Page 20 - LD215 History of the Church in Africa A4 final

A History of the Church in Africa

We may compare the study of church history to the use of the rear
view mirror in driving an automobile. The rear view mirror helps us to
see what is behind in order to drive the automobile properly as we go
forward. Similarly, the study of church history reveals both the problems
and mistakes of the past and helps us avoid making similar mistakes as
we face the unfinished task of world evangelization. Our God is moving
us forward through the power of the Holy Spirit. When we have reached
all nations with the gospel, the end will come (Matthew 24:14).

Is the Church a Mighty River?

Paul Barnett states: “If history writing is true to the original meaning
of the word (Greek: historia, ‘inquiry’), it will not be mere narration” (ix).
We must seek explanations for the narrative.

W. I. Evans, former principal of Central Bible College in Springfield,
Missouri, USA, and an elder in
the Assemblies of God, preached
a sermon entitled “This River
If history is true to the Must Flow.” I heard that sermon
original meaning of in 1953, and the truth of that
message has greatly impacted
the word, it will not be my life. I have kept a printed copy

mere narration. We of it in my office for more than
fifty years of ministry, including
must seek explanations many years as a missionary in

for the narrative. Africa. It was a message from
God that challenged believers
to allow the Holy Spirit to flow
through them to the needy
people of the world. Using Ezekiel 47:1–9 and John 7:37–39, Evans stated:

If we have been baptized by the Holy Ghost, the river is intended
to flow through us. “He that believeth on me…out of his innermost
being shall flow rivers of living water.” We are part of this great
Pentecostal Fellowship through which these rivers are supposed
to flow. If these rivers are not flowing, then we who have been laid
hold upon by God to bring the waters to the world are damming

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