Months ago the AGM was moved from its usual slot (first Saturday in May) to the second Saturday in May.  Thus it now coincided with a special need for talks between parties trying to form a government following Thursday’s (May 6) inconclusive general election.  As Christian British Israelite meeting in London we have an opportunity and responsibility to pray for our nation’s government.  Pastor Robert Phillips led the meeting in praying that God will overrule and guide our leaders.

The business agenda was successfully completed in an orderly and amicable way, and the meeting was concluded with the Aaronic blessing.

A free buffet lunch was then enjoyed in the crypt.

The afternoon convention chaired by Mr Paul Boyd-Lee heard two splendid lectures.   The first, by Pastor Bob Williams (from Devon), was entitled ‘I have put wisdom in their hearts’ (Exodus ch. 31 v. 6).  Pastor Robert Phillips (from Carlisle) gave the second, entitled ‘The Stone which the builders rejected’ (Mark ch. 12 v. 10).

God appointed Israel as His witnesses, and to be a blessing to all nations.  As individuals we may wonder how to achieve this.  Pastor Williams emphasised that with each calling God gives ability – ‘I have put wisdom in their hearts.’  Even in a desert God provided the materials and wisdom needed to craft exquisite things for the tabernacle. God has not changed and He will still create wisdom in those called, and willing to serve Him, today.

Pastor Phillips affirmed that our nation still has an important role in the world today.  God was not mistaken when he chose Israel, and Jesus was not wrong when he told the Jews ‘the kingdom shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof.’ People reject and deny this, as they replace God’s simple truth with other ideas of their own.  Pastor Phillips strongly emphasised the literal truth of ‘The kingdom of God is within you’ and of God’s work in the hearts of His people today.  

An offering to help defray the expenses of the day, and support the witness of the BIBTF, was received between the afternoon addresses.  Our Treasurer* will be pleased to receive tithes and donations from any friends who wish to add to this. 

[*Mr B. Longford, Hon BIBTF Treasurer, 197 Sleetmoor Lane, Swanwick, Derby DE55 1RH]

The day concluded with a buffet tea in the crypt and plenty of time for conversation around the tea tables or bookstall.  The number attending was a bit reduced due to travel problems (volcanic ash) and poor health.  We pray this will be overcome before our special meetings in September and October, and warmly invite all members and supporters to plan now to attend and bring family and friends to swell the crowd.

God willing we look forward to meeting again at Orange Street on 16 October 2010 for our Thankgiving Bible convention. Please put this date in your diary now if you hope or plan to come, and please pray for God’s blessing on it. Watch this site for details of meeting times, speakers and titles to be announced.