This was written by me almost 30 years ago. I have changed some of the tenses from present to past. This was a real fellowship that was based upon the Church in the “Book of Acts”. It lasted for about 7 years. I believe this could be a pattern for what God may do again in the days ahead. Origin
Several years ago during a mighty outpouring of the Holy Spirit, a small group of believers was formed, Having come out of a critical time of national unrest in the '60's, there developed an awareness of many of the problems, false values, and overly materialistic philosophies that had become entrenched in our society. This laid the ground work in the hearts of many young people to search for a higher and more excellent way. A search not just to improve this existing system, which is corrupt even at its core, but for a whole new kingdom — The Kingdom of God! The Lord began to gather these new generation Christians in a rented house in Danville, Virginia, which came to be known as the Hallelujah House. As we began to worship and express our love for our new found King, the Lord Jesus Christ, He began to move and teach and impart a vision of community as a manifestation of the Kingdom of God in the earth. It was there, with the helpful leadership of PeterZ, that Sonshine Farm was born! Jesus said, "Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid." Matthew 5:14. A city is a gathering of individual lights. Alone our light can be hidden, but corporately that light cannot be hidden. Community is first established in the heart as we become committed one to another in love, "By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one for another." John 13:35. Once this work was done in our hearts, God would supply the land to accomplish His plan. As we began to looking, God led Peter to a place near the Virginia-North Carolina line about 10 miles east of Danville. As he drove up the hill to the old farm house, the word of the Lord came to him and said, "This is the place," The run down old house, built before the Civil War, sat on top of a hill with a beautiful view of the Dan River Valley, The place was in terrible shape and the grounds were all overgrown, it looked a lot like we do before the Lord gets hold of us; filthy on the Inside and run down on the outside.
That same night, we came together to pray and ask God to confirm this word. Peter flipped open his Bible, and his eyes fell on Haggai 1:15 which said, "In the four and twentieth day of the sixth month," (That would be June 24 in our calendar) which just happened to be the exact day that it was: so we looked back to the beginning of the chapter to see what it was that happened in that day and began to read. The prophet seemed to be describing the condition of the country and the church today. In the verse 7 & 6, it says, "Thus saith the Lord of hosts; consider your ways. Go up to the hill and bring wood and rebuild the house; and I will take pleasure in it, and I will be glorified, saith the Lord." This was a strong and powerful confirmation, not only that we had found His place, but also why the church, the body of Christ, is in the condition it is in today. Verse 9 states, "My house is waste because ye run every man to his own house.” Everybody looks after themselves, does their own thing, has their own plans and just adds Jesus to it. God wants to add us to His plan that we might look after one another.
Based upon this word that God had given us we knew that we were in his will, but there was still one problem, the matter of money! We were a small group and had been meeting together for only about a year. With all of us saving our offerings we only had approximately $4,000.00, which was far short of what we needed for even a down payment. But God had given us peace and confidence. We knew that if God had spoken. He was also able to provide for the needs. So as quickly as possible we called the fellowship together again to spend the day in prayer and fasting. That same day as we were praying one of the wealthiest business men in town called and asked if Peter would be willing to meet with him. He had heard about people whose lives had been changed and some that had been delivered from drugs. He wanted to know more about us and what our plans were. Peter told him about the farm and our vision. Then he asked "How much money do you need?" Peter said "about $15.000.00 for the down payment," He asked "how much do you have?" "About $4,000.00" was the reply. He said "I'll give you the other $11,000.00”. We hadn't even asked him. The Lord is truly able to provide, and will work miracles to accomplish his will.Back in Haggai chapter 1, verses 13 & 14 say: "I am with you, saith the Lord. And the Lord stirred up the spirit of the remnant of the people, and they came and did work in the house of the Lord of hosts, their God."
That is exactly what happened. We all put our abilities and skills together to restore the house.
So the Farm was restored and new life brought to the place. Just as we have been restored and given new life.
The church is being progressively rebuilt as the truth is renewed in our midst and the end of the age draws near. The light has been growing brighter and brighter "until the day dawns, and the day star arises in our hearts”. God is preparing a glorious bride without spot or blemish. It shall be brought to a full restoration and fulfill Haggai 2:9:
"The glory of this latter house shall be greater than of the former, (early church as seen in the Book of Acts) and in this place will I give peace, saith the Lord of hosts."
Development
The fellowship had then undergone a great deal of development and had grown to several hundred in number. It eventually covered over 400 acres of farm land in Virginia and North Carolina, portions of which we used to form subdivisions where many of the families built homes with the help of each other and our own construction companies that grew as a result. There were also many families that settled in a small and historic old town near by; located right in the midst of our surrounding farms. It served for business and trade needs.
Among the facilities that the Lord had provided were:
Men’s dormitories, a women's dormitory, a greenhouse, a large new meeting house, a swimming pool for community use, baptisms and children's summer camps. We were also able to purchase an old school building.
The school building had 14 classrooms and a gymnasium. We had intended to develop this school so that our children could receive an education based in the truth and centered in Christ.
We planted apple and peach orchards and were beginning to farm the land as we learned to organically cultivate, raise livestock and keep bees.
A community food distribution center was developed in a store front nearby. Through the center, we both bought and produced food, goods, and other necessities in large quantities to both save people money and minister to those in need. James says that if we don't minister to those things needful to the body (food, clothing, and shelter), our faith is dead. (James 2:16).
Another way we had been able to help each other was through the establishing of a Help Fund. As members contributed to this fund, we had taken care of many hospital bills, paid for the birth of many babies (by which we had been blessed), and provided for several other financial emergencies. We also trained nurse mid-wives and were looking to set up our own basic health care facilities.
Within the community some of our own businesses were providing jobs to help meet our needs. Members were also delighted to give aid in whatever service was needed; A construction company had grown from a few of the brothers who learned their skills from
the restoration of the farm house. Now there are branches extending from carpentry into plumbing, electrical work, masonry, painting wallpapering, and cabinet and furniture making. Some of the people were involved in crafts such as quilting, painting, weaving and pottery. Plans were underway to form a craft store to market these items.
As we come together we can see the provision of God taking shape in many different forms. We were hoping to develop resources and abilities that could set us free from the control of the antichrist world system. What would happen if the oil supplies are turned off? Are we the church to be addicted to and dependent on those things for survival? There is no power shortage in God.
We are always experimenting with new ideas and concepts of doing things (such as alternate power sources — wind, solar, wood, water etc.) to enhance the manifestation of the Kingdom and supply our needs.
PurposeHistorically, whenever a people strayed from God and His righteousness, judgment was just around the corner. Just because they were God's chosen people did not exempt them. In fact, judgment came upon them quicker as the scripture says, "Judgment must first begin at the house of God." (1 Peter 4 :1) This is not to neglect God's mercy for "his mercy endures forever" to the repentant heart, but the judgments of the Lord are correction to the believer and destruction to the stiff-necked and proud. (Micah 4:1 and Romans 5:3). God desires to raise up a standard in the church by which He can judge the heathen, but in general, the church has accepted the standards and values of the world. We have become dependent on the world, and they tell us how to live. Jesus said the church is to be in the world; not the world in the church. We are to
be light and salt to the world. Many “Christians” follow the Lord for selfish reasons, wanting only to hear about all the blessings that they will receive, never wanting to know what the will of God is for their lives. They are taught to "give and it shall be given unto you" (Luke 6:38). To motivate people to give in order to get was not what was intended by the Lord. Anyone who does not speak as though God only wants to cater to everyone’s desires becomes unpopular and a voice that much of Christianity wants to put away. This was also the attitude of the children of Israel to the prophets Jeremiah and Isaiah. Nevertheless, their words were true no matte how unpopular, It is time for the voice of the prophet to be heard again in the church.
Let us beware of the attitude "God will supply" when what we mean is our way.
The Children of Israel felt the same way as they did their own thing and said, "We have the temple of the Lord, the temple of the Lord." (Jeremiah 7:34,4), like the hypocrisy of the “God Bless America” crowd. He warned them not to believe those lying words. We see today many well meaning Christians, politicians and business men, trying to preserve the status quo and bring our constitution back to our founding fathers. They forget that we are not called as Christians to just help society get better, but to be representatives of another kingdom. Our founding fathers are not Franklin, Jefferson, and Washington, but the apostles and prophets. Other foundations can no man lay, and our constitution is the word of God. When Jesus came the first time, this was the attitude of many religious people: "Lord will thou at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?" They think "Oh if we only can get some nice Christians in government and in business". They are the same way now. The Lord did not come to restore some earthly kingdom, but to set up His kingdom. Hallelujah! No one likes change, but change must come. It would be better to look at some of the things we should be doing instead of hoping that it all blows over. If we are not seeking first the kingdom of God, and are only slightly involved in the Christian community, it will be easy to get assimilated into the culture of the world and receive their values and philosophies. The early Christians knew this and therefore lived as a society apart from the mainstream of the world culture. We are not talking about withdrawing from the world, but being separate. This gives us a much better opportunity to live the gospel and show forth an alternative life style to the world. This does not diminish our evangelical outreach and ministry. On the contrary, the gospel is more powerful in demonstration rather than in word only. In addition, we become as a prophetic statement to the world.
Psalm 133 says, "Behold how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity," and we have found that this is so. The two greatest commandments in which all others are fulfilled, are to love the Lord with all our heart, and to love one another as He loved us. We hope, by both what we teach and by the way we live, to give the world a glimpse of the Kingdom of God. In this environment we can better minister to the needs of the total man spiritually, emotionally, physically, and socially. The Bible can be taught not just as information, but as a way of life. We exist because there is a need.
As God establishes a firm foundation, "for the church is the pillar and ground of the truth," (1 Timothy 3:15), we can "go out into all nations and make disciples, teaching them to observe all things that He has commanded." (Matthew 28:19 & 20). For He taught us to preach the Gospel of the Kingdom, not just some watered down version of salvation, to be filled with the spirit with signs and wonders following.
Basis and BeliefWe believe in the saving power of the Lord Jesus Christ and that we have redemption through His blood.
We believe, as did our early church fathers, in the doctrines outlined in the Apostles Creed.
"/ believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth; and in Jesus Christ, His
only Son, our Lord; who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended into hell; the third day He arose again from the dead; He ascended into heaven, seated at the right hand of God, the Father, Almighty; from thence He shall come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Ghost, the Holy Universal Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting." Amen!
Jesus the God-Man lived, died, and rose again, and we have eternal life through His name. He sent His Holy Spirit to empower us and guide us into all truth. (Acts 2).
We believe in the absolute authority of the Bible as God's word which is a lamp unto our path and food for our Spirit.
When we receive Jesus as our Savior, we are born into another Kingdom which is not of this world. "Delivered from the power of darkness, and translated into the kingdom of his dear Son," (Col. 1:13), the church is therefore called as a body of believers to represent this Kingdom; dedicated to obey and follow the Lord Jesus Christ, reaching out, sharing our lives in self-sacrificing love. We are a peculiar people, a holy nation (1 Peter 2:9) that God has called forth, through whom He will build His Kingdom. Our boundaries are not set by Geographic’s but by faith. "The Kingdom of God is righteousness, peace, and joy, in the Holy Ghost." (Romans 14:17). The Bible commands us to walk in the Spirit as ambassadors of His Kingdom. Hebrews 11:3 instructs us that all that is seen (the material world) came forth from the invisible (the spiritual world). Therefore, if we become truly spiritual, it will change the material world. His Kingdom that now exists in Spirit is corning forth from within the heart of His people, (Luke 17:20 & 21), to be manifested in the earth. "Thy Kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven." (Matthew 6:10).
At this point, it might be important to briefly discuss some differences in beliefs concerning the "end times" and the "rapture" in the light of the Bible. This is not just for the sake of argument so that we ma have this theological position or that, but it has a vital bearing on the direction that the body of Christ should take. We believe that the scriptures teach that as the end of the age draws near there is coming a time of great tribulation upon the earth. It is coming as "travail upon a woman with child", (I Thessalonians 5:3). The pains start out mild and far apart, but they get closer and closer together and become more and more intense. Paul says that we are children of the day and not of the night so there is no reason why this should come upon us by surprise. The reason that this will come as a surprise to the world is because they do not look at the signs of the times, They turn away from the hand writing on the wall and assume that man (who is his own god) can work out all of his problems. This is reminiscent of the days of Noah. People were carrying on eating and drinking and making merry as though nothing were wrong. (Matthew 24:38). When we look around us at the corruption in government, the economic situation, the social injustice, the moral condition, the world scene, and the prevailing philosophy, they all tell us that something catastrophic is about to happen. The idea that we will be raptured out of any trouble is not consistent with the Bible, The purpose of tribulation is to destroy the tares (wicked) and perfect the wheat by burning off the chaff. In Matthew 13:30 concerning the parable of the wheat and the tares, it is important to note that it is the tares that are taken first and bound in bundles to burn. In verse 41, it says that "the Son of man shall send forth his angels and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend and them which do iniquity." Also, in Matthew 24:37, He says "As the days of Noah were so shall the coming of the Son of man be. Then shall two be in the field: the one shall be taken and the other left." In the days of Noah, it was the wicked that were taken. Again in 1Corinthians 15:51 & 52 it says we shall be changed at the last trump which is the same trump of 1 Thessalonians 4:16, for it is when the dead in Christ shall be raised. Now if we look in Revelation chapters 8 through 11, we see that there are seven trumpets. The first six are tribulation and the seventh says "the kingdoms of this world are become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ and He shall reign forever and ever." This aligns very well with what Paul was talking of in the "Last trump". Ephesians 5:27 tells us that He is coming for a glorious church not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, and Acts 3:21 declares that the heavens must withhold Him until the times of the restitution of all things, (see Proverbs 10:30),
We believe that God is gathering His people for the time of His return is near. God has called us as His bride: a body of people, not a multitude of individuals, but a corporate expression of Him. Individually we cannot stand, for His Glory would destroy us, but there is one place in the scriptures where he gives us His Glory, John 17:22. "The Glory which Thou gaveist me I have given them: that they may be one, even as we are one,"
Direction and Future
We believe the Lord has directed us to become less and less dependent on the industrial world, which has brought so many into bondage, and become more and more self-sufficient. We believe that the world is on the threshold of a great shaking and much tribulation, Revelation 18:4 instructs us to “come out of her that we be not a partaker of her sins and receive not of her plagues."
God is preparing us for the years ahead and we, as well as a growing network of other communities throughout the world, can be a place of refuge and provision, a kind of ark, for the rest of the Body of Christ.
We hope to grow in His spirit and walk daily — a step at a time — spreading God's word to the ends of the earth "in deed and in truth," to a lost and dying world. "Till all the earth is filled with the glory of the Lord", Amen!!!
55 comments:
Amen Peter, I must thank you for the inspiration this story and the insight over the past few months. Keep up the good work
*this story has given. I knew I made a typo in there somewhere
It is a very inspirational testemony.
The Lord is mighty, his spirit is moving across the surface of this planet. The bride of christ is in labor, and the planet itself is also having contractions, straining under the weight of our own parasitic out-of-control drive for absolute consumption of the earth's resources.
Sonshine Farms is exactly the type of standard that we should hold to as a guide for living in the Kingdom.
Forget the ways of man!!! it is all for naught!
Very inspirational Peterz, You are certainly doing God's will and helping others. In a messed up world with "Bushinated" morals and principles then its so good to see and read about REAL CHRISTIANITY!
This world as we understand it is changing for the worse every day and by the evil powers of the corporate control thugs along with Mr. Little horn in Washington and his band of ugly pirahna. The good news is at the end this earth will be made anew, and Jesus is going to settle the score, George W Bush will burn in hell and the meek shall inherit the earth! There will be goodness for all who seek good. God Bless you!
For those of us that are lucky by God's Grace to be awake in this time, realize that time is growing short, and a return to the Church and the Body of Christ will once again come about. Your vision, PeterZ, will come again probably sooner than we all think. Only God knows His timeline, and His plan, but for the benefit of us He has left the Word, and prophecies, and fortunately we all know how this final act will end. Praise the Lord!
The key is following the Way of Yahshua, and submitting ourselves to the Will of Our Father. Through submission to Our Father, offering ourselves as a living sacrifice, He can reside in us and we will be directed by the Holy Spirit.
Well said Peace.
"If the whole body were an eye, what part would do the hearing? If the whole were an ear, what part would exercise the sense of smell? 12:18 But as a matter of fact, God has placed each of the members in the body just as he decided. 12:19 If they were all the same member, where would the body be? 12:20 So now there are many members, but one body."
People need to take this message to heart.
Everyone,
I heard on free speech tv the other night about a Russian man who claims he has proof that the Bush Adm. are the ones fueling the flames of the muslim protests against those cartoons of Muhammed (who Iran blames Israel for, even though they were printed in Denmark?. And that the bushies will nuke Iran in punishment of not controlling the muslims and this will reap them soldiers and money from all throughout Europe in thanks for dealing with the mass rioting. He even claimed to know a date - March 28th, 2006. Israel's election day. And in turn, Iran will bomb Israel.
I would like to watch an interview with this guy or maybe Capt. May should look him up. Interesting though.
Don't like the whole idea, but we know it's coming, but so is Jesus and I feel no fear. He's truly and entirely amazing.
Cheney shot his fellow hunter. Do you think they gave him a sobriety test?
What a world! Couldn't make it as well without you guys. Thanks for just being there.
Love,
Susanne
Regarding Cheney again. I just heard that the victim was shot in the heart and back in (still in) intensive care. As we have said before, NOTHING happens by accident with this administration.
Susanne
Happy Valentines to everyone.
All these guys are good hunters, it figures since they love killing!
Cheney also didn't get his $ 7.00 quail stamp on his license either. These guys are beyond belief.
Who knows, perhaps this wasn't no accident! One thing for sure is that all of them love being center attention and in our minds. Their days of hunting,partying,illicit sexcapades,pedophilia,drugging,
stealing,lying,worshiping stone owls,obsessing over numbers,and Murder will be coming to an end soon. They are all just floating away so high and so swell in their over inflated egos right now, but God is going to blast their balloons soon!
They may use this to get Cheney out of there. He may want to get out now and go down into his bunker and stay there. Maybe he will resign, and people will think that something has changed. And Condi Rice gets appointed New V.P., so she will be in charge when they do a fake rapture and Bush disappears (goes down in the bunker). Alot of contemporary prophecy describes America as being run by a woman when it gets destroyed. Alot of people assumed it was Hillary Clinton. But couldn't you see it working out like this?
Cheney resigns, America rejoices and thinks that things will change. Cheney says he is going back to his ranch to rest in Wyoming, but he really goes to the Northcom underground bunker and his coffin down there, lol. Cheney is done with this world, he wants to be about destroying it.
Maybe Rumsfeld goes as well. He seems weary. They make Lieberman Secretary of Defense, and pretend to capitulate and put Hillary in Condi's place as Secretary of State?
Here is an interesting link about the religious alliance with the "New World Order"
http://www.rense.com/general20/unholy.htm
Here is another amazing link
http://english.pravda.ru/topic/terrorism-33/
That is a great find. People outside of America have a much clearer picture about what is going on.
Hello everyone, here is an article from someone in the Netherlands, even over there they can see!
http://www.ditrianum.org/Artikelen/artikel33en.htm
Sweet sister Godsgirl, Sonshine Farm as it was a community of believers no longer exists. There is still a church there, that is not much different than the denominational church you may find on your corner.
You have asked a difficult question. I am not quite sure how to answer you. I need to pray about this and what it is that God is saying to us. In the mean time if you would like to email me directly about what the Lord is showing you I would love to hear from you.
Godsgirl, the spirit of the Lord will guide us all on our respective lives. Continue in your faith that He will draw us in closer to obtain the amazing fellowship that is planned for us. The Good Shepherd watches and cares for his sheep, how and when will community happen? God knows, so have faith that at the right time, the spirit will move us all together, and guide us to be where we ought to.
I would suggest that you read my recent post concerning love, and for now assess your own skills and spiritual gifts, and jump into the stream of the present moment. Help those around you in any way you can, meditate on what a Christian is, and what we are called to do. Walk the Walk, and have faith that that path will lead you to where you need to be.
Also in the meanwhile pray that you would have ears to listen to the Lord, eyes to see the steps ahead on the path of God's will for your life, and a heart open to the love for the Lord and our neighbors (which is our shared calling) though we are different parts of the body, Love is the universal key to all growth in the spirit, 1Cor13.
Hope that helps, God bless
Perhaps I was being too vague. I'm not sure what you meant by asking if you were missing something. I didn't mean to confuse.
When I suggested that you pray for ears to listen, eyes to see and the heart to love, I was by no means suggesting that you weren't seeing, hearing or loving NOW (obviously, you had been led here, and from your comments so far you seem to have a good spirit) However every day we are to lay down our selves, pick up our cross, and follow Christ.
you said:Cult communities have historically become corrupt because the will of man tries to take over, versus being led by God.
and that is very true. It happens not only with groups, but also on an individual basis constantly. In the Christian walk as we progress we are continually growing in our comprehension of his will. As we become more freed from the bondage Satan has over us all, we become more of a threat, and we will come under attack.
anyway, I didn't mean to be confusing.
Also, everybody, PeterZ has undergone a medical procedure today, and will be offline over the next few days or so. He is a good friend and a mentor. I would ask that you pray for a quick, safe, and comfortable recovery
I will definitely say a prayer for Peterz that he may rest and recoperate quickly over the next few days.
Peterz is definitely led by the holy spirit,and God is using him to help open eyes.
I hope and pray for a speedy recovery for PeterZ. I don't like the thought of not having PeterZ here in cyberspace. May God bless and comfort him as always.
Talk to you soon hopefully.
Susanne
Thank you all for you kind words and your prayers. I had undergone a surgical procedure on Monday
It potentially could have been serious, but I don't think the Lord is done with me yet, so I do expect to make a full recovery.
I am feeling much better, and hopefully by tomorrow I can answer some of GodsGirl's questions. In the mean time Godsgirl
You may want to read some of my previous posts. I have so much more I want to teach but hadn't had the energy to do much writing.
Now I know why. God is moving in the earth in these days.
Peace, I am so delighted to see that Stephen has given you the responsibility of monitoring his blog. He made a Wise choice.
Love to all
Peter
Peter,
What do you mean about "now you know why - God is moving in the earth these days?" just wondering.?
Glad you are back and feeling better.
Isn't it interesting to hear how upset all the politicians, especially Republicans, about Bush opening our seaports to the Arab Nation? He knows they are not the real threat, of course, but isn't it amazing how stupid he thinks we are? First to have us believe that it was al-quida (arabs) on 9/11 and now, just forget all that and it's all good, so good that you can almost do away with the routine investigation of the company that will have control of the port. Wow, keeps gettin' better and better. People will still defend him; can almost hear it now, "I trust the president to keep us safe, there must be no threat otherwise he wouldn't do it."
Somethings up (again). I'm ready with my God armor.
Peace,
I had been wondering about the "peacekeeper" (we know who the beast is). PeterZ can hopefully shed some more God light. I had always thought that somehow Bush would do an abrupt turnaround (after some major catastrophic event)and end the wars or at least give lip service to it or maybe by bribery - take the mark, take up his one-world religion and he will make peace and people will buy that also like everything else he does and look to him for salvation. God will let us know when we need to know. Sure was an interesting and well-researched site. Have you heard how they are getting closer to proving Diana was killed? They say she was pregnant and the royal family couldn't stand the thought of a muslim/arab in the kingdom. What have we learned from Jesus in these 2006 years besides nothing?
I still want to know about the RFID tags in our money. Thanks for always keeping informed and passing it on.
PeterZ, when you are up to it I would like to hear your thoughts on purgatory. I don't belive in purgatory but someone told me it is in the Bible and I think they might be right, but can't find it. So call in the scholar PeterZ. But please get some rest also. We need you.
Susanne
Hey Peter,
Glad to see you are feeling better. I just spent 7 days in the hopspital with my 18 month old daughter, and I know you likely feel as I do thankful to be home and healthy!! God bless Peter, and thanks for all you do.
Thank-you for sharing your experience. It is a shame that so many Christians seem to associate Christianity with a corporate capitalist system based upon greed and social injustice. When in fact the Bible says that the first Christian community in Jerusalem was probably very much like the community you described and helped to build. Like most people, I worry too much about money rather than trusting God day to day. It's a trap that the world sets for us, and most of us fall into it.
Let me first discuss my physical condition. I am doing much better at the moment. Over the last several months I had felt that my physical strength and stamina had been sapped. I went in for a routine physical, and in the process the doctor wanted a urine sample. They found that I had blood in my urine which after a number of different tests they found that I had cancer in my bladder. On Monday Feb 20 I went in for surgery and got the catheter out a week latter(ouch). The good news is they believe they got it all. The bad news is that I will have to undergo treatments for the next couple of years because the reoccurrence rate for this kind of cancer is high. I do see this whole thing as an opportunity for God to be glorified. I find it hard to believe that the Lord would have shown me all that he has just to take me. If so I will just have to watch from the other side.
All kidding aside I do believe I will be fine, I am a tuffy. I am very grateful for yours and the others love and prayers.
Fret not over those evil doers, all they are doing is laying up in store where moths and rust corrupts, and they are tormented by their own greed. They have no peace now and will not see it in the age to come. I have pity on them. It wrenches the heart to see the suffering of the poor. Perhaps this is why Jesus said Mt:11:5:"and the poor have the gospel preached to them."
Rom:8:18: For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
Lk:12:32: Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.
I am working on a new post that will give some answers to what happened to Sonshine Farm
Love in Christ PeterZ
Godsgirl... I never said that they were not of the Lord, I said that they are not much different then you might find in any denominational fellowship. What they mean by community and what you mean based on this post are not at all the same. You are getting ahead of me. You asked if I intended to start such a fellowship again. I can only move as God directs. I do believe that this is what God is leading us to do, hence the title of this post "A Vision To Come Again " The physical buildings of the community still exist. but it is now no more than a subdivision. Most of the people that live out there are not part of that church and were not the original people. If you would like to contact me by email, we can discuss these things. PursuingTruth@nc.rr.com
PeterZ,
I knew something wasn't right with you and I have kept you in my prayers. Your courage and strength are coming from God, as will your healing. He knows we need you. Stay a "tuffy"! We love you any way you are!
I have thought alot about Son Shine Farm and what a refreshing pace it would be (like a glimpse of Heaven) compared to the current way of our lives. It has become a source of daydreaming and if that is where Jesus would want me to be, then that is where I would want to be. I NEVER thought that could even be a possibility for me, but it may very well come to something like this for His people. He will guide us. As Always.
I am still experiencing that strong peaceful feeling that makes me feel so strong and fearless; what a joy and comfort. I would pray for everyone to have this. What a different world it would be. He is soooo good; I can't wait to be cradled in His arms.......and not too much else has my attention anymore. Focus on our Lord instead of Bush and co. and His strength will override all. I still watch and read all I can, but it doesn't have the same impact as before. The shock and awe are less and the comfort from Jesus is doubled. It's great. I wonder if anyone else is going through the same thing? Maybe we are all being strengthened together.
Susanne
Godsgirl, I am glad you are seeking the restoration of the Way so diligently. You aren't alone.
it is not by our plans or effort that we will overcome, it is by our absolute dependance on the power of God that we will be protected. and saved. We need only make ourselves available to God to use as he will, and he will take it from there.
Exactly, Young Brother. And what a comfort that is. Come what may; we're His and He is ours - forever and ever.
I asked two people this question the other day: "if you could choose when Jesus comes back, would you pick soon or 1,000 years from now?" Both answered immediately with 1,000 years from now. Interesting. I know my answer and it was not the same as theirs.
Every article about war with Iran predict that something will happen before 2007. The drums of war are getting louder and louder every day. As is Jesus' return getting closer and closer.
I heard today that a secret prison in Afghanistan is to be investigated. It is estimated that 500 detainees have been held incommunicado for 3-5 years as enemy combatants. I wonder how long before we officially become enemy combatants. Do ya think that is what all the spying is about? What else could it be for? Any ideas? Why do they want to know so much - just cause they can? What reason could they have for wanting to know so much about us?
Jesus' return is the only hope I hold.
Peace and joy to all in His holy name. Susanne
Godsgirl, Please be patient with me, I have not been well, but I am working on this. I may be slow, but if you have read any of my other posts, you will realize that a lot of thought and prayer goes into what I write. I hope I will have it up by this week end.
PeterZ, I hope today is a good day for you. Susanne
PeterZ,
Hope you are well. I too am interested in info about Sonshine Farm that 1godsgirl has inquired about. No hurry for me though, I am a patient man. Concentrate first on your health and strength then please tell us more when you have time and are able.
HaveFaith
The truth is that the 'failure' of Sonshine Farm was caused by immaturity, lack of moral purity, abuse of authority, and pride. I've participated in helping some who faithfully pursue Jesus and His Kingdom move forward from these failures and I'm happy to report that Jesus is still the Head of His Church and His Kingdom is still advancing through these people only because of the grace of God. Let's not build an idol around 'community'. Let's stop dreaming, roll up our sleeves and do the work of genuine friendship and partnership that God makes available to His Church through the reconciling work of the cross, the power of the resurrection and the relase of God's Spirit among people that will surrender to the Lordship of Jesus!
Reading over your comments. I found it striking. That no one actually said anything. About what was in your post. Other than polite generalities.
Makes me wonder. Are any of these Christians sincere?
Or really paying attention.
At the core, I disagree that Bush is the anti Christ. Any study of the anti Christ reveals that "he" will be accepted by all. I don't think that's the case for Bush at all.
I think this is trash. You take scripture and give it your own meaning by comparing it to things that are happening in the world. Nobody realy knows the exact meaning of the scriptures and your views are irresponsible. Noone knows for sure who the Anti-Christ will be or when Jesus will return. I know this because "the Bible tells me so."
This is being written to whomever is writing their hate on here. You can blame me all you want for your life, but in the end you are responsible for yourself. I don't know what you were told, but I do know what the truth is. If you are being fed hatred toward me, then you are not being fed the words of Christ. There were never any couples that were "forced together" NEVER not one. The Lord knows what the truth is concerning this matter. Any marriages that happened were of the couples own free will and desire. I never even suggested anyone date anyone else. If there are people that no longer believe, that is probably because they never believed in the first place. They should have been following the Lord not me. When the Lord moved to form Sonshine farm, many were truly blessed. I gave of my self sincerely. I had nothing to gain by that ministry other than being obedient to what I believed God had called me to. I freely admit I sinned before God, but God has long ago forgiven me, as I have forgiven those that trespassed against me. Apparently there is still a great deal of unforgiveness in your heart, and I would guess that came from your parents as well. I am sorry for that, but if you forgive not those that sin against you neither will your heavenly father forgive you. The "demons and scars" you say you have are because you hold bitterness in your heart. You can be set free if you learn to love and not hate. This is not about me, this is about you and your God. I delete your comments because they are hateful and not true, not because I have anything to hide. If you read my work with an open heart it will speak for itself. My life has had it's falls and hurt, but I have gotten up and continue to serve the Lord, I pray you look past me and see Jesus.
I'm not spewing hate, it's anger and resentment for turning my childhood innocent place into a den of iniquity. It's from watching all of the lives torn apart and the children from there so lost! And reading all of the crap that you put on here and your weird views that you have the nerve to still deceive.
I lived in the middle of the Farm, my parents, siblings and their family lived it. My sister lived in the dorm. She was told who and who not to date.
You may be able to rewrite history in your own mind to help you sleep, but there are major horriffic reprocussions, and yes demons and scars!
By deleting these posts you aren't giving anyone else the chance to form an opinion, but then that's just it isn't it?
What I did for the farm was good and upright. The sin that I committed was personal and had nothing to do with anyone else. The evil that erupted after I left was not my doing but rather the result of power hungry men that wanted to have things their own way. I gave of myself, and made many sacrifices to see the farm prosper and grow. What happened after I left I had no control over. It is very easy to make me a scapegoat. Anything that was wrong could then be blamed on me. Think about it. What you read on the pages of this blog are the word of God, if you don't agree, that is up to you, but you owe it to yourself to find out what the truth is. I have nothing to hide nor be ashamed of. The shame rests with the irresponsible men that handled the matter the way they did. You said in your post "And you were not treated badly when you left, they all surrounded you with love and compassion." you have no idea what you are talking about. They were like ravening wolves. I did not lie when I was confronted, and I am not a liar now. If you want to have a discussion with me I am more than happy to. You can either email me. or keep it here, but if you spew hate, lies and personal attacks, I will delete them.
Greetings. I would like to hear more about the Sonshine Farm and would like to hear from anyone from that time. I look forward to returning to the blog.
I would be happy to answer any questions you may have if you want to email me at
PursuingTruth@nc.rr.com
I wasa part of the"FARM" and it was very good for a little while . Many lives were touched by Jesus. But in time pride (The down fall of all christians and ministries) humbled every one involved. Community is a gift from the Lord. The whole Bible was written to people in relationship -how to love ,to serve,ect.. But like any gift of grace it requires a steady submission to grace to use it properly. The moment any one thinks they have all that Jesus is doing in the earth, it is only a matter of time before sin comes then failure and the removal of blessing and Fatherly discipline begins. This is exactly what happen. There is no perfect Community or church group.
" The Kingdom of God does not come with careful observation, nor will people say, "Here it is",or "There it is",because the Kigdom of God is within you."Lk.17:20,21
Christ loves his body it may not be what any person or "prophet" thinks but it should be,but is His. He will receive her to himself in His time.Pursue community But do not think you have arrived. We need a Savior and will forever. Love his Body no matter where you find it. Whether it is the "Ordinary church" on the corner or some house church.Don't look to be some "cutting edge" ministry(PRIDE).
"He has shown you,O man,what is good,and what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and LOVE MERCY and to walk humbly with your GOD." Micah6:8
I am part of the Church at the property of the "Farm" now and we are very viable expression of the Lord Jesus.This is not a hate note but a disagreement of what is represented at this site concerning the "farm".This was another problem of the "Farm" people could not disagree without being labled divisive or rebellious. We can disagree and still serve Jesus.
Anonymous, your post contains the very sin of pride that you accuse Peter of exhibiting. You begin by confessing that pride is "the downfall of all christians and ministries" and continue by reiterating the imperfection of church groups and communities.
You also chastise Peter for aspiring to something greater than the flawed and blemished modern expression of the mainstream "church", calling his hope and faith "PRIDE". And yet, throughout your message, you speak down to him, belittling his efforts without showing any examples of his apparent sin. And you conclude by justifying your own church as "a very viable expression of our Lord Jesus".
Don't you understand that you are a victim of the very sin you speak out against? Is it the Holy Spirit which has inspired you to believe that all who call themselves the church are therefore the church? Is is the gospel which makes you believe that any imperfect institution filled with spots and blemishes can be passed off in the eyes of Christ as the perfect and pure Bride that was promised him?
Where is your hope in the transforming power of God? Where is your faith that all who were called to Christ are being formed and fashioned to rise above the inadequacy of current religious standards and practices? Can't you see that the eternity of God surely is greater and longer lasting than any traditions of men? Don't you know that righteousness is our calling, and that there will be many who face the judgment throne assuming that they are Christians who will be turned away, having never known Christ?
We are called to stand against the trappings of this world, to uplift each other and continually press on to an ever-unfolding transformation which is promised to us by grace. What you call "pride" is a bold appeal for forgotten righteousness, nothing more. Christ was accused of being proud to the point of blaspheming God, because he referred to God as "Father". Peter and men like him are accused of being proud and unrealistic because they hope for and have faith in the forgotten gospel that we are called to be "children of God", brothers and sisters of Christ. The gospels set a much higher standard of holiness for us than what our churches ask us to settle for. We can't choose to follow the church crowd to the exclusion of our Christian calling. That is the spirit of Antichrist.
Is this belief "cutting edge"...in a way. But essentially Peters vision is a return to obeying the teachings of scripture. It is a call to take God seriously. If you have examples of Peter's great pride, please share them. Otherwise, save your condemnation, it will only work to destroy you.
younger bro. you have completely misunderstood my comments.It is not pride to confess that a church is an expression of the Lord any more than it is pride to confess one is a christian. I am not bragging of my righteousness but of A Savior!! I am boasting of the work of God within a group of people!
Therefore as it is written: "Let him who boast boast in the Lord." 1Cor. 1:31
Pride is the down fall of many and if you don't think you have it in you- you are already deceived.
I would never nor would any true follower of Christ crtisize any one for trying to raise a standard for Jesus. You have misunderstood.
but I think you falter in understanding of the Word. Jesus said people error in not knowing the Scriptures or the Power of God.Mat22:2 Those IN CHRIST are new creations they are not perfected in all areas but in Christ they are spotless and without blemish.This is the Justification we have as believers.I don't think everyone is a believer that confesses or goes to church Wheat will grow with the tares. The "wheat" I know has been transformed miraculously from all types of sin.It is pride to accuse believers of any church that you have not met that they are not reaching after as much as yourself. You need your bros. and sisters in Christ.
The eye cannot say to the hand,I don't need you!"And the head cannot say to the feet,"I don't need you!" On the contrary, those parts of the body that seems to be weaker are indispensable and the parts thatwe think are less honorablewe treat with special honor. 1Cor.12:21-23
I disagree strongly with your rebutal and your stand. I am not condemning I am disagreeing and warning! You may raise up a wonderful expression of the Body but it will still be a place with saved and sinner alike and you will not always know who they are. Or will there be someone who will always be able to seperate the "wheat" and "tares". The work of Jesus starts in the heart and we are not privy to that. GRACE and PEACE
Perhaps my misunderstanding stems from your choice of words. The character of your message, to my eyes was a rebuke to Peter's former and current attempts to manifest the power of Christ's promises by doing what the church no longer does and working to build a community of believers that works together for the common purpose of serving God. You called his faith "pride", and you are still justifying your pride as "boasting in the Lord". You wrote in condemnation of all churches, while speaking of the perfection of the Bride (as though that purity was a current manifestation) and finally justifying your church as "a viable expression of Christ". That is hypocrisy. It is settling down for much much less than the promised glory that's been forgotten. That is presuming to have arrived already (remember the post is titled "A Vision to Come Again". What those words tell me is that you are defining Christ by the spiritual standards set by your church, not defining your church by the standards of Christ. You have made Christ less important by this, and yourself more important. I know we have not arrived. I know that we can all improve in our ongoing work to carry our cross and follow Christ. This is actually a warning to you not to stay too comfortable in your wonderful church. "The harvest is plenteous, but the workers are few." And in the world today there is a lot of work to be done. Prov 10:5 "Those who gather crops on time are wise, but those who sleep through the harvest are a disgrace."
If you seek and follow after Christ, then do so with all of your heart. You will come to an understanding of your role in this world if you merely ask him for it.
But there is a shaking going on right now that has been intensifying for years. It is the hand of God moving in the world, calling for people to come back to Him and give Him glory.
We are called to "seek first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness" This full commitment to Christ is a price too high for many church-goers to pay, unfortunately. They want God to be the sugar in their coffee, not the Lord of their Lives. Many "christians" will refuse to repent, just as many Jews refused to repent in the days of Christ and John the Baptist.
The church has been and continues to be asleep. How do I know? Because I'm awake! (Praise the Lord) Do I condemn all the people who go to church by saying this, no! I know that God is calling to his children within the church as well as those on the outside of it.
But the example set forth by the modern church is very far from the power of Christ. If you continue to deny that, it is because of your pride. God has a plan that is now in action. His power is being demonstrated for all who look for it, and yet his signs and warnings are being ignored by many exactly as the scriptures said they would be.
By the way, I'm not sure if it was a typo on your part, but Matt 22:2 does not say "People err, not knowing the scriptures or the power of God." I think that's pretty ironic by itself, but more fascinating and relevant is the parable that Matt 22:2 does introduce. Please take heed of this message.
Matt 22:2-14
"The kingdom of heaven is like a king who prepared a wedding feast for his son. The king invited some people to the feast. When the feast was ready, the king sent his servants to tell the people, but they refused to come.
"Then the king sent other servants, saying, 'Tell those who have been invited that my feast is ready. I have killed my best bulls and calves for the dinner, and everything is ready. Come to the wedding feast.'
"But the people refused to listen to the servants and left to do other things. One went to work in his field, and another went to his business. Some of the other people grabbed the servants, beat them, and killed them. The king was furious and sent his army to kill the murderers and burn their city.
"After that, the king said to his servants, 'The wedding feast is ready. I invited those people, but they were not worthy to come. So go to the street corners and invite everyone you find to come to my feast.' So the servants went into the streets and gathered all the people they could find, both good and bad. And the wedding hall was filled with guests.
"When the king came in to see the guests, he saw a man who was not dressed for a wedding. The king said, 'Friend, how were you allowed to come in here? You are not dressed for a wedding.' But the man said nothing. So the king told some servants, 'Tie this man's hands and feet. Throw him out into the darkness, where people will cry and grind their teeth with pain.'
"Yes, many are invited, but only a few are chosen."
May God draw you closer to his light, to fill your heart with a hunger for his righteousness.
Youner Bro., thanks again for your response. We are still on different wave lengths. I have yet to condemn any churches, nor to exalt my self or my righteousness. but our dialogue is doing nothing. I still disagree with alot on this site . But I will no longer respond. It is, again ,o.k. to disagree. I fear no condemnation for disagreeing with this vision. To disagree with any mans vision does not neccesarily mean one is on the outs with the Savior-especially one that does not seem Biblical.This is a problem when two people disagree one is assumed to be fighting agaisnt God.One is not writing hateful or because they warn. I stand on what I see in the Word as you do. Here we divide. In Him
My dear Anonymous,
I might ask your motive for writing a comment here. You seem to claim it is to set the record straight. ("This is not a hate note but a disagreement of what is represented at this site concerning the "farm".This was another problem of the "Farm" people could not disagree without being labeled divisive or rebellious. We can disagree and still serve Jesus.")
In case you did not know , what is written here was written approximately 30 years ago. It was taken directly from the brochure that we had written and used at "Sonshine Farm" There are no distortions. Your comment about not being allowed to disagree is also an error. I know in my heart as I stand before my Lord, I never felt that way about anyone but one exception, and that was a person that lived across the street from the farm. It was also not my decision alone to "Label" this person, but was a unanimous decision reached by the body of the "Elders." We are called as the body of Christ to be of one mind, Phil:1:27: "....stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;" Amos:3:3: "Can two walk together, except they be agreed?"
This is not a matter of one trying to lord it over another by insisting that one be forced into conformity, but a desire on all sides to seek the truth. If there is disagreement between brethren, one must not just bunker down in your pride but find the truth of the matter. If two have contradictory ideas they can not both have the truth, they could however both be wrong.
I know you think you know what went on back then but unfortunately you only know what you have been told. You really have no idea, but my Heavenly Father knows and He will be the judge.
I would like to ask again what your motive is that you may inquire of your own heart. Do you think you are going to stop me from teaching Gods word? That will never happen again, I must be about my Father's business. The truth of the matter is that you want to attack me because you have not yet forgiven me for the sin you think I committed against you. Rom:14:4: "Who art thou that judgest another man's servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand." Even if I had trespassed against you, Mt:6:15: "But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses."
I don't need you approval, I only need Him that sent me. You quoted our Lord when he said "The Kingdom of God is within you" but He also prayed Mt:6:10: Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
I am not called to teach those that are not hungry, but those that are hungry for more. 1Cor:3:2: I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able.
If these things are not for you, may the Lord bless you; but be careful of making statements that these things are not Biblical without pointing out where they are not.
If you'd like, I can remind you how you condemned the church ..."pride (The down fall of all christians and ministries)" was an interesting thought, considering how strongly you deny the touch of pride within yourself. You also said "Christ loves his body it may not be what any person or "prophet" thinks but it should be,but is His." So Christ was promised a perfect and pure bride but will just have to settle for the harlot church, hmm?
You used this idea of the imperfect church in your warning, also your very stance against Peter and this blog is another condemnation of "the church", whether you want to recognize it or not. You have bypassed the stage where you would plead your case of condemnation for the teachings here, and skipped right to the verdict of "guilty". And now, without ever explaning your disagreements, you are leaving? Was is this, a drive by judgment?
I have already explained how you justify yourself. What part does light have to do with darkness? We both confess to see and know the light, and yet we do not agree between ourselves. I'm reading the same Bible you own, so what's the story? You insult and then deny wrongdoing. You accuse without real explanation. You disagree for no scripture-backed reason and you still think that you are of the light? I implore you to seek the real light, to seek after God and pray to be rid of any blindness that might plague you. If your position is right, there will be no change, but if perchance you are wrong, you will be saved from the spiritual darkness that has truly overcome the established church. Don't dismiss or forget the warnings to the seven churches in the book of Revelation. And don't overlook the messages within each letter to those who "overcome" the plights and worldly pitfalls succumbed to by those churches. That is scripture. Not opinion.
"The sin that I committed was personal and had nothing to do with anyone else."
Peter,
You brought this to a public forum.
Are you willing for the truth to be expressed here?
Lancelot, I am very happy to discuss the truth with anyone that has a heart for truth and the love of Christ in their heart. I would remind you that the scripture teaches us that Satan is the accuser of the brethren. If your intent is to attack me as the messenger, then be careful as you may be found fighting against He that sent me. In that case decide if what is being taught is of God and according to Scripture. Rom:14:4: "Who art thou that judgest another man's servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand." Rom:11:29: "For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance."
I will not keep the truth of God under a bushel because of my own failures and I am well aware of what they are. You on the other hand have know idea what the truth is concerning Sonshine Farm. You only know what you have been told. You know nothing about me.
This is an open public forum for the seeking of Gods Kingdom and the truth of His word. Personal attacks are not of the Spirit, and will edify no one and will be deleted.
You are trying to say that there is no attack involved in trying to bring up things that occurred over 28 years ago? As you mock the fact that I used the wrong word for "Know -No" and you hide behind a veil of being anonymous.
As I stated my sin was my own personal failure. If you participated in it then that was your own choice. I have nothing to hide but I fail to see how what you seem to want to "present" here would be a blessing to anyone. If you would like to personally communicate with me via email. pursuingtruth@nc.rr.com I would be happy to discuss whatever you would like.
You are not really interested in the truth but interested in trying to discredit me. Like I said you don't know what the truth is, and you know nothing about me. You obviously have an inflated opinion of yourself because you don't have to deal with the same things I do and must still have bitterness in your heart. If I have offended you I am truly sorry and have expressed this sorrow many times to those involved. Mt:6:15: "But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses." 1Jn:4:20:" If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?" This blog is not about me but the teaching of Gods word and His prophetic message. If you want to take issue with what is being taught, then your opinions will be left up. This post is the truth as it is what happened and was written while I was pasturing Sonshine Farm.
If you you want to discuss this you know how to reach me
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