THE Philippine Ecumenical Peace Platform (PEPP), the largest alliance of church federations in the Philippines, commends both parties for the resumption of the peace talks on Aug. 20, 2016.
We especially commend President Rodrigo Roa Duterte for his bold step in declaring a unilateral ceasefire during his State of the Nation Address (Sona) on July 25, 2016. We also commend the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) for their immediate positive response.
The PEPP has journeyed with the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) – NDFP peace talks since 2007 and recognizes the challenges of pursuing peace that seeks to address the root causes of this conflict that has gone on for 46 years.
PEPP urges both parties to uphold their determination to continue the pursuit of peace, trusting that lasting peace is possible. They should not allow mistrust to deter or defeat this new beginning that is providing so much hope to our nation and people.
Let our hearts be open to the understanding that we need each other in the pursuit of peace that is the fruit of trust and justice. Let us remain focused and steadfast in our endeavor. We urge all sides to dialogue on contentious issues that may come along the way.
Let us be inspired by the words of Scripture that call upon each one of us to work together to “let justice roll down like water and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.” (Amos 5:24) --Philippine Ecumenical Peace Platform
Reading the Bible
Since the first time I got interested in reading the Bible in 1970, I participated in many bible studies, not only in the Catholic Church but also in the Baptist and Adventist churches and other Christian denominations. Not one speaker had impressed me so I can have a truly full understanding of the Bible.
From then on, I studied the Bible myself.
After 30 years of reading the Bible, I found out that no Christian religion that exists today can be considered the true one. The Bible defines what is true religion. And no religion exists today that fits the definition.
Because of what I did and found out, I share to the readers some facts and dos and don’ts.
--Let the Bible speak for itself.
--Let God speak for Himself.
--The Bible was written not to contradict itself. The truth has its proper time and place.
--Do not misrepresent or distort the aords of the Bible.
--Let the Bible mean what it says.
--Mere opinion by an apostle or prophet cannot substitute what God or Jesus said.
--Examine all the contents of the Bible and classify them as to the kind of message or statement, part of speech or figure of speech. Understnad it first literally.
--The Bible contains not only words of God, Jesus, the prophets and the apostles but also words of Satan, demons, kings, soldiers, ordinary people, etc.
--The good teachings in the Bible are priceless and can also be applied for eternity.
--The bad stories in the Bible are also inspirations for people to continue their wickedness.
--If you don’t read the Bible through and through you’ll miss one-third of your life.
--Read the Bible as if you have no knowledge yet about God and religion. Then make your own conclusions.
Read the Bible to know the truth about God, Jesus and religion. --Chito E. Germino, Mandaue City