Date: Sun 7:00 PM 27th March 2022
Soloist: Rev. Fred Greenfield
Testimony: James McClelland
Summary of Rev. James McClelland’s Testimony
Reverend James McClelland delivered a heartfelt testimony and sermon at a gathering at Carryduff Free Presbyterian Church, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to speak despite a previously postponed visit due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He and his wife, June, travelled from Limavady to share his message, which centred on faith, drawing heavily from Hebrews Chapter 11, his favourite Bible chapter.
Introduction and Background
James McClelland, a self-deprecating speaker, humorously acknowledged his perceived lack of preaching skill, noting this was his third attempt at delivering this particular message, having “made a mess” of it previously. He introduced himself as a broadcaster who has hosted a religious program on BBC since 1976, airing every Sunday afternoon on Radio Foyle. He expressed amazement at the BBC’s leniency, allowing him complete freedom in content for over 35 years without interference, which he described as “miraculous.”
Scriptural Focus: Hebrews Chapter 11
Rev. James McClelland’s sermon focused on Hebrews 11, particularly verses 1-6, which define faith as “the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” He highlighted how faith underpins the Christian life, referencing Ephesians 2:8 (“For by grace are ye saved through faith”). He emphasized that faith is essential for pleasing God, as seen in the examples of Abel, Enoch, and others who trusted God and received His approval. He briefly challenged evolutionary theory, asserting that faith reveals God as the creator who framed the worlds by His word.
Personal Testimony: Conversion Experience
Rev. McClelland shared a vivid account of his conversion on 4th May, 1960, at Murphy’s Loft, a venue used by a young people’s fellowship formed after the 1955 Jack Schuler crusade in Belfast’s Kings Hall. The fellowship, initially based at a Presbyterian church, relocated to Murphy’s Loft after a decline in attendance due to an unwise intervention by a minister. In 1960, a mission led by Ian Paisley was organized at the loft. On the mission’s first Wednesday, James attended with his friend Harry Agnew. After the service, Paisley personally engaged James, asking if he was a Christian. When James admitted he was not but desired to be, Paisley led him and Agnew to an inquiry room, where they prayed the “sinner’s prayer.” Rev. McClelland cited verses like 1 John 1:7 and 1 John 1:9, affirming his belief that Jesus’ blood cleanses from sin. He described this as the moment he was saved, emphasizing his sincerity despite being a “poor and wicked sinner.” Notably, he mentioned never taking the Lord’s name in vain, attributing this to divine protection.
Impact of the Young People’s Fellowship
Rev. McClelland fondly recalled the fellowship’s role in his spiritual growth, teaching him to pray publicly, speak, and evangelize. He shared nostalgic memories of camping trips across Ireland, including Donegal and Limerick, where the group distributed gospel tracts. They respectfully sought permission from farmers to camp and from police to distribute tracts, never facing rejection. These experiences, coupled with guest speakers like Pastor Fenton and Mrs. Seth Sykes (who sang a moving hymn), left a lasting impact, particularly Sykes’ performance at the fellowship’s old pedal organ.
Health Challenges and Faith
Rev. McClelland recounted his 2017 leukemia diagnosis, which he faced with remarkable peace, rooted in Psalm 112:7 (“He shall not be afraid of evil tidings”). Despite the emotional weight of the diagnosis and chemotherapy’s harsh effects, he trusted his doctors and found comfort in prayer, especially during a difficult night when his wife prayed for him over the phone. He credited his recovery to God’s mercy, noting that subsequent checkups confirmed his blood tests were consistently positive. He also expressed gratitude for a supportive letter from Margaret Reed, who recommended a Charles Spurgeon devotional book, and for friends who visited him in the hospital, reading scriptures and praying.
Sermon on Hebrews 11:32-38
The core of Rev. McClelland’s message focused on Hebrews 11:32-38, particularly the phrase “of whom the world was not worthy” (verse 38). He outlined four key points:
- What a Testimony: The faithful in Hebrews 11, such as Abraham and Rahab, were deemed so remarkable by God that the world was unworthy of them. Their faith, obedience, holiness, and righteousness set them apart as examples for believers today.
- What a History: Figures like Abraham demonstrated extraordinary faith, such as when he prepared to sacrifice Isaac or trusted God for a child in old age. Their stories illustrate unwavering trust in God’s promises.
- What a Victory: Despite enduring trials—mockings, scourgings, imprisonment, and martyrdom—these faithful individuals triumphed through faith and now enjoy God’s presence in heaven.
- What an Eternity: Their faithfulness secured eternal life, where they praise God forever, free from sin and suffering.
Rev. McClelland encouraged the audience to read Hebrews 11 slowly and audibly, emphasizing its profound inspiration. He urged believers to trust God fully, avoid doubt, and emulate the faithfulness of these biblical heroes.
Closing Reflections
Rev. McClelland humorously acknowledged his tendency to ramble, attributing emotional sensitivity to his heart condition (seven stents) and medical experiences. He thanked the audience for their patience, jokingly suggesting his sermon might need to be “shredded.” He closed with a prayer, thanking God for His mercies, reflecting on his blessings, and interceding for those suffering in Ukraine, hospital staff, and the sick. He also expressed gratitude for June’s presence and the congregation’s hospitality. Rev. David McLaughlin concluded by thanking McClelland and June for their attendance, praising the personal testimony and the powerful message from God’s Word.
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