Pentecostal Publishing House has many books chronicling the ministry of our cherished heroes of the faith. In this blog, we introduce readers to Elton D. Bernard (Korea) and Nona Freeman’s writings of time spent in Africa. Their godly examples of servanthood in missions are a testimony to faith and endurance. May their words serve as a tribute to the resilience and tenacity of fellow laborers in the gospel.
Missionary Elton D. Bernard wrote The Korean Frontier as he felt his experiences could benefit and instruct others. The work in Korea was started by (1) the supernatural power of God and (2) the blood, sweat, and tears of men and women of God. God does not work alone to evangelize a virgin field. Crossing into new territory requires people who will give God all they have.
The following excerpt is from one of the many converts who learned of salvation and God’s grace from the Bernards.
Excerpt from The Korean Frontier: A Story of Pentecostal Revival
Upon graduation from high school, Kim Choon Ja came to live in our home as a housekeeper. From the start she was quite compatible with our family, and she and our children had great fun together. She and her family were Buddhists, with many religious superstitions, and she knew nothing of Christianity.
We created opportunities for her to attend church and revival meetings. Through these services and by being with our family night and day, it was not long until she became a full–fledged Apostolic, born of water and the Spirit.
After this she was reluctant to visit her home because of the idol worship and superstitions there. Once her mother became very ill and requested Choon Ja to come see about her. When she went, Choon Ja demanded that all superstitious objects be removed from the house before she entered. Once they were gone she assisted her mother and prayed in the name of Jesus for her healing. God honored her strength and faith and made her a great witness. Her mother recovered.
The following excerpt describes Brother and Sister Freeman leaving the US and boarding a ship for Africa. They boarded the SS Genevieve Lykes (see photos of this ship on Google). Interesting fact: it was against regulations for a cargo vessel to carry more than twelve passengers without a medical doctor on board. The Freemans’ daughter made thirteen, but the rule was waived for them. Their friends came to see them off and to sing and play the accordion as the ship parted.
Excerpt Bug & Nona on the Go
All the folks came on board to see the spacious, well‑furnished cabins on the SS Genevieve Lykes. After they left, we stood on the deck, holding the ends of ribbons that we threw to those seeing us off. Aline played the accordion and Johnny his horn as the boat moved slowly from the wharf. The ribbons broke as they sang, “When I Think of the Goodness of Jesus.” Then, Johnny played “Farewell to Thee.”
The sweet sound grew fainter and fainter, and soon our friends looked like a cluster of small, doll‑like figures silhouetted against the somber warehouse background. As the sounds of the music died in the distance, I felt the first pangs of parting. But, we are on our way to Africa, at last, and this is happiness edged with the sadness of good-bye. Both of us feel a deep assurance that we are moving in the will of God.
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