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Exodus from Darkness
Daniel Shayesteh"How can I understand unless someone helps me?"
(Acts 8:31 CEV)'Exodus from Darkness'
'Searching for Truth Together'
'Eternal Confidence is only found in Jesus Christ'PAST NEWSLETTERS
June / July 2005
Contents:
1. “The reason for their anger is their beliefs, not political or social injustice” by Daniel and Mary Shayesteh
2. Report on Daniel’s visit to Hobart, Tasmania
3. Upcoming Events
4. An invitation to participate financially in the ministry of Daniel and Mary Shayesteh
5. Exodus from Darkness Prayer Requests
6. Daniel's Books1. “The Reason for their anger is their beliefs, not political or social injustice”
- By Daniel and Mary ShayestehWe hear from many quarters that the boys who were suicide bombers in England were angry about Great Britain’s (and others’) presence in Iraq and that they had no choice but to suicide and kill their rank and file fellow citizens, in order to push the British Government to withdraw from Iraq.
From my perspective and personal experience of radical Islam, they acted as suicide bombers because of their own spiritual imprisonment – a result of their beliefs that gave them no choice but to commit this act, regardless of world events happening around them. If they were free in spirit they would not do things like killing their fellow citizens, which is exactly the thing they blame others of doing.
Secondly, if we go back a few years, why did angry radical Muslims choose to live and not use suicide bombing to kill any of Saddam’s people, when Saddam killed thousands of Kurds and invaded Kuwait and Iran causing the death of hundreds of thousands of Muslims? How then can they argue that they had no choice except death because of the occupancy of Iraq and Afghanistan by Westerners? What does this mean? Are Muslims who die under cruel Islamic regimes different in the minds of these suicide bombers to those Muslims who die under non-Islamic regimes? Are not all Muslim lives equally valuable? What makes these radical Muslims capriciously hostile to the West?
They justify their actions according to the beliefs of a country’s ruler. For them, authoritarian Muslim rulers, who are actively against Israel and the West, are simply better than the leaders of democratic non-Muslim nations. This discrimination has its root in the centre of their beliefs and values. Unjust actions perpetrated by one Muslim nation against another are seen as ‘ethical’ in their value system, but any conflict between a Muslim nation and a non-Muslim nation is seen as abhorrent regardless of the issues involved.
While I was a radical Muslim, I remember that I never cared for the rights of people in Christian Cyprus, but cried for the Muslims in Islamic Cyprus; I praised the invasions of Muhammad and his followers that brought about the spread of Islam, but I hated the crusaders who aimed to release their own religious shrines from the occupancy of Muslims. My faith was based on a capricious god who had a dualistic belief; the act of suicide killing is good when it is done against non-Muslim nations but at the same time it is bad when the conflict is between two Muslim nations.
When Jesus is in my life, my moral and ethical values do not change with the wind. Instead, I have a solid, holy, just, free and peaceful foundation and my political, social, moral and ethical values are not relative and always changing. As the Gospel of Christ says, “…if the root is holy so are the branches” (Rom.11:16c).
We praise Jesus who through His grace has planted a holy root in our lives that grows branches having the same nature. Nothing could change the heart of a hostile Muslim except Jesus. In the same way, if we introduce radical Muslims to Jesus, Jesus will transform them from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of light and they will be able to share in this holiness together with us (Acts 26:18). Their major problem is not political or social issues, as if through only political and social reforms we might help them to avoid upset and discrimination in this world. Their problem is fundamentally spiritual and they need a sound, true and holy belief to change their hearts.
Daniel and Mary Shayesteh
2. Report on Daniel’s visit to Hobart Tasmania (Friday 15th to Monday 18th July)
Daniel enjoyed a variety of opportunities to visit churches and regions during the past two months. Following is a report on his recent trip to Tasmania.
“On the Friday, my first day of ministry in Hobart, I had the pleasure of meeting with over 30 Pastors and Leaders from different churches across Hobart,” remarked Daniel as he shared news about his recent trip to Hobart. “During this time with them I shared my testimony to Jesus and answered their questions. It was a precious opportunity for my story to be sown into many different Christian communities.”
On the Saturday morning Daniel gave an apologetics lecture based around his book “A Journey from ‘gods’ to Christ”. Those present received the message enthusiastically and they wished the whole of Hobart could have been there to hear the lecture!
Daniel shared his testimony at Grace Church in Hobart. “Pastor Ron Wilson and his wife were very moved as I shared my testimony with their church”, commented Daniel as he reflected on this event. “I was also so happy that I was able to play my Tar to the congregation. A couple of Muslim background people were present at the service and they loved my music and poetry about Jesus. Music and poetry is a powerful witness to the hearts of people who are of middle-eastern background.”
Daniel spoke again at Grace Church on the topic of ‘Influential Evangelism’ and on Sunday afternoon he spoke at a public meeting, sharing his testimony to Jesus and playing his Tar with around 100 people including some who were not Christians.
Daniel also spoke to another church on the Monday evening before flying back to Sydney on the Tuesday.
We pray to God our Father that the seeds that Daniel planted during this trip will bear fruit in the lives of many people in Hobart and across Tasmania.
3. Daniel's upcoming ministry events
Daniel has many opportunities in the following months and 2006 to be 'salt and light' around Australia and overseas. Please remember him and the Shayesteh family in prayer as Daniel responds to these opportunities to testify to Jesus.July 24 - 30: Daniel to lecture to students at YWAM in Perth
Aug 12 - 15: Visit to Wagga Wagga
Aug 17 - 29: CMA Mission Weeks in Western Australia
Sept 7 - 12: CMA Mission Week in Victoria
Sept 16 - 19: Visit to Tamworth in response to an invitation from Tamworth MissionsNet
Sept 25 - Oct 2: Visit to Central/Northern Queensland
Oct 17: St Paul's Anglican Church Castle Hill
Oct 21, 22: Cowra Baptist Men's Dinner and Wellington Men’s Dinner
Oct 26: Primetime meeting at Christ Church St. Ives in Sydney
Oct 28-30: Visit to Hunter Valley Churches
Nov 13: Daniel speaking in Newcastle
Feb to April 2006: Visit to North America and possibly Europe
August 2006: Participating as a speaker in 'Mosques and Miracles' Conferences to be held around South Africa4. An invitation to participate financially in the ministry of Daniel and Mary Shayesteh
Our goal, dream and prayer is for Mary to be able to accompany Daniel on some of his upcoming ministry trips.
We were getting closer to that goal through some generous donations, ....... until Daniel lost his university job and the Shayesteh's were asked to repay a huge education debt much more quickly than they had anticipated. As a result, Mary is now working 11 hours a day to try and cover this debt as quickly as possible. This is a distressing step backwards for her. We lift this need up to the Lord and invite you to pray with us for a solution to this need. We also thank those who have generously made contributions already in order to reduce the pressure of the Shayesteh’s financial load.
We invite you to give generously to the ministry of Exodus from Darkness so that Daniel and Mary's transformational message about Christ can continue to bear fruit around Australia and overseas. Full details for contributing to their ministry are at the end of this email.
5. Other Exodus from Darkness Prayer Requests
We speak in Jesus' Name to many hearts across the world, that they will be challenged in this era of globalisation to search for the Truth with all their heart.
Praise God for Daniel's ministry opportunities during the last two months. This has included speaking to a Christian Business Men’s breakfast in the CBD of Sydney, a visit to the city of Orange, NSW, a visit to Hornsby Community church, NSW, a visit to Hunter Valley Life Christian Church, NSW and a visit to Hobart, Tasmania.
Please pray for the provision of all Daniel and Mary's financial needs. They have sacrificed much to ensure Daniel could share his testimony across Australia and overseas. Please pray for a solution to the needs mentioned above (4.). A donation or an interest free/low interest loan to help them would be a blessing for them.
We are praying for a group of people who can come together to back Daniel and Mary's ministry spiritually and intellectually as we consider the most effective ways for their ministry to grow in the years ahead. Please pray that the Shayesteh's ministry will be guided along the path of greatest fruitfulness for the kingdom of God.
Please pray for wisdom for the EFD committee as we seek and consider the opportunities for Daniel to minister in the USA and overseas during February to April 2006.
Please pray for Daniel as he works with Christian refugees from the Middle East seeking to come to Australia. It is proving extremely difficult to bring Christian refugees to Australia even though we are a country with a Christian heritage. Please pray for Daniel as he talks about these difficulties with Australian politicians.
Many people have been blessed through the special insights into Islam and other religions that are provided by Daniel's books. Always accompanying these insights is Daniel's testimony to the uniqueness of Christ our Lord in every dimension of life.
Please make use of Daniel's books listed below and share them with your churches, bible colleges and friends.
'The Difference is the Son' compares the Qur'an and the Bible against the backdrop of Islam's early history and Islam's contemporary message. Daniel concludes that the difference between these two books in all dimensions of life is the 'Son' - our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, the only source of eternal confidence.
"A Journey from 'gods' to Christ" looks at the nature of 'god', sin and salvation in all the world's major religions, while at the same time challenging the conscience (God given!) of every human being to search for the Truth.
'The Difference is the Son' - suggested donation $20 + $5 for postage
"A Journey from 'gods' to Christ" - suggested donation $15 + $5 for postage. For contact details for ordering these books, please see the end of this email.I close with the words of Jesus.
"The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field." Matthew 9:37,38 (CEV)
March to May 2005
Contents:
1. 'You are determined to kill me - why?'- a message from Daniel and Mary Shayesteh
2. Papua New Guinea enthusiastically welcomes Pastor Daniel
3. The 'Mosques and Miracles' Conferences reach out to SA, WA and NT and Daniel makes a special visit to Arnhem Land; April 3 - 23
5. Exodus from Darkness Prayer Requests
6. Upcoming Events
7. Daniel's Books1. 'You are determined to kill me - why?' - a message from Daniel and Mary Shayesteh
Does anyone have a sound solution for a hostile person or religion? Is any one other than Christ the solution? The biblical response is "No", and the Bible has a reason for it.
The purpose of Christ's revelation in reaching out to the nations was first to reconcile them to God (John 3:16; 2Cor.5:18) which is called "salvation", and the second was to reconcile them to each other (Col.1:20) which is called "peace". We see that spiritual newness is the base for political and social peace and tolerance; He (Christ) himself is our peace, who has made the two (Jews and Gentiles) one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility (Eph.2:14).
The unifying mission of Christ is unique and perfect and no one or religion in the world is able to unite the nations with one another and with God as does Jesus.
He said to those who were determined to kill Him, "you are ready to kill me, because you have no room for my word....If you were Abraham's children, then you would do the things Abraham did. As it is, you are determined to kill me, a man who has told you the truth that I heard from God. Abraham did not do such things. You are doing the things your own father does....you want to carry out your father's desire. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him" (John 8:37,39-41,44). But, if you give room to my words in your heart, I will set you free from killing and hostility, and then you will become the true children of Abraham; "Do not be like Cain, who belonged to the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own actions were evil and his brother's were righteous" (1John 3:12).
For Jesus, only people who are strangers to God can be hostile toward others. His plan in coming to this world was to set people free of hatred, hostility and killing and to make them friendly to one another. We confess that we are his living examples who have been freed from hatred and hostility. The glory of freedom belongs to Him our Lord, but to no one else (Acts 4:12).
Blessings,
Daniel and Mary Shayesteh
2. Papua New Guinea (PNG) enthusiastically welcomes Pastor Daniel
"The receptiveness of the people was marvelous", said Daniel after his trip to PNG during March 19 to April 1. "Wherever we went, brother Dennis with his trumpet and Pastor Robert with his eschatological songs and words, we reminded all attendees about the second coming of our Lord. In many places we were greeted by long lines of people who were clapping, singing and and placing flowers around our necks. I really loved their simple and meaningful songs. Some people had walked for 12 hours to be present at one of the conferences where I spoke. People were deeply moved, often wailing loudly, as they heard about my former life in radical Islam and my new life in Christ".
Daniel saw quickly that many senior politicians, church leaders and pastors are concerned about the radical Islamic movement that is at work in PNG. The level of interest in his visit was so high that on his arrival in Port Moresby he took part in 2 hours of interviews on PNG national radio on a Christian program. This media exposure meant that Daniel was often greeted with 'I heard you on the radio' as he traveled to various places in PNG. We thank God our Father for opening up the door of PNG so wide for Daniel's message about the uniqueness and Lordship of Christ.
In the university some of the students were concerned about the increasing influence of radical Islam in PNG and news of Daniel's testimony and presence on campus spread like wild fire. The students who heard Daniel told their friends and tried to arrange extra meetings so they could hear him too. When this wasn't possible they took the initiative to personally share Daniel's testimony with groups of people who had missed out.
Large numbers of people, as large as 1000 people on one occasion, heard Daniel speak two times in Mt Hagan. He was also interviewed by a Christian radio station broadcasting to thousands of highlanders in PNG. Later in places like Tari in the Southern Highlands Province, 150 church leaders and pastors gathered to listen. There was much crying and tears as people identified strongly with his message. They said,'Daniel at one time belonged to those that are against us but now Christ has changed him'.
Daniel was struck by both the beauty of PNG and the absence of infrastructure (e.g., roads) as we know it in Australia. Poverty and hardship are faced by many people. In the midst of this Muslim investors are making friends and helping to build Mosques around the country as part of their strategy to Islamise PNG. "Australian Christians need to think more about PNG." commented Daniel. "It would be a tragedy for PNG, with its rich Christian heritage, to be swallowed up by radical Islam." When you consider the process of Islamisation happening next door in West Papua, the threat is very real. "PNG is a country I would love to help" said Daniel with deep feeling. "There would always be important work to do as PNG grapples with the choice between Christianity and Islam. The challenge for us is finance particularly when the Islamists are so well funded."
Are Australian Christians able to act strategically in support of their PNG brothers and sisters in Christ? Will we support those who are living on the edge of freedom? What is God our Father saying to us?
3. The 'Mosques and Miracles' Conferences reach out to SA, WA and NT and Daniel makes a special visit to Arnhem Land; April 3 - 23
Significant groups of people gathered in Adelaide, Perth and Darwin to take part in the 'Mosques and Miracles' Conferences. The speakers, of which Daniel was one, made people aware of the need to care for our country and of the dangers if we do nothing in response to the challenge of radical Islam. A highlight was when Daniel shared his testimony in Adelaide at a meeting open to the public. A Muslim who had been considering Christ with the help of a friend chose this night to make their response of faith in Christ. Daniel also talked with some Muslim background Christian believers that evening who identified so strongly with Daniel's testimony and were very moved emotionally.
Our prayer is that the people who attended these conferences and those receiving this email will realise that a lot needs to be sacrificed to remove the dangers posed by radical Islam. The truth about Jesus is only discovered and lifted high when people are assertive and confident in their tolerance and willing to search for Truth with all their heart. Too often the values of economic security and comfort find a much higher place in our thinking, at the expense of knowing God, hearing his voice and making Him known.
Daniel also had a number of opportunities to minister in churches and other places during his journey through three states. In Adelaide he spoke in a church on the Sunday morning prior to the conference (Monday and Tuesday). After the conference in Perth (Thursday and Friday), he was invited to visit Kalgoolie and Donnybrook. Daniel visited several churches and spoke at a conference. He was very encouraged by the people there and their desire to have knowledge. On the following Wednesday morning, Daniel flew to Darwin for the conference being held in that city.
The final visit after the Darwin conference (Thursday and Friday) was to Gove N.T. where Daniel was hosted by folks from Missionary Aviation Fellowship. Daniel was initiated into northern territory life with a chance to try his hand at barramundi fishing. One of the fish he caught was a metre long! The aboriginal tribal elders (Northern Land Council) provided Daniel with permission to enter the aboriginal land of Arnhem Land. He was struck by the importance of this mission field for Australia.It is right on our doorstep but seems to have been forgotten by Australian churches. There are major opportunities for mission by Christian nurses, teachers and sports people etc.
The situation is very challenging and the Christians in the communities need encouragement and help to shine for Jesus in their holiness and witness. Daniel spoke three times to people in Arnhem Land at their invitation. On one occasion he preached, on another he shared his testimony and finally he shared his story with school children. Much of the time Daniel felt like he was still in PNG, though the people in Arnhem Land were less open to the gospel than people in PNG. He was really struck by the size of the task in this place for the mission of Christ.
The gap and segregation between white and black people at the top end of Australia, even in the church, provides Islam with a big opportunity. Muslims have already established missions amongst the aborigines as part of their strategy of targeting 'non-whites' with Islam. They assert that Islam is a 'non-white' religion. It is easy for them to make progress because they are well funded and willing to spend that money for the sake of their mission. They are also buying and running businesses in the area and they are keen to spread Islam.
"If Muslims can go to the top end and into Arnhem Land with their message, so can Christians", remarked Daniel. The churches needs to be revived with 'revival Christianity' with a real focus on reaching out to the young people. A 'sporting ministry' strategy, as Daniel has seen used overseas amongst Iranian and Afghani refugees, would be one excellent way to do this. Lord Jesus, move by your Spirit within us to 'feed your sheep'.
5. Exodus from Darkness Prayer Requests
We speak in Jesus' Name to many hearts across the world, that they will be challenged in this era of globalisation to search for the Truth with all their heart.
Praise God for Daniel's recent visit to the Ruach Neighbourhood churches in Sydney. These churches have strong links with persecuted Christians in Indonesia and always appreciate the insights that Daniel is able to bring about radical Islam and the uniqueness of Christ. We also thank God for the opportunity for Daniel to teach for two weeks at YWAM Perth during May.
Please pray for the provision of all Daniel and Mary's financial needs. They have sacrificed much to ensure Daniel could share his testimony across Australia and overseas. Daniel has been steadily paying off a large education fees debt, but he is now being asked to pay off that debt immediately. Please pray for a solution to this need. A donation or an interest free/low interest loan to cover the debt would be a blessing for them.
We are praying for a small group of people who can come together to back Daniel and Mary's ministry spiritually and intellectually as we consider the most effective ways for their ministry to grow in the years ahead. Please pray that the Shayesteh's ministry will be guided along the path of greatest fruitfulness for the kingdom of God.
May 21: EFD AGM in Sydney
May 24: Christian Business Men's Breakfast in Sydney
June 3 - 5: Visit to Orange
June 19: Visit to Hornsby Community Church
July: Visit to Tasmania being planned
Aug 12 - 14: Visit to Wagga Wagga
Aug 17 - 29: CMA Mission Weeks in Western Australia
Sept 7 - 12: CMA Mission Week in Victoria'The Difference is the Son' compares the Qur'an and the Bible against the backdrop of Islam's early history and Islam's contemporary message. Daniel concludes that the difference between these two books is the 'Son' - our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, the only source of eternal confidence.
"A Journey from 'gods' to Christ" looks at the nature of 'god', sin and salvation in all the world's major religions, while at the same time challenging the conscience (God given!) of every human being to search for the Truth.
'The Difference is the Son' - suggested donation $20 + $5 for postage
"A Journey from 'gods' to Christ" - suggested donation $15 + $5 for postage. For contact details for ordering these books, please see the end of this email.I close with the words of Jesus.
"The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field." Matthew 9:37,38 (CEV)
Shalom! Michael York
February and March 05
Contents:
1. "Pray that I may declare it fearlessly" - Daniel and Mary Shayesteh
2. Daniel's recent trips through Queensland, NSW and Tasmania
3. March 19 to April 1 - Daniel in Papua New Guinea
4. Upcoming 'Mosques and Miracles' Conferences - Adelaide, Perth and Darwin in April
5. Next 'Exodus from Darkness' Intercessory Prayer Meeting - Thursday night 24 Jan 2005
6. Latest news re Immigration Sponsors for Suffering Iranian Christian Families - more sponsors needed
7. 'Exodus from Darkness' Prayer Requests
8. Upcoming EFD Events1. "Pray that I may declare it fearlessly" (Eph.6:20b NIV) - Daniel and Mary Shayesteh
The sworn enemies of the Gospel do not give up. We, therefore, must expect to be bothered, confined, imprisoned, persecuted and killed. They persecuted and killed the One who revealed the glories of heaven. If they are so 'anti' to the Prince of Peace, obviously they will act the same to His followers.
What we can do despite all the pressures in this world that I mentioned above?
Every person in the world can only have one of two choices; to follow the Prince of absolute Peace, Love, Truth, Justice and Holiness or to follow His sworn enemy.
W! e are so excited that we have a new identity in Christ and are able to stand for His absolute Peace, Love, Truth, Justice and Holiness and to hold these as the standard of our lives, no matter how angry His enemies will be. We have solid reasons to be excited; our sins are forgiven; we are free and have the hope of glory.
On the other hand, the enemies of Christ are chained by their man-made traditions and unfortunately are not able to see their bondages. Therefore, it is not easy to talk to them. Some of them are inspired with anger and are taught to practice anger and to avoid listening. The Lord has chosen us to deal with these very hard ones. Please hold us firm in your prayers so that we might be able always to remember our identity in Christ and declare His saving message fearlessly.
Yours in Christ,
Daniel and Mary ShayestehAre you interested in ministry to Azerbaijani people living around the world? If so, please let us know so we ca! n put you in touch with people in Europe who coordinate this ministry.
2. Daniel's recent visits through Queensland, NSW and Tasmania
Daniel was invited by the Shiloh Centre (based out of Toowoomba Queensland) to visit towns, churches and groups in South East Queensland over the period Feb 1 - 9. The towns and areas visited included Toowoomba, Dalby, Biggenden, Wondai, Ipswich, Gold Coast, Southport and Warwick. We want to say a big thank you to Pastor Peter & Mrs Leggett de Barrasa from the Shiloh centre for hosting and accompanying Daniel throughout this time. Everywhere Daniel went, people were so excited after hearing his testimony to Jesus. Many people expressed that they simply hadn't known about the differences between Islam and Christianity and the choices that lie ahead for multicultural Australia. A beautiful fruit of Daniel's visit was numerous people indicating that they will start praying for Muslim people to know Christ.
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From Feb 12 - 19 and March 11 - 13, Daniel travelled through Northern NSW including the towns of Dubbo, Parkes, Forbes, Grenfell, Cowra, Bathurst and Southern NSW including Tumbarumba, Culcairn and Albury, all in partnership with the Australian Prayer Network.As with the visit through Queensland, Daniel found the NSW tour very encouraging. Every place he went, the hosting church had invited locals and other churches in the area to attend. Clearly, Church leaders are recognising the importance of unity and the importance of crossing over and breaking down denominational barriers for the sake of sharing Christ with boldness and simplicity. Daniel observed that the local Christians in these areas have a real concern for their country and that they are praying for the capital cities of our nation. They want also to help spread the gospel in practical ways.
In Dubbo Daniel enjoyed speaking with Bible College students from 'Cornerstone Community'. A highlight for Daniel was their decision to include future teaching at their college based around Daniel's book "A Journey from 'gods' to Christ". We thank God our Father for the growing impact of this book around Australia.
From Feb 24 - 27 Daniel was in Launceston Tasmania to take part in the latest 'Mosques and Miracles' Conference. Daniel was very encouraged as he interacted with the 150 people who attended the conference. He shared with them his testimony to Jesus and also gave a teaching session on the topic 'Evangelism should be accompanied by certainty in our hearts'. On Sunday he spoke at a local Launceston church and in the evening he attended another church where he chaired a 'question - answer' forum with the Pastor and church leaders.
A week ago Daniel spoke at a special mid week meeting held at St Philip's Anglican Church, South Turramurra. I was present to experience the hush that descended upon the large number of people present after hearing Daniel's testimony to Jesus. I found myself praying - Lord Jesus, we thank for you visiting us in such a special way and we invite you to continue the good work that you have begun in our lives, our churches and our nation.
We praise God our Father that Daniel's testimony to Jesus is being spread around Australia with power and impact. We pray that many will continue to come to faith in Jesus and that many Christians will have a new confidence in Christ's uniqueness and power to save.
3. March 19 to April 1 - Daniel in Papua New Guinea
Daniel will be visiting Papua New Guinea from March 19 to April 1 with Pastor Robert Brown. The visit will include visits to churches in Port Moresby, followed by a combined churches rally in Mt Hagan with large numbers of people expected to attend (around 50% of PNG's population of over 5 million people regularly attend church). The final focus of the trip would be a time in Tari and other parts ! of the Southern Highlands Province. The churches in this area are very keen and anxious to learn from Daniel and to hear his testimony to Jesus.
This ministry invitation comes with a challenge. The ability of the PNG highland churches to support Daniel's trip financially is very limited. Approximately $4,000 -$5,000 will be needed to cover air-fares, expenses and Daniel's personal support during this visit. Approximately $2,500 has come in so far towards the meeting of these expenses and we want to thank all those who have provided Daniel with these funds. Please pray with us about this ministry opportunity and please be open to how God our Father might be calling you to be part of the solution to this ministry challenge.
4. Upcoming 'Mosques and Miracles' Conferences - Adelaide, Perth and Darwin
Please pray with us as this important conference moves to Adelaide, South Australia (April 4,5), Perth, Western Australia (April 7, 8) and Darwin, ! Northern Territory (April 14,15). Daniel will also be speaking on other occasions in these states including a week of ministry in the Northern Territory after the conference in Darwin. Please pray that many Australians will truly seize this excellent opportunity to learn the truth about Islam and the truth about the uniqueness of our Lord Jesus Christ. Please pray that Daniel and Mary will be fully supported in every way during this period of intense ministry.
5. Next 'Exodus from Darkness' Intercessory Prayer Meeting - Thursday night 24 March 2005
Our next intercessory prayer meeting will be held at 113 Ellam Drive, Seven Hills at 7.45 pm on Thursday 24th March. We'd love you to come and pray and worship with us. Daniel will be travelling in Papua New Guinea at this time and we will be praying for Daniel and for those he is ministering to as he travels around PNG. We know it is not practicable for many of you to attend this meeting, but we invite ! you to set aside some time to pray for Daniel and Mary and EFD. If this date is not suitable for you and you would particularly like to pray together with us, please contact us and we would be happy to arrange a special time to do this with you.
6. Latest news re Immigration Sponsors for Suffering Iranian Christian Families - more sponsors needed
Some of the followers of our Lord Jesus Christ have had no choice but to escape from Iran to Turkey and Pakistan. They need Australian Christians to sponsor them in order to be able to apply for an interview in Australian Embassies for migration to Australia. Since Daniel made this request last year, sponsors have already been found for 7 families. We want to thank these sponsors for their assistance.
We now need two more sponsors. Sponsorship does not cost much. You simply get the forms from the Australian Immigration Office, fill in the section that! relates to you and then send them to the applicants. They take it to the Embassy and put in their application. If they are granted a permanent visa and they enter Australia, there is only one more thing for you (and us) to do; to find a Christian family to look after them for one week. In that first week you need to help them to do their Centrelink and Medicare work and find a rental house for them in your city. If you are in Sydney, then we are ready to do all these tasks for them ourselves if you are busy.
If the Lord is guiding you to sponsor a family, please send an email to Daniel (dmjcd@bigpond.com.au) so that he can provide their details to you. Daniel's family was one of those families that was helped in this way. An Australian Christian Lady sponsored them and they are now in Australia praising His name with you. If you are not guided to help in this way, please remember these families in your prayers.
7. Exodus from Darkness' Prayer Requests
Please pray for Daniel and his family while Daniel travels in Papua New Guinea during the next two weeks. Please pray for the Papuan New Guinean people as many have the opportunity to hear Daniel's testimony to Jesus.
Please pray that many people in South Australia, Western Australia and Northern Territory will attend the 'Mosques and Miracles' Conferences being held in these places. Lord Jesus, please raise up more and more people who are strong in their love and devotion to Christ, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
There are likely to be fewer opportunities for Daniel to receive love offerings towards his personal support during his travels in PNG and during the Mosques and Miracles Conferences. We commit this long period of March 19 to April 22 to the Lord. We are confident in God our Father that he will supply all of Daniel's needs during this time. Please pray with us to this end.
We thank Go! d our Father for a regular donation that has come in towards support for Mary's ministry. We are praying for more people who can contribute regularly so that Mary is able to work alongside Daniel in the future.
We are praying for a small group of people who can come together to back Daniel and Mary's ministry spiritually and intellectually as we consider the most effective ways for their ministry to grow in the years ahead. Please pray that the Shayesteh's ministry will be guided along the path of greatest fruitfulness for the kingdom of God.
8. Upcoming EFD Events (March to June)
March 19 to April 1: Trip to Papua New Guinea
April 4,5: Mosques and Miracles Conference, Adelaide, South Australia
April 7,8: Mosques and Miracles Conference, Perth, Western Australia
April 14,15: Mosques and Miracles Conference, Darwin, Northern Territory
April 16 - 22: Ministry around the Northern Territory
May 1: Daniel s! peaking at Ruach Community Church Allambie Heights
May 2 - 16: Daniel teaching at YWAM Perth
May 24: Christian Business Men's Breakfast in Sydney
June 3-5: Visit to Orange, New South Wales
June 19: Visit to Hornsby Community ChurchI close with the words of Jesus
"The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field." Matthew 9:37,38 CEV
January 2005
1. Bringing in the Harvest!
2. 'Exodus from Darkness' Prayer Requests
4. Every day is a 'Day of Mourning'
5. Upcoming EFD Events
1. Bringing in the Harvest!
Daniel returned joyfully to Australia on January 4th after an exciting week at the Azerbaijani Christian Conference in Norway. He was one of the two key speakers who spoke at this conference. Daniel preached on two occasions in the public worship meetings. The wonderful outcome from the week of public ministry held during the Conference was 11 people from Muslim backgrounds giving their hearts to the Lord Jesus.Daniel's Teaching Ministry
Daniel's contribution during the teaching sessions for Christians was apologetic in nature. He spoke everyday from 10.30 am to 12.30 pm on the topic "A comparison between Islam and Christianity". Pastors and others present provided very positive feedback to Daniel about how much they appreciated his teaching on this important topic.New Year's Eve
A special time for Daniel was the opportunity he had to read his poems and to sing and play his Tar during the New Year's Eve Celebration. On his heart was a strong desire for 2005 to be a year when many people discover the uniqueness of Christ and his power to save!New Invitations
During the Conference, a Pastor and his wife from one of Norway's largest churches together with the Conference Leader invited Daniel to visit this church and a number of other churches in Norway later this year or in 2006. We thank God our Father for this new opportunity for Daniel to share his teaching and his transformational testimony to Christ.Thinking Strategically and Acting Relationally
Amongst the attendees at the Conference was a husband and wife from Central Asia. Daniel was so encouraged by their passion to share Christ with their neighbouring countries. They talked with Daniel about the value of translating his books into Russian, as all these Muslim countries speak Russian, and they expressed a willingness to help. On his return to Sydney, Daniel sent to the account of their church 25% of the money that will be needed for the translation of "A Journey from 'gods' to Christ" into Russian. Lead us forward Holy Spirit we pray!A young zealous Christian man from Central Asia.
He is eager to study about Christ in a Western country (e.g., Australia) and then to return home to work for Christ among young people. He asked Daniel to help him by letting churches, Bible Colleges and Christians in Australia/NZ know about his dream. Please pray and let us know if you or someone you know is interested in helping this young man prepare for ministry through the provision of a scholarship and living expenses for at least a year.2. 'Exodus from Darkness' Prayer Requests
Daniel and Mary want to thank all our supporters for their prayers and financial support during 2004.* We thank the Lord for the several hundred dollars that have come in so far towards the cost of Daniel's visit to Papua New Guinea planned for March. As we explained in December, this ministry invitation comes with a challenge. The ability of the PNG highland churches to cover the cost of Daniel's trip is very limited. Approximately $4,000 -$5,000 will be needed to cover air fares, expenses and Daniel's personal support during this visit. Please pray with us about this ministry opportunity and please be open to how God our Father might be calling you to be part of the solution to this ministry challenge.
* December through January is a quiet time for Daniel's English-speaking ministry. This has reduced the number of books he has been able to sell and Daniel is three month's behind in paying his printing costs. This situation has added to the already existing financial challenges that are facing Daniel and Mary in fulfilling their calling. One continuing challenge for example is our desire for Mary to be fully involved in ministry to Muslim women, something we have been praying about for three years. Daniel's confidence is that everything is in the hands of the Lord. Please remember Daniel in your prayers.
* Jesus is the Prince of Peace who is able to break down all the barriers between God and people and between people in their relationships with each other. May the aroma of Christ's freedom be spread all around Australia and overseas as we testify together to the uniqueness of Christ, our Lord and Saviour.
4. Every day is a 'Day of Mourning'
January 16th was a 'Day of Mourning' in Australia as we remembered the over 200,000 people who died tragically in the South Asia Tsunami. All of us were affected by the magnitude of this disaster. I remember particularly the call for help and funds made by some Sri Lankan Doctors living in America who were leaving for a mercy trip to the devastated Eastern Coast of Sri Lanka. One woman in the team posed the following questions to the world as she pleaded for them to recognise the enormity of the challenge right now in Sri Lanka and the need for people to support their mission generously. She said to all listening - "If not now, when? If not us, who?"Every day is a 'Day of Mourning' when we think of those who do not know the freedom and salvation that is only found in Jesus Christ. Even as we help those in desperate need in South Asia, may we respond to the call of our Lord to send out workers into his harvest field - for today is the day of Salvation!
"The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field." Matthew 9:37,38 CEV
Shalom! Michael Y
DECEMBER 2004"How can I understand unless someone helps me?" 'Exodus from Darkness'
(Acts 8:31 CEV)
'Searching for Truth Together'
'Eternal Confidence is only found in Jesus Christ'Latest News on the Ministry of Daniel and Mary Shayesteh
1. Christmas message from Daniel and Mary
2. A White Christmas for Daniel in Norway!
3. Daniel receives invitation to visit Papua New Guinea in March 2005
4. Ruling by Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal re two Christian Pastors
5. Daniel attends prayer breakfast with Christian Federal Parliamentarians in Canberra
6. Latest news re Immigration process for Suffering Christian Families originally from Iran
7. Report on Daniel's Northern NSW Awareness Tour1. 'Christmas is to Unyoke the Weary and Burdened' - Daniel & Mary
Despite burdens from the world, we fully witness that our joy in Christ has been increasing exceedingly. This is the beauty of the birth of Christ in our hearts; the more we walk with Him, the more we come face to face with the roadblocks of the world and the more we confess even more eagerly our overflowing joy in Christ through these difficulties.Those who experience the essence of Christ's birth in their hearts stand above burdens and can therefore raise apostolic voices for others. Isaiah saw that both his people and their oppressors lived a life without God. This was a burden on his shoulders. A prophecy about Christmas unyoked him from this burden. Observe his joyful Christmas song even 700 years before the birth of Christ;
You have increased the nation and increased their joy; they rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest, as men rejoice when dividing the plunder...... You have shattered the yoke that burdens them, the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor..... For to us a child is born, to us a son is given (read Isa.9:3-6).
Zechariah, Elizabeth and Mary (the mother of Jesus) blessed God in song for fulfilling His promise of unyoking people from bondage through the coming of Christ (Lk.1:42-56,67-79).
These amazing Christmas songs were sung before the birth of Christ, by those who were looking forward to the coming revelation of Christ. Now, what were the songs and expressions like of those who experienced the revelation of Christ? Let us listen to the song of a man who, after years of showing cruelty towards Christ and His followers, then experienced for himself the revelation of Christ;
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or danger or sword.....For I am convinced that neither death nor .....anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord (read Rom.8:35-39).
Is there any burden in the world that can rise up and give witness about any insufficiency of Jesus' revelation? Absolutely not! The revelation of Christ is to unyoke people from the yoke of the prince of burden, Satan. This is the real meaning of Christmas.
May these Christmas love songs be obvious always in our thoughts, words and actions; expressing with them our victory over every burden that visits us. May our response to the oppressors and to the yokes of nations be, "For to us a Child is born .... who shatters every spiritual yoke that burdens people."
2. A White Christmas for Daniel in Norway
Many Azerbaijani people now live in Scandinavia and the Azerbaijani Christian Community are holding a special conference in Norway straight after Christmas day. Some Christians from Azerbaijan will also be attending the conference together with missionaries from around the world who work amongst Muslim people groups. Daniel spoke at a previous conference organised by this community during Easter 2003, and he has been invited again to join them for this latest conference. Daniel's involvement will include preaching, teaching, music and poetry.Many of you may not know that Azerbaijan lies just to the north of Iran. History records that Azerbaijan was once part of Persia (Iran). Daniel grew up in an area of Iran strongly influenced by Azerbaijani culture and the Azerbaijani language is Daniel's native tongue.
The conference will include public meetings open to all and teaching sessions for Christians. Please pray for Daniel as he prepares for this time and for Muslim background people who will hear the gospel at the public meetings. Please pray that people's minds will be opened to the uniqueness and wonder of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
(Daniel's books, 'A Journey from gods to Christ' and 'The Difference is the Son' address this topic. Contact details for ordering these books are at the end of this email).3. Daniel receives invitation to visit Papua New Guinea in March 2005
Papua New Guinea is much in the news today as the Australian government seeks to contribute to the stability and prosperity of our northern neighbour. Also in the news are reports of the challenges facing the nearby Indonesian province of West Papua (an area with a largely Christian heritage), as it undergoes major changes in its demographic makeup.We have lifted up to Jesus in prayer an invitation from Pastor Robert Brown for Daniel to visit PNG in March 2005. Robert was a former missionary to PNG, a one-time leader of Gideon's in Australia and, until recently, Pastor of Woden Valley Alliance Church in Canberra. The visit would most likely begin with visits to churches in Port Moresby. This would be followed by a combined churches rally in Mt Hagan with large numbers of people expected to attend (around 50% of PNG's population of over 5 million people regularly attend church). The final focus of the trip would be a time in Tari and other parts of the Southern Highlands Province. The churches in this area are very keen and anxious to learn from Daniel and to hear his testimony to Jesus.
This ministry invitation comes with a challenge. The ability of the PNG highland churches to support Daniel's trip financially is very limited. Approximately $4,000 -$5,000 will be needed to cover air fares, expenses and Daniel's personal support during this visit. Please pray with us about this ministry opportunity and please be open to how God our Father might be calling you to be part of the solution to this ministry challenge.
4. Ruling by Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal re two Christian Pastors
Two Christian Pastors have been found of guilty of vilifying Muslims by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal. The ruling of the Tribunal related to a March 2002 seminar organised by 'Catch the Fire Ministries', its pastor Danny Nalliah, and speaker Daniel Scot and several articles in the church's newsletter.The strategy of this 2002 seminar and others like it has been to strengthen Christians in their faith in Christ and in their unconditional love for Islamic people, through helping them to understand Islam and the teachings of the Qur'an compared to the Bible. The ability to share knowledge of one religion compared to another religion is key if we are 'to search for Truth together'. At all times a healthy, open, and learning society is one that protects the right of freedom of speech so that people can explore and investigate the best beliefs and best values for every dimension of life. In a free society people are free to choose whether to be Christian or Muslim or any other religion or belief. Jesus taught us this open approach as the key to finding the Truth and we believe the 2002 seminar was a genuine effort to help people to embark on this important journey.
What would happen if churches and other community groups, Federal/State Parliaments, the Courts and our Newspapers/Media were not allowed to say anything that might potentially hurt people's feelings? Our society would descend into passivity, corruption and ignorance. Our prayers are with Danny Nalliah and Daniel Scot as they commit everything to the hand of the Lord, while using every legal right of appeal open to them for challenging this ruling and the law that made it possible.
5. Daniel invited to attend prayer breakfast with Christian Federal Parliamentarians in Canberra
Daniel and Michael were invited to attend the recent National Prayer Breakfast held in Parliament House Canberra. We attended the evening service on the Sunday followed by the prayer breakfast on the Monday morning.Present at the breakfast and taking part were the Governor General, the Prime Minister and the General of the Defence Forces. Many Christian Parliamentarians from both houses, the major parties and some from the Asia Pacific region were present and a number prayed, shared and read the Bible to us during our time together. Daniel had an opportunity to meet some of these people and enjoyed the opportunity of meeting up again with the many other Christians present that he has met previously during his travels around Australia. Another highlight was catching up again with a friend of our ministry, Professor Graeme Clark, inventor of the Bionic Ear. Graeme shared his testimony to Jesus at the service on the Sunday evening.
6. Latest news re Immigration process for Suffering Christian Families originally from Iran
We are pleased to report that 10 Christian families are now being assisted. The paperwork for some of these families is now complete and we are working to complete the paperwork for the others. We want to say thank you again to the people who have sponsored these families. We also want to thank those on our register who have indicated their willingness to sponsor families as opportunities arise.This is a major job for Daniel and very time consuming. Please pray for Daniel and for the sponsors as they fill out the necessary paperwork. The families being sponsored all have a real heart for Christian ministry and we ask you to pray for them. We also pray that they will be able to work hand in hand with us in the future for the sake of the gospel among Middle Eastern peoples in Australia.
7. Report on Daniel's NSW Northern NSW Awareness Tour
Daniel's trip around Northern NSW during November was a very encouraging time. He was warmly welcomed during his travels to Newcastle, Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour , Maclean, Inverell, Moree, Narrabri, Gunnedah and Gilgandra. He shared his testimony with them and encouraged Christians and seekers in all these towns to open their minds fully to the uniqueness of Christ. He also called on people to understand the bigger picture - to pray for and to support the cause of Christian mission in multi-cultural Australia, in our major capital cities, regional cities and country towns.I close with the words of Jesus
"The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field." Matthew 9:37,38 CEV
Shalom! Michael Y
EFD Contact Details
Email/mail to the Director, Dr Daniel Shayesteh:
dmjcd@bigpond.com.au
EFD Inc.
PO Box 1885
Castle Hill NSW 1765
Mobile for Director: 0402 464 412
Email/mail address for donations and ordering books/recordings, Janet Shayesteh:
dmjcd@bigpond.com.au
EFD Inc.
PO Box 1885
Castle Hill NSW 1765
EFD Bank Account Details for direct deposits:
Exodus from Darkness Inc., Commonwealth Bank, Baulkham Hills, NSW, Australia
BSB: 062279; Account Number: 10193530
We also accept donations on Bankcard, Mastercard or Visa by phone or mail.
Cheques can be made payable to "Exodus from Darkness Inc."Exodus from Darkness (ABN: 51 091 519 696) is endorsed by the Christian and Missionary Alliance of Australia
Facilitator for EFD Inc.
Michael York PhD
Phone: 02 9896 5951
Mobile: 040 88 66 164
Email: michaeljyork@aol.com
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