WHO IS A BORN AGAIN?
In my last piece, I pointed out in it that to be saved or have eternal life, one must be obedient to the word of God and heed His warnings. Here is a fundamental thing to be done in order to enter the kingdom of God. To be saved, therefore you must be a born again. This word may be strange to some people, and become confused such as Nicodemus was before he went to Jesus for explanation. Nicodemus was a learned and renown Jews in Israel. He asked Jesus, "How can a man be born again, when he is old? Surely he cannot enter a second time into his mother’s womb to be born" (John 3:4) Jesus replied, "I tell you the truth, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless he is born of water and the Spirit" (John 3:5) Indeed John’s baptism was the baptism of repentance. Apostle Peter in a broader sense explains, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit." (Acts 2:38)
The question is, who is a born again and what are the blessings being a born again ?
A born again is someone who has been baptised into Christ, and into His death. Spiritually, we experienced death and burial with Him in our baptism by immersion. God raised us from that spiritual death, just as He raised Christ from physical death.
A born again is he who renounces his sins and begins to follow Christ. "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation, the old has gone, the new has come" (2nd Corinthians 5:17) In effect, he does not go back to his old sinful lifestyle. He is now under grace.
A born again is one who is free: The only person who can set us free from the bondage of sin is Jesus Christ. The Scripture confirms this, If the Son of God, heir of all things, who has the power and right to free men from the bondage of sin, and truly and really free you and bless you with freedom. Christ died on the cross to take away our sins, and we are forgiven. "So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed" (John 8 : 36)
A born again is an heir: An heir is one who receives property from an ancestor; one who is entitled to inherit property. From the point of view of the Bible, there is no inheritance of heaven without being the Son of God. In one word, there is no sonship without a spiritual birth, there is no spiritual birth without Christ. Paul to the Galatians explains this, "Because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls Abba, Father. So you are no longer a slave, but a son; since you are a son, God has made you also an heir." (Galatians 4:6–7) A born again, is entitled to inherit the Kingdom of God.
A born again is someone who is redeemed: This is the payment Jesus Christ made through His blood on the cross for all. As a result, all born again are free from condemnation. Apostle Paul to the Ephesians says, "In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with His riches of God’s grace." (Ephesians 1:7) In sum, Redemption is the precious blood Jesus sacrificed on the cross for you and I. Apostle Peter says, "For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, a Lamb without blemish or defect." (1st Peter 1:18-19)
Brethren, be joyful for your sins have beeen paid for by Christ on the cross. You are forgiven.
A born again is rewarded here with spiritual blessings: The sure way to receive blessing of God is to be born again. Besides, the forgiveness of sins, there are spiritual blessings accruing from being a born again as expressed in Paul’s letter to the Ephesians. "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessings in Christ."(Ephesians 1:3)
In conclusion, as a born again, your relationship with God is unique and special. With its attendant spiritual blessings. You are not only free from the enslavement of sin but redeemed. and become an heir in the kingdom of God.
Are you a born again ?
The question is, who is a born again and what are the blessings being a born again ?
A born again is someone who has been baptised into Christ, and into His death. Spiritually, we experienced death and burial with Him in our baptism by immersion. God raised us from that spiritual death, just as He raised Christ from physical death.
A born again is he who renounces his sins and begins to follow Christ. "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation, the old has gone, the new has come" (2nd Corinthians 5:17) In effect, he does not go back to his old sinful lifestyle. He is now under grace.
A born again is one who is free: The only person who can set us free from the bondage of sin is Jesus Christ. The Scripture confirms this, If the Son of God, heir of all things, who has the power and right to free men from the bondage of sin, and truly and really free you and bless you with freedom. Christ died on the cross to take away our sins, and we are forgiven. "So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed" (John 8 : 36)
A born again is an heir: An heir is one who receives property from an ancestor; one who is entitled to inherit property. From the point of view of the Bible, there is no inheritance of heaven without being the Son of God. In one word, there is no sonship without a spiritual birth, there is no spiritual birth without Christ. Paul to the Galatians explains this, "Because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls Abba, Father. So you are no longer a slave, but a son; since you are a son, God has made you also an heir." (Galatians 4:6–7) A born again, is entitled to inherit the Kingdom of God.
A born again is someone who is redeemed: This is the payment Jesus Christ made through His blood on the cross for all. As a result, all born again are free from condemnation. Apostle Paul to the Ephesians says, "In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with His riches of God’s grace." (Ephesians 1:7) In sum, Redemption is the precious blood Jesus sacrificed on the cross for you and I. Apostle Peter says, "For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, a Lamb without blemish or defect." (1st Peter 1:18-19)
Brethren, be joyful for your sins have beeen paid for by Christ on the cross. You are forgiven.
A born again is rewarded here with spiritual blessings: The sure way to receive blessing of God is to be born again. Besides, the forgiveness of sins, there are spiritual blessings accruing from being a born again as expressed in Paul’s letter to the Ephesians. "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessings in Christ."(Ephesians 1:3)
In conclusion, as a born again, your relationship with God is unique and special. With its attendant spiritual blessings. You are not only free from the enslavement of sin but redeemed. and become an heir in the kingdom of God.
Are you a born again ?
LESSONS FROM
LOT’S WIFE’S EXPERIENCE
Genesis 19:1–26.
There are some lessons to learn from what happened to Lot’s wife. Here is a brief account of what happened to her. The cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, were to be destroyed because of their sins. Abraham intervened on behalf of the righteous therein. Recall that these two towns were situated where Abraham’s nephew lived. Two angels met Lot at the gate of Sodom. They asked Lot if he had relatives in the cities, and to tell his sons-in-law to leave the city, because of the imminent danger looming over the cities. At dawn, the angels told Lot to hurry up and take his wife and his two daughters out of the towns, failure to do so, they would be destroyed with the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. As Lot was hesistating, the angels held his hand and the hand of his wife, and of his two daughters, and led them out of the city. As they had come out of the city, one of the angels said, "Flee for your lives! Don’t look back and don’t stop anywhere in the plain! Flee to the mountains or you will be swept away!" (Genesis 19:17) Then came from the Lord in heaven, a heavy downpour of burning sulfur on Sodom and Gomorrah. "But Lot’s wife looked back, and she became a pillar of salt" (Genesis 19 : 26)
This narrative is about Lot’s wife, and some lessons to derive from her experience.
In the first instance, though, Lot’s wife was taken out of Sodom, yet she perished because, she looked back while going out of Sodom, inspite of the divine warning from the heavenly visitors.
Another lesson to learn from Lot’s wife is that, she perished despite the fact that she was the wife of a righteous man. Considering what happened to Lot’s wife, we can infer that moving with the righteous person can improve your life, but not save you. The reason for this is that, the Scripture says, « So then; each of us will give account of himself to God." (Romans 14:12) Therefore moving with a righteous person and not doing the righteous thing is evil. Again the word of God says, "For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad." (2 Corinthians 5:10) Again, having a christian husband, wife, parents, children is desirable, but each person will give account of his or her deeds on judgment day. "Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life." (Matthew 25:46)
Other lesson to learn from Lot’s wife experience is that, though, she committed only one sin, yet she was destroyed. The Bible says, that the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 6:23) Adam and Eve did not need to commit many sins to be unpleasing to God.
Lot’s wife was destroyed, despite that she was warned by God. Obedience is relevant in order to avoid the wrath of God. Heed the warning of God. No doubt that Lot’s wife heard the warning of God, yet she was destroyed. Recall, we are being warned today by God through His Word. Heed His warnings.
There are many people like Lot’s wife who have heard and believed in Christ, but went a short distance in their lives with Christ, in this regards, Jesus says to His disciples thus. "Then He said to them all; if anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me." (Luke 9:23) Therefore our walk with Christ must be a continuum, if we want to make heaven.
Conclusively, Let us realise that we may perish if we do not heed the warning of God. Today, many people have heard the Word, believed, and accepted Jesus as Lord the Saviour, but are no longer in the faith, they have reverted to their old way of life. There should be no turning back, because there is danger behind. Remain connected to Jesus Christ. There must be continuity in our walk with Christ Jesus, to have eternal life. Being the wife, husband, children of a Bishop is not a yardstick to make heaven. Everyone will give account of his or her deeds to God on the judgment day.
We are warned of the consequences of looking back on our previous life of sins. Be warned.
This narrative is about Lot’s wife, and some lessons to derive from her experience.
In the first instance, though, Lot’s wife was taken out of Sodom, yet she perished because, she looked back while going out of Sodom, inspite of the divine warning from the heavenly visitors.
Another lesson to learn from Lot’s wife is that, she perished despite the fact that she was the wife of a righteous man. Considering what happened to Lot’s wife, we can infer that moving with the righteous person can improve your life, but not save you. The reason for this is that, the Scripture says, « So then; each of us will give account of himself to God." (Romans 14:12) Therefore moving with a righteous person and not doing the righteous thing is evil. Again the word of God says, "For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad." (2 Corinthians 5:10) Again, having a christian husband, wife, parents, children is desirable, but each person will give account of his or her deeds on judgment day. "Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life." (Matthew 25:46)
Other lesson to learn from Lot’s wife experience is that, though, she committed only one sin, yet she was destroyed. The Bible says, that the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 6:23) Adam and Eve did not need to commit many sins to be unpleasing to God.
Lot’s wife was destroyed, despite that she was warned by God. Obedience is relevant in order to avoid the wrath of God. Heed the warning of God. No doubt that Lot’s wife heard the warning of God, yet she was destroyed. Recall, we are being warned today by God through His Word. Heed His warnings.
There are many people like Lot’s wife who have heard and believed in Christ, but went a short distance in their lives with Christ, in this regards, Jesus says to His disciples thus. "Then He said to them all; if anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me." (Luke 9:23) Therefore our walk with Christ must be a continuum, if we want to make heaven.
Conclusively, Let us realise that we may perish if we do not heed the warning of God. Today, many people have heard the Word, believed, and accepted Jesus as Lord the Saviour, but are no longer in the faith, they have reverted to their old way of life. There should be no turning back, because there is danger behind. Remain connected to Jesus Christ. There must be continuity in our walk with Christ Jesus, to have eternal life. Being the wife, husband, children of a Bishop is not a yardstick to make heaven. Everyone will give account of his or her deeds to God on the judgment day.
We are warned of the consequences of looking back on our previous life of sins. Be warned.
BE STRONG AND OF A GOOD COURAGE
Joshua 1:1–9.
The first chapter of the Book of Joshua introduces us to the leadership of Joshua. After the death of Moses, Joshua took the leadership role of Moses to lead the people of Israel to the Promised Land. God told Joshua, "Arise, go over this Jordan, thou and all this people, unto the land which I do give to them, even to the children of Israel." (Joshua 1:2) KJV.
The text borders on faith and courage. "God promised Joshua that no man shall be able to stand before thee" (Joshua 1:5) KJV. This same promise was made to Moses and same to us today. Believe in God and be faithful to Him.
God promised Joshua that He would be with him, knowing full well that the Promised Land would not be without challenges, hence God repeatedly told Joshua to be strong and of good courage.
In my last write-out, I talked about the dangers facing the church, and profered some solutions. In like manner, if the work of the church today must be accomplished, there must be a strong and courageous leader to direct the church.
Leaders must be obedient: Joshua was told "Arise" that is, get up and get ready to go into the Promised Land. Joshua acted accordingly. So also we need leaders, today, who will get up and take charge and lead.
Joshua was not just told to get up, he was told to go over the Jordan. So God has commanded us to reach out to all nations. How much have we claimed? God expects us to do exploits, to reach out to the lost ones.
In terms of promises, we have the same promise, as was made to the disciples by Jesus, which says, "I am with you always even unto the end of the world" (Matthew 28:20b) KJV. This kind of promise was made to Joshua, that no matter the situation Joshua would find himself, "There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee nor foresake thee." (Joshua 1:5) KJV. Therefore nothing should hold us back from doing exploits. There should be no excuse, and cause for fear.
Action must be taken: After obeying the call of God the next line of action is to do what He tells you to do. God never gives a leader the job he cannot do. When God assigns you a job, He also empowers you with the necessary tools for the job. When He asks us to go into all nations and teach, He also has given us the power to perform. The power is His Word. "For the Word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the dividing assunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." ( Ephesians 4 : 12) KJV.
Unless an action is take after obeying the command of God, "Arise" Joshua gets up and ready to lead the people to the Promised Land. What a prompt response !
Lead by example: The leader must lead by example. He must read the Bible and do what the Bible says. The knowledge of God’s word and doing His bidding brings success to the leader as well as the church.
A leader that will move the church forward must stand for what is right: He must be true to the Word of God. That is to say, that the Word of God must be preached at all seasons. It doesn’t matter who likes it. The leader must preach the Word. The reason is that God has not called leaders to be popular, but to be faithful. "For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God." (John 12:43) KJV.
Courage and strength is needed: Why Joshua or any other leader needs courage and strength is that as Joshua looked over Israel, the land before him, and the enemy therein, he could feel the fear. God read Joshua’s heart, and said for the third time to him, "Have I not commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be dismayed; for the Lord thy God is with thee withersoever thou goest." (Joshua 1:9) KJV.
If Joshua had not summoned courage and allowed himself to be overwhelmed with fear, we may not understand how God provides for His people, when they are bogged and fear fills their hearts. We may not be able to answer the questions concerning His watch and care for His people. But we can learn from Apostle Paul when he says, "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." (Philippians 4 : 13) KJV.
As Joshua was given a great work to do, so we have been given. So we can do the work. God has assigned us the work. All we need is to be strong and of good courage.
The truth of the matter is courage and strength depends on you and I. Indeed, God will be with us, as He had been with Moses, Joshua, Prophet Ayo Babalola, and host of other prominent leaders today. He will be with us. He is there doing His part. It depends on you and I to summon courage and strength to lead.
The knowledge of the Word of God is not all. The leader must teach the Word that so much so that it is impacted on people. An example of this is seen in the quintessential Ezra. "For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the law of the Lord, and to do it, and to teach in Israel statutes and judgments" (Ezra 7:10) KJV.
In the final analysis, for a church to accomplish much, it needs a strong and courageous leader. Added to this, he or she must obey the call of God and act immediately. He or she must preach the Word at all without fear or favour.
The text borders on faith and courage. "God promised Joshua that no man shall be able to stand before thee" (Joshua 1:5) KJV. This same promise was made to Moses and same to us today. Believe in God and be faithful to Him.
God promised Joshua that He would be with him, knowing full well that the Promised Land would not be without challenges, hence God repeatedly told Joshua to be strong and of good courage.
In my last write-out, I talked about the dangers facing the church, and profered some solutions. In like manner, if the work of the church today must be accomplished, there must be a strong and courageous leader to direct the church.
Leaders must be obedient: Joshua was told "Arise" that is, get up and get ready to go into the Promised Land. Joshua acted accordingly. So also we need leaders, today, who will get up and take charge and lead.
Joshua was not just told to get up, he was told to go over the Jordan. So God has commanded us to reach out to all nations. How much have we claimed? God expects us to do exploits, to reach out to the lost ones.
In terms of promises, we have the same promise, as was made to the disciples by Jesus, which says, "I am with you always even unto the end of the world" (Matthew 28:20b) KJV. This kind of promise was made to Joshua, that no matter the situation Joshua would find himself, "There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee nor foresake thee." (Joshua 1:5) KJV. Therefore nothing should hold us back from doing exploits. There should be no excuse, and cause for fear.
Action must be taken: After obeying the call of God the next line of action is to do what He tells you to do. God never gives a leader the job he cannot do. When God assigns you a job, He also empowers you with the necessary tools for the job. When He asks us to go into all nations and teach, He also has given us the power to perform. The power is His Word. "For the Word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the dividing assunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." ( Ephesians 4 : 12) KJV.
Unless an action is take after obeying the command of God, "Arise" Joshua gets up and ready to lead the people to the Promised Land. What a prompt response !
Lead by example: The leader must lead by example. He must read the Bible and do what the Bible says. The knowledge of God’s word and doing His bidding brings success to the leader as well as the church.
A leader that will move the church forward must stand for what is right: He must be true to the Word of God. That is to say, that the Word of God must be preached at all seasons. It doesn’t matter who likes it. The leader must preach the Word. The reason is that God has not called leaders to be popular, but to be faithful. "For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God." (John 12:43) KJV.
Courage and strength is needed: Why Joshua or any other leader needs courage and strength is that as Joshua looked over Israel, the land before him, and the enemy therein, he could feel the fear. God read Joshua’s heart, and said for the third time to him, "Have I not commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be dismayed; for the Lord thy God is with thee withersoever thou goest." (Joshua 1:9) KJV.
If Joshua had not summoned courage and allowed himself to be overwhelmed with fear, we may not understand how God provides for His people, when they are bogged and fear fills their hearts. We may not be able to answer the questions concerning His watch and care for His people. But we can learn from Apostle Paul when he says, "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." (Philippians 4 : 13) KJV.
As Joshua was given a great work to do, so we have been given. So we can do the work. God has assigned us the work. All we need is to be strong and of good courage.
The truth of the matter is courage and strength depends on you and I. Indeed, God will be with us, as He had been with Moses, Joshua, Prophet Ayo Babalola, and host of other prominent leaders today. He will be with us. He is there doing His part. It depends on you and I to summon courage and strength to lead.
The knowledge of the Word of God is not all. The leader must teach the Word that so much so that it is impacted on people. An example of this is seen in the quintessential Ezra. "For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the law of the Lord, and to do it, and to teach in Israel statutes and judgments" (Ezra 7:10) KJV.
In the final analysis, for a church to accomplish much, it needs a strong and courageous leader. Added to this, he or she must obey the call of God and act immediately. He or she must preach the Word at all without fear or favour.
DANGERS
FACING THE CHURCH
Unlike the vaccination against an influenza, the church is not protected from danger. On one hand, we are protected.
After the death of Jesus Christ, the church, as an institution suffered many dangers, and the early christians faced the dangers. The church is still facing dangers, unless we do something to save the situations.
Among the dangers facing the early church was division. That is why, Paul in his letter to the christians in Corinth says, "I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one so that there may be no divisions among you, and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought." (1st Corinthians 1:10)
Paul warns the Corinthians christians as he is warning us today to live together in unity. He also explained three ways their unity could be achieved.
° There must be an agreement: That is to say that they must say the same thing, say the same doctrine, proclaim the same Christ. In a broader sense, they must first of all think the same thing and believe the same thing. The bottom line is that they must agree on the core issue of christian faith. Paul encourages the Corinthians to change their way of thinking about division, which is inimical to the will of God. In one word, Paul wants us today to work together in harmony.
° To work in harmony includes to be united in mind or understanding. This implies that their thoughts will be determined by the feelings of their hearts and actions. For instance, if they thought that God had called them to serve Him, then they will be more determined to act in a way that will promote the unty of the church.
° Apostle Paul explained that the Corinthian christians must be united in judgment, purpose and will, otherwise they will be moving in different directions. The same direction here implies they keep the vision of Jesus Christ before them. If some turn their eyes to Paul and others toward Apollo, they will be seeing things differently.
Another danger facing the church then and ours today, is backslidding: As it was then, so it is today. One of Paul’s companions, Demas deserted him. Demas is said to have loved the world, more than his work, evangelist. In view of the betrayal and bad behaviour of Demas and host of others who had deserted him, Paul, wrote Timothy. "Do your best to come to me quickly for Demas, because he loved the world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica." (2nd Timothy 4:9) Have many Christians not left their faith in Christ today? As it was then, so it is today. Let us live a life of promoting the Good News.
Another danger facing the church are the false Prophets and Teachers: Apostle Peter informs us that there were false prophets in the time of the Old Testament, and warns us against false teachers. "But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you, they will secrectly introduce destructive heresies even denying the Sovereign Lord who bought them, bringing swift destruction on themselves." (2nd Peter 2:1)
Who are these false teachers? They are the ones who do not accept Jesus as their Sovereign Lord. They teach people what the people wanted to hear. They do not tell the Truth. Jesus is the Truth. We are warned to check, as the Bereans, everything people teach. "Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scripture every day to see if what Paul said was true." (Acts 17 : 11)
Apostle Peter used picture language to describe these false teachers thus: People go to a well to get water. The water keeps them alive. Some wells contain no water. They may look good but a dry well is not useful.
Worldy obsession: One of the greatest dangers facing the church today is that we are obsessed with the things of the world, at the expense of the church. The society pays little attention to the church in our time. The church supposes to be the center of our lives and not the opposite.
We place our struggle of the day above God’s programme. What a misplaced priority! We complain that we don’t have enough time. What do we want additional time for ? If given, we would still complain of not enough time.
Many people attend the service at will. They have no time to worship God. They run after worldly things. Jesus said, "Seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness and all these things will be given to you as well." (Matthew 6:33)
Have such mundane people taken it seriously the value of life, they would have remembered that people’s life pass as a vapour. "Why do you not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes." (James 4:14)
We often complain that we do not have enough time for church activities, what do we do after our daily work for living? We sometimes use the remaining times for watching television or browsing on the internet etc. We need to reconsider our stance. We must be united in thoughts, purpose and will.
Another danger facing the church today is our lackadaisical attitude to evangelism: The church must be ready and interested in preaching the gospel to all nations, as commanded by Jesus Christ. "Go into all the world and preach the Good News to all creations." (Mark 16 : 15)
We should be enthusiastic in preaching the gospel, hence it is the heartbeat of the church. The heartbeat is the way we know someone who is not dead. For the church to be alive, evangelism is of significant importance.
In a similar way, this danger facing the church can be averted by our willingness and determination to bring others to worship, the Lord, our God, where Jesus Christ is being taught, as the Sovereign Lord, the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
Children should not be excluded: Children should be trained in the way of the Lord, so that when they grow up, they would not depart from it. Parents should ensure that their children attend Sunday school class and Sunday services. The church should teach the children to read the Scriptures, as well as christian magazines. The children are the leaders of tomorrow, they should not be left out of the programmes of the church.
Division has been a bane in the church and is still today. In order to check-mate this danger, the Church must adopt the spirit of unity or oneness in speech, thought, judgment, purpose, will, vision, and shun backslidding or betrayal attitude. Our children must not be excluded from the church. We must take Christ to others. Our failure to do so is a denial of Christ on our parts. May He not deny us before His heavenly Father, in Jesus name. Amen.
After the death of Jesus Christ, the church, as an institution suffered many dangers, and the early christians faced the dangers. The church is still facing dangers, unless we do something to save the situations.
Among the dangers facing the early church was division. That is why, Paul in his letter to the christians in Corinth says, "I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one so that there may be no divisions among you, and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought." (1st Corinthians 1:10)
Paul warns the Corinthians christians as he is warning us today to live together in unity. He also explained three ways their unity could be achieved.
° There must be an agreement: That is to say that they must say the same thing, say the same doctrine, proclaim the same Christ. In a broader sense, they must first of all think the same thing and believe the same thing. The bottom line is that they must agree on the core issue of christian faith. Paul encourages the Corinthians to change their way of thinking about division, which is inimical to the will of God. In one word, Paul wants us today to work together in harmony.
° To work in harmony includes to be united in mind or understanding. This implies that their thoughts will be determined by the feelings of their hearts and actions. For instance, if they thought that God had called them to serve Him, then they will be more determined to act in a way that will promote the unty of the church.
° Apostle Paul explained that the Corinthian christians must be united in judgment, purpose and will, otherwise they will be moving in different directions. The same direction here implies they keep the vision of Jesus Christ before them. If some turn their eyes to Paul and others toward Apollo, they will be seeing things differently.
Another danger facing the church then and ours today, is backslidding: As it was then, so it is today. One of Paul’s companions, Demas deserted him. Demas is said to have loved the world, more than his work, evangelist. In view of the betrayal and bad behaviour of Demas and host of others who had deserted him, Paul, wrote Timothy. "Do your best to come to me quickly for Demas, because he loved the world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica." (2nd Timothy 4:9) Have many Christians not left their faith in Christ today? As it was then, so it is today. Let us live a life of promoting the Good News.
Another danger facing the church are the false Prophets and Teachers: Apostle Peter informs us that there were false prophets in the time of the Old Testament, and warns us against false teachers. "But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you, they will secrectly introduce destructive heresies even denying the Sovereign Lord who bought them, bringing swift destruction on themselves." (2nd Peter 2:1)
Who are these false teachers? They are the ones who do not accept Jesus as their Sovereign Lord. They teach people what the people wanted to hear. They do not tell the Truth. Jesus is the Truth. We are warned to check, as the Bereans, everything people teach. "Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scripture every day to see if what Paul said was true." (Acts 17 : 11)
Apostle Peter used picture language to describe these false teachers thus: People go to a well to get water. The water keeps them alive. Some wells contain no water. They may look good but a dry well is not useful.
Worldy obsession: One of the greatest dangers facing the church today is that we are obsessed with the things of the world, at the expense of the church. The society pays little attention to the church in our time. The church supposes to be the center of our lives and not the opposite.
We place our struggle of the day above God’s programme. What a misplaced priority! We complain that we don’t have enough time. What do we want additional time for ? If given, we would still complain of not enough time.
Many people attend the service at will. They have no time to worship God. They run after worldly things. Jesus said, "Seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness and all these things will be given to you as well." (Matthew 6:33)
Have such mundane people taken it seriously the value of life, they would have remembered that people’s life pass as a vapour. "Why do you not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes." (James 4:14)
We often complain that we do not have enough time for church activities, what do we do after our daily work for living? We sometimes use the remaining times for watching television or browsing on the internet etc. We need to reconsider our stance. We must be united in thoughts, purpose and will.
Another danger facing the church today is our lackadaisical attitude to evangelism: The church must be ready and interested in preaching the gospel to all nations, as commanded by Jesus Christ. "Go into all the world and preach the Good News to all creations." (Mark 16 : 15)
We should be enthusiastic in preaching the gospel, hence it is the heartbeat of the church. The heartbeat is the way we know someone who is not dead. For the church to be alive, evangelism is of significant importance.
In a similar way, this danger facing the church can be averted by our willingness and determination to bring others to worship, the Lord, our God, where Jesus Christ is being taught, as the Sovereign Lord, the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
Children should not be excluded: Children should be trained in the way of the Lord, so that when they grow up, they would not depart from it. Parents should ensure that their children attend Sunday school class and Sunday services. The church should teach the children to read the Scriptures, as well as christian magazines. The children are the leaders of tomorrow, they should not be left out of the programmes of the church.
Division has been a bane in the church and is still today. In order to check-mate this danger, the Church must adopt the spirit of unity or oneness in speech, thought, judgment, purpose, will, vision, and shun backslidding or betrayal attitude. Our children must not be excluded from the church. We must take Christ to others. Our failure to do so is a denial of Christ on our parts. May He not deny us before His heavenly Father, in Jesus name. Amen.
OBSTACLES TO
SPIRITUAL BLESSINGS
It is the will of our Almighty God that we be blessed, physically and spiritually. Sometimes when we examine our lives, we see that we are not blessed spiritually. We blame God instead of blaming ourselves. The lack of spiritual blessing in our lives may be due to sin in our lives that have been placed between us and our blessings–obstacles.
"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessings in Christ." (Ephesians 1:3)
God first love us. He gave us the most precious gift you can think of. Do not blame Him for your sin. Reconsider your stance.
Worldliness is an impediment to our spiritual blessing: Worldliness is a thing of the mind. You cannot be worldly and please God talk less of receiving His spiritual blessing. "Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires ; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace; the sinful mind is hostile to God. It does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. Those controlled by the sinful nature cannot please God.» (Romans 8:5–8)
Wordiness therefore, is the inward life of man. You either love God or the world. The world here means not merely the creation, but also the lust of the flesh: this does not refer only to sexual desires, but also to everything that is the desire of human beings. Worldliness here also refers to the lust of the eyes; that is to say, what we want for ourselves. We want it at all cost and thirdly, worldliness here refers to the pride of life. This is worldly because it is about our possession and accomplishments–these we boast about. God is not pleased with these. They are sins, and obstacles to our spiritual blessings.
This is clearly put in 1st John 2:15, "Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in Him. For everything in the world–the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does –comes not from the Father but from the world." (1st John 2:15–16)
John is telling us that the love of the Father, is not in the person who loves the world, because no one can serve two masters, same as indicated by Jesus Christ, He said, "No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money."
(Matthew 6:24)
Prayerlessness is a hindrance to Spiritual blessings : Every Christians who wants spiritual blessing from God must be prayerful. We have a loving Father who gives good things to His children, as earthly fathers gives good things to their children. God’s will for us is to be blessed spiritually and physically. The point is, if we do not go to Him in prayer for the spiritual blessings, how then do we get them? Do not blame God. He wants to hear from you about this spiritual blessing. "Ask and it will be given to you, seek and you will find ; knock and the door will be opened to you. » Matthew 7 :7)
Selfishness is a blockade to Spiritual blessing: A selfish person thinks of himself alone. He lacks the love for others around him. The case of the rich fool in Luke 12:17 and 19 comes to mind. He says vs 17, "And he thought to himself, What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops" Vs 19, "And I will say to myself, You have plenty of good things laid up for many years.Take life easy, eat, drink and be merry" (Luke 12:17, 19)
Again, "if anyone has material possessions and sees his brothers in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him ?" (1st John 3:17) God will not release His blessing on such a selfish person, who thinks of himself alone. Remember those in need.
Unfaithfulness is deterrent to Spiritual blessing: Anything that we are doing that is devoid of faith is a sin. What is faith? "Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see" (Hebrews 11:1) Without faith it is impossible to please God, because that He exists, and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him." (Hebrews 11:6) A belief that God exists and rewards those who diligently seek Him. Enoch was spared death because his faith pleased God. Noah and his family was spared because he believed God and acted on something he had not yet seen.
If you are in sin, you cannot enjoy the blessing of God. If you doubt God, you doubt His power. He is the Sovereign Lord.
If you have fallen short of the Spiritual blessing of God, turn to Him now. Say it to Him during this Lenten period. He will restore all your blessings both physically and Spiritually. Amen.
Join us for worship on Sundays
from 12 noon through 3 p.m at 17, Allée Nicolas de Stael,
93300 Aubervilliers–France.
WHO IS A FOOL?
In my last discourse, I talked about two fish. The younger fish met his doom because he did not heed the warning of the older fish. The younger fish acted foolishly and died hopelessly.
On many occasions, we have offended the Almighty God by disregarding His order. This is not without repercussions or facing the wrath of God.
The subject of today is who is a fool? A fool can be referred to someone who lacks the sense of judgment, or a dullard or an imbecile etc.
The Bible definition of a fool is someone who disregards the words of God. Let us together delve into the Bible to know who is a fool.
According to the discourse of Jesus Christ in Matthew, chapter 7, with particular reference to verses 26 and 27, He says, "but everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man, who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the stream rose, and the wind blew and beat against the house, and it fell with a great crash"
It is not enough to hear the word of God and not put them into practice. When you hear and do his orders, you will be blessed as well. "Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forget what he looks like. But the man who looks intently, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it–he will be blessed in what he does." (James 1:22–25)
He who says there is no God is a fool: "The Bible confirms this. "The fool says in his heart, there is no God." (Psalm 14:1) He is a fool because he claims that there is no God. He believes he is right. God existed from the beginning, and is active. "No one has ever seen God." (John 1:18) This should not lead us to doubt His existence, for instance, the wind is unseen, but we feel the wind when it blows. In one word, we know of the wind’s presence, by its effect as it moves dust and leaves.
Apostle Paul describes those who try to hide the truth about God thus: "Since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities–His eternal power and divine nature–have been clearly made, so that men are without excuse." (Romans 1:19–20)
Why does he make such a claim? It is not for a lack of evidence of the existence of God, but that is what he wants to believe.
A fool relies on his own judgment. He believes that he is right. The book of proverbs posited this, "The way of a fool seems right to him, but a wise man listen to advice. (Proverbs 12 : 15)
A fool is someone who refuses to glorify God: It is right and fitting to glorify God, and praise Him. Paul in his letter to the Romans instructed them to give glory to God, He who gives life. The good air we breathe is from God. He provides rain, sunshine and every good things of life. "The heaven declares the glory of God." (Psalm 19:1)
King David thought about his own body and soul, and realised how well God had worked. He glorified God, and he said, "I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made, your works are wonderful. I know that full well." (Psalm 139:14)
A covetous man is a fool: (Luke 12:13–21.) Why is this man here considered a fool? In the first place, this man did not realise the sources of his wealth. The rich man has forgotten that the earth is the Lord’s and everything in it. It is God not man who gave the nature to produce and gave man the ability to serve as a steward. The fool boasted of the future, which he is not in control. Note the use of "I will" in his statements. Then he said, "This is what I will do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store all my grains, and my goods. And I will say to myself, you have plenty of good things laid up for many years. Take life easy, eat, drink and be merry. But God said to him, "You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you’ve prepared for yourself.? (Luke 12:18-20)
He who does not prepare himself for the Kingdom of God is a fool: (Matthew 25:1–13)
The five virgins in this parable were called fools, because they lived for the present. They disregarded the warning to be ready as in Matthew 25:10.
The foolish virgins also disobeyed the advice, watch, as in Matthew 25:13.
They neglected the significance of oil in one’s lamp.
Reconsider your position, if you are still acting in the same manner as enumerated here. The reward is there for who listens and obeys the word of God.
Join us for service on Sundays
from 12 noon through 3 p.m,
at 17, Allée Nicolas de Stael,
93300 Aubervilliers – France.
THE TRUTH
Jesus answered, I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. (John 14 : 6)
There is every reason to believe, trust, and hope in Jesus Christ.The Scriptures has fulfilled the manners that Jesus Christ would come, live, and die and resurrect. Therefore His second coming for us, the redeemed ones is incontrovertible. The expectation of all believers, the rapture.
Two fishes were swimming in a river. They saw a young man holding a stick. In the stick, was a hook hanging the meat. The older fish, cried out as the younger fish drew near to eat the meat. "Can’t you see that there is a hook inside the meat?" asked the older fish. It is connected by an invisible line to a stick outside the water. There is a young man holding the stick. The TRUTH is that if you eat the meat, the hook will catch you in your jaw, and the young man will take you out of the water, cut you open with the knife in his hand you are looking at. After cutting you, he will roast you on a fire, and eat you. He will throw your remnants to his cat."
The younger fish stopped. The two fishes were separated. They went away on different directions. When the younger fish was alone, he told himself, "Let me search the Truth myself" That is to say that he doubted the older fish.
The younger fish went back to the meat. He swam round the meat as he could. He dived up and round the meat. At the end of his search, the younger fish concluded and said to himself, "I have looked around and found no sign of a man, a stick, a knife, a fire or a cat. From my search, I did not find anything outside the water we live in. I have come to realise "THE TRUTH" This is a made up story to limit our freedom." He then went back to the meat and ate it.
The hook held him in his jaw. He felt being lifted up out of the water. Indeed, he saw a man, a stick, a knife, and the man’s cat under a shady tree. At that time, his knowledge of "the truth" was too late. There is nothing he could do to set him free. We have doubted the Gospel on many occasions. Thomas, one of Jesus’ disciples doubted that Jesus resurrected as in (John 20:27)
Do not act like the younger fish in the illustration here.
This story is linked to the Gospel. We do not see the judgement seat, but we have heard of the judgment day. We do not see the eternal fire in hell, but have heard of it in the Bible. We can recognise THE TRUTH, and this will set us free.
We should now realise THE TRUTH, if death eventually comes, it will be too late. Accept the TRUTH, He is Jesus Christ. Accept Jesus Christ now as your Lord, the Saviour. Acknowledge His birth, suffering, death and resurrection Tomorrow may be too late. Do not doubt.
Give your life to Jesus Christ now. Go to any of the nearest local church in your area for same
There is every reason to believe, trust, and hope in Jesus Christ.The Scriptures has fulfilled the manners that Jesus Christ would come, live, and die and resurrect. Therefore His second coming for us, the redeemed ones is incontrovertible. The expectation of all believers, the rapture.
Two fishes were swimming in a river. They saw a young man holding a stick. In the stick, was a hook hanging the meat. The older fish, cried out as the younger fish drew near to eat the meat. "Can’t you see that there is a hook inside the meat?" asked the older fish. It is connected by an invisible line to a stick outside the water. There is a young man holding the stick. The TRUTH is that if you eat the meat, the hook will catch you in your jaw, and the young man will take you out of the water, cut you open with the knife in his hand you are looking at. After cutting you, he will roast you on a fire, and eat you. He will throw your remnants to his cat."
The younger fish stopped. The two fishes were separated. They went away on different directions. When the younger fish was alone, he told himself, "Let me search the Truth myself" That is to say that he doubted the older fish.
The younger fish went back to the meat. He swam round the meat as he could. He dived up and round the meat. At the end of his search, the younger fish concluded and said to himself, "I have looked around and found no sign of a man, a stick, a knife, a fire or a cat. From my search, I did not find anything outside the water we live in. I have come to realise "THE TRUTH" This is a made up story to limit our freedom." He then went back to the meat and ate it.
The hook held him in his jaw. He felt being lifted up out of the water. Indeed, he saw a man, a stick, a knife, and the man’s cat under a shady tree. At that time, his knowledge of "the truth" was too late. There is nothing he could do to set him free. We have doubted the Gospel on many occasions. Thomas, one of Jesus’ disciples doubted that Jesus resurrected as in (John 20:27)
Do not act like the younger fish in the illustration here.
This story is linked to the Gospel. We do not see the judgement seat, but we have heard of the judgment day. We do not see the eternal fire in hell, but have heard of it in the Bible. We can recognise THE TRUTH, and this will set us free.
We should now realise THE TRUTH, if death eventually comes, it will be too late. Accept the TRUTH, He is Jesus Christ. Accept Jesus Christ now as your Lord, the Saviour. Acknowledge His birth, suffering, death and resurrection Tomorrow may be too late. Do not doubt.
Give your life to Jesus Christ now. Go to any of the nearest local church in your area for same
Join us for worship
on Sundays from 12 noon
through 3 p.m at
17, Alléee Nicolas de Stael,
93300 Aubervilliers – France.
AVOID ALL RAGE AND ANGER
"And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice." (Ephesians 4:30–31)
There was a couple, who had married for many years without a child. They agreed to buy a puppy. They loved it and took it for a child. It grew up and became a big and love able dog. The puppy had access to every nooks of the house. It not only keeps the company of its owners, but on many occasions wards off the couple from robbery. In effect, the puppy was loyal, faithful and defended its owner against imminent dangers.
Ten years later, the hope and aspiration of the couple were met. The couple was blessed with a child. They were happy with the new baby.
Naturally, the attention given to the puppy by the couple diminished. Guess what happened. The puppy began to get jealous of the baby.
One day, the couple left the baby sleeping like a king in his cradle. They went to the veranda to prepare a roast. After the roast was done, the couple went to catch a glimpse of the baby. To their consternation, the couple saw the dog in the veranda with blood in its mouth.
"What could this be?" asked the couple. Without making any attempt to find out what really happened, the owner of the innocent dog, brought out a stick and started hitting the dog. The dog was clubbed to death.
They went to see the baby in his room. The couple found blood everywhere, dripping from the baby’s cot. They found a beheaded snake very close to the baby. The puppy had killed the snake. The couple then realised that they had killed their innocent, faithful and loyal companion. They have hastily misjudged the dog without finding out facts.
Many damages have been done through anger.
Are we better than this couple? How often do we give up on those who are faithful to us? The couple killed the dog with a stick, but how many times have you killed people with your mouth?
However, you must not allow anger to overtake you. Anger is a sin. Avoid rage and anger at all levels. We are expected to be angry at oppression, persecution, injustice and cruelty meted out to our fellow brothers. Very often, we feel anger for being insulted, or ignored etc.
Jesus Christ was angry against those who were buying and selling goods in the Temple. "Jesus entered the temple area and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves." (Matthew 21:12)
On many occasions, we’ve been overtaken by anger because of pride. This act is not without repercussion. Your anger grieves the Holy Spirit of God.
Beware of your speech. Your uncontrolled speech may be hurtful. Therefore your speech must not be reckless. "Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing." (Proverbs 12:18) In the same way "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." (Proverbs 15 : 1)
Shun anger at all levels. Do not react emotionally to other’s actions, instead respond with wisdom and humble spirit. When you allow anger in you, you will focus on your own comfort or happiness. Do not judge people by their look. Man looks on the outward appearance. (1st Samuel 16:7)
Avoid all rage and anger at all levels.
"And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice." (Ephesians 4:30–31)
There was a couple, who had married for many years without a child. They agreed to buy a puppy. They loved it and took it for a child. It grew up and became a big and love able dog. The puppy had access to every nooks of the house. It not only keeps the company of its owners, but on many occasions wards off the couple from robbery. In effect, the puppy was loyal, faithful and defended its owner against imminent dangers.
Ten years later, the hope and aspiration of the couple were met. The couple was blessed with a child. They were happy with the new baby.
Naturally, the attention given to the puppy by the couple diminished. Guess what happened. The puppy began to get jealous of the baby.
One day, the couple left the baby sleeping like a king in his cradle. They went to the veranda to prepare a roast. After the roast was done, the couple went to catch a glimpse of the baby. To their consternation, the couple saw the dog in the veranda with blood in its mouth.
"What could this be?" asked the couple. Without making any attempt to find out what really happened, the owner of the innocent dog, brought out a stick and started hitting the dog. The dog was clubbed to death.
They went to see the baby in his room. The couple found blood everywhere, dripping from the baby’s cot. They found a beheaded snake very close to the baby. The puppy had killed the snake. The couple then realised that they had killed their innocent, faithful and loyal companion. They have hastily misjudged the dog without finding out facts.
Many damages have been done through anger.
Are we better than this couple? How often do we give up on those who are faithful to us? The couple killed the dog with a stick, but how many times have you killed people with your mouth?
However, you must not allow anger to overtake you. Anger is a sin. Avoid rage and anger at all levels. We are expected to be angry at oppression, persecution, injustice and cruelty meted out to our fellow brothers. Very often, we feel anger for being insulted, or ignored etc.
Jesus Christ was angry against those who were buying and selling goods in the Temple. "Jesus entered the temple area and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves." (Matthew 21:12)
On many occasions, we’ve been overtaken by anger because of pride. This act is not without repercussion. Your anger grieves the Holy Spirit of God.
Beware of your speech. Your uncontrolled speech may be hurtful. Therefore your speech must not be reckless. "Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing." (Proverbs 12:18) In the same way "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." (Proverbs 15 : 1)
Shun anger at all levels. Do not react emotionally to other’s actions, instead respond with wisdom and humble spirit. When you allow anger in you, you will focus on your own comfort or happiness. Do not judge people by their look. Man looks on the outward appearance. (1st Samuel 16:7)
Avoid all rage and anger at all levels.
Join us for worship on Sundays
from 12 noon through 3 p.m at
17,Allée Nicolas de Stael,
Aubervilliers – France.
HOW ARE YOU DOING
THE WORK OF GOD?
In recent time, you’ve heard of some people, who were apprehended for cyber crime. These people defrauded their victims on the internet. They belong to the group of people who want easy money and become rich without working hard.
There is a Yoruba dictum which says, "Ise kii paniyan, Ise ni npa ni." That means that, work doesn’t kill, it’s poverty that kills.
Your attitude to work in life matters a lot. Your attitude determines your altitude. Your attitude to your work and of God is very important.
Poverty has sent many to servitude. Proverbs 22:7 says, "The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender"
Here is a story of two friends. They went to a soothsayer to know about what the future portends for them. The seer told one of them and said, "Hail, the future king" He was happy to hear that he will become a king in future. He began to celebrate himself as the future king, inspite of the fact that he was still in tattered dress.
Turning to the second man, the seer said, "You will die in abject poverty." He was unhappy and left with sadness, but he resolved to be successful in life, and not to wallow in abject poverty.
He went into the bush, and began to farm. After many years of farming, and by dint of hard of work, he became rich. He had plenty of food, with female and male servants working for him.
There was famine, where his friend was living, still waiting for his "kingdom" to come. While in search for food, the people of the town, discovered the hard-working man and the abundant foodstuffs he had. They begged him to become their king, and in return, promised to serve him, in exchange for food, with a view to survivng the famine.
That was how a man who was supposed to die in abject poverty became a king, while the "expectant king" remained poor for the rest of his life.
Diligence is time- bound. There is time for everything. When you fail to do things at the right time, the purpose ends up being defeated. The Bible tells us about the ant that provides food in the summer and gathers what it needs in harvest.
In life, your attitude to your own work and that of God is very important and must not be treated with levity. We must be hard working to enter into the kingdom of God. Lukewarmness comes to play here. Revelation 3:15 says, "I know your deeds that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other. Verse 16, so because you are lukewarm, neither hot nor cold I am about to spit you out of my mouth."
In the house of God, He wants us to be hot and not lukewarm. That is to say that our attitude to God’s work must be hot. God does not condone laziness, because He would not confide His kingdom to a lazy or lukewarm person.
Looking at the qualities of lukewarmness: Take a lukewarm water for instance, it can not brew any herbal tea. It can not quench your thirst.
The reward is always there when you take the work of God seriously and with zeal. Such reward is to be seen in Matthew 5:6 which says, "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled." Therefore, in order to get a place in His Kingdom, we must start now, to work assiduously and diligently for God as we would love to do our own work.
Working for God includes spreading the Gospel to all parts of the world. This was the commandment of Jesus Christ, not only to His disciples, but to us as well.
Coming late to church is a lukewarm attitude. There is no boss that will tolerate lateness to work.
Everybody want to be famous. This is not without sacrifice. For Dangote to be the richest man in Africa, it took him years of hard work before he obtains such feat or height.
In the Bible, Apostles Peter, Paul, and Joseph Ayo Babalola, to mention but three, worked selflessly for God and His Kingdom. Are you prepared to do same?
The reward awaits whoever works for God with zeal.
Let us respond to the word of Jesus Christ that says, as long as it is day, I must do the work of Him who sent me, night is coming, when no one can work. (John 9:4)
Join us for worship on Sundays, from 12 mid-day through 3 p.m at 17, Allée Nicolas de Stael, 93300 Aubervilliers – France.
By Pastor Phillip Odior.
NOTHING IS TOO HARD FOR GOD
Text: Jeremiah 32:16–20.
In recent time there was the Dorian storm disaster in Bahamas. This dreadful storm later moved on to the coasts of the United States of America. The storm was so strong that it devastated properties and claimed many lives.
Apostle Paul, on his way to Rome to face the charges levied against his faith, and a host of other passengers, were caught in the midst of a storm. (Acts 27:16–20) Verse 18 explains what they did on the second day. "They began to throw the cargo overboard."
The storm is a challenge. In the life of a human-being, there are times we are faced with one challenge or other. Sometimes you may have to lose your belongings, money, materials etc.
If the tempest persists, off-load some luggage, such as sin, habit or relationship. You will be lighter.
Be prepared to loose something instead of loosing all. The book of Matthew explains thus, "And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to loose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell." (Matthew 5:30)
The storm or tempest, is a period of darkness, hardship, sickness and other difficult times in life.
Beware of disobedience, and discountenance of God’s Words. Then remain courageous in the center of your challenges. Why? Because God will not abandon you. As in Psalm 34:7, "The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and He delivers them."
Concerning the subject of this text, Nothing is too hard for God, (Jer 32:16) The reason for this, is simple. God’s power is unlimited. He is Omnipotent, Omniscience, and Omnipresent
God is Omnipresent in the sense that He is everywhere. He sees everywhere.
God is Omniscience implies that He knows everything, both past and present. He knows you right from your mother’s womb. (Jeremiah 1:5a) "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you,"
God is Omnipotent means that God is all powerful. He created the heaven and earth. Nothing is too hard for God. Trust in Him. There is nothing that is too hard for God.
God is not limited by time: God created the earth in a blink of an eye, what would take years to do. God said, "Let there be light and there was light." (Genesis 1:3) In Psalms 147:15, it says, "He sends His command to the earth; His words run swiftly."
The unlimited power of God is not only in His creation, but also in governments and leaders. This is better explained in the book of Daniel 2:21, "He changes times and seasons; He chooses kings and deposes them. King Nebuchadnezar is an example. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning." God gave wisdom and riches to King Solomon. He is God of abundance. His power is not limited in terms of prosperity. Indeed power, honour and glory belong to God.
It should however be noted that the power of Pilate was limited over Jesus. This is better explained in John 19:11. It says, Jesus answered, "You would have no power over ME if it were not given to you from above." In other words, the authority Pilate had was a delegated authority.
Nothing is too hard for God: Jesus has the power to calm the storm in your life, in the same way He talked to the wind and it was still. Jesus performed His miracles either by saying a word or more, or by touching. In Matthew 8 : 23–27, Jesus queried the disciples as to their little faith. However, Jesus said a word, and the wind was calm. (verse 26)
Jesus walked on the sea: (Mark 6:47–48) The disciples were in the ship heading to Bethsaida. They saw Jesus walking up and down the sea. They took Jesus for a spirit. Yes, a Holy Spirit for that matter. Jesus told them to be of good courage. "It’s ME" Jesus said.
In terms of healing, Jesus power is unlimited: Jesus touches the leper, in Matthew 8:2–3. Having seen the faith of the leper, Jesus said, "I will." Put your trust in God. There is nothing too hard for God. Jesus did restore eyes of the blind.
The Omnipotent God, raised the dead: Lazarus has been dead for four days. Jesus raised him. We should not forget that, Jesus Himself resurrected the third day as He had predicted. About Lazarus, read (John 11:14ff)
The daughter of Jarius was brought to life by Jesus (Mark 5:41–42)
Jesus can speed up the process of your healing. You need to off-load some of your luggage in you, that is sin, evil habit, and bad relationship etc.
God made a monkey to talk: (Numbers 22:28) Then the Lord opened the donkey’s mouth, and she said to Balaam, "What have I done to you to make you beat me these three times?"
The power of God is unlimited from the point of view of His miracles : numerous healings, calming of the storm, raising the dead, His power of creation etc. Trust in God for everything. His power is unlimited. There is nothing that is too hard for Him.
Pastor Phillip Odior.
CONTENTMENT AND GODLINESS.
Theme: Philippians 4:10–12.
"I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. Verse 11, I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want."
One of the secret of being happy and joyful is to be thankful to the Lord, first, for what He has done for you, and then ask Him to meet your other needs. The faithful God, will answer your prayer.
Do not compare yourself with other people or some people, because our part in destiny is not the same. More so, comparison is sometimes the thief of joy and happiness.
There was a king, despite his flamboyant life-style, he was neither happy nor contented.
The servant of the king was singing happily while he worked. The king asked the servant why he was contented. He replied the king and said "Let me get warm food to eat and have a place to put my head and my family and that’s all I need"
The king went to his adviser and told him what the servant had said to the king. The king’s adviser said, "Your majesty, your servant was contented because he had not joined the Club 99. So the king dropped a bag of 99 silver gold and laid it by the door of the servant of the king. He counted the silver coins severally, to make assurance double sure. The servant began to be worried about the remaining one silver coin.The next speech of the servant was "Let me get that one final thing and then I will be happy for life."
At one point in time, we are guilty of this craving for the need. We neglect to thank God for what He has done for us. Your being alive today is not by your making. It’s God’s. All you are today is by God. What you are today is another person’s prayer point. Remember, as you breath now, some are drawing their last breath. Be contented with what God has done for you. Do not grumble. Stop complaining.
Whoever is not contented with what he or she has will not be contented with what he or she will like to have. By no means, he or she will not be contented. To be contented does not mean that you did not desire more, rather it means you are thankful for what you have while waiting patiently for what God will give you next.
CONTENTMENT, is the inner peace that comes from being right with God, and knowing that He is in control of all that happens to us. It is therefore the attitude of accepting whatever God provides for us and being happy with it. It is this peace in us that allows us to be happy and joyful in whatever situation we find ourselves.
Contentment is a Christian grace as stated by Apostle Paul in his letter to the Philippians, in chapter 4:10–12, "I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. Vs 11, I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want."
Paul is telling us to learn to be contented with what we have, simply because the secret of being happy and joyful is to be contented with whatever situation we may find ourselves.
The kids are ever contented with whatever you give them. Give them food and cloth them. They are contented. They don’t complain.
DISCONTENTMENT, is a sin, that God hates in our lives. In the wilderness, God sent Manna, angel’s food to the Israelites in the desert, during their forty years journey instead of forty days. The Israelites were discontented with the Manna. See Psalm 78:24–25. The Manna was from heaven, by God. The taste was excellent. The Israelites called it "Manna" meaning what is it? Read Exodus 16:15 and verse 31 for the meaning the Israelites gave to this nice food - Manna. They did not know what it was. See verse 31.
See Numbers 21:4–6, to see where God vented His anger on the Israelites because of their discontentment or grumbling. Verse 6 reads as follow. "The Lord sent venomous snake to bite the people of Israel, and many Israelites died." The bottom line is that discontentment has ruined many people. Discontentment is a sin that God hates in our lives.
Discontentment has exposed many people into strong temptation that has ruined them. See 1st Timothy 6:9.
Secondly, discontentment can lead one away from the faith and bring sorrow or ruin, for example, some, for the love of money and power in the community, have gone to many length to achieve their aims and objectives contrary to the will of God. You cannot serve God and Mammon. Discontent breeds greed. Beware.
Contentment, therefore is the peace within us and by putting trust in God.
Contentment is a Christian virtue that grows in us. It allows us to put away greed, and materialism, covetousness. etc. The end of Jezebel was disastrous.
HOW DO WE OVERCOME DISCONTENTMENT? We must wear the garment of GODLINESS.
GODLINESS: Is not a culture. It is an attitude of the heart. That’s why in 1st Samuel 16:7 says, "People look at the outward appearance, but God looks at the heart." A Godly person is one whose heart is sensitive to God, take His Word seriously, and desires more of Him. That’s why David said in Psalm 42:2, "My soul thirst for God" In one word, we should prioritise the word of God in all we do. God is watching our hearts.
Godliness is a change of heart and attitude. To be godly does not matter whether you are young or old, or a father or a mother, teacher or student etc.
In sum, to be happy and joyful, you must be contented with what God has given you. Thank God for what He has given you, then ask for other things that you desire. The faithfull God will give you your heart desire.
2) You must be godly: Since godliness is a change of heart and attitude, godliness must be seen in your work, duty, official or religious, matrimonial, your neighbours, etc.
3) You must be sensitive to the word of God and His work, your attitude to your work, to people, will be given a place in your heart. God is watching it, and this pleases God.
THEME:
BE HOPEFUL, FAITHFUL
, AND OBEDIENT TO JESUS CHRIST
BE HOPEFUL, FAITHFUL
, AND OBEDIENT TO JESUS CHRIST
TEXT: Matthew 1:23; Isaiah 9:6.
May the Lord Jesus Christ, be with you and your household throughout 2020. May you continue to enjoy His unfailing love, peace, and grace.
Last week, millions of Christians commemorated the birth of Jesus Christ, born in Bethlehem. Though some Christians alluded the celebration of the birth of Christ to a feast of the pagan, and that Jesus Christ was not born on December 25.
Even so, the prophecy of the birth of Jesus Christ was fulfilled in the Old Testament and in the New Testament. “Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign. The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call Him Immanuel” (Isaiah 7:14) Read also (Matthew 1:23.)
What matter most is the spiritual importance of the birth of Jesus Christ. The import of this is the mystery surrounding the birth of Christ. Jesus was born and His resurrection could take place. The resurrection of Christ is the basis of our faith. There is a difference between celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ and celebrating the date of birth of Jesus Christ.
Another significance of the birth of Christ is that, it challenges us to put our faith in Christ.
The birth of Christ is a message of hope, trust, and obedience.
Again, the birth of Christ teaches us that God is always present and will never abandon us in our moment of difficulties. That is why He is called Immanuel. God with us.
In a difficult period, we are in today, such as wars, persecutions, lack, disappointment, loss of loved ones, loss of job, etc., one cannot but look unto Jesus, as in the watchword of Christ Apostolic Church, year 2020. “Turn to me and be saved, all you ends of the earth, for I am God, and there is no other.”
The message of the New Year 2020 is one of HOPE. Be hopeful in the new year. Trust and obey the command of God. No prophecy is greater than these.
Inspite of all challenges, do not be discouraged, because Christ is with you always.
In the year 2020, Jesus will be with you, in your going out and coming in. He will be with you in your journey of life, in your matrimonial homes, place of work, in your undertakings. He will meet your needs and your good heart desires.
Before Jesus gave up the ghost, He said, « It is finished. » that is to say your anxiety, lack, diseases, sadness are gone. All have been nailed to the cross. What hope or prophecy is more than this for you, in this year? All you need to do is to put your trust in Christ and obey Him. He will be with you. He is Immanuel. God with us.
Do not anchor your hope on human beings. They can disappoint you. CAC Hymn 809 explains all. Put your trust in Jesus Christ and obey His commands. There is no other way.
Hannah put her hope on God and trusted Him, that explains why she kept going to Shiloh every year until God opened her womb. (1st Samuel 1 ff)
The woman with the issue of blood for twelve years is another example of hopelessness. She took her problem to Jesus. Her faith came in contact with Jesus and she was healed. Read Luke 8 : 43ff.
What is your issue? Take it to Jesus, and your matter is settled.
In Isaiah 9:6, Jesus Christ is called the Prince of Peace. The reason why Jesus was born includes giving you peace of mind. Happy are they that have that peace of God inside them. The devil has robbed off the peace of many, causing them anxiety and restlessness. Such people took to the use of illicit drugs. These drugs are not the good substitute for God. The only source of joy, and peace is God. Once you put your trust in God, He will not allow the devil to near you, that is to say, that God will not allow the devil to rob you of your peace inside you. He is Prince of Prince.
However, many your challenges are, take them to Jesus Christ. Put your hope in Him. Trust in Him and obey His commands, and He will be with you always.
HAPPY NEW YEAR.
TEXT: Matthew 1:23; Isaiah 9:6.
May the Lord Jesus Christ, be with you and your household throughout 2020. May you continue to enjoy His unfailing love, peace, and grace.
Last week, millions of Christians commemorated the birth of Jesus Christ, born in Bethlehem. Though some Christians alluded the celebration of the birth of Christ to a feast of the pagan, and that Jesus Christ was not born on December 25.
Even so, the prophecy of the birth of Jesus Christ was fulfilled in the Old Testament and in the New Testament. “Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign. The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call Him Immanuel” (Isaiah 7:14) Read also (Matthew 1:23.)
What matter most is the spiritual importance of the birth of Jesus Christ. The import of this is the mystery surrounding the birth of Christ. Jesus was born and His resurrection could take place. The resurrection of Christ is the basis of our faith. There is a difference between celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ and celebrating the date of birth of Jesus Christ.
Another significance of the birth of Christ is that, it challenges us to put our faith in Christ.
The birth of Christ is a message of hope, trust, and obedience.
Again, the birth of Christ teaches us that God is always present and will never abandon us in our moment of difficulties. That is why He is called Immanuel. God with us.
In a difficult period, we are in today, such as wars, persecutions, lack, disappointment, loss of loved ones, loss of job, etc., one cannot but look unto Jesus, as in the watchword of Christ Apostolic Church, year 2020. “Turn to me and be saved, all you ends of the earth, for I am God, and there is no other.”
The message of the New Year 2020 is one of HOPE. Be hopeful in the new year. Trust and obey the command of God. No prophecy is greater than these.
Inspite of all challenges, do not be discouraged, because Christ is with you always.
In the year 2020, Jesus will be with you, in your going out and coming in. He will be with you in your journey of life, in your matrimonial homes, place of work, in your undertakings. He will meet your needs and your good heart desires.
Before Jesus gave up the ghost, He said, « It is finished. » that is to say your anxiety, lack, diseases, sadness are gone. All have been nailed to the cross. What hope or prophecy is more than this for you, in this year? All you need to do is to put your trust in Christ and obey Him. He will be with you. He is Immanuel. God with us.
Do not anchor your hope on human beings. They can disappoint you. CAC Hymn 809 explains all. Put your trust in Jesus Christ and obey His commands. There is no other way.
Hannah put her hope on God and trusted Him, that explains why she kept going to Shiloh every year until God opened her womb. (1st Samuel 1 ff)
The woman with the issue of blood for twelve years is another example of hopelessness. She took her problem to Jesus. Her faith came in contact with Jesus and she was healed. Read Luke 8 : 43ff.
What is your issue? Take it to Jesus, and your matter is settled.
In Isaiah 9:6, Jesus Christ is called the Prince of Peace. The reason why Jesus was born includes giving you peace of mind. Happy are they that have that peace of God inside them. The devil has robbed off the peace of many, causing them anxiety and restlessness. Such people took to the use of illicit drugs. These drugs are not the good substitute for God. The only source of joy, and peace is God. Once you put your trust in God, He will not allow the devil to near you, that is to say, that God will not allow the devil to rob you of your peace inside you. He is Prince of Prince.
However, many your challenges are, take them to Jesus Christ. Put your hope in Him. Trust in Him and obey His commands, and He will be with you always.
HAPPY NEW YEAR.
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