Posts

Posted on

A CALL TO ORDER CHRISTIAN BODIES.

A CALL TO ORDER

Introduction

Let us to reflect and realign our associations and groups with the fundamental teachings of Christ. It has come to our attention that certain behaviors—politics, pride, selfishness, self-centeredness, excessive curiosity, disregard for others, acting as if one is God, and lack of contribution—are creeping into our Christian associations, steering us away from our core mission. Our talk today, aptly titled “A Call to Order,” aims to address these issues by drawing on the wisdom of the Bible to remind us of the Christian way of life, especially within our associations.

Politics and Pride

Politics often breeds division, and pride distorts our perspective. As Christians, our ultimate allegiance is to God’s kingdom, not earthly politics. Philippians 2:3-4 instructs us, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” Let us strive for unity and humility, setting aside personal agendas and pride.

Selfishness and Self-centeredness

In our associations, the focus should always be on serving others, not personal gain. Jesus demonstrated the ultimate act of selflessness on the cross. Paul echoes this sentiment in 1 Corinthians 10:24, “No one should seek their own good, but the good of others.” Let our actions within our associations reflect this call to selflessness, remembering that it is more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:35).

Excessive Curiosity and Disregard for Others

Our curiosity about situations or others’ lives should never lead us to judgment or gossip. James 1:19 reminds us to “be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” Additionally, Romans 12:10 encourages us to “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” Let us practice listening more and fostering a culture of honor and respect within our associations.

Acting as if One is superior over others and Lack of Contribution by some

We might all be guilty here as members of associations. Therefore, it is paramount that we avoid adopting a judgmental or superior attitude within our associations. The big reason for this point is in recent days we have discovered that so many people use the word ‘too know’ to address some members of an association but remember if you refuse to contribute to an association anyone with inspired mind we always speak and take decisions regardless of the position the person might be so why don’t you write up for your own challenge and then the other for his own challenge and there will be equally. Therefore in a situation whereby only the person who cares take decision and others do not want to speak or take positive decision who to be blamed?Matthew 7:1-2 warns, “Do not judge, or you too will be judged.” So if you are in the position of authority over others make sure you put everyone into consideration remember that we are not of the same Grace and we don’t have the same callings so do not act as king or god over anyone that you are privileged to rule because you might find yourself at fault at last. Furthermore, we are called to contribute our gifts and talents for the betterment of the community. As 1 Peter 4:10 states, “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”

Conclusion

Let us remember that we are called to be in the world, but not of it (John 17:16). Our Christian associations should mirror the humility, prayer, accountability, preference for others, convenience, and ultimately, the glorification of God in all we do. As Galatians 6:9 encourages us, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Let this be a call to order, steering our associations back to the loving and humble path of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Raph Michael

Posted on

10 Habits that show you a Christian

  1. Love and Compassion: As We are commanded to love our neighbors as ourselves (Matthew 22:39). This love extends to friends, neighbors, enemies, and those in need, reflecting the love of Jesus Christ.
  2. Forgiveness: Christians are called to forgive others, as modeled by Jesus’ forgiveness of those who wronged Him (Ephesians 4:32). Forgiveness is a key differentiator in the life of a Christian.
  3. Prayer: Prayer is a cornerstone of the Christian faith, a way of communing with God. The Bible tells us to “pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17), indicating the importance of regular, consistent communication with God.
  4. Worship: Worship is not just a Sunday activity but a lifestyle of glorifying God through one’s actions and words (Romans 12:1). Worship sets Christians apart by dedicating their lives to honor God.
  5. Service: Following Jesus’ example, Christians engage in serving others, often putting the needs of others before their own (Mark 10:45). Service is a direct outpouring of faith and love.
  6. Community: Christian life is grounded in fellowship with other believers, as seen in the New Testament church (Acts 2:42-47). Community provides support, accountability, and shared growth.
  7. Bible Reading: Regular reading and study of the Bible is a habit that guides Christians in their faith and daily decisions (Psalm 119:105). It’s the source of their understanding of God and His will.
  8. Moral Integrity: Christians strive to live a life of righteousness, avoiding sins that are commonplace in society, and seeking purity in thought, word, and deed (1 Peter 1:16).
  9. Generosity: Giving to those in need and to the work of the church is a principle rooted in Scripture (2 Corinthians 9:7). Christians are recognized by their willingness to give freely and joyfully.
  10. Witnessing: Sharing the gospel message is a clear directive from Jesus (Matthew 28:19-20). A distinctive trait of Christians is their desire to tell others about their faith in Christ.

These points, based in Scripture, reflect habits and ways of life that tend to set Christians apart in the world.

Posted on

THE TRUE LOVE

THE TRUE LOVE

True love, a concept as timeless as humanity itself, is a deeply personal and often indescribable feeling. Commonly, it’s marked by a strong and passionate affection for another person, characterized by genuine care, deep connection, and a desire for their happiness, often prioritizing it above one’s own.

Love is a decision and not mare feelings. The following are basic components of Love. 1.Commitment 2. sacrifice 3. Trust

It is built on a foundation of trust, respect, and honesty, creating an environment where vulnerability is welcomed, and emotional bonds thrive. True love involves mutual growth, facing challenges together, and a commitment that endures beyond fleeting attraction or superficial interests.

Social and biological factors also play a role. Oxytocin and vasopressin, hormones linked to pair-bonding, are released during intimate moments, strengthening emotional connections and fostering feelings of closeness and affection. Psychologically, true love incorporates attachment, where individuals seek closeness to their partner to gain a sense of security.

Perhaps most crucially, true love is selfless. It is not merely about what one can take from the relationship, but what one can give and how two people can support each other in becoming their best selves. True love accepts the full spectrum of human experience, the perfections and imperfections, and it can stand the test of time and difficulty.

Words, though they strive to express it, often fail to capture the full essence of true love. It must be felt, lived, and nurtured to be truly understood.

BIBLICAL VIEW OF LOVE

True love in a biblical context is often defined as selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional, akin to the love God has for humanity. Several Bible verses speak profoundly about the nature of true love, providing guidance on how it should manifest in our lives:

  1. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (NIV)
    “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

This passage is one of the most cited references regarding true love, detailing the behaviors and attitudes that characterize it.

  1. John 15:13 (NIV)
    “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”

Here, the ultimate act of love is described as the willingness to sacrifice even one’s life for others, epitomized by Jesus’ crucifixion.

  1. 1 John 4:8 (NIV)
    “Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.”

This verse connects the essence of God with love, suggesting that to truly know God is to understand and embody love.

  1. Ephesians 5:25 (NIV)
    “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.”

This calls for a profound, sacrificial love in the marriage relationship, modeling it after Christ’s love for humanity.

  1. Colossians 3:14 (NIV)
    “And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”

Love is depicted as the bond that unifies all other virtues, indicating its fundamental role in harmonious relationships.

  1. 1 John 4:18-19 (NIV)
    “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. We love because he first loved us.”

Fear and love are contrasted here, with the verse suggesting that true love casts out fear and that love is a response to God’s love for us.

  1. Romans 12:9 (NIV)
    “Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.”

This emphasizes authenticity in love, with a call to abhor evil and hold fast to good within the context of loving relationships.

  1. 1 Peter 4:8 (NIV)
    “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”

The depth of love is said to be so profound that it can forgive and overlook wrongs, promoting a spirit of forgiveness and understanding.

The Bible presents true love as a reflection of divine love — patient, forgiving, sacrificial, and pure, providing an ideal for believers to aspire to in their relationships with others.

PRACTICING TRUE LOVE

Practicing selfless love—an altruistic form of love that places the well-being of others before oneself—requires intentionality and often goes against our innate self-centered tendencies. Here are some ways to incorporate selfless love into daily interactions:

Empathy: Begin by genuinely striving to understand the perspectives, feelings, and needs of others. Active listening and paying close attention without immediately thinking of your response is a powerful starting point.

Acts of Kindness: Execute small, random acts of kindness without expecting anything in return. This could be as simple as letting someone go ahead of you in line, paying a compliment, or reaching out to someone who seems lonely.

Forgiveness: Offer forgiveness when wronged. Holding grudges keeps you focused on yourself and your hurt feelings, while forgiveness frees you to love selflessly.

Service: Look for opportunities to volunteer or help out. Give your time and talents where they are needed without seeking accolades.

Patience: Exercise patience in situations that test your temper or comfort. Practicing patience is an act of selfless love, especially in stressful situations.

Gift-Giving: Share with others without the expectation of reciprocation. This might involve sharing knowledge, time, or physical gifts.

Inclusion: Make an effort to include others, especially those who might often feel left out or marginalized.

Encouragement: Regularly encourage others. Identify and affirm the good you see in those around you, which can uplift and inspire them.

Boundaries: It’s important to note that selfless love also respects personal boundaries, both yours and others’. It isn’t self-neglect or martyrdom but a balanced approach to caring.

Remember, the heart of selfless love is genuine concern for others that inspires compassionate actions. It’s a commitment to making the world a kinder, more loving place—one interaction at a time.

Raph Michael

Posted on

A CALL TO ORDER

It’s noteworthy that the emphasis on prosperity, breakthrough miracles, and battles in certain gospel campaigns and teachings has become quite prevalent in some Christian circles. While these themes have a place in the Christian faith, the disproportionate focus on them to the exclusion of salvation can have significant effects on the church and its members.

As we reflect on the current landscape of Christian teachings and campaigns, we might ask ourselves: What are the implications of a gospel message that predominantly centers on prosperity, breakthrough miracles, and battles while neglecting the foundational concept of salvation as offered to us from the beginning? This rhetorical question compels us to consider the potential consequences of a lopsided emphasis in Christian teachings and campaigns.

When a gospel campaign or teaching predominantly focuses on prosperity, breakthrough miracles, and battles while neglecting the central message of salvation through Jesus Christ, several significant effects emerge:

  1. Distorted Theological Emphasis: The imbalanced emphasis can lead to a distortion of theological priorities within the faith community. When the core message of salvation is overshadowed by an overemphasis on material prosperity and miracles, the essential teachings of the Christian faith can become diluted or misrepresented.
  2. Shallow Understanding of the Gospel: Members of the church may develop a shallow understanding of the Gospel if the messages they regularly hear focus primarily on attaining material wealth, experiencing immediate breakthroughs, and engaging in spiritual battles, without grounding these elements within the broader context of salvation, spiritual growth, and ethical living.
  3. Skewed Priorities in Spiritual Life: Overemphasis on prosperity and breakthrough miracles can lead to a prioritization of material wealth and immediate personal blessings over deeper spiritual growth, character development, and serving others. This can hinder the formation of a mature and holistic Christian faith.
  4. Impact on Personal Well-being and Community Dynamics: A singular focus on prosperity and breakthrough miracles may create intense pressure and unrealistic expectations among church members. Furthermore, it can lead to divisions within the community based on perceived levels of spiritual favor or material success.
  5. Eschatological Concerns: Neglecting the message of salvation and the broader redemptive work of Christ may lead to a lack of preparation and understanding regarding the ultimate destiny of believers. The teachings about the last day and the final judgment may be sidelined or underemphasized, impacting believers’ perspectives on eternal life and accountability before God.

In light of these effects, it’s important for both church leaders and individual believers to carefully evaluate the messages they are receiving and promoting within their communities. The central message of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ must remain at the heart of the Gospel. While teachings on prosperity, breakthrough miracles, and spiritual battles have their place, they should be integrated within the wider context of the redemptive work of Christ and the holistic teachings of the Bible.

Ultimately, the Christian faith encompasses a multifaceted message that includes spiritual growth, ethical living, service to others, and yes, the biblical teachings on prosperity and miracles. However, this richness and diversity should never overshadow or diminish the foundational truth of salvation through Jesus Christ. It is essential for believers to have a well-rounded understanding of the Gospel that encompasses all these aspects, without neglecting the critical importance of salvation as the core of the Christian message. Raph Michael

Posted on

The Diluted Mission

The topic of a diluted mission in the church is a significant issue that deserves careful consideration. It is important to address the concern that some pastors and ministers of God today may be focusing on money and worldly possession instead of staying true to the original purpose of the church.

The mission of the church has always been to share the love of God, bring people to faith, and make disciples of all nations. This mission is rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ and was further emphasized by the early apostles. However, as time has passed, there is a risk of losing sight of this original mission.

One of the main concerns is the increasing focus on prosperity and material wealth within some segments of the church. While there is nothing wrong with financial prosperity, the problem arises when material wealth becomes the primary focus of ministry. When pastors and ministers prioritize financial gain over spiritual growth and the well-being of their congregations, the mission of the church becomes diluted.

Furthermore, the influence of consumer culture and the pursuit of success in the secular world has seeped into some aspects of the church. This can lead to a shift in priorities, where the pursuit of material wealth and worldly success takes precedence over the spiritual needs of the congregation. As a result, the mission of the church becomes diluted, and the original purpose of spreading the message of God’s love and salvation is overshadowed.

It is important to remember that the true mission of the church is to serve and minister to the spiritual needs of the congregation, to share the message of God’s love and grace, and to make disciples who will continue the work of spreading the gospel. When pastors and ministers lose sight of this mission and instead focus on personal gain or worldly success, they are not only diluting the mission of the church but also failing to fulfill their calling as spiritual leaders.

In addressing this issue, it is crucial to emphasize the importance of staying true to the core mission of the church. This requires a recommitment to the teachings of Jesus Christ, a refocusing on spiritual growth and discipleship, and a re-examination of priorities within the church community.

One way to address the problem of a diluted mission is through education and reflection. By studying the scriptures and the teachings of Jesus, pastors and ministers can gain a deeper understanding of the original mission of the church and the role they are called to fulfill. Congregations can also benefit from learning about the true mission of the church and how they can support their leaders in staying true to this mission.

Another important step is to foster a culture of accountability within the church community. By encouraging open dialogue and feedback, pastors and ministers can receive support and guidance from their congregations, helping them to stay focused on the core mission of the church.

Additionally, it is important for church leaders to lead by example. By demonstrating a commitment to spiritual growth and service, pastors and ministers can inspire their congregations to do the same. This can help create a culture within the church that prioritizes the original mission of spreading the love of God and making disciples.

Ultimately, the issue of a diluted mission in the church requires a concerted effort from both pastors and congregations to stay true to the core mission of the church. By recommitting to the teachings of Jesus, fostering a culture of accountability, and leading by example, pastors and ministers can help ensure that the mission of the church remains focused on sharing the message of God’s love and grace.

Posted on

GOD SEEKING TRUE WORSHIPERS, CAN YOU BE ONE?

Isaiah 58:1-14 (NIV):
1 “Shout it aloud, do not hold back. Raise your voice like a trumpet. Declare to my people their rebellion and to the descendants of Jacob their sins.
2 For day after day they seek me out; they seem eager to know my ways, as if they were a nation that does what is right and has not forsaken the commands of its God. They ask me for just decisions and seem eager for God to come near them.
3 ‘Why have we fasted,’ they say, ‘and you have not seen it? Why have we humbled ourselves, and you have not noticed?’ “Yet on the day of your fasting, you do as you please and exploit all your workers.
4 Your fasting ends in quarreling and strife, and in striking each other with wicked fists. You cannot fast as you do today and expect your voice to be heard on high.
5 Is this the kind of fast I have chosen, only a day for people to humble themselves? Is it only for bowing one’s head like a reed and for lying in sackcloth and ashes? Is that what you call a fast, a day acceptable to the Lord?
…

  1. True devotion surpasses mere ritualistic practices: The passage critiques the Israelites for engaging in religious observances without aligning their actions with God’s commandments. It emphasizes that true spirituality involves genuine repentance and righteous living.
  2. Addressing social injustice is essential: Isaiah highlights the importance of pursuing justice and fairness, particularly in the treatment of fellow human beings. He condemns exploitation and exploitation of workers, urging believers to prioritize social justice.
  3. Authentically seek God’s presence: The passage underscores the disconnect between the Israelites’ outward displays of religious devotion and their inner motivations. Isaiah reminds them that God desires sincere hearts and genuine humility, rather than empty rituals.
  4. Practice compassion and generosity: Isaiah emphasizes the responsibility of believers to share their resources with the needy and oppressed. It encourages acts of mercy, extending kindness and providing for those who lack basic necessities.
  5. Experience restoration and blessings: By living out these teachings, Isaiah promises that the people will experience restoration, healing, and favor from God. The passage conveys the message that true obedience and righteous living lead to God’s blessings and a renewed relationship with Him.

A Case Study of the teachings in Isaiah 58:

In summary, Isaiah 58 teaches us to prioritize genuine repentance and righteous living over mere religious rituals, address social injustices, authentically seek God’s presence, practice compassion and generosity, and experience restoration and blessings through obedience to God’s commands.

Raph Michael

Posted on

IS SERVING GOD COMPULSORY?

Serving God is Compulsory and not just important

First of all, let us reflect upon an essential truth that governs our lives as believers: serving God is not merely a choice, but a sacred duty. As we ground our faith in the Bible, let’s look at some of the passages it contains to explain why serving God is compulsory.

View Point 1: God Expects Our Service
The Bible is clear that God expects us to serve him, out of love and appreciation for all he has done for us. In Deuteronomy 10:12, we are commanded, “And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you?” God also tells us in Matthew 4:10, “Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.” These passages make clear that God not only desires but also expects us to serve him.

View Point 2: Serving God Brings Benefits
Far from being a burden, serving God is an incredible opportunity. In all areas of life, whether spiritual or physical, serving God brings about great rewards. Physically, serving God can have an effect on things like finances, relationships, career, and family. Spiritually, God promises spiritual healing, peace, joy, and more, if we serve him faithfully. Ultimately, serving God will bring us closer to God and lead to eternal life.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, serving God is not merely an option. It is a sacred duty that comes with many wonderful benefits. Let us all take the time to reflect on how we can show our love and appreciation for God by serving him faithfully. May God open our eyes to see the reasons behind serving Him in Jesus name.

Posted on

FUNCTIONS OF PASTORS

these may vary from one church to the other or one ministry to the depending on the visions and the assignment given to individual and group of people who are committed to the service of our Lord God, but as far as the Lord’s World Missions is concerned we enumerate the following functions of the pastors which are broadly divided into two categories.

To the Church:

  1. Spiritual Leader: A pastor is responsible for providing spiritual guidance to the church. This involves leading and teaching spiritual growth, providing the proper context for worship, and helping to shape the culture of the church.
  2. Administrative Duties: A pastor is also responsible for overseeing the administrative tasks of the church, such as overseeing finances, personnel management, and working with committees on building projects or other matters.
  3. Ministerial Tasks: The pastor is responsible for performing ministerial tasks such as presiding over baptisms, funerals, weddings, and counseling.

To the Members:

  1. Spiritual Counseling: A pastor is responsible for offering spiritual counseling to members of the church, such as offering spiritual advice, providing prayers and guidance, and encouraging members in their spiritual growth.
  2. Community Support: A pastor should also be a supportive member of the community, facilitating activities or programs that benefit those in need and enhance the wellbeing of the members.
  3. Crisis Intervention: A pastor should also be available to provide support or counseling during times of crisis, whether it is a life-changing event or personal tragedy.

(Matthew 18:15-17; 1 Corinthians 5:1-13, Timothy 4:13, 2 Timothy 4:2,
1 Timothy 3:2-7; 1 Peter 5:3, Acts 20:38).

Posted on

The Bible is a collection of religious texts, including both the Old Testament (Hebrew Bible) and the New Testament, that are sacred to Christians. It is the word of God, written by human authors inspired by the Holy Spirit.

The Old Testament consists of 39 books written between approximately 1400 and 400 BCE, while the New Testament contains 27 books written between approximately 50 and 100 CE. The main divisions of the Bible are the Law (Genesis to Deuteronomy), History (Joshua to Esther), Poetry (Job to Song of Solomon), Major Prophets (Isaiah to Daniel), Minor Prophets (Hosea to Malachi), and Gospels and Acts (Matthew to Acts).

The Bible was delivered to man through divine inspiration by God Himself and through the work of human authors.

  1. “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:8-9).
  2. “I the Lord search the heart and examine the mind, to reward each person according to their conduct, according to what their deeds deserve,” (Jeremiah 17:10).

3.“But there is a God in heaven who reveals secrets,” (Daniel 2:28).

  1. “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future,’” (Jeremiah 29:11).
  2. “The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may follow all the words of this law,” (Deuteronomy 29:29).
  3. “No one comprehends the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God,” (1 Corinthians 2:11).
  4. “As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the Lord is flawless, He is a shield for all who take refuge in him,” (2 Samuel 22:31).
Posted on

SERVING GOD, WAYS AND BENEFITS

Serving God means living a life that glorifies Him and carries out His will. It means putting God first in all things and being obedient to His commands.

It also involves serving God with our physical resources to glorify God.

Here are some Bible references that explain serving God:

1. Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”

2. Romans 12:1 says, “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”

3. Colossians 3:23-24 says, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”

   Ways to serve God
1. By keeping God’s commandments – “If you love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15)

2. By praying – “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests” (Ephesians 6:18)

3. By loving others – “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another” (John 13:34)

4. By sharing the gospel – “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15)

5. By giving generously – “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7).

Some of The benefits of serving God in are:

1. Eternal Life in Heaven – When we accept Christ as our Lord and Savior, we are promised eternal life in Heaven (John 3:16).

2. Protection – God promises to protect us from harm and danger if we serve Him whole-heartedly (Psalm 91:14).

3. Provision – Serving God allows us to have our needs met according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19).

4. Direction in Life – When we seek God’s guidance, He will show us the right paths to take (Proverbs 3:5–6).

5. Comfort – God comforts us in times of distress and grants us peace within (Isaiah 40:1).

6. Joy – Serving God brings us joy and gives us a reason to be cheerful (Nehemiah 8:10).

7. Fulfillment – Following God’s plan for our lives leads to true fulfillment and satisfaction (Jeremiah 29:11).