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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

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