Largest Christian Newspaper in America • goodnewsfl.org • August 2025 • Volume 27, Issue 5
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PUBLISHER 6 AUGUST 2025 www.goodnewsfl.org Good News • South Florida Edition “Jeremiah was a bullfrog was a good friend of mine. I never understood a single word he said” are the opening lyrics to this song, interestingly enough, titled “Joy to the World” and made famous by the rock group 3 dog night. Continuing on through the lyrics of the song, you come to the part where it says, “If I were the king of the world, I’d tell you what I’d do; I’d throw away the cars and the bars and the war and make sweet love to you.” Knowing that in Revelation 19:16 there’s only one King of Kings and Lord of Lords and that He is the supreme ruler in both Heaven and on Earth; however, it’s nice to dream. “If I were the king of the world,” I would start by buying up certain highprofile media like the New York Times, the Washington Post and the LA Times. The media is not the problem it’s the journalism schools that the editors now hire graduate students from as their reporters. You see, early in my career, I worked at the Miami Herald in subsidiary operations, but I had occasion to spend considerable time in the ‘newsroom’. The city editor would bark out, “Feldman” or “Smith” or “Jones” get over here… and you’d walk over to his desk; It’s kind of like referred to as the “bullpen,” and he would semi mumble the orders he wanted you to do: is “get” the story, and he would tell you what the story would eventually be and you would use your modest investigative skill to track down and speak to people, get quotes and write the story that he’s asking you to “get.” Now, I say that delicately because there’s a difference between “get” and “report.” Report would be like a traffic accident; report what happened, but “get” is to manufacture the story to fit the narrative. He wasn’t asking you to lie or be untruthful, because he was going to be the arbiter of what was truthful in his editing role and duties based on confirming sources and in important issues, third-party corroborating, but you were tasked with the responsibility to “get” that story, i.e. campaign, bribery, payoffs, shady deals, etc. So if I were king of the world, the first thing I would do is to buy the NY Times and WAPO and the LA Times. I would probably immediately fire every reporter and anyone with editorial responsibilities that has been hired in the past 20 years, and I would put a moratorium on hiring any employee who is a graduate of Columbia University, Harvard or New York University, or any Ivy League journalism schools in the Northeast. I would only hire journalism graduates from the Midwest schools, primarily city colleges or state universities that foreign interests have not specifically bestowed huge endowments in their journalism schools: to re-shape, re-frame and re-narrate a new twist in the truth since the major media is still the genesis for breaking stories where “bloggers” get the sniff of the trail, and then run wild with it in their Internet freedom. America has run amok from with fake news, fake stories and fake narratives and nonexistent facts. It’s all opinion from people who intrinsically hate America by thinking their hatred will reshape America into a better place? They never once suspect that they were mind controlled and manipulated in the college journalism schools. Heck, they could pass the polygraph test, thinking their truth is the real truth. The mind control has been deep and complete. I have witnessed the background of what generally was true, unbiased and unmanipulated fact gathering organizations that would get a source, get a confirmation and get a third collaborative source, and only then with an important story, would it actually run - once that story was broken in any of the major media. The rest of the media was onto the next story, because they had already been scooped. It taught and developed young reporters to be vigilant and nimble and to find credible sources for corroboration. This no longer exists in today’s media world. Therefore, it’s hard to teach that foundation unless we have journalism schools that have the temerity to teach students to search for facts rather than opinion that is generally passed off as reporting when in fact, it has nothing to do with reporting, but it has everything to do with spinning. What has happened to an industry that I felt walked on hallowed ground of integrity and professionalism but now those two words - “integrity” and “professionalism” - are words only found in a dictionary, but not in the marketplace with the current media. Somehow, we have to break through and recapture our soul. I have faith and trust, we will. On a happier note, this song ends: “Joy to the world, all the boys and girls joy to the fishes in the deep blue sea joy to you and me.” If I Were the King of the World - Leslie J. Feldman - Publisher Advertising: We reach over 110,000 readers each month. 80,000 in print and 30,000 via our online digital edition. Placing an ad in our publication is affordable and effective to help grow your business. Call us today! Distribution: Available in more than 800 locations throughout South Florida. To become a free distribution point for the newspaper, please contact Shelly. The Good News is published by Good News Media Group, LLC, Reproduction in whole or part strictly forbidden without the consent of the publisher. Copyright 2025. All rights reserved. Good News Media Group, LLC. 600 S.W. 3rd St., Suite 4000, Pompano Beach, FL 33060 954-564-5378 • www.goodnewsfl.org Publisher: Leslie J. Feldman [email protected] Editor: Shelly Pond [email protected] Advertising & Marketing: Robert “Buddy” Helland Jr. V.P. Sr. Marketing Manager [email protected] Art Director: Milton McPherson [email protected] Associate Art Director: Joseph Sammaritano [email protected] Social Media Manager: Ariel Feldman [email protected] Editorial Assistant: Eric Solomon [email protected] Cover Photography: Justus Martin [email protected] On The Cover Dr. Mary Drabik, president and CEO of South Florida Bible College & Theological Seminary, and Dr. Joseph Guadagnino, founder and chancellor, are pictured in the Steven R. Sylvester Memorial Library at South Florida Bible College, located at 2200 SW 10th St. in Deerfield Beach. The accredited Bible college is celebrating its 40th Anniversary equipping students for ministry in South Florida and experiencing rapid growth. Read the full cover story on pages 28 and 29. Photo credit: Justus Martin www.justusmartinphoto.com Good News • August • Volume 27 Issue 5
LETTERS 8 AUGUST 2025 www.goodnewsfl.org Good News • South Florida Edition "Have you ever heard a U.S. President proclaim the Gospel this clearly?" said Franklin Graham, reflecting on a moment during Holy week. Proclaiming Christ in the Nation’s Capital by Franklin Graham, President and CEO, Samaritan’s Purse and Billy Graham Evangelistic Association Never in my lifetime. But I thank God for President Trump and for God sparing his life. Oh that we would come together in unity, as a nation, and pray for our leaders, as God has commanded us to do, and pray for one another. For God is love. And Scripture declares the world will know that you are my disciples by the love that you have for one another. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. God’s Word never fails. But we fail when we refuse to obey God. - Doris Stephenson I am so thankful for President Trump’s leadership. God knew the perfect time for him to lead our country. - Lynette Stanley Smith Yay Franklin and Donald Trump. - Dorothy Rollins-Flynn Thank you, Mr. Graham. It is great to hear a president honor God. - Beverly Lawrence I thought that was awesome. God bless. - Reggie Vanhook Yes, it’s wonderful and refreshing. - Patsy Corum It was so inspiring to hear him say our Lord’s name, over and over. - Pauline L. Petersen May God continue to bless our president. This country needs to get back to God. - Mary H. Chappell God bless our country. Guide our president to what’s best for our country. - Bonnie Johnson Discrimination by Dr. O.S. Hawkins, Chancellor, Southwestern Baptist theological Seminary Revelation 7:9-12 - I saw a huge crowd, too huge to count. Everyone was there – nations and tribes, all races and languages. And they were standing, dressed in white robes and waving palm branches, standing before the Trone and the Lamb and heartily singing: Salvation to our God on his Throne! - Becky Hammond Sight & Sound Theatres: Epic Storytelling Brings the Bible to Life Lancaster, PA / Branson, MO by Shelly Pond, Good News Editor Thank you to our friends at Good News for sharing about our ministry. It made us smile so big to see that shared out today. Your team did a wonderful job sharing our mission. It’s a joy to tell meaningful stories together. - Janae Heinrich, Sight & Sound Theatres We’re taking a group from our church next week to see DAVID at the Branson location. - Wally Jones Love going there! - Ruth Payne We have seen all of them except DAVID. My favorite was NOAH. - Linda Blakeney Wish you were in Texas. - Sandra Newton Going in September. See a show every year. - Sharon Guenther Wonderful. Been to the one in Branson but know of this one. Enjoyed ESTHER. - Janice Bolick It’s definitely worth the trip. You can even buy the DVD’s. I buy them every time I visit. I’ve purchased the DVD of every play that I’ve seen. - Joshua Paul Burger We saw NOAH today. EXTRAORDINARY. SOSOSO real and GREAT!!! - Eunice Fife Seen every production done in Branson, including Christmas production. ALL VERY GOOD. DAVID just a few weeks ago. - Jean Lee I have seen all of their productions – some twice. - Darlene Marshall We just attended NOAH in Lancaster this week. It was extraordinary! - Becky Berggren Great place to take families. - Ruth Betz Love Sight & Sound. - Claire Rinear Wish you were in Ohio. - Daniel Cooper We love Sight & Sound. - Donna Petrini Always enjoy the GOOD NEWS magazine whenever I find one. - Adele Hamby Sight & Sound Theatres always a great show from The Holy Book. - Sandra S. Marks We Get Letters PUBLISHER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 If I Were the King of the World – by Leslie J. Feldman WE GET LETTERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 PERSPECTIVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Drip... Drip... Drip – by Stephan N. Tchividjian IN THE WORD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Franklin Graham: The Power of the Gospel – by Franklin Graham PARENTING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Use the Four “Rs” and Have a Winning School Year! – by Dr. Bob and Torrey Roberts THE CODE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Meet the Holy Spirit – by Dr. O.S. Hawkins FAITH & CULTURE . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 A Christian Perspective on Work – by Dr. Rob Pacienza FOSTER CARE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Never Stop Learning – by Andrew Holmes HEART AND SOUL . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 New Physician Associate Medicine Program Focuses on Christ-Centered Health Care – by Dr. Debra A. Schwinn GOOD NEWS WANTS TO KNOW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 – 26 If you've just won an all expenses paid vacation, and you get to plan the final dinner - flown in from anywhere - what would your dinner request be? COVER STORY . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 - 29 South Florida Bible College Celebrates 40 Years of Christ-Centered Education – by Shelly Pond RELATIONSHIPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Angry Birds – by Dr. David Lema HOPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Back to School, Back to Stability – by Joseph D. Kenner LEGAL Q&A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 AI Update: More Than Ever, “Careful” Is the Watchword – by William “Bill” C. Davell and Seth Donahoe ENCOURAGEMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 Back to the Future – by Omar Aleman EDUCATIOIN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38 Why a Christian Worldview Matters — And How Parents Can Build It at Home – by Dr. Joel T. Satterly COMMUNITY NEWS . . . . . . . .40 - 42 CALENDAR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43 CLASSIFIEDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44 - 47 South Florida Edition • Good News • August 2025 • Volume 27, Issue 5 CONTENTS
PERSPECTIVE 10 AUGUST 2025 www.goodnewsfl.org Good News • South Florida Edition Water is essential to life. One does not have to go too long to realize just how essential water is. Sometimes we need water without even being thirsty. The lack of water will often lead to a slow death, often without even realizing it. The poet, king, warrior, David, acknowledged that a tree planted by water is a sign of a healthy and blessed tree; the tree exists without having to thirst and with no need to strive. The tree is able to bear its seasonal fruit because of this water. The tree is a happy tree. Cities, both ancient and modern have been built around access to water. Strife, conflict and even wars have been fought over water rights. The patriarch Abraham recognized that arguments over water were dividing his family and suggested that they each seek their own sources in their own land. Water appears so innocent, so safe, so docile and insignificant, yet permeates almost everything we do, and ignored is deadly. Proper irrigation An Israeli father and son, Simcha Blass and Yeshayahu (meaning YAHWEH is salvation) are credited with helping to further develop the science behind what is called drip irrigation. The basic concept behind drip irrigation is to provide plants a constant and appropriate supply of much needed water, down into its roots, where it’s needed the most. The alternative is often an inconsistent supply of water, which may or may not reach the roots. Droughts and floods are realities that cause much suffering and pain, simply because roots are destroyed. The science behind drip irrigation and its subsequent application has revolutionized agriculture, providing consistent growth in areas where no growth appeared to be possible. A desert becomes an oasis. Sometimes when we care for a plant, we may be guilty of either overwatering it or forgetting to water it altogether, both devastating to that poor little plant. I have found myself with a watering hose attempting to water plants in my yard, only to realize that most of the water never had a chance to be absorbed by the very roots of the plant I am trying to water. In fact, the irony of this is that the plant receives very little of the overabundance of water that I have pointed into its direction. A significant amount of that water is wasted, runs off to pool somewhere, sometimes becoming a small cesspool of odor and bugs. My intentions are good, water the plant; however, the consequences are a thirsty plant, a lot of wasted water, some odor and potential disease. Nourishing our faith I have thought about how this principal relates to my faith and my lifelong walk with God. I have known God all of my life. I credit this to the fact that I was introduced to the reality of God by my faithful parents and extended family. The notion of a God who loved me was not a foreign one to me, however, sometimes too familiar. Therefore, I have been intrigued, even at times to the point of doubt, by the abandonment of faith by many men and women who proclaim their devotion to God. These same people appear to sacrifice so much in serving their Savior, they boldly and loudly proclaim His faithfulness in their lives, are quick to share their dismay for those who reject God and are quick to speak of those who live un-Godly lives. However, they themselves fall victim of what appears to be a catastrophic failure of faith and become the very person they were so proud to proclaim they weren’t. Is the drift inevitable; is the failure just a matter of time? Why does this seem to happen? I can’t help but reflect on another Father and His Jewish Son and the model they set for us. The example they set before us on how an intimate, effective and sustainable relationship lasts is more akin to a constant drip to the roots then a fire hose to the branches. The relationship between God and man had become broken, and God’s incredible solution was a personal one, a solution that drove to the root of the problem, the broken heart of man. I am amazed at the level of intentionality that God displayed as He inserted himself, day in and day out, through Jesus, into the details of the life of mankind. Imagine for a moment the countless conversations Jesus had with the person in pain as they tried to explain what was wrong and how He may help. Jesus knew the pain, He knew the solution, but He still listened; He gave dignity to the one with the burden… He dripped His love, His compassion, His authenticity, His character, His kindness into the very roots of each person He encountered. He does the same for me, every day. Avoid dehydration Therefore, how do I stay true? The reality is that it’s His strength not mine. I say, surrender early and surrender often. However, it’s also important for me to understand that the day-to-day drip of His promises, His mercy, His wisdom, His correction is far more impactful then the haphazard and frantic search for a quick gulp of God because I have become dehydrated of His spirit. The latter simply does not work and can create a faith that may appear healthy, except upon closer inspection the roots are dying and the faith falters and simply fades away. I’m encouraged to seek out the daily drip of God’s love, His Word and His presence. I have found my journey with God increasingly more simple, less frantic, more rhythmic and certainly more peaceful. Keep in step with His Spirit and your roots will grow, ever so slowly, but strong and vibrant and able to withstand both the torrential rains and the deadly droughts. Stephan N. Tchividjian is the CEO and co-founder of the National Christian Foundation South Florida. Visit southflorida.ncfgiving.com to learn more. Drip… Drip… Drip… - Stephan Tchividjian - CEO and Co-Founder, National Christian Foundation South Florida
Faith O APO itne TE SPEAKERS hful W OCTOBER 24—25, 2025 LOGETICS CONFERENC KEYNO ess E Me J egan Almon ustin Brierley Mary Jo Sharp Jeff Zweerink M VISIT LEARN PBAAP MORE & SCAN T OLOGETICS.COM & REGISTER OR V O THE QR CODE T r r o o a o ? l d a e e f , e n e e s , I o s k y r m I , r h n
12 AUGUST 2025 www.goodnewsfl.org Good News • South Florida Edition IN THE WORD For far too long, the world has been haunted by Iran’s bully threats of “Death to America” and “Death to Israel.” Republican and Democrat administrations alike have vowed, for decades, that Iran should never possess a nuclear weapon. And finally, an American president took decisive action. President Trump sent out B-2 stealth bombers to drop bunker-busting bombs on Iran’s entrenched nuclear facilities. As President Trump announced the successful raid, he humbly acknowledged and thanked God: “I want to just thank everybody, in particular, God. I want to just say we love You, God, and we love our great military. Protect them. God bless the Middle East, God bless Israel, and God bless America.” More than once, I have encouraged President Trump to begin each day on his knees in prayer, humbly asking God for help. Christians should also be praying fervently for Israel, for the United States and their leaders as they face daily challenges and pursue lasting peace in the Middle East. The world needs peace through strength, but as Christians, we trust that “God is our refuge and strength” (Psalm 46:1). Every person from the White House to your house should take seriously Jesus’ warning in Matthew 10:28: “Do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” Thankfully, God sent His only Son into our fallen world, not to condemn the world “but that the world through Him might be saved” (John 3:17). And according to 2 Peter 3:9: “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.” I’ve recently had two opportunities to proclaim this message in Europe, with an evangelistic Festival in London and the European Congress on Evangelism in Berlin. I told the crowd of 17,000 in London that the Bible is about forgiveness. God wants to forgive you. He sent His Son Jesus Christ to Earth to pay the penalty for our sins. Jesus shed His blood, died on a cross, was buried, and God raised Him to life on the third day. He’s not dead, He’s alive — and He will come into your heart and forgive you if you ask Him and believe on His Name. We praise God for moving in the hearts of hundreds of people who responded to the invitation to repent of their sins and place their faith in Jesus Christ. Their lives are changed for eternity, and we give God all the glory. That’s the awesome power of the Gospel doing exactly what the Bible says it will do. By the grace and mercy of God, we have been entrusted with the answer to the world’s greatest problem — a fatal infection of the heart called sin. In Berlin, the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association convened more than 1,000 evangelists, church planters, pastors and Christian leaders representing some 55 European countries. There’s Holy Spirit-filled power when we preach the cross. When we preach the blood of Christ, there’s Holy-Spirit-filled power. The Gospel message, the Good News, that every Christian has been called by God to share boldly and unashamedly is that Jesus came to this Earth to save sinners by taking our sins to the cross. His declaration is true: He is the Way, the Truth and the Life. He is the Way to God, period. And if we don’t repent and turn from our sins and by faith believe on the Name of Jesus Christ, we are condemned. There is no other hope. The Bible says that the “message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God”(1 Corinthians 1:18). The redeeming work of the cross is what God uses to save the lost. The cross has always been offensive to the world, because it’s soaked with the blood of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. If we don’t talk about sin, how will people know they need a Savior? If we don’t talk about the blood, how can they know there is no forgiveness without Jesus Christ’s perfect, sinless sacrifice? The Apostle Paul says in Romans 10:14-15: “How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach unless they are sent?” I believe that the Lord Jesus Christ is returning soon. Until then, His church remains under orders from the King of kings and Lord and lords to take the Gospel to the ends of the Earth, to make disciples from every nation, to baptize them in the Name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. These orders are for every believer. They were given 2,000 years ago, and they haven’t been rescinded. And as we obey God’s commands, we go in the authority of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. That is why I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. For it truly is “the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek” (Romans 1:16). ©2025 BGEA Scripture quotations are taken from The Holy Bible, New King James Version. Decision magazine, JuLY 2025; ©2025 Billy Graham Evangelistic Association; used by permission, all rights reserved. Franklin Graham: The Power of the Gospel - Franklin Graham - President and CEO Samaritan’s Purse and Billy Graham Evangelistic Association I believe that the Lord Jesus Christ is returning soon. Until then, His church remains under orders from the King of kings and Lord and lords to take the Gospel to the ends of the Earth. “ ”
14 AUGUST 2025 www.goodnewsfl.org Good News • South Florida Edition PARENTING Parents could learn a lot from football coaches. Right now, before the season begins, coaches are not just thinking about getting through it. They are already working to help every player bring his “A” game to opening day. The coaching principle of preparation is also true for parents. Opening day of the school year is upon us. This is the time parents must show up with their plan for a successful school year. Coaches do not wait for the first game to hold their first meeting. Long before the games begin coaches get together to develop a plan. They start by analyzing each player’s weaknesses and strengths. Once the plan is established, they inform the players. The players might not like the restrictions of the plan but that does not matter. There is no vote by the players to see if they are all in favor. The coach’s purpose is not to be liked but to help each player reach his full potential. It is common for the teens who come to live with us at the boys homes at Sheridan House Family Ministries to improve their school grades from “Ds” and “Fs” to “As” and “Bs.” Parents and teachers have often asked us what we do to help these boys and girls accomplish this dramatic improvement. Our answer, “there is nothing we do that we do not do with our own children.” We do not focus on a student’s grades any more than the coach focuses on a player’s touchdowns. The scores will come if proper preparation has taken place. Reasonable As the school season begins this is the time for parents to focus on the four “R’s” of a successful school year. This starts by deciding to have Reasonable expectations about what can and needs to be on your family’s calendar this season. Your children cannot do it all … and they should not try to do it all! Make the family calendar your playbook. Pick your top three activities and make everything else work around it. There are some obvious top choices: Family Time, School and Worship. Where on your calendar is the family night planned and what activities or games are you going to play? Turn the television and phone off that night, but be prepared to hear your twelve-year-old scream when you make this announcement! What times have you planned to attend your place of worship as a family? Put these times on the calendar. This is the time to decide about your priorities and putting them in proper order is important. Decide which extra-curricular activities you will do and which you will say “No” to. What is the priority? What does a child need most to become healthy, fully functioning adults in the future? The first “R” for success is Reasonable. Now is the time for parents to decide to help their children become healthy human beings rather than frazzled “human doings.” Routine The second “R” for a winning school year is Routine. Determine the school day routine for each child. In the NFL, the players do not vote on their daily routines and workouts. The coaches choose the routines for them. The schedule and school year routine is very important. Setting a routine and staying with it saves many parent/child arguments but only when the child believes that you are committed to the routine. Knowing there is a specific bedtime on school nights and a routine to follow on school mornings will eventually help the child spend his energies on accomplishments rather than arguments. Responsible This leads to the third “R.” Winning coaches tell the players the plan, teach the players the plan and then they hold the players Responsible to follow through with the plan. As parents help their child start the school year there will be challenges that develop. Challenges such as science projects and book reports should not be last minute disasters that parents have to help with. Coaches cannot run out on the field to help a player do something the player has not prepared for. Parents need to anticipate the book reports, find out when they are due, put them on the calendar and then help the child work out a weekly reading schedule to get the job done. Hold the child responsible to sit down for those predetermined thirty minutes, two evenings a week, to get the book read. Teaching responsibility will help prepare the child for college. Relationship The final “R” is the glue that holds the school year together. It is the parent/child Relationship. Parents cannot just put a plan in place; they must also be the child’s greatest encourager. Do not just have a plan; be the child’s fan. Parental statements like, “I’m proud of you for getting your reading done before dinner,” will go a long way toward motivating a child to win at school. Knowing your mom is proud of you will also help you make the right decisions in life. After all, what is the real purpose of school? It is preparation for college and the real world. It is the process a child needs to go through to develop the discipline to excel as an adult. The school year is not something you get your child through; it is a process a parent uses to train their child. Proverbs 22:6 instructs parents to “Teach your child to choose the right path, and when they are older, they will remain upon it.” Parents should not try to motivate their children to do their best in school; parents should coach their children to do their best. The beginning of the school year is a time for setting Reasonable schedules, establishing a Routine, teaching personal Responsibility and growing the parent/child Relationship. To prepare a child properly for school is to prepare a child for life! Visit parentingonpurpose.org for more advice from Dr. Bob Barnes and Torrey Roberts. - Dr. Bob Barnes and Torrey Roberts - Sheridan House Family Ministries Use the Four “Rs” and Have a Winning School Year!
THE CODE 16 AUGUST 2025 www.goodnewsfl.org Good News • South Florida Edition Allow me the privilege of introducing you to the Holy Spirit. Perhaps there has never been another person as misrepresented and misunderstood as He. He is not some mysterious, nebulous force that can be equated to the famous Star Wars saying, "May the Force be with you." Nor, for those who know something of the Bible, did He show up on the scene for the first time on the day of Pentecost in an upper room on Mount Zion in the city of Jerusalem. The Holy Spirit is God Let's begin with a foundational statement. The Holy Spirit is God. One of the foundational truths of orthodox Christianity is the belief that God is one, and yet He eternally exists in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. In theological Jargon this is called the Trinity, three in one, and it is a great mystery. It has been revealed to us in various ways through the Bible but can be challenging to wrap our minds around. I have come to the conclusion that If I could understand all there is to know about the Godhead in my own limited mind, there would not be much to it. It is simply a theological truth that manifests itself from the first chapter of Genesis to the end of the book of Revelation, and because it is rooted in sacred Scripture, must be taken by faith. Many have attempted to explain the reality of the Trinity through metaphors and analogies, but none of them are completely valid. He was from the beginning Some believe that the Father is the God of the Old Testament, the Son, Jesus Christ, is the God of the Gospels, and the Holy Spirit is the God of the book of Acts and the rest of the New Testament. But this is heretical thinking. Jesus did not just show up in the manger at Bethlehem. He was from the beginning. Neither did the Holy Spirit just show up at Pentecost. He was there from the beginning. We cannot separate the Godhead. The Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit are one… three in one. They always have been, and They always will be. There are 31,102 verses in the Bible, and the Holy Spirit shows up in the first two: "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters" (Genesis 1:1-2). He was there way back in the beginning at creation, "hovering over the face of the waters " In fact, there has never been a time when the Holy Spirit was not here manifesting the mighty presence and power of God. The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit all were active in creation It is said of the Father that "in the beginning God created the heavens and the earth" (Genesis 1:1). It is said of the Son that "In the beginning was the Word All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made" (John 1:1,3) So that we might never be confused as to the identity of this "Word," John went on to add, "The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth" (John 1:14). Further, as mentioned above, the Holy Spirit, being a member of this triune God, was there as well, doing His part in the creation event. One God manifested in three persons Repeated in every Jewish synagogue all over the world in every Sabbath service is the Shema, the Jewish confession of faith: "Hear, 0 Israel: the Lord our God, the Lord is one!" (Deuteronomy 6.4) This confession is immediately followed by what Jesus referred to in the New Testament as the greatest commandment, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength" (Deuteronomy 6:5) As followers of Christ, our Messiah, we affirm this truth-the Lord is one! Yet Scripture is clear in revealing that this one God is manifested to us in three persons* the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The apostle Paul made this crystal clear in his benediction to the church in Corinth: "The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all" (2 Corinthians 13:14). Jesus made this emphatic claim in dialogue with the Jews when He said bluntly, "I and My Father are one" (John 10:30). Earlier, at Jesus' baptism in the Jordan River, Matthew recorded, "When He had been baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened to Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting upon Him. And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, 'This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased’ (Matthew 3:1617) As Jesus, the Son, stood in the waters of baptism, the Father spoke from heaven, and the Spirit descended like a dove. Then as Jesus was about to physically leave us and just before He ascended, He left us with a Great Commission: "Go therefore and make disciples, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit" (Matthew 28:19). Thus, we join our Jewish friends in confessing the Shema, "The Lord our God, the Lord is one!" But we understand that this God is the great Three in One, manifesting Himself to Us in all His glory as the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit has always been at work in our lives. It is He who convicts us, converts us, commends us, commands us, consoles us and comforts us. It is He who ultimately completes us. The Holy Spirit knows everything there is to know about us. He is an essential part of our journey toward finding the fullness of joy in life Taken from The Spirit Code by O.S. Hawkins. Copyright © 2024 by Dr. O.S. Hawkins. Used by permission of Thomas Nelson. O. S. Hawkins is the Legacy Pastor of First Baptist Church of Fort Lauderdale and chancellor of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He has served pastorates, including the First Baptist Church in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and the First Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas, for more than 25 years. A native of Fort Worth, Texas, he has a BBA from Texas Christian University and his MDiv and Ph.D. from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. For almost a quarter of a century, he served as president of GuideStone Financial Resources, with assets under management of $20 billion, serving 250,000 pastors, church staff members, missionaries, doctors, university professors, and other workers in various Christian organizations with their investment, retirement and benefit service needs. He is the author of more than 40 books and regularly speaks to business groups and churches nationwide. All of the author’s royalties and proceeds from the Code series support Mission:Dignity. You can learn more about Mission:Dignity by visiting MissionDignity.org. - Dr. O.S. Hawkins - Chancellor, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary Meet the Holy Spirit The dove of the Holy Spirit – AI generated image
Fight the Good Fight, Finish the Race! Homeschool Experience May 14–16, 2026 KENHAM KENHAM ZWAYNE EMEAL ("E.Z.") &RACHEL COSTI &CHRISTYNE HINN BENHAMBROTHERS HEIDI ST. JOHN AnswersHomeschool.com REGISTER e e t l " s e l , - , , m f m - , , m . e d n n , s e - - e e e - d y 4 - y f f l - t , A s a , f - e s m y
FAITH & CULTURE 18 AUGUST 2025 www.goodnewsfl.org Good News • South Florida Edition The great Reformer Martin Luther taught that every Christian has four “vocations” (callings) in life: family, church, work and community. Out of those four, the workplace calling might be the most difficult for everyday Christians to figure out. After all, even though a pastor or missionary might easily understand how their workplace is a calling, an everyday worker might find it more challenging. So, the question arises: “How can I, as a Christian, approach my workplace calling in a way that fully honors God?” The purpose of work For starters, it should be noted that Scripture and history reveal that God is a “worker.” In the past, he created the world. In the present, he sustains the world. In the future, he — through his Son — will redeem the world by ridding it of sin and establishing an everlasting reign of justice and peace. The question of how to honor God in the workplace relates to all three truths — God’s past, present and future work. Yet, it should be noted that God does most of his present (sustaining) work through human labor. Consider the fact that, when God feeds people, he does so through farmers and grocers. When he takes care of their transportation needs, he does so through workers in the auto and service industries. When he guides people toward maturity, he does so not only through pastors but through teachers, counselors and other workplace professionals. So, our work matters. It matters both to God and to our neighbors. Unless our workplace activity is illegal or unethical, our work participates as part of the way God provides for the world. That is why Scripture warns against laziness: “if anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat” (2 Thessalonians 3:10). In other words, God and man are in a cooperative partnership. This is part of what the Psalmist means when he says, “Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish thou the work of our hands upon us, yea, the work of our hands establish thou it” (Psalms 90:17). In this vein, John Stott writes, “This concept of divine-human collaboration applies to all honorable work. God has so ordered life on earth as to depend on us… So whatever our work, we need to see it as being… cooperation with God… It is this that glorifies him.” Thus, our work carries with it great significance. And if our workplace calling is so significant, another question arises: what type of work should we choose to do? Finding our workplace calling When we survey the world around us, we realize that God created it in such a way that we can choose from a broad variety of work opportunities. Thus, when a Christian faces the question of which career or job to choose, he or she often has a buffet of options. In fact, many people change jobs and even careers several times in life. The important point to note is that God creates each of us uniquely in his image, while we are still in the womb (Jeremiah 1:5; Isaiah 49:1; Psalms 139:13). He provides each of us with personalities, talents and desires. In other words, most people have options when it comes to choosing a job. And, although we might find it challenging to choose the right career or job, God provides help in the form of other people. The people who surround us can help us discern our calling. When we are young, our parents might point out certain aptitudes we have as a way of suggesting a certain line of work. When we are older, our bosses might provide guidance through our job performance reviews. Similarly, our friends and peers might provide leads for job openings that match our skills and interests. So, God works through people to confirm the details of our workplace calling. Fulfilling our workplace calling Once we find ourselves in a given workplace, we realize that we can do the same work either with or without significance. In other words, God’s purposes in giving us jobs extends far beyond the benefits of receiving a paycheck. He calls us to do our work with purpose, to glorify him and help others while working. Thus, a Christian will benefit from asking three questions about his or her given career or job. What is God’s design for this type of job? What are the ways it has been corrupted or misdirected by sin and idolatry? How can I approach my workplace in a way that conforms to God’s design and thus glorifies him, and avoids any sinful temptation that arises in the course of my work? For example, a person in the restaurant business might conclude that God’s design is for her to offer nutritious and tasty food at a reasonable price, and to treat her employees with respect and dignity. Recognizing the sometimescutthroat nature of the restaurant industry, she is careful with scheduling so that workers can have important days and times to be with their families. With sympathy toward the homeless people in her community, she offers leftover dishes to those in need. In so doing, she answers the three questions in a faithfully Christian manner. Working to the glory of God In conclusion, work matters. Work is one of a Christian’s four significant callings. When we do our work to the glory of God and in a way that displays love for our neighbors, God is pleased. Therefore, we can take heart as we work. God’s promise is that right now, where I am, I am in the vocation where God has placed me. He is working in and through my efforts, and I will continue to bear fruit in my life so long as I seek to glorify him in both my work and leisure. Dr. Robert J. Pacienza is the Senior Pastor of Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church (Fort Lauderdale, FL), the CEO and President of Coral Ridge Ministries, and the Founder of the Institute for Faith and Culture. - Dr. Rob Pacienza - Senior Pastor, Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church A Christian Perspective on Work
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FOSTER CARE 20 AUGUST 2025 www.goodnewsfl.org Good News • South Florida Edition August has a rhythm all its own. It signals the slow fade of summer, with the end of long pool days, late sunsets and impromptu adventures. As a kid, I remember dreading that shift. I never wanted summer to end. I wanted it to go on forever. But looking back, I realize that even when school was out, learning didn’t stop, it just changed form. And maybe, just maybe, some of the best lessons I’ve ever learned happened outside the classroom — when I wasn’t even aware I was learning. The summer I became a turtle trapper I was probably nine or ten, full of curiosity and with way too much free time. That summer, I set my sights on an unconventional hobby: catching turtles. The idea came to me after cutting the itchy netting out of my swim trunks. I stitched the lining into a homemade net, tied it with fishing string and baited it like a trap… pretty innovative, I know! I’d climb this big tree that leaned over the edge of a pond, dangle the trap into the water and wait. Eventually, I’d see movement — ripples in the water — and sure enough, a turtle would swim right into my trap. I’d pull it up, carefully carry it home, and plop it in a little tank like it was some sort of trophy. Looking back, I can’t believe it worked! But in that simple summer pastime, I was learning by doing; I was testing ideas, solving problems, adapting when things didn’t go to plan. And I loved it. That summer taught me something I didn’t realize at the time: learning is everywhere if your eyes are open. The invitation to keep growing There’s a verse in Proverbs 9:9 that says, “Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still; teach the righteous and they will add to their learning.” That line has stuck with me. It’s a reminder that growth doesn’t stop when school ends or when you graduate or when you reach a certain age. The truly wise never stop learning. Some of the most impactful teachers I’ve ever had weren’t the ones who acted like they knew everything. They were the ones who showed us they were still learning too. They didn’t teach from a pedestal, instead they invited us to grow alongside them. It was that posture of humility that made their teaching unforgettable. Lead like a learner If you’re in a role of leadership, mentorship or parenting, let me encourage you: stay in the learner’s seat. You don’t have to have it all figured out. In fact, the younger generation isn’t expecting perfection. What they really respect is authenticity — leaders who model teachability, who admit when they don’t know something, who stay curious and open. That kind of leadership is magnetic. It invites connection. It cultivates growth. And it shows people that learning is not just a season; it’s a lifestyle. A new season, a fresh posture As August ushers in a new school year, we want to bless our teachers, administrators, parents and every person stepping into classrooms across the country. You are planting seeds that will bear fruit for generations to come. May this year be full of joy, peace, safety and new discoveries. And for all of us, whether we’re in school or not, may this season be a reminder: we were made to learn. We were created to grow. That doesn’t mean we always need to have our heads in a book, but it does mean we should walk through life with open hearts, ready to receive. Let’s never stop learning Learning doesn’t belong to the young. It belongs to the humble. And the good news? God invites us all into that posture. So let’s read. Let’s ask good questions. Let’s listen deeply. Let’s try new things, even if we fail at first. Let’s be curious about what God might teach us next, whether it’s through our kids, through a sermon, through nature, or even through turtles in a summer pond. Because when we embrace the heart of a learner, we step into the fullness of what it means to grow — not just smarter, but wiser. Since September 2024, Andrew Holmes has been serving as the President of 4KIDS--a ministry that provides Hope, Homes, and Healing to kids and families in crisis. Learn more and catch the vision of a home for every child at 4KIDS.us. Never Stop Learning - Andrew Holmes - 4KIDS President
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HEART AND SOUL 22 AUGUST 2025 www.goodnewsfl.org Good News • South Florida Edition Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBA) is dedicated to equipping tomorrow’s leaders with the skills, knowledge, and integrity needed to fulfill their calling. This fall, we are taking an ambitious step forward in our School of Health Professions, blending rigorous health care training and service with a Christ-first focus. As the demand for skilled health care workers surges, our new Physician Associate Medicine program not only meets growing industry needs but also equips future clinicians to serve with excellence, humility and deep respect for the dignity of every patient. Learn more in this article written by Dr. Phil Tobin, dean of the School of Health Professions and founding director of the program. The PBA School of Health Professions will launch its Master of Medical Science in Physician Associate Medicine program this fall, a transformative initiative that blends rigorous academics with a deeply rooted Christian mission while filling critical gaps in today’s health care system. The program received provisional accreditation in June 2025 from the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) and will welcome its first cohort of 56 students this October. PBA continues to grow its health professions programs, combining the university’s focus on servant leadership with health care excellence. The program gives students more opportunities to strengthen community well-being by providing people-first services. For decades, PBA health professions students have impacted others around the world, providing critical services through the Gregory Center for Medical Missions (which has served 17,300 individuals since 2003), the School of Nursing and Workship, PBA’s flagship community service program. Through the program, students will learn about underserved patients throughout the curriculum, specifically in a course called “The Vulnerable and Medically Underserved.” In the students’ clinical year, they’ll put those concepts to practice in a required clinical experience called “Community Medicine,” addressing the urgent need to serve the public in both clinical and community settings such as mobile health units and domestic violence shelters. Led by experienced faculty members — including PBA President Dr. Debra A. Schwinn, who was instrumental in bringing this program to life — each patient will be treated as a whole person — body, mind, and spirit. PBA's Physician Associate Medicine Program is part of PBA’s strategic efforts to help health care professionals across the United States. According to the outlook from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field is expected to grow by 28 percent between 2023 to 2033, with approximately 12,900 job openings annually. According to experts, this demand is being driven by an aging population and increased emphasis on preventive care. PBA’s integrated model — combining hands-on training, interprofessional collaboration and a commitment to lifelong learning — ensures that graduates can make a meaningful impact and contribute to a healthier world from day one. Statement from ARC-PA on PBA’s accreditation Status: The ARC-PA has granted Accreditation-Provisional status to the Palm Beach Atlantic Physician Assistant Program sponsored by Palm Beach Atlantic University. Accreditation-Provisional is an accreditation status granted when the plans and resource allocation, if fully implemented as planned, of a proposed program that has not yet enrolled students appear to demonstrate the program’s ability to meet the ARC-PA Standards or when a program holding AccreditationProvisional status appears to demonstrate continued progress in complying with the Standards as it prepares for the graduation of the first class (cohort) of students. Accreditation-Provisional does not ensure any subsequent accreditation status. It is limited to no more than five years from matriculation of the first class. The program’s accreditation history can be viewed on the ARC-PA website at https://www.arc pa.org/ accreditation-palm-beachatlantic-university/. Dr. Debra A. Schwinn became Palm Beach Atlantic University’s (PBA) ninth President on May 4, 2020. Previously she was Associate Vice President for Medical Affairs, Dean of the Carver College of Medicine, and Professor of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Biochemistry at the University of Iowa. Prior to those appointments, Dr. Schwinn served in senior leadership roles at the University of Washington and Duke University. - Dr. Debra A. Schwinn - Palm Beach Atlantic University President New Physician Associate Medicine Program Focuses on Christ-Centered Health Care Dr. Phil Tobin, dean of the School of Health Professions, demonstrates best practices to students.
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