Author: Cassie Hernandez

Answers in Prophecy: Lives Transformed

Uncertainty seems to be the new standard. No one is quite sure about what to expect tomorrow. The global COVID-19 crisis has impacted people as nothing else has in decades. Questions abound. Big questions like where is the world headed, whether God cares, and will this mess ever come to an end. Pastor John Bradshaw recently tackled these questions in a 10-part virtual series called Answers in Prophecy.  

Over 13,000 people registered to watch Answers in Prophecy, the first of six virtual series that It Is Written is conducting over the next 13 months to lead individuals to God. Since people cannot or are less likely to come in person to meeting sites, we are coming to them through the internet. Just log in, watch, and be blessed. And people have been and continue to be blessed.

Rose,* who had been diligently studying the Bible, was so excited to watch Answers in Prophecy. Just a few days after the series concluded, she was baptized.  

Pastor Bill is thankful that one of the Answers in Prophecy viewers is a person who had walked away from God many years ago. This series is giving Pastor Bill the opportunity to reconnect with her. 

A few weeks ago, Dana wanted to take her life. However, she stumbled upon Answers in Prophecy, and it totally changed her outlook on life. She’s now studying the Bible and preparing for a life with Jesus.

As a member of the Answers in Prophecy team, Betty made a courtesy phone call to June, who had registered for Answers in Prophecy, to see whether she had enjoyed the series. June did not remember ever registering. That did not deter Betty from asking if there was anything she could pray with June about. That’s when June opened up and shared about her daughter’s battle with cancer. Betty prayed and has been praying on a weekly basis with June. June told Betty, “I don’t know how I got on your list, but I’m glad I did.”

Warren was spiritually listless. He went through the motions of going to church but that was the extent of his relationship with God. Then he watched Answers in Prophecy, and it was like a light came on. He’s not been the same ever since.

Even though the Answers in Prophecy presentations were released from October 9 to 21, they can be viewed on demand at answersinprophecy.com. Discover for yourself and tell others about this life-changing series that digs deep into the Word of God for answers.

As you savor Answers in Prophecy, mark your calendar for the next virtual six-part series entitled, NO LIMITS: A Life of Power. The NO LIMITS presentations will be released from January 24 to 29. It’s the kind of series that will help you experience God’s power in your life. What a way to start the new year! More details about NO LIMITS will be released soon.

*All names have been changed.

The Last Mission Trip: Video

Just as international travel shut down in Europe, It Is Written mission volunteers arrived in Siberia. It was the middle of March, and the COVID-19 pandemic was just beginning to extend its grasp around the globe. We didn’t know it then, but this was to be the last It Is Written mission trip of 2020.

Some volunteers had to leave immediately, but those who could, stayed, and God multiplied their efforts. Here are some stories from those mission volunteers.

To read more about the Siberia mission trip, check out our latest issue of Impressions.

#GivingTuesday 2020

It Is Written is pleased to participate in GivingTuesday, an annual global celebration of generosity. Your donation on #GivingTuesday enables us to continue sharing the gospel around the world through television programs, mission projects, online and in-person evangelism, and faith-sharing resources. Despite the pandemic, our ministry has been busier than ever this year! 

Donate

Pastor John Bradshaw will broadcast live from the It Is Written Facebook page to say thank you to supporters. He’ll also have an inspiring testimony or two to share. Join him live on Dec. 1 at 10:30 a.m. EST.

When you make a gift of any amount on #GivingTuesday, December 1, you will receive a FREE In the Word Volume 2 DVD as a thank you. The DVD features four uplifting sermons from Pastor John Bradshaw, perfect for you, your church, or a small group. Get your free gift by clicking the button to donate above, calling 800-479-9056, or mailing a check or cash donation marked “Giving Tuesday” to It Is Written, PO Box 6, Chattanooga, TN, 37401.

Here are other ways to support It Is Written throughout the year.

Shop on AmazonSmile.

Amazon has partnered with It Is Written through its AmazonSmile program. When customers select It Is Written as their designated charity while shopping on smile.amazon.com, the AmazonSmile Foundation donates a portion of every purchase to It Is Written. Add It Is Written » or Learn more about AmazonSmile »

Order an Eyes for India mission kit.

There are endless ways that you can raise funds to support It Is Written projects like Eyes for India. Whether it’s a church fundraiser, small group project, or birthday activity, you can make a big difference in the lives of others and have a great time doing it. This kit provides everything you need to make your fundraiser a success!

Learn more about the Eyes for India kit »

Set up a monthly recurring gift. 

Give a gift every month automatically through your credit or debit card or checking account. Call 423-362-5800 or visit our donate page » to get started.

Become a ministry Partner.

Partners support It Is Written with a commitment of at least $125 per month or $1,500 annually. Special events are held for Partners every year. Learn more about becoming a Partner »

Make a Planned Gift.

You can help It Is Written make an eternal difference with a planned gift, will, or trust through your financial and estate plan. Learn more about Planned Giving and Trust Services »

It Is Written Partnership Goes Online for the First Time in 45 Years

Since 1975, hundreds of It Is Written ministry Partners have gathered with the It Is Written ministry leadership team at weekend Partnership events. Owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, It Is Written will be conducting most of its 2020 Partnership events virtually for the first time.

“While we really love getting together with friends of the ministry, I’m excited that anyone can now attend a Partnership event,” said Pastor John Bradshaw, It Is Written president. “These events are mountaintop experiences. Many people have been attending for years, decades, even. I’m looking forward to meeting virtually and having more people join us than ever.”

The free Online Partnership will broadcast live from the It Is Written studio in Collegedale, Tennessee, on November 6-7, 2020. It may be watched on itiswritten.tv, Facebook, and anywhere It Is Written TV airs, including Roku, YouTube, FireTV, and Google Play TV. Broadcast times are as follows:

  • Friday, November 6, 2020: 7:00-10:00 p.m. EDT
  • Sabbath, November 7, 2020: 1:00-4:00 p.m. and 7:00-10:00 p.m. EDT

An additional broadcast will occur December 4-5 either as a livestream from the ministry’s Partnership weekend in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, or as a live event filmed at the It Is Written studio. 

“We have a lot to share about what God is doing through the ministry of It Is Written,” John Bradshaw said. “While church services were canceled, evangelism was not. We have been busier than ever, and we’ll be talking about incredible things we’ve seen the Holy Spirit do.” In addition to outstanding music from Partnership musicians, the event will also feature inspiring messages from the Bible and reports of many ministry initiatives.

Business owner and It Is Written Partner shares his personal story.

Historically, It Is Written Partnership weekends are attended by those who support It Is Written financially. “In a certain sense, these events are shareholders’ meetings,” said Yves Monnier, evangelism director at It Is Written and the Partnership emcee. “We would normally be getting together in Tennessee, Florida, Pennsylvania, California, or Oregon and sharing exciting reports. But this year will be especially inspiring. I’m thrilled we can have more people attend than ever before from the comfort of their own homes.”

To watch a special invitation video from John Bradshaw and register for Online Partnership, visit itiswritten.com/partnership. You may also become an It Is Written Partner and register for next year’s in-person events at the Partnership website.

Partners share their stories of why they are passionate about supporting It Is Written.

It Is Written Online Series Answers in Prophecy to Begin Oct. 9

Pastor Joseph Ikner II, left, and John Bradshaw film for Answers in Prophecy, the new virtual evangelism series from It Is Written. Answers in Prophecy begins October 9.

Answers in Prophecy is an exciting, new virtual evangelism event from It Is Written. Starting October 9, Pastor John Bradshaw, president of It Is Written, will examine what ancient Bible prophecies say about current world events. Each presentation will livestream starting at 7 p.m. EDT then will be available on demand. The 10-presentation series will conclude October 21. Attendees may register and watch the series at answersinprophecy.com

“Answers in Prophecy is a great opportunity to reach out to your community,” said John Bradshaw. “We’re looking at prophecy in a way that is very user-friendly. We’re demystifying prophecy and really showing how it points to Jesus. People will see how the Bible really makes sense of what’s happening around us. I hope you’ll invite as many people as possible to attend.”

Pastor Joseph T. Ikner II of the Central States Conference will host the event. Presentation topics include “Surviving the Election,” “Who Really Controls the World?,” and “Plagues and Promises.” 

Free promotional resources for this event are available at itiswritten.com/rtresources. Answers in Prophecy is the first event of ACTS 20:21, a one-year evangelism initiative. To get your church involved, visit ACTS2021.church.  

Eight Original It Is Written Programs Now Available as Podcasts

Updated: 5:25 p.m. July 29, 2020

From weekly episodes to daily devotionals to shows in Spanish, eight original It Is Written programs are now available as podcasts on Apple and Google Podcasts. It Is Written, Sabbath School, Every Word, Line Upon Line, Conversations, Escrito Está, and Una Mejor Manera de Vivir join In the Word to provide uplifting content on the go. 

The new podcasts allow It Is Written to spread the gospel even further. “Podcasts are extremely popular, so it is important for It Is Written to utilize podcasting as another effective way of sharing life-changing messages,” said John Bradshaw, It Is Written president. “The new podcasts extend the scope of It Is Written and give us a greater opportunity to reach people for Christ. In a short time, our podcast audience has grown significantly, so I’m encouraged that God is powerfully using this.”

A new episode of It Is Written is posted every Saturday morning. It Is Written, the flagship program of the ministry, is presented by John Bradshaw and takes viewers to locations around the world while presenting the transforming teachings of the Bible. Listen on Apple, Google, or Stitcher.

Sabbath School is an in-depth study of the Bible featuring the author of the current adult Bible study guide, international evangelist Pastor Mark Finley. The weekly lesson study is posted Friday morning. Beginning August 1, a short review of the daily lesson study will also be released. Listen on Apple, Google, Spotify, or Stitcher.

Every Word is a one-minute, Bible-based daily devotional. Listen on Apple, Google, Spotify, or Stitcher.

A new Line Upon Line episode is posted weekly on Mondays. Hosted by Pastors John Bradshaw and Eric Flickinger, Line Upon Line answers Bible questions submitted by listeners. Listen on Apple, Google, Spotify, or Stitcher.

Released every Monday, Conversations takes you into the heart of inspirational experiences and unforgettable testimonies that will encourage you in your own walk with God. Listen on Apple, Google, or Spotify.

Presented by Pastor Robert Costa, Escrito Está is a Spanish-language program that discusses a variety of biblical topics, pointing people to Jesus as the only hope for our world. The weekly program is published on Saturdays. Listen on Apple or Google Podcasts.

Una Mejor Manera de Vivir is a brief daily devotional presentation in Spanish by Pastor Robert Costa. Listen on Apple, Google, Spotify, or Stitcher.

Taking you deep inside the Bible, In the Word presents inspirational preaching by Pastor John Bradshaw on a wide range of biblical subjects. A new episode is posted every Friday. Listen on Apple, Google, Spotify, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, or Castbox.

In addition to podcasts, these programs and more may be viewed at itiswritten.tv

Eyes For India COVID-19 Impact and Response

Eyes for India is the long-running It Is Written project restoring sight to the blind through cataract surgeries in India.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Jacob Prabhakar, Eyes for India ophthalmologist and medical director of Ruby Nelson Memorial Hospital in northern India, had to postpone planned Eyes for India surgeries and hospital services. We recently received a report from Dr. Prabhakar about the scope of the COVID-19 impact in his area and his team’s response to it.

Response to the Pandemic

“Eyes For India was progressing very well until March 21 when the pandemic set in, bringing all planned surgical activities to a standstill,” Dr. Prabhakar reports. “About 5,000 blind people who were scheduled and awaiting their turn for cataract surgery in various remote locations within India were disappointed that their dreams of getting their sight back through Eyes For India were delayed. We assured them that our services would resume once the pandemic settled down.”

Community response

Despite curtailed hospital services, the ministry of Eyes for India continued. Many migrant laborers in local villages were left without food and essential supplies during the lockdown. The Eyes For India team visited these villages and provided free food and essential items to about 50 families. It was such a joy to share the love of Jesus in this simple way.

Base hospital services re-opened 

Dr. Prabhakar and his hospital team worked diligently to reopen hospital services. He reports, “After ensuring all protocols for the safety of staff and patients were in place, the base hospital outpatient services began again on June 1 and surgical services started on June 14. The flow of patients at the base hospital has been steadily increasing.”

Screening centers

Due to safety protocols and staffing, the high-volume remote surgical eye camps of the past will not be possible for a few more months. Despite that setback, Dr. Prabhakar and his team have not stopped services altogether. 

Eyes For India has been operating satellite clinics and vision centers to conduct screening activities for future patients in seven strategic locations throughout the country. Services have been able to continue in three centers each week. It is expected that by September all seven of these satellite clinics will again become operational. Patients needing cataract surgeries will be registered in these clinics and will be given appointments for surgery. 

Surgeries resuming

Once surgeries recommence, Eyes for India will transfer about 10 to 15 of these registered patients each day to the base hospital for surgery. This will translate to about 75 surgeries performed per week and about 300 surgeries per month. This strategy will continue until regulations and infection rates allow for the resumption of our high-volume, on-location surgical camps. We are implementing the best practices to ensure the full safety of the staff, their families, and patients while attending to community needs. 

Even though the situation is unpredictable, we have scheduled our weekly surgical camps from September 13 onwards, hoping that the pandemic may settle down to a certain degree, allowing us to carry on our regular yearly schedule. It is our prayer that our services will resume full strength soon. 

Thank You 

While the current pandemic has changed things, Eyes for India is still moving forward. Dr. Prabhakar wants to personally share the following message to those of you who faithfully support this project: 

Thank you, dear donors, for your kindness and generosity that has literally transformed thousands of lives. Eyes For India is committed and strategies have been put in place to continue to serve people across needy communities amidst this changing scenario. The need for restoring sight to the masses continues to be great. 

I thank God for each of you. And with your kind help and support, we look forward to helping thousands who are desperately waiting for their sight to be restored. We are honored to share the precious gift of sight and share personally with them the love of Jesus. 

I remain truly grateful on behalf of thousands of blind who now see!

Jacob Prabhakar

You Inspired Me: Take Charge of Your Health Report

A man recently ran into one of his neighbors and said to him, “Look at me! I’ve changed my lifestyle, lost weight, and never have felt better. Do you know why? YOU inspired me.” He went on to explain that his friend’s health journey is what had motivated him to get his health in order. That very kind of “you inspired” exclamation is what motivated It Is Written to do a seven-part health series called Take Charge of Your Health.

From June 22 to 28, John Bradshaw, It Is Written president, and a team of highly-qualified health professionals tackled some of the biggest health issues affecting people today. More than 20 physicians–including cardiologists, otolaryngologists (ENTs), general practitioners, surgeons, oncologists, and others–shared insights and advice on heart health, diabetes, cancer, obesity, mental health, stress, and addictions. Special guests spoke of how they had lost weight, reversed diabetes, survived cancer, overcome depression, and seen a dramatic improvement in their heart health. Take Charge of Your Health also featured segments on diet, exercise, and cooking. The informative, scientifically-based nightly presentations focused on how simple lifestyle changes can have profoundly positive effects.

Thousands of people watched each night, with viewers joining from all around the world. Feedback was positive, with people saying they were on the way to defeating diabetes, losing weight, making changes to their diet, and committing to turning back illness and disease. “It was extremely encouraging,” said John Bradshaw, president of It Is Written. “We knew as we planned Take Charge of Your Health that there was the potential to see dramatic results. Knowing that people got together in groups, came out to churches to watch–church members and non-members–encouraged us. And what’s great is that the programs will age well. They’re going to be watched for years to come.”

The It Is Written Media Production department produced Take Charge of Your Health. “It was an entire team effort,” said Michael Bell, director of media production at It Is Written. “Our production team produced around 40 separate segments featuring almost 40 different people. There were a lot of moving parts. We set out to honor God, and I think we achieved that goal.”

And each presentation featured a strong focus on spiritual health. “And that’s the most important thing of all,” said Yves Monnier, director of evangelism at It Is Written. “We featured the CREATION Life study guides each night. They were produced in association with Advent Health, and they’re powerful. So each presentation pointed people to faith in God, which of course is what brings ultimate health and healing.”

Take Charge of Your Health was made possible by generous donations. “It’s hard to put into words what this means,” commented Ellen Hostetler, It Is Written Development Director. “It Is Written is donor-funded, meaning that what we do relies entirely on the kindness and the vision of others. It’s humbling to know that people had such a burden to see this happen that they donated to make it possible.”

At a time when people are still concerned about serious health issues, when people realize maybe more than ever how important their health is owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, It Is Written is pointing people to the Great Physician and showing people how they can take charge of their health.

Take Charge of Your Health can be viewed at takecharge.life. The Take Charge of Your Health DVD set can be purchased for home, office, church, or small group use at a special introductory price. The CREATION Life Study Guides are also available for purchase from the It Is Written shop or free online at creationlife.study

Watch It Is Written Programs on Race and Justice

Updated Oct. 22, 2020, 10:45 a.m. with additional program information.

As issues of social unrest and racial injustice continue in the world, It Is Written remains committed to approaching difficult topics from a Biblical perspective.

“Our focus is to proclaim the everlasting gospel to the world,” said John Bradshaw, It Is Written president. “We’ve told some painful stories over the last few years, but each of these stories–while causing us to confront some difficult subjects–focuses on the Bible, on Jesus, and on God’s gift of everlasting life.”

Check out the following inspirational and educational programs from It Is Written on race and justice.

“Jesus and Racism”

Racism is a serious problem that challenges societies around the world. The Bible addresses the issue in an unlikely New Testament story, showing how God feels about racism and demonstrating that love and unity can be accomplished when the Holy Spirit is allowed to change hearts.

“The Scottsboro Nine” 2020 winner of four Telly Awards

In a colossal miscarriage of justice, nine young men were found guilty of a crime they didn’t commit. The deciding factor? The color of their skin. Join John Bradshaw in Scottsboro, Alabama, for this story of injustice and discrimination, and learn why it’s so important to serve a God who is just.

“Black Wall Street” 2019 winner of five Telly Awards

In 1921, more than 300 people were massacred, thousands were left homeless, and an entire town was destroyed when people turned on their fellow citizens—in the United States of America. Which raises an important question: What kind of person would do that? The answer is surprising. Join Pastor John Bradshaw on location in Tulsa, Oklahoma, as we look at a challenge faced by every person.

“Rights and Wrongs” 

In the 1960s, the civil rights movement made history as Americans took a stand against racial injustice. Join John Bradshaw on location in Selma, Alabama, as he examines the atrocities committed and the bravery of those who paid the ultimate price for standing up for justice.

“Radical Forgiveness”

Confronted by the devastation of a murderous attack, Pastor Anthony Thompson chose to respond to the killing of his wife in an unlikely way. Join Pastor John Bradshaw as he speaks with Pastor Anthony Thompson and discusses a powerful and moving story of radical forgiveness. Filmed on location in Charleston, South Carolina.

“The Price of Freedom”

Slavery provided a backdrop to the American Civil War. The Battle of Gettysburg was a battle for freedom…in many ways. Filmed on location in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.

“Blood Rock”

It’s something many people struggle with. At times, the Bible speaks of God wiping out whole cities, ending the lives of men, women, the aged, and children. How should we understand that? Join John Bradshaw at the site of a racially-motivated massacre in Australia as the answers are revealed from the Bible.

Prayer Equals Power as Thousands Make Decisions for Baptism Through Escrito Está

In April and May, Pastor Robert Costa, speaker/director for the It Is Written Spanish ministry Escrito Está held eight one-week, online evangelistic reaping series aired in over 16 million homes. As a result, millions of people had the opportunity to hear and accept hope in Jesus. Robert Costa filmed the meetings from his living room using his computer, an iPhone, two lights, one lapel mic, and a Bible.  

The series were offered to countries in North America, Central America, South America, and Western Europe. Most meetings opened with a 5-10 minute health topic, and four of the events were translated into sign language. As a result, several thousand have been baptized or are preparing for baptism. Thousands are still waiting to be baptized when churches open. 

Prayer was an essential part of these meetings’ success. In one area, more than 80,000 members prayed 24/7 for two weeks, and as a result, more than 1,500 baptisms occurred. In another area, six church groups joined forces and almost one million members invited their friends to the meetings. Church members were motivated to reach their friends even if they could only connect with them by phone. 

On May 9, 2020, one of the series, Esperanza en Jesús (Hope In Jesus) aired in the United States. Others viewed from Chile, Ecuador, Mexico, and Guatemala. Robert Costa spoke nightly to thousands of people who viewed on YouTube, Facebook, and the Escrito Está website. 

Throughout the week, viewers contacted the ministry sharing how they had been blessed (names have been changed):  

Jorge and Luisa contacted us through WhatsApp. Jorge had recently lost his painting job and Luisa had just come out of the hospital and was recovering from a severe kidney infection. They don’t attend any church, but the current difficult situation made them both want to reconnect with God and study the Bible. They watched the entire series through Facebook. – Florida

Ademar, is a professional soccer player and captain of a soccer team in Chile. He grew up as a Catholic but now wants to be baptized because of what he learned from watching Esperanza en Jesús. He has already started observing the Sabbath and asks for prayers as many of the main soccer games are played on the Sabbath. – Chile

We received a prayer request during the meetings from Marta for her sister, Eldora, to seek God. She’s in an abusive marriage and has two children with autism. That same evening Marta contacted us again to let us know that Eldora reached out to her and wants to study the Bible. – California

Ricardo grew up in a Christian home where he knew about the Sabbath and the love of Jesus, but his life took a different turn. He watched Esperanza en Jesús because he wanted to come back to the Lord. Please pray for this searching young man. – New Jersey

Jair and Sabrina moved to a small town in Chile three months ago. They had left a life of alcohol and drugs behind. Their lives were changed when God spoke to them through the programs on Enlace TV. One of their favorite preachers is Pastor Robert Costa. When Pastor Costa offered a free subscription to the daily devotional, Una Mejor Manera de Vivir (A Better Way to Live), they reached out to Escrito Está and signed up. 

The couple didn’t have a Bible, but they walked around their new town and found a Pentecostal church where they received one as a gift. Jair is very emotional about his new-found faith and is absorbing anything he can get. He and Sabrina didn’t miss a day of Esperanza en Jesús. Escrito Está is connecting them with a local pastor who can help them grow in their new found faith. – Chile

Camila contacted Escrito Está through WhatsApp requesting prayer. “I want my name to be written in the book of life. I want my sins to be forgiven and to dedicate my baby to the Lord, so that he can enjoy eternal life.” She was recently visited by a local pastor and gifted with a Bible. – Massachusetts

During the first nights of the meetings, a man named Angel asked for prayers for his son who had been kidnapped. He was watching Esperanza en Jesús in search of hope and strength as he faced such a difficult trial. Thankfully, by Friday his prayers were answered. His son was returned home safely. – Mexico

“My name is Juan and I live in Quito, Ecuador. Last week I was invited to join the online series Esperanza en Jesús by Pastor Robert Costa. The topics really touched my heart and made me turn to Jesus. I have been a Catholic my entire life…But this week my eyes were opened with a bright light and I realized the mistakes I’ve been practicing all these years. That is why I decided to contact you because I would like to study the Bible to get to know more. Thank you!” – Ecuador

“This is Valeria from Guatemala. I’ve been listening to sermons on your station for a while, but I’m an evangelical Christian. If I want to join your church, do I need to be rebaptized? I was baptized at age 17, but left the church. Now that I’m 29 I want to reconcile with the Lord. I’ve returned to church and started studying about the Sabbath and other doctrines. I want to walk with the Lord. My uncle is a leader from my church and he tells me that the Sabbath is for Jews, but God has convicted me that I should observe it. Please help me to contact a local pastor, so I can learn more.” – Guatemala

“My name is Andrés and I would like to thank you for the wonderful messages you share. I have a loving relationship with a Christian woman, but my family, who is not religious, doesn’t like her. My mom says that she is changing me. My relationship with my family has struggled and we’re distant from one another. When COVID-19 came to Guatemala, I never imagined the impact it would cause on the rest of the world. I became concerned about job security, expenses, and my existence. One day while I struggled with depression and anxiety, I turned on the TV and listened to Escrito Está for the first time. The message really touched my heart, and I continued listening to it in the following days. Finally, I made a promise to God and myself that I would give Him my life and put my relationship in His hands. Please pray for God to intervene and help me to restore my relationship with my family. God bless you and thank you very much! – Guatemala

Although the meetings are over, requests for baptism continue. Please pray for these people as they are reached by local church pastors.

 To watch Esperanza en Jesús and other programs by Escrito Está, visit escritoesta.tv.