptism.”

On March 3, Stephen wrote possibly of another vision, “I pray that God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob keeps you safe, guide and protect you until the day of the Lord when He shall gather all of his own, them that has been chosen by him from the world. I always ask him to clothe us with his righteousness and love, so that when the battle is strong, we will be able to fight for our souls. I can feel the enemy is purposed to mislead them that will be found with weak hearts.

“These things I command you that you love one another and if the people of this world hates you know that they hated me first, if you were of the world, the world would love its own; but being chosen out of them then there is a reason of them to speak against you, “you hypocrites, did Isaiah not prophesy of you saying, these people draw near me with their mouth, honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. But in vain they do worship, teaching doctrines the commandments of men, and here comes the conclusion for every matter, everything has been said” fear God and keep his commandment this is the whole duty for a man. For God shall bring every work into judgment; including every secret thing, whether it be good or evil. Is it not yet a very little while? The meek shall increase their joy in the Lord, and the poor among men will rejoice in the holy one of Israel . By then the ruthless one will be brought to nothing, and the scoffer will be consumed and all that watch for iniquity shall be cut off; and in that day shall
the deaf hear the words of the book, and the eyes of the blind shall see out obscurity, and out of darkness, but when He sees His children the work of His hands, He will be thrilled, even them that He lead towards His laws and commandments their hearts will celebrate and every plant  which my heavenly father has not planted, shall be rooted up. ….woe to them that go the depth to hide their counsel from the Lord, and their works are in the dark, and they say who sees us? And who knows us? Surely His turning of things upside down shall be esteemed as the potter’s clay; for shall the thing made say of Him that made it, He made me not? Or shall the thing formed say of him that formed it, He had no understanding? God have mercy on us so that we may stay awake and wait him with endurance, for because you kept the word of my endurance I will also keep you from the hour of test.”

On March 3, he wrote, “At least now Lodwar began raining from today meaning they will require help for a few more days.”

On March 5, he wrote, “Children of God here are very okay even the one I was complaining about last night we were able to talk, amended the few differences, prayed together and joined in fellowship and welcomed the lady I told you of. Now she is of the Kingdom, her sins washed, and now left all the works of the devil after a serious deliverance, the purpose of the devil was defeated and the perfect will of God was done. Praise God. I have to attend some few baptisms in Kariobangi South today and this people are calling me.”

“There is a saint who walked in the same Nissan with an angel, talking and discussing a great issue for a very long distance.  They were together till when they were involved in a road accident.  All the people who were in the bus died; but he was guided, wiped the dust from along his clothes, and the angel directed him home. We were astonished to hear that yesterday.”

On March 7, he wrote, “Muchemi is here. He is saying thank you for the support of food.”

On March 9, he wrote of an angelic visitation, “As I told you often and now I say again with tears even weeping, there was a time I was serving the strange God, with enemies of the true Gospel, whose end was destruction, who’s God was their belly and whose glory was in their shame, who minded earthly things. We used to speak in the respect of want. My eyes were blinded and I could not know that I did not know and I did not know that I did not know. Though I had the desire to serve and please God, unfortunately I encountered with the people who were very hypocritical as thieves or poachers who are waiting for something to gulp down. But God did not allow it to happen that I have missed the chance to know Him better and to understand Him as the God in heaven and on earth.

“The gospel of Christ, He comes to his own, and His own received Him not, but them who dared to accept him He introduced them to the kingdom of God and that was not enough they were given the power and licensed to become children of God, who were not born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of men; but of the will of God. What do you see dad in that? “You have accepted the gospel I preach, then from today I have even gave you the power to become the child of God and call me abba father.” The same case haunts my soul; the gospel I preach is foolishness to the children who follow the will of their father the devil, who committed sin since the beginning. It is not accepted by many, it is the desire of my heart, to gather many, as a hen gathers her brood under her wings until this generation realizes He was blessed—HE who came in the name of the God of Isaac, whenever I flashback all this and meet somebody interested to know my God and comes in to serve Him then I do not hesitate but ask him today you will be with  the other number of Saints who are awaiting for the day of their reign, them that have kept their worldly desires aside and now they pursue the heavenly one.  They have nothing to grasp on this world but they look forward towards a better country, where the desires of their heart shall be met.”

“The Book of the Law is now interpreted in Swahili.”

On March 18, Stephen wrote, “I am planning a jumbo baptism coming Sabbath [25].”

On March 21, he wrote, “I think God has been preparing me for a mission similar to that you hold because I understand the same case applies to you.”

“I talked with Vijay [in India] yesterday and I consulted him regarding the time he wants me there; but he has some issue he wants to work out with the Philippians friends so that I may carry that mission together. They speak completely broken Swahili but at least I can understand since they speak one word after the other.”

“Kirinyaga is far from Nairobi ; it is around seventy miles from Embu town near Mount Kenya . We have several people there from three families awaiting baptism and I will open a branch there. Kiserian is in the neighboring district of Nairobi Near Kajiado and you should have Kajiado in the map mum bought.

On March 21, he also wrote, “I received a telegram from Lodwar today. Muchemi says he has increased the number of Saints from the day he went back and he mentioned that he has over forty people awaiting baptism and someone to give them the basic of our Faith.”

On March 22, he wrote, “Kiserian is an Estate that needs attention, and if properly tucked to may give some good results in the help of reaching many to the Kingdom. The people who stay along those areas are financially stable and due to the prejudice of the people in Africa as I mentioned to you, they observe classes. I have to very much set as I enter to such an Estate with the gospel of the Kingdom. I believe this has no effect over Zion but here it is absolutely what takes place.”

“I have a very good outcome of the work we did in Caltex and the devil was very mad of that work.”

On March 23, he wrote, “I am heading to the stage now to Mombassa. I will be there in the morning. There is a Bishop of Baptist Church who is fully convinced that we serve the true God. He lives in Kiserian and he almost got left by the bus here. He wants to join the church; but he is tied because he earns his daily bread with the work of that church. He was confused; but I gave him dad’s email address.”

On March 23, Stephen sent me an email from Muchemi.  “Dear Elder Samuel, Agree to receive warmly greetings of the Love of Christ Jesus from a servant of the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, God the Father in heaven and in this world of many struggles. Yes it is the world of many struggles but He reined in heaven and earth and He will reign forever.

My name is Raphael Muchemi of the Kingdom of God of latter Day Saints Lodwar. I believe Elder and spiritual father Stephen has mentioned my name to you. It has been my heart desire to respond with you as he recommended me to do; but it has not been easy because of the circumstances of the place I stay. In Lodwar there are no means of communication. It is very remote and is surrounded by desert. The Turkana community who lives in those areas never attended classes, and they are not conversant to the advance life; and they are still years and years behind. The Government of Kenya has not been able to carry this responsibility at least to bring education over here and that is why most of the things that could be of help to them they are not found here.

The best means of communication are got in Kitale. Sending an Email in Kitale you pay a lot of money over ten times per minute compared with how much is paid in Nairobi . There are post office boxes in Kitale but from Lodwar to Kitale is very far such that you cannot make it to and from with one day because of the availability of vehicles.

Lodwar community is a group of people who are fully committed to their culture.  They believe when one finds the way of the truth and changes his life and commits him or her to God, they follow God wholeheartedly and they hold their faith with even their body strength.

God bless you and keep you safe.  R. Muchemi.”

On March 25, Stephen wrote, “Hey 54 new saints today. Some three families all have entered the kingdom from Kirinyaga. It is 70 miles from Embu on the way to Mt. Kenya .

On March 26, he wrote, “Well I do not know now where to start; but I am very happy of great manifestation of our Lord’s goodness and mercy that surpasses all understanding that has been manifested in all the battlefield; and that gives a good reason why I can say praises be unto his holy name.

I always feel a lot of honor and blessing whenever I am tired after winning souls for the kingdom of heaven. I am also very happy to receive Elder Mugo after his trip to Djibouti , which brought a total of 27 grown up to the kingdom of heaven that has warmed my heart. The testimony that over flows in me is that almost a hundred have been accepted through baptism and confirmation to the kingdom that makes me check to know God is doing mighty and great things. I am extremely overcome by his goodness and the desire to dwell in his shadow becomes the pennant of his victory.”

It is good that God has revealed to us them that had come with a gospel holding intention to mislead many so they go to hell with them.  It is not really easy to know the doctrine they preach that is counterfeited unless it pleases God to give understanding that can make one know the narrow path and walk on it because it leads to perpetual life. Then we should put up all the necessary effort to rescue the few we can because time is extremely short. The enemy is furious of the work going on because his intention is to mislead even the elect if possible and now, day after day, time after the other, he keeps on loosing and will until we get to the great day when we shall be gathered together sons of prophets and apostles, in the mountain of Zion we shall sing praises of victory to meet with God of Jacob that brought us all the way and crossed us the wilderness of this world. When we shall be happy there, others will be in a place of remorse, unsatisfied desires, a place of memories but to us the small remnant the day of our joy will come and we see in our eyes the one we have served.”

Tell dad we are here with Bishop Phillip. Here he is confused. He is asking me if he leaves Baptist Church whether we can support him and open our branch in Kiserian. What do I tell him now and I am confused?”

Well it is a bit tough to me to settle this down with him. He is insisting me to help him bring our branch and when it is started he has a feeling the members will follow him; but still that is not easy for me.

We are on the way to a swimming pool now. I will not get text messages until later when I am back. The breakfast money for Rose we have used to pay the pool.

Hey we have a new brother Phillip Kihumyu the former Bishop with Baptist Church .  Now he is a child of God. Let’s see what the Lord has for him.

“Imagine he has been unable to sleep. I heard dad saying it was like some saints who could not spend another night without baptism.”

On April 6, 2006 , Stephen wrote, “An Elder had a manifestation. He was resting in a place as He was waiting for a friend to meet him. He says that day he was feeling the presence of the Lord more than ever before. He was in the place he was seating. He started meditating about a sermon he taught during Sabbath in his branch.  In that meditation he saw some one dressed on a pure white dress standing behind him and he started speaking about lateness, he was speaking to the Elder and he told him your friend was some minutes late that he could not be able to reach the only bus that comes from home early morning and it is the only one that takes people to the wedding.  He took too long to get prepared and when he was to come out of the house he took some minutes and he became late. The elder got asking a question, now am I late too? He answered him you got the bus just on time but if you could delay you could be late too.  The person who was talking to the Elder proceeded by telling him the thief in the cross together with Christ was just about to be late to attend the wedding but he got just on time. So he got himself in the bus saying that I will never go back there again even after the wedding.  I will stay with the groom. He says that he saw himself in a bus and after some happiness there he saw himself alighting the bus but he saw there were no many people in the ground.  The voice told him do not worry about the number because we decided to choose very few to attend it. He said that after the voice he saw somebody running towards where he was and asked him, who are you? He answered him I am Peter and I was waiting for you.  Let me show you the room we stay as we wait for the others who are coming. He says he started imagining how he will meet with apostles but when he got in he met people who were very smart on white gowns and they looked alike.  The men who took him told him let us enter to the room of  changing I give you’re  dress, when they were going towards the room THE FRIEND he was waiting for horded his hand and he come back to himself.

On April 24, Stephen wrote, “Since I come to know you guys, it is now a year ago. You have warmed my heart and you have been proved by my heart as true brothers. I have also proved that you are an asset of great value in the Kingdom of God Father. Your patience and understanding go far beyond the reach of our enemy the devil. A crown of glory awaits you in Zion and not only you but also with us who wait for that great day with anxiousness.  I should thank you for being genuine brothers and faithful friends. It is not something to be overlooked but it has cost a lot of patience and understanding to have gone this far. It is my prayer that it will continue that forever and ever, for we are together in this life and glory be to God for we shall be together even in the life to come. I always thank God whenever I remember you in my prayers, and I always ask God to continue helping both you and us until we meet again. I have to stop there by saying, if I could be able to use the principle of Joshua to command the Sun to stand still I could reverse days until last year, I would get my self in Dubai waiting for you guys, hearing stories from Dean till very late at night, eating together and listening to good voice of dad and finally shedding tears when we get to the airport saying bye to one another. Guys I have never seen great people like you, you are always in my mind, my prayers are ever with you. I love you very much.”

On May 31, 2006 , Stephen wrote, “The work of the ministry in the coast region here has been very much, the Spirit of God has been hovering around those areas, and I have received news of how multitudes are turning away from their wicked ways and join the race of the true priest hood and the Church of the Firstborn. The separation between Elder Kago and Samuel had a big effect towards the work done there. The baptism and the work of the ministry are rapidly growing in those areas.”

On June 6, Stephen wrote, “I have said hi five because of what the Lord has done. My two brothers have come to receive the real baptism today, after so long they have now seen the light of the gospel.”

I am going to greatly limit the correspondence from this point. On July 12, Stephen wrote, “Nephi did well listening to the voice of God well; walking with that voice helped him much.  If we hear the voice as Nephi let us then humble our self before the Lord. It is this humbleness that led Prophet Joseph. He is now respected by heavens above and the law of gravity cannot hold him. I wish I were there when James J. Strang was being ordained under the hands of angels.  I wish I could meet with Joseph Smith holding the laws of my God.  They are really worth to be honored and called heroes and a cloud of witness who are awaiting me. Let the gentiles and every creature know the work that was done by the named heroes and yet they have not received the promise waiting for me to be done with the harvest and I join them.  The church has a very limited time to change the world and overturn it upside down.  Them that claimed to be very spiritual, holier than thou, they have already proved themselves who they are.  They are doing things similar to their father the devil. They are killing in their synagogues, they are stealing in their synagogues, they are serving a god who is dumb and deaf, one who never answer prayers, and because they have reached their home and Jesus called them hypocrites, and blood of vipers, let us then put every effort to snatch others from the mouth of the devourer.”

On June 27, Stephen wrote, “The Saints who are there are almost seventy who are near Lodwar and other thirty who are in the outcast of Lodwar who I left the Elder in charge to go and baptize them.”

On July 8, Stephen wrote, “I was warmed and extremely challenged by the manifestation of God in power and wisdom among the saints in Eldoret. The Holy Spirit is speaking with encouraging words and prophecies that are making someone hair stand on end. I have never experienced what I experienced today. Through an elder, when they knelt down to pray, the brother shouted with strange voices and he said, “I AM God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, I was, I am and I will ever be.  I was with my prophets. I spoke to Moses my servant in the burning bush and provided my laws and doctrines so that you may do my will, before my wrath sweeps the corners and strongholds of this world.  I will ever cover you so that the darts of the enemy may not reach you.  The world is about to get in a great tribulation that cannot be overcome by a weak heart. Behold, I have anointed my servants so that they may burn the candle sticks to the whole world before the end comes.  The voice was terribly strange such that no one could withstand it.  He called me by name and said Stephen, you are a lamb.  Stand and I am delighted with you, do not be worried as I was with my Prophets I will ever be with you.  I will never leave nor forsake you. My dear children you will ever be called mine as long as you do what I have commanded you.  After then He spoke in a new tongue that I could not understand.  He used words like lamentations kind of and then He proceeded in Swahili. There is a black raven flying from East to West, named on the front face as death, my children, CHASE IT! He proceeded, with a very low voice, there are wars and rumors of my coming but I will keep you so that you may not face trouble, with a very low voice. He was like whispering. He said be patient to one another, love one another and have brotherly love.  Carry each ones burden. Do everything to glorify my name but not to show up to the world, listen and respect my servants; do not point a finger at them. I am the one who called them, put on completely the new nature which I have clothed you with and I will be called your Father and you my sons and daughters.  He finally said you pray for three days because of the saints I have called.  They have heeded to my voice but the angel of darkness has delayed their ordinances. I have rebuked him for you.”

On July 18, 2006 , a woman hit our Jeep near Salida , Colorado , knocking it into the air.  It rolled ¾ of a turn and ended up facing the other direction lying on Mary’s side.  I walked out of the wreck without a scratch; but, Mary had to be cut out of the Jeep.  She was airlifted to a trauma center in Denver .  She suffered fractured neck vertebrae, skull fractures, and a terrible leg wound.  Stephen made every attempt to fly to Denver to see her.  The US Embassy would not grant him a visa.  We had to spend six weeks in Denver until the neck and skull fractures healed.  The leg injury left her looking like a shark had bitten her.  She has been in pain 24/7.  A man from South Carolina visited us while there, was baptized, and ordained an elder before he left.  When we returned to Salida, a woman (with her daughter) flew to Denver and drove to Salida for baptism.

On August 22, Stephen wrote, “When I entered the Kingdom you alerted me of terrible and worse temptations and actually they have come on our way, but the grace of God has enabled us to pursue holiness and to endure temptations and after all temptation God has enabled us to be firm knowing the crowns and prize will be great when we finish the race. I have just received an email from Lowell [in Djibouti ]. He told me how 17 Muslims turned from their wicked ways and confessed that Muhammad has nothing to do with their life and they renounced their cultism and joined the church of the latter day saints. That has warmed my heart.”

He also wrote, “As the angel of the Lord appeared fourteen days ago to an Elder in Eldoret, when he just departed a bus late in the evening, he says that he was very much in the Spirit that day and he just felt within him that it was his opportunity to share the goodness of our God.  He was deeply meditating the doings of God when he heard a low voice like that of a tropical bird calling him. He looked behind to see who was speaking to him with such a nocturnal sound. No sooner had he looked behind him that he saw a lace of a garment partly hidden by a cypress tree. He felt a lot of fear but he could not make a move again and he could not be able to compose himself to see what it was all about. When he was still stranded and not sure what was going on, the voice courageously spoke to him. These are the words he got ‘the time has come for God of Abraham to show mercy to his remaining remnant. He has spoken through thunders and earthquakes but mankind have not turned from his wicked ways. He has spoken of his coming but men have flown to their own understanding and have done away with the counsel that taught mankind not to sin against their God. He has provided his laws and commandments to them that love and fear Him and if they watch not to grieve the Spirit of oaths that has been given to them, they will be congratulated before the judgment seat and have been flown from the coming wrath of God that will sweep the four corners of the earth. Pray without ceasing because the end is near that expected my servants to do the work of the ministry without becoming weary. I am coming quickly and my reward is at hand. Son you will shine among gentiles and I will make you great. Rise up and go.”

On October 4, Stephen wrote, “The work of the ministry has been very much demanding. My time as you know bringing souls to the Kingdom is what is very dear to my heart. I have to thank God because of the way He has opened opportunities of the work of the gospel in Africa and specifically my country.  I am very much grateful of all the great manifestation of power and wisdom that God of Jacob has brought to the saints specifically our new branch in Naivasha.  Whenever I hear of this I feel that our call is not in vain and our preaching and teaching though possibly they do not have enticing words of man’s wisdom, they have a demonstration of God’s power so that our hope and courage may not lean in man’s understanding but in the great call of our Lord.”

On October 6, Stephen wrote, “We have an Elder in Naivasha by the name of... and God is using him in a great way. He is ministering the gospel in the hospital and has brought many fruits and many have entered the kingdom. He has over thirty staffs in Naivasha General Hospital who listen to the gospel.”

On October 15, Stephen wrote, “I decided to visit one of our branches in Kitengela because the fame reached me of how the Holy Spirit is using an elder there, though I was unable to wait to the end of the meeting due to I received a call that I had a person who was very sick and was supposed to be taken to the hospital.  I was able to be in the Sabbath most of the time.

“What surprised me most is that God is using this Elder in a mighty way, after he stands up to start the meetings he is revealed by the Holy Spirit about the problems with people. He calls a person in his three names, and ministers to him or her just in the point of the need; and then after that he gives the word of what the Spirit that is guiding him towards the problem of that person. The people he calls are not known to him; and they even have never met before. But diseases such as Aids, malaria, and other big diseases are healed.  He is also led to know the people disturbed by the power of witchcraft. People come from very far having problems and diseases until the room they meet in cannot accommodate more.  What they are doing now is closing the doors so that the others who are late can hear from outside. The capacity of attendance yesterday was over five hundred people and we are going to baptize 104 today because I must be there.

He is requesting books of the Doctrines, Book of Mormon and some tracks which I am to work out. We are happy to have the true priesthood and to be members of the small remnant.” On October 19, Stephen noted, “He guides someone to the kingdom and then the healing follows.”

On October 27, 2006 , Stephen wrote, “We are having twenty-nine branches and an estimate of 1200 saints. The biggest branch being Kitengela on the highway of Mombassa, 6 kilometers from Athi river on the Junction of Kajiado on the way to Namanga. It is a Maasai land that donated cows to white house. They are very good when they enter to the Kingdom, they asked Elder Victor to enter the herd’s pen and count the tenth cow no matter which one it is, number ten belongs to God and Victor took them. He is selling them to construct a bigger place to meet for the Sabbath and he is planning to travel to Lodwar.  He is dear to my heart.”

On November 9, Stephen wrote, “Maasai are the best people to deal with, when it comes to repentance to them it is a complete change of direction, that brings forth breaking culture completely and a total surrender to the will of God like a new born child is how they are when they come to have the knowledge of God. You can find people in Africa with hypocrisy but not a repented Maasai.  They really have the fear of God. When they enter the Kingdom, there is no more drinking of blood and marriage of infants is no more exercised. They start the normal dressing and shave their hairs. The defense of the gospel they receive is done in a great manner and for that God do speak to them because of the kind of heart they have.”

On November 12, Stephen wrote, “I was thrilled with your email I received this morning. It is a good always to understand the voice of the one who called us.  Failure to understand and comprehend the call results in failing to do the will of God. When I received the ordinances required in the true church in Dubai , you can recall after my baptism, when I was standing in the entrance of the swimming pool. I bounded my head and heard of a commission. I never told you because I had the fear that I was new to you and it could appear to some people as the power pride; but I was confirmed of a new journey with spiritual warfare which I have really experienced. I explained a bit to the saints yesterday of our calling and I remember I told them that we do not do the work of the ministry focusing our eyes towards anybody but towards the one who called us. I was thrilled to hear testimonies of the saints confessing Joseph Smith to be the true prophet and James Strang to be his successor and our church to be the true church. I respected the honor we have towards the priesthood and I desired to make the same light to reach many.”

On November 22, Stephen wrote, “We had a good time last Sabbath with the orphans in our children’s home. We have a very powerful small boy that God is using to minister to those orphans and he is one of them. I had visited them so that I may plan how some of them can go to school... As the young guy in home said last Sabbath that this world was once lived by others who today are no more and they have already flied away but what they left behind gives their history to remember either their good deeds or evil deeds that they did in the flesh.  We hereby pray for all of us who are undergoing temptations and trials to really have Spirit of Wisdom which will whisper to them that when we are done with the present sufferings we surely come out as victors and as gold and finally the temptation we face today cannot be compared with the Glory to come.  The young boy in the home was discovered as a man called of God in the ministry by Elder Victor who did not hesitate to ordain him an Elder.”

The next day he wrote, “Yes…The young boy in the children’s home who goes by the name of Martin is a very interesting servant of God. He holds a total committal in life as a priest and I have seen God moving in his life. He is called with the same calling as Elder Victor. When both Elders start ministering you cannot hold tears that flow along your cheeks. You have never come across a sick person waiting to die very much prepared for death. Isolated in the society because of his illness and all of a sudden he is called by names, forgiven of his sins, and set free from his bondage. Elder Victor mentioned illness as a result of sin; but by living a holy life and being ministered with the proper ordinances, the nature of sin cannot withhold the priesthood blessings.  After His teaching the movement of the Spirit of God is doing mighty things and many are turning away from their sins.”

On November 24, Elder Victor wrote to me many things including, “It is during this mission [with his uncle] I happened to hear Elder Stephen with a team in Kitengela and I could feel something drawing me nearer to the place they were. I did not receive the message that evening; but after prayers they made I could not sleep the whole night. I was feeling as if I was dying the next minute. I went in the following morning to the site they were at and heard that they had a baptism in Athi River where I rushed and I was baptized and in the same evening I was confirmed and ordained as an Elder. The night that followed I could also not sleep because of the joy that over crowded my heart. I could walk all around my house praying till the voice spoke to me. I heard the voice telling me that I have been called to bring deliverance and relief to the children of God. The angel of God laid His hands upon me. He told me that I have none else to call my father but the one in heaven. He mentioned to me that I do not have the fatherly love but He has come to bring a restoration of that love to me and proclaimed that I have a Father in heaven and He will be always with me. From that very night I felt a lot of faith in God and I believe nothing He cannot do as long as it is a genuine and willingly prayer. I am very sensitive when to pray. I have seen miracles and wonders happening in His wonderful fulfillment of the promise.”

On November 28, Stephen wrote about leaving the next afternoon for India to meet Vijay.  He also noted that Elder Victor was going to Lodwar to bring starving children to Nairobi to the hospital for treatment.  On December 3, he wrote that he was flying home the next day.  When he returned home, he had to be admitted to the hospital with typhoid.

On December 28, Stephen wrote, “Time is remaining short and we shall hear the voice of the archangel in the sky.  These are the last days and the return of our Lord is dwelling nearer. It has turned as a first announcement in all our branches, that any time, any moment, something can happen and we will get the reward and the prize for all we have done in this life. An angel of the Lord ministered to an Elder [Martin] in the church fourteen days ago.  He held a candlestick on his right hand and a sword in the left hand.  The Elder says he was told that the day has come for the light of the gospel to reach the few who are subject to understanding it and follow the ways of the Lord and the judgment is just about to fall to them that did not respect the voice of God and took the grace of God in vain. The sword is ready to cut every plant that bears no fruit and be destroyed; but them that have decided to follow the light will rejoice in Zion , if they keep on with the hope of their hearts and continue to pursue it. Woe, I have also realized that the God of Abraham has called us and given us different ministries.”

On February 27, 2007 , Stephen wrote, “In the conclusion, an Elder had a manifestation. He saw a very clean and good field with green grass. The kind of sheep that were grazing there had very clean wool.  They were grazing with a lot of love, but latter a very huge wild beast tried to chase the sheep and before it could devour them a very huge lion came out. The voice spoke and said…I do take care of the sheep and I am the King.  None should bring trouble in the heard of my Father. When He looked behind to see who was that speaking to him, he got someone in a very huge dress, going straight to the feet, and His face was shining like a refined gold. His face portrayed a lot of friendship and love, though His glory could not be understood. His appearance brought a lot of interest and enticement. He spoke to the Elder and told Him: my servant, when I came first they could not desire me but in due time I am coming with my glory and every eye will see me just what I am and they will desire me; but the room will be closed, but for you just wait for me patiently and He disappeared.”

On March 9, Stephen wrote, “We were able to bring 108 new members in Githurai and they are still coming one after the other very eager to hear the good news of the Kingdom and that gives all the praise to the Almighty.”

On March 17, Stephen wrote, “The other good news is that we have another new branch that was formed today in Karai, 8 kilometers to Naivasha town, which I learn that 61 new members were baptized by Elder Samuel together with Elder Mburu, God has received all the glory. In total today we have 79 new members for the Kingdom of God .”

On June 4, Stephen wrote, “Let me make it clear to you that we have 57 Elders in Kenya, 27 branches and close to 2100 members; but the figure of the number of the saints is not accurate, when I will be able to establish the actual number by end month I will advise you.”

In June we learned that James Mubiru (in Uganda) in whom I had the greatest trust had been lying to me, deceiving me with many events that were not true, and robbed me of much of my retirement fund.

On July 15, Stephen wrote, “Father, I have undergone a lot of problems since I started preaching the right gospel which I will never forget until I reach the mark and I receive the gifts of God and I am declared a winner. I meditate what I have gone through day and night and I am willing to carry on because the gift of life cannot be plucked out from me by anyone unless I fail to enter His rest as others of the old did and they were consumed by the fire of God. Continue to pray for me as I pray for you also so that we may be fit to enter into His rest.”

In July, Stephen went to Uganda and discovered the deceptions of James to be true.  He had a good time with some who remained true, re-baptized some, and ordained four elders.  On July 21, Stephen wrote. “I have a lot of confidence with the above and I believe they will be submissive to the voice of God as they direct the flock to keep the laws of God and guide them according to the doctrines of the latter day saints fellowship.”

On October 12, 2007 , Stephen wrote, “Even if it is like so, I do thank the one who called me from the race that was heading me astray, without hope and with no God. I do thank God for the priesthood that has been bestowed in me and I do thank God for all the blessings He has poured upon my head are irrevocable.  Before we met with you in Dubai I had already received the call of God.  Immediately after you baptized me in the swimming pool I remember the whispers and they keep on encouraging me in this race of faith. In the consideration of all mentioned above compels me to move ahead moving forward forever and never backward.”

On November 8, Stephen wrote, “All the effort we use in our own pleasure just lasts for a day; but all the efforts we make to get our Father known is recorded in chronicles and it makes our hope brighter.  The pleasures of this life have lead many astray; but the pleasures of eternity still stand and give a lot of hope to them that await his appearance. There is a joy awaiting us and whenever we meditate about it then we make a vow forward ever and backward never. Yes our calling is very individual.  We were not called as a group but each heard his own calling.  The ministries upon us may seem different because we are called individually to establish the body of Christ. The field that God has called us to let us carries on with all the faithfulness focusing on the author and perfecter of our faith and the founder of the church of the firstborn whose names appear in heaven.”

On January 5, 2008 , Stephen wrote, “I send you all my heart greetings in Jesus our Lord. I was surprised that you had no information on what has been happening in my country and yet they have it in the CNN and in the internet. It has been a valley of blood and thousands have lost their lives. Many are homeless and do not even know where to start their life. A number of churches in Eldoret and Nairobi have been put under fire. I traveled to Eldoret to visit the saints who are left homeless and now are camping in chiefs and police stations. Many do not have even a cloth to change and not even sure of where to start. It has been terrible; but Gods hand is present to calm the situation and if it is meant to educate many and this is my few it will certainly do. Ask the saints to pray and remember their brothers and Sisters in the kingdom who share the same calling.”  The church in Eldoret was burned.

On June 3, Stephen wrote of his trip to Israel, “This matter of commitment to follow and to keep the law of God is really not a paradise of fools, all that is involved it is actually traumatizing but whenever you focus towards the ending of the race, crowns involved, the joy ahead, glory to come then you ask the Spirit to enable you to persevere to the end since from the day of John the Baptist until now the Kingdom of God suffers violence. I had a wonderful trip in Israel . I thought after all the hardships in Kenya I could take it as a break or holiday kind of. I thought that I will not introduce myself as an Elder or Minister of the gospel so that at least I may have a break but the truth is hard to be hidden and the anointing we bare is like pregnancy, you just talk and then they realize you have a know how of God and then you end up busting with the introduction of the gospel and from then the gospel which is self explanatory gets its way. I had a wonderful time in Israel and the end of the day a fellowship was highly attended in Tel Aviv and eight saints were born of water and Spirit, they had to urge me very much to remain with them but coming back was already reserved.”

On September 3, Stephen wrote, “We were able to establish two other branches, where the Elders presiding were given names of the branches by angelic visitation. They told me one was called Kingdom Embassy and the other one Kingdom Gates, both have a theme of preparing people for his kingdom, when the openings get like this, you find the enemy fighting from within, you want very much to smile but you have to shy since there is a lot that has not been accomplished you cannot have peace of mind when the situation is like this, however, we are right where God wants us and His timing is perfect, even though we don’t understand. If we try to do it on our own strength, we will only prolong the process and will go one more time around the mountain... Things have been so hard for my ministry this time but I have Icons of hope that things are getting better ahead. When the ministry becomes strong, its demands become so high I am down somehow since things are not going the way I want them.  I am expected to do more than my ability, but God will carry me through.”

On September 8, Stephen wrote, “I was compelled by the situation to attend our youth conference, though there was no money. I had to sell my cell phone and attend it, as it was the plan of God for me to attend it because there were things that God revealed to us. I wish I could have funds to enable me to forward all the information but I will try to give a portion of it... Yesterday we finished a church.  We were invited there. The Spirit asked us to demand them to submit all the dead things in their church. They brought old drums, broken speakers, old calendars and a lot of things that were in that church which were not used. The Elder was asked to burn them by the Spirit. When the fire rose the Spirit said there were a lot of old things in them that are not godly. They had worship of idols, records of evil and the Spirit was present to purify them if they wanted.  After then there was a request of the people who could stop worshipping foreign gods and worship the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.  The Pastor and three quarters of the church came forward.  We introduced the true gospel and right ordinances and we baptized 34. I will share more when I get the ability.”

On September 11, 2008 , Stephen wrote, “The trials of life and the proving of our rest in God can many times bring confusion and a blurring of the will of God. In these times, the anchor is the goodness of God. God is good! In the reality of the path that we're on, it's not always easy to put our emotions and understanding under the revelation and faith which apprehends the goodness of God and embraces the trials with thanksgiving. Understanding the goodness of God is what enables us to count it all joy when we fall into different temptations, tests and trials. Count it all joy knowing the trial of your faith works patience. Let patience have its perfect work that you might be made perfect, complete, mature, entire, wanting for nothing. The saints in Kenya are doing well both in faith and in their commitment to support the progress of the Kingdom. They do give support to establish the matters related to the ministry. They do support the work wholeheartedly though they do not mostly observe my personal needs and my ministry movements. There is no more than enough funds but there is sufficient but when missions requiring my attention comes, then you find funds were used for other missions. Its is not always like this but when a huge amount of money is drawn out, like in my mission to Israel, then I am required to wait until they get reorganized again but all will be well. The new branch is not in Narok but in Embu.”

On October 27, Stephen wrote, “I was taking the following notes for you from a last Sabbath teacher "He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall remain stable and fixed under the shadow of the Almighty whose power no foe can withstand. You shall not be afraid of the terror of the night nor of the arrow, the evil plot slanders of the wicked."

"A thousand may fall at your side and ten thousand at your right hand but it shall not come near you because you have made the LORD Your refuge” And so great terror shall strike at the heart of those who have ruled the nations by control and manipulation - by trade and by extortion - as they see their idols collapse before them. And so the great shaking and the judgments upon the Earth shall begin. They exchange the worship of me, the Living God, for that of stocks and shares and gold and bonds - for the worship of oil and armaments. They have exchanged their souls for that which cannot save them. For so it is that as their life expires, all they have amassed in the high places of the Earth, all their idols shall stand silent."

On November 29, I received an email from the Center Fellowship in Nairobi .  “Love and greetings from  Kenya . I'm glad to be able to know you and your ministry through the internet. I just hooked into the Internet and found your web page when I was searching and reading about the origin of man, humanism and churches. It happened that I came across your web side and read some of your interesting articles which made me to be much interested with your church ministry and the love you have and do practice.

“We, therefore, thought it better to request your office concerning affiliation; and for you to reach us and our groups with this good teaching of love and unity to our groups in Kenya . We feel and desire to affiliate with you and become as members of your ministry in our area Nairobi-Kenya and Kisii region.”

Stephen is busy trying to visit all the branches before the end of the year.  I do not expect to hear from him again until 2009.

  BOTSWANA

  On August 19, 2005 , I received an email from James Mubiru in Uganda.  James was the first person in Uganda to accept the Utah LDS church.  He was later ordained an elder by them and became a missionary.  Then God led him to the true restored priesthood.  “We always imagine the greatest joy we shall have after receiving true baptism and the establishment of the true restored church and learning all the revealed gospel doctrine from Prophet Joseph Smith to his true successor James Strang.

“May our merciful loving Father in heaven bless you in every way. Please, we would be very grateful if there is a possibility to get in touch with some church members there in the United States who can always send us strengthening messages using my email address. We will really be glad for that. May God bless you in every way.”

I answered James and he responded, “I was so glad to hear from you and most delighted with the news that there are other groups of the original LDS church here in Africa . That is wonderful and it would be very easy to correspond with some of them who would be interested in strengthening our new group here in Uganda .  You know that we are anxiously waiting for baptism and other restored gospel doctrine which was not yet revealed to us especially teachings of the true successor of Prophet Joseph Smith, James Strang. I am so glad that I received inspirations from the Lord to share some of the teachings of the original LDS church which I studied from the church's official website and good enough. I managed to get more than 90 people now ready to be baptized when time comes for the original church to be introduced here in Uganda in time to come. Please, Elder West, I will be so glad to get any possible help from you so that the Lord's true restored church can be introduced here in Uganda . What we are waiting for is true baptism, true priesthood and true restored gospel doctrine pertaining to our salvation and exaltation.”

“Please Elder West, thank you for all your possible help to see that I receive baptism including my whole group and above all my wife who was at first also in the Utah Mormon church. We got married immediately after serving as full time missionaries for the above church and I testify to you that it was God's divine plan for us to decide to change our path to eternity by being willing to follow the teachings of the original LDS church leaving all the friends we have been associating with in our previous faith before seeing the light. It is our great hope and faith that our merciful father in heaven may provide any quick possible way for us to be part of His true restored church. All along I have been searching the scriptures, especially the Book of Mormon including Doctrine and Covenants ( Utah edition), since 1993.  More than a decade now and I felt that some thing was still missing until when the Lord directed me to the church's official website to find the truth. I had to share it with my close friends who also accepted it. It is such a marvelous experience I have gone through so far and I truly know that I have found the truth regarding God's plan for His obedient children.”

I wrote to Stephen and advised him concerning those in Uganda that were seeking to become a part of the original true restored church. On September 21, 2005 , Stephen wrote to James, Dear Sir, Warm greetings,

The greatest duty we owe to ourselves and our families in this mortal life is to know God, understand His will, and secure our salvation in eternity. We all lived together as spirits before living in this mortal flesh. Our works during this first estate determined spiritual opportunities now.

 “In that case the brethren in Kenya and in America cannot participate or become a stumbling block towards your baptism and confirmation to the Kingdom of God . We cannot afford to loose you and at the end of the day we become answerable towards your life.

 “The gate to enter to the Kingdom of God is open and at hand.  We sing praises whenever we find one interested and determined to use this opportunity wisely, before the hour of grace comes to an end and your life is filled with regrets. There are shepherds all over the world who do not spare the flock, teaching false doctrine interested on material gains, but what pleases me most is to know that one day the great shepherd will come, them that lead his flock contrary to his call, will be filled with the wrath of God, and them that taught them to enter through the narrow gate will be appreciated by Him [great shepherd] in the presence of angels in Zion. I hope you have ever thought of it [He is a consuming fire].

“Saints of God are the temple of God .  As a people we are a city that is not built with hands.  After being cleansed by baptism of water, and receiving the Holy Spirit, we must keep this temple clean.  That is, we must live according to the will of God.  If we want to go with Jesus, we must walk the same path.  There will be a great temple in New Jerusalem and in Jerusalem .

“Woe, what an opportunity you have to choose to enter into the Kingdom of God and become a member of the church of the firstborn.  Flee from the wrath of God while the chance and the gate remain open.”

James responded to Stephen on September 24, 2005 , “Dear Elder Munyora, I am very glad to hear from you. Please, warm regards from the other group members. We are really grateful and most delighted to know that what we have been prayerfully yearning for a long time has been granted unto us by our loving father in heaven. What a great opportunity and blessing we have to join the Lord's true church through baptism and confirmation! The Holy Ghost manifests and confirms to me that I have wisely chosen the right path after many years of being spiritually blinded by men's precepts.  I am so grateful that I have seen the light! That is why I had a strong desire to share this true restored gospel with other interested people and I don't regret the decision I have made and I don't have to boast but to praise and give glory to the Father of our spirits who is always merciful and kind to His faithful children. And I truly believe that there is opposition in all things; but what we have to do is to take the right  regardless of Satan's influence in opposing the Lord's great plan of happiness to all those who accepted to follow Jesus Christ during the pre-mortal council with our Father in heaven before our mortal life here on earth.

“Well, I am grateful for Elder Samuel E. West's great teachings and his words of exaltation so that all those with a broken heart and contrite spirit may repent of their sins, be baptized and receive the holy ghost as they join the Lord's true restored church with true priesthood used in performing ordinances pertaining to our salvation and exaltation. May our merciful father in heaven bless him in his divine work of gathering the faithful from this corrupt world as we await for the Lord's second coming.

“Please Elder Munyora, thank you for the great work you are doing in serving the Lord. I know that there is no greater call than that you are fulfilling in seeing that true restored gospel is preached in this part of the world and we look forward to warmly receiving with you here in Uganda .

Elders Stephen and Peter took a bus from Nairobi to Kampala arriving on October 7, 2005 .  They immediately went to the lake and baptized James and his brother Samuel Muzzale and then confirmed them. On October 9, they baptized and confirmed 16 grownups and five children above the age of eight, ordained James an Elder, united James and his wife Allen by the power of the holy Melchisedec Priesthood, and adopted their son to them.

On November 21, he wrote, “I greet you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Please, tell mum that I enjoy her text messages. Allen also sends her warm regards to you and we are so glad that Bill is in good condition now after recovering from Malaria fever. Please, dad and mum we greatly appreciate all your love and care. It was such a wonderful church service we had last Sabbath and the attendance was good (68) and among those in attendance was a friend of mine [his brother] by the name of Samuel Muzaale.”

Two more branches were organized in Kampala and Mukono; and many were brought through the gate into the kingdom of God .  On December 17, he wrote, “We are through with baptisms and are traveling back for the confirmation of twenty-three people; and I am being assisted by Elders Samuel Mukisa, my younger brother, and Samuel Muzaale.”

At some time before June, 2007, James Mubiru apostatized.  He had sent me frightening stories of problems he was encountering and had no money to cover the expenses.  I guess I was too softhearted.  The following is an example of his deceitful conduct. On November 19, 2006 , he wrote, “It was this morning when my wife Allen, accidentally slipped off the bathroom floor and hit her head down. I immediately rushed her to the hospital. The hospital requires me to pay amount equivalent to $500 for head surgery which amount I currently lack and I please humbly request for your possible assistance to save my wife's life. She seems to have serious brain damage and inner bleeding. I will send more details about her health situation.  I will be very glad for your help.” His wife Allen with his son had left him some time previous, so this was all a lie.  There are many instances of such deceptions in which he robbed our retirement account of much of its value.

In June, 2007, we became fully aware of the deception.  Four elders in Uganda had gotten in touch with us and advised us of what was really happening.  Elder Stephen returned to Uganda , re-baptized, confirmed, and re-ordained four elders.  They have been working hard to restore the church in Entebbe , Kampala , and Mukono.  Many of the saints were lost; but, there are constantly new converts and many of the old are returning.

  KINGDOM TO COME

  The next major dispensation will be the second phase of the Dispensation of the Fullness of Times, the Harvest Dispensation; which will be an open dispensation to some gentiles and the House of Israel. “8 Remember, I beseech thee, the word that thou commandedst thy servant Moses, saying, If ye transgress, I will scatter you abroad among the nations: 9 But if ye turn unto me, and keep my commandments, and do them; though there were of you cast out unto the uttermost part of the heaven, yet will I gather them from thence, and will bring them unto the place that I have chosen to set my name there.” (Neh. 1)  “14 Therefore, behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that it shall no more be said, The LORD liveth, that brought up the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt; 15 But, The LORD liveth, that brought up the children of Israel from the land of the north, and from all the lands whither he had driven them: and I will bring them again into their land that I gave unto their fathers.” (Jer. 16)

Before the return of our Lord the worthy members of the kingdom that remain are to be gathered to a place of refuge.  “8 And thou, O tower of the flock [James J. Strang], the strong hold of the daughter of Zion , unto thee shall it come, even the first dominion; the kingdom shall come to the daughter of Jerusalem . 9 Now why dost thou cry out aloud?  is there no king in thee?  is thy counseller perished?  for pangs have taken thee as a woman in travail. 10 Be in pain, and labour to bring forth, O daughter of Zion, like a woman in travail: for now shalt thou go forth out of the city, and thou shalt dwell in the field, and thou shalt go even to Babylon; there shalt thou be delivered; there the LORD shall redeem thee from the hand of thine enemies.” (Micah 4) “8 And the daughter of Zion is left as a cottage in a vineyard, as a lodge in a garden of cucumbers, as a besieged city. 9 Except the LORD of hosts had left unto us a very small remnant, we should have been as Sodom, and we should have been like unto Gomorrah.” (Isa. 1)

The angel who ordained James J. Strang said, “15. While the day of the wicked abideth, shalt thou prepare a refuge for the oppresed, and for the poor and needy.  Unto thee shall they come, and their brethren who are scattered shall come with them; and the destruction of the ungodly shall quickly follow; for it already worketh.” (Book of the Law, p. 171)

Then there will be desolation beyond comprehension. “6 Howl ye; for the day of the LORD is at hand; it shall come as a destruction from the Almighty. 7 Therefore shall all hands be faint, and every man's heart shall melt: 8 And they shall be afraid: pangs and sorrows shall take hold of them; they shall be in pain as a woman that travaileth: they shall be amazed one at another; their faces shall be as flames. 9 Behold, the day of the LORD cometh, cruel both with wrath and fierce anger, to lay the land desolate: and he shall destroy the sinners thereof out of it.” (Isa. 13)  Very soon Jesus will return, “8 In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (2 Thess. 1) “6 And in those days shall men seek death, and shall not find it; and shall desire to die, and death shall flee from them.” (Rev. 9)

The Bible contains many prophesies of the destruction of the ungodly.  Only a third of the House of Israel is to survive. “9 And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on my name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is my people: and they shall say, The LORD is my God.” (Zech. 13) It will be even worse for the gentiles (also called heathen). “15 For the day of the LORD is near upon all the heathen [gentile]: as thou hast done, it shall be done unto thee: thy reward shall return upon thine own head. 16 For as ye have drunk upon my holy mountain, so shall all the heathen drink continually, yea, they shall drink, and they shall swallow down, and they shall be as though they had not been.” (Obad. 1)  “3. The Saints of the former days have sat in judgment upon them; they have judged the earth, and the nations thereof shall not be spared:  fire goeth before, famine followeth after; and the pestilence shall waste them.” (Book of the Law, p. 203)  Isaiah tells us, “5 The earth also is defiled under the inhabitants thereof; because they have transgressed the laws, changed the ordinance, broken the everlasting covenant. 6 Therefore hath the curse devoured the earth, and they that dwell therein are desolate: therefore the inhabitants of the earth are burned, and few men left.” (Isa. 24)

Then the final Harvest Dispensation begins.  God promised Abraham that from his time the elect of God would be of his seed.  He covenanted with Abraham and renewed the covenant with Isaac and Jacob.  “7 And I will establish my covenant between me and thee and thy seed after thee in their generations for an everlasting covenant, to be a God unto thee, and to thy seed after thee. 8 And I will give unto thee, and to thy seed after thee, the land wherein thou art a stranger, all the land of Canaan , for an everlasting possession; and I will be their God.” (Gen. 17)

Gentiles are adopted into the House of Israel through baptism of water. “27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.” (Gal. 3) All other saints of God will inherit the land of Zion —North and South America ; but especially the land of the north (the land now possessed by the USA ).

Then all members of the kingdom of God are gathered to Zion and to Jerusalem .  “3 That then the LORD thy God will turn thy captivity, and have compassion upon thee, and will return and gather thee from all the nations, whither the LORD thy God hath scattered thee. 4 If any of thine be driven out unto the outmost parts of heaven, from thence will the LORD thy God gather thee, and from thence will he fetch thee: 5 And the LORD thy God will bring thee into the land which thy fathers possessed, and thou shalt possess it; and he will do thee good, and multiply thee above thy fathers.” (Deut. 30)  “3 And it shall come to pass, that he that is left in Zion , and he that remaineth in Jerusalem , shall be called holy, even every one that is written among the living in Jerusalem .” (Isa. 4)

After the desolation and the gathering comes the organization of the kingdom of God on earth. Jesus will stand as King of Kings over the whole earth. “15 And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. 16 And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.” (Rev. 19) James J. Strang will stand as King in Zion .  David will stand as King in Jerusalem . Jesus will rule during the thousand year Sabbath of Creation; while Satan is bound.

After the thousand years, Satan is released for a short season to deceive man once again and then fire destroys all mortality. Then comes the second resurrection of the unjust and man enters eternity as immortals in one of three glories.  “40 There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. 41 There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory. 42 So also is the resurrection of the dead.” (1 Cor. 15)

There will be a new heaven and a new earth.  Members of the kingdom of God who are worthy of the celestial glory will inherit the earth.  The New Jerusalem will be established in Zion and the Holy Jerusalem in Canaan .  “26 And he that overcometh , and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations.” (Rev. 2)  “7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.” (Rev. 21) 

If you want to understand what you have read, pray to the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. A remnant of the Melchisedec Priesthood remains and the gate into the kingdom is open; but the time is short.  It is your choice whether to be counted among the worthy or follow the will of man, die, and fail to inherit the earth.  “30 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: 31 Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.” (Acts 17)

“15 And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell [or the Trinitarian god of sectarian Christianity]: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” (Joshua 24)