This question is posed because it appears that what are right have become the wrongs and what is wrong has become right.
Let’s explore what is meant by the right becoming the wrong and wrong has become right; we see same sex-marriages being legalized by the high courts in some states, and many other states recognizing same sex-marriages as civil unions. Did these decision makers ever consider the institution of marriage being implemented by God according to Genesis1:27? We see from scripture God instituted marriage between Adam and Eve and not Adam and Steve or Eve and Ethel. In addition, we see God implementation of the family structure as man, wife and then the children. God created man first, then Eve and instructed them to be fruitful and multiply; from this union their children were born (Cain and Abel named in the Bible). Two men do not constitute a family nor do two women and then incorporating the child constitute a family. Is man (mankind) leaning to his own understanding instead of consulting scripture for what is right in the sight of God or is man forsaking the knowledge of God in order to live by his own standards and not God’s moral laws? We see in Romans 1:18-32 the sins man was committing and God’s reactions. God gave them over to a reprobate mind, meaning it was a primary sign of God abandoning His prized creation. Questions come to mind which are, is modern day society (America) following in the foot steps of the people recorded in the Bible? Does America believe the Bible, or does America feel that since God has sent His Son Jesus to redeem man no harm will befall him and he can live anyway he wants? What happened to the principles that this country was founded upon which was “In God we trust”?
It appears as though we are trusting in the almighty dollar? Greed has become the ruler of this nation. I say that because we have CEO’s making millions of dollar per year while their company’s profit margin is falling, plants and other industries closing their doors, workers losing their jobs, which in turn results in homes being lost, an increase in our unemployment roles as well as an increase to our health and human services. This causes a strain on our economy and everybody loses. Ask yourself this question, is any CEO worth $52 million and more per year while their company struggles and their workers are being let go? Some of these workers will lose their pension or life savings? Who can forget the Enron and Kmart fiasco just to name a few? What happened to those people? What happen to live and let live or treat others as I want to be treated? Are these actions all about self and forget the workers (little guy)?
It appears that greed is prevalent throughout corporate America and our government as well. Reflect with me on the movie Fahrenheit 9/11 when our sitting president stated “it’s all about the haves and have mores, and I got my base.” This statement had a profound negative effect on me with regards to how he felt about people earning less that $200,000 per year. It did not give me a good feel for how he would direct the overall populace of this country. What do we have now? Our economy is on the brink of disaster, our dollar is being devalued and the value is lower than it has ever been. This country is deep in debt to China and other countries, we import far more than we export. Oil prices are at an all time high and steady climbing; make one wonder will this end and how long will the big oil companies and our government continues to bleed the people? All Greed!
Let’s not forget this war that this country is waging that has cost and continues to cost this country billions. The result is that our grandchildren’s future has been mortgaged away. Unless some God fearing leader (s) goes to Washington and put his trust in God for leadership to turn things around, then our grandchildren has no hope of the future as we know it. However, we Christians must teach our children and grandchildren to put all their trust in God first, and then teach them to live within or below their means. Second, teach them as our parents taught us to pay God His ten percent first, and then save some for a rainy day.
Other examples of this country’s moral decay is a majority of our TV shows promotes sex and numerous are promoting or pushing the envelope on homosexuality. Our earlier TV shows had more respected their TV audience and held themselves to a higher standard. Family shows depicted the husband, wife and kids, not two men and a child. Please let’s not forget the rap culture and the language that is uses in these recordings. This music is being played and our children listen and believe this is the norm. They should not be subjected to this kind of language and culture. Wrong is right!
I am reminded of the incident where a sitting judge was punished for having the Ten Commandments displayed in his court room. What’s wrong with this country? The ones who initiated these actions, don’t they know the Ten Commandments are the foundation for this country’s laws. Are they non-believers who does not want any evidence of God and His name displayed anywhere?
America let’s remember our morals which this country was founded upon; more importantly, right is right and wrong is wrong. That’s the way it is and will remain so. Fellow believers, go with me in sincere prayer for the moral decay of this country and its other aliments. As ambassadors for Christ we must be examples for immoral America of what is right and that right will always be right and wrong cannot become right. Has America lost its moral compass? The highlighted wrongs are enough to make you think so. You decide.
Monday, June 9, 2008
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Labor of Love
1 Corinthians 1:3
What is love? Love is God promising humanity a saviour and the Father fulfilled His promise in Jesus Christ. Love can be found in John 3:16, “For God so love the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” This verse depicts the true heart of God and demonstrates to the world what true love is. The words “world and whosoever” encompasses every one. God is not concerned about race, creed, color or social status; He is concerned about humanity’s salvation. For this reason God gave the best and all He had to provide mankind with everlasting life. What love?
1 John 4:9 supports God’s love for humanity which is evidence through Jesus Christ that “we may live through him.” God tells us in1 John 4:7 to love one another because He is the source of our love and there is no greater love than the love of God who lives in us through the Holy Spirit. Through the Holy Spirit we can overcome the evils of this world, which includes Satan’s temptations, persecutions and false teachings. With the Holy Spirit aiding the believer, we can live victoriously according to God’s will for our lives in Christ (Romans 8:37, Word Study Bible).
Once believers establish a vertical relationship with God, then believers can develop a horizontal relationship one to another (v7). Love is one of the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22) and evidenced in our new birth and spiritual maturity. In addition, it is something the believer is responsible to develop because (a) it is God’s nature and we are born of Him, (b) He is love and believers experience His love and forgiveness. What love!
1 John 4:10 states, “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” What is left to say about God and His love; it transcends all definitions and actions. How do we as believers respond to God’s love? Deuteronomy 6:5 answers the question on how believers are to respond to God’s love given all that He has done for humanity. Verse 5 is a commandment given by God and is regarded as the greatest commandment of all. Furthermore verse 5 supports Mark 12:29-31 in regards to the believer’s relationship to God and one another.
It was a labor of love that our Savior Jesus Christ went to the cross as humanity’s propitiator in complete obedience His father. How are we to respond? We are to remember His work on the cross in faith and that Jesus Christ paid humanity’s sin debt at Calvary. It was a labor of love from a human perspective because Jesus was both man and God. In His humanity, Jesus suffered brutal pain and agony many hours for mankind. In Sovereignty Jesus willingly gave His life bridging the divide between man and God. During those atoning hours God, the Father could not look on His Son; even the heavenly bodies went out of control; the sun refused to shine, the earth reeled back and forth like a drunken man and mid-day looked like night, because the second person in the Godhead was taking on humanity’s sins.
Remembering what God the Father and His Son done for us, we should love God first and then “one another in deed and in truth” (1 Johns 3:18). This shows that we have the love of God in us and we are the sons of God. Love is the focal point of our being an has been written and testified of, we as believers can delight ourselves in the LORD because we are loved and at any time we feel unloved we can pray this prayer, “LORD thank you for encompassing me with your love” (Light For My Path for Women, Jennifer Hahn). This prayer is powerful and reflective of foot prints in the sand saying; when we are in trouble and there are one set of footprints it is our Lord carrying us. Another view point on God’s love, when troubles over shadows us and we feel unloved; God’s love is the umbrella that protects us. God said “I will never leave you nor forsake you” Take God at His word and enjoy His all encompassing love.
The book, The Lord Is My Shepherd is available through Amazon.com, Barnes and Nobles, and PublishAmerica.com.
Read and be blessed. Post your comments to the envelope.
Willie White,
The author
What is love? Love is God promising humanity a saviour and the Father fulfilled His promise in Jesus Christ. Love can be found in John 3:16, “For God so love the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” This verse depicts the true heart of God and demonstrates to the world what true love is. The words “world and whosoever” encompasses every one. God is not concerned about race, creed, color or social status; He is concerned about humanity’s salvation. For this reason God gave the best and all He had to provide mankind with everlasting life. What love?
1 John 4:9 supports God’s love for humanity which is evidence through Jesus Christ that “we may live through him.” God tells us in1 John 4:7 to love one another because He is the source of our love and there is no greater love than the love of God who lives in us through the Holy Spirit. Through the Holy Spirit we can overcome the evils of this world, which includes Satan’s temptations, persecutions and false teachings. With the Holy Spirit aiding the believer, we can live victoriously according to God’s will for our lives in Christ (Romans 8:37, Word Study Bible).
Once believers establish a vertical relationship with God, then believers can develop a horizontal relationship one to another (v7). Love is one of the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22) and evidenced in our new birth and spiritual maturity. In addition, it is something the believer is responsible to develop because (a) it is God’s nature and we are born of Him, (b) He is love and believers experience His love and forgiveness. What love!
1 John 4:10 states, “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” What is left to say about God and His love; it transcends all definitions and actions. How do we as believers respond to God’s love? Deuteronomy 6:5 answers the question on how believers are to respond to God’s love given all that He has done for humanity. Verse 5 is a commandment given by God and is regarded as the greatest commandment of all. Furthermore verse 5 supports Mark 12:29-31 in regards to the believer’s relationship to God and one another.
It was a labor of love that our Savior Jesus Christ went to the cross as humanity’s propitiator in complete obedience His father. How are we to respond? We are to remember His work on the cross in faith and that Jesus Christ paid humanity’s sin debt at Calvary. It was a labor of love from a human perspective because Jesus was both man and God. In His humanity, Jesus suffered brutal pain and agony many hours for mankind. In Sovereignty Jesus willingly gave His life bridging the divide between man and God. During those atoning hours God, the Father could not look on His Son; even the heavenly bodies went out of control; the sun refused to shine, the earth reeled back and forth like a drunken man and mid-day looked like night, because the second person in the Godhead was taking on humanity’s sins.
Remembering what God the Father and His Son done for us, we should love God first and then “one another in deed and in truth” (1 Johns 3:18). This shows that we have the love of God in us and we are the sons of God. Love is the focal point of our being an has been written and testified of, we as believers can delight ourselves in the LORD because we are loved and at any time we feel unloved we can pray this prayer, “LORD thank you for encompassing me with your love” (Light For My Path for Women, Jennifer Hahn). This prayer is powerful and reflective of foot prints in the sand saying; when we are in trouble and there are one set of footprints it is our Lord carrying us. Another view point on God’s love, when troubles over shadows us and we feel unloved; God’s love is the umbrella that protects us. God said “I will never leave you nor forsake you” Take God at His word and enjoy His all encompassing love.
The book, The Lord Is My Shepherd is available through Amazon.com, Barnes and Nobles, and PublishAmerica.com.
Read and be blessed. Post your comments to the envelope.
Willie White,
The author
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Walk in Love
Ephesians 5:1-2a
Why is it important to walk in love? Ephesians 5: 1 -2 states “Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children. And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling saviour.” These two verses answer why believers are to walk in love. Additionally, if we as believers are to follow God’s example on love who gave His best for humanity’s sins and Christ’s Calvary encounter was the ultimate display of love for mankind. This display of love depicts the true heart of God and the obedience of His Son. Furthermore, being a Christian means being Christ-like, then we are to walk humbly in love to God. Amy Carmichael’s saying on love, “If I put my own good name before the other’s highest good, then I know nothing of Calvary love.”
The question is how do Christians show the world love? Romans 12:10, states, “Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another.” Scriptures instructing believers on love are 1 Thessalonians 4:9b states, “ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another.” In 1 John 4:11-12, “If we love one another, and “God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us.” Love has been the message since the beginning of time will continue to resonate throughout the ages as we are to love God first then one another; love begins and ends with God. What greater love that a man will lay down his life for his friends, which is what Christ did for humanity. Jesus called His disciples friends and you and I are considered friends upon establishing a relationship with Jesus.
We have discussed how Christians show the world love; let’s discuss the benefits of walking in love. Christians are commissioned to serve as God’s ambassadors who carry His message throughout the world. As Christ’s ambassador we are let our light shine before God so men may see our good works and want to be saved. The world is to see Christ manifested in our daily lives. Believers are the salt of the earth; seasoning the earth with the gospel message of Christ. Matthew 28:19-20 is known as the great commission for all believers who are commissioned to go into every nation making disciples not just converts. Christ is with His ambassadors in the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. Christ promised to be with His followers to the ends of the world, and believers can stand on this promise. What is a disciple? A disciple is a follower of Christ who is committed to following Christ with their whole hearts, minds, wills and has committed themselves to Christ and His kingdom purposes. Believers are to live separated lives as sojourners in a foreign land, which is what we are; because heaven is our true home.
What is believers’ lifestyle? Believers practice a lifestyle of daily holy living, because believers are of the royal priesthood which sets us apart as a holy nation for a special service for the Lord. Some of those special services include, (a) being a living sacrifice of holy obedience to God and not conforming to this world, (b) offering our petitions, prayer and praise to God on behalf of others, (c) performing good deeds, (d) giving material possessions as required, and (e) presenting our bodies to God as instruments of righteousness ( KJV LSPSB).
Final question, what are the blessings from walking in God’s love? The blessings from walking in God’s love result in believers being made holy which separates us from the world and delivers us from the bondage sin that we may have an intimate fellowship with God and gladly serve Him until we reach our heavenly home. Believers have separation by accepting Christ’s atoning death on the cross through faith. Sanctification is an ongoing process that requires believers to remain in constant communion with Christ. Believers are blessed with the Hoy Spirit who leads guides and protects us while calming the trouble waters of our souls. We are kept in unity with God by the constant anointing of the Holy Spirit through daily Bible reading and prayer. How is your Christian walk? Is it in love?
Why is it important to walk in love? Ephesians 5: 1 -2 states “Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children. And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling saviour.” These two verses answer why believers are to walk in love. Additionally, if we as believers are to follow God’s example on love who gave His best for humanity’s sins and Christ’s Calvary encounter was the ultimate display of love for mankind. This display of love depicts the true heart of God and the obedience of His Son. Furthermore, being a Christian means being Christ-like, then we are to walk humbly in love to God. Amy Carmichael’s saying on love, “If I put my own good name before the other’s highest good, then I know nothing of Calvary love.”
The question is how do Christians show the world love? Romans 12:10, states, “Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another.” Scriptures instructing believers on love are 1 Thessalonians 4:9b states, “ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another.” In 1 John 4:11-12, “If we love one another, and “God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us.” Love has been the message since the beginning of time will continue to resonate throughout the ages as we are to love God first then one another; love begins and ends with God. What greater love that a man will lay down his life for his friends, which is what Christ did for humanity. Jesus called His disciples friends and you and I are considered friends upon establishing a relationship with Jesus.
We have discussed how Christians show the world love; let’s discuss the benefits of walking in love. Christians are commissioned to serve as God’s ambassadors who carry His message throughout the world. As Christ’s ambassador we are let our light shine before God so men may see our good works and want to be saved. The world is to see Christ manifested in our daily lives. Believers are the salt of the earth; seasoning the earth with the gospel message of Christ. Matthew 28:19-20 is known as the great commission for all believers who are commissioned to go into every nation making disciples not just converts. Christ is with His ambassadors in the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. Christ promised to be with His followers to the ends of the world, and believers can stand on this promise. What is a disciple? A disciple is a follower of Christ who is committed to following Christ with their whole hearts, minds, wills and has committed themselves to Christ and His kingdom purposes. Believers are to live separated lives as sojourners in a foreign land, which is what we are; because heaven is our true home.
What is believers’ lifestyle? Believers practice a lifestyle of daily holy living, because believers are of the royal priesthood which sets us apart as a holy nation for a special service for the Lord. Some of those special services include, (a) being a living sacrifice of holy obedience to God and not conforming to this world, (b) offering our petitions, prayer and praise to God on behalf of others, (c) performing good deeds, (d) giving material possessions as required, and (e) presenting our bodies to God as instruments of righteousness ( KJV LSPSB).
Final question, what are the blessings from walking in God’s love? The blessings from walking in God’s love result in believers being made holy which separates us from the world and delivers us from the bondage sin that we may have an intimate fellowship with God and gladly serve Him until we reach our heavenly home. Believers have separation by accepting Christ’s atoning death on the cross through faith. Sanctification is an ongoing process that requires believers to remain in constant communion with Christ. Believers are blessed with the Hoy Spirit who leads guides and protects us while calming the trouble waters of our souls. We are kept in unity with God by the constant anointing of the Holy Spirit through daily Bible reading and prayer. How is your Christian walk? Is it in love?
Friday, May 9, 2008
Mother's Day
Happy Mother’s Day
Marvellous are Thy Works
Psalm 139:14
Marvellous are Thy Works
Psalm 139:14
Who are mothers? Mothers are the female parent in the household. She is a voice of authority. She is the child-bearer of the family. She is the family’s centerpiece. She loves and moves with the grace of God. She love and cherishes her family, husband and children unconditionally. She loves and honors her position and responsibilities.
Mothers are a masterpiece designed by God, and mothers honor their masterful works as recorded in Psalm 139:14 which states, “I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.”
Mothers, you are a blessing from God; your hands never stop working. You mend broken hearts with a smile, kind words of encouragement and then offer an intercessory prayer to God. Your words melt away the hurt, problems become smaller, mountains appear easier to climb, and goals become achievable.
This day is set aside to say thank you for all your acts of kindness, endless love and tireless efforts.
Mothers, what would life be like without you? Mothers, you are loved.
Happy Mother’s Day
WILLIE B. WHITE,
Author
Good Shepherd Writing and Publishing LLC
© all rights subsists 05/04/2008
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Duties to Fellow Members
Final phase in our covenant discussion is the duty of members to each other; first, we are to watch over one another in love (see I Peter 1:22 paraphrases). Why? God is love and we are to emulate His love. Second, we are to pray for one another (James5:16). “Prayers of the righteous availeth much.”
Third, we are to aid in sickness and distress (see Galatians 6:2; James 2:14-17). What better opportunity for a believer to visit than when our brother or sister is experiencing sickness or gonging through a distressful situation; a smile and prayer is always appropriate? A smile looked upon as the universal language understood by all that warms the heart and believers are encouraged to pray for one another because God answer’s prayer.
Forth, we are to show sympathy and courtesy (1 Peter 3:8). What this means, we as believers are to share in another’s pain and extend a hand of courtesy to the person or family. Lastly, we are to be slow to take offense or become angry and always be ready to reconcile our differences (Ephesians 4:30-32). It takes a big person to say I am sorry. More importantly, this phrase will and has reconciled many differences and initiated more forgiveness than any phrase known to man.
In closing our dialogue on the basic covenant as it relates to believers and the church, it was the writer’s intent to enlighten, encourage and refresh the memory of readers on their basic duties. Hopefully, the discussion was stimulating as the covenant was discussed in-depth; for it is our agreement between the church, God and one another. Let’s honor our covenant relationships and be blessed.
Third, we are to aid in sickness and distress (see Galatians 6:2; James 2:14-17). What better opportunity for a believer to visit than when our brother or sister is experiencing sickness or gonging through a distressful situation; a smile and prayer is always appropriate? A smile looked upon as the universal language understood by all that warms the heart and believers are encouraged to pray for one another because God answer’s prayer.
Forth, we are to show sympathy and courtesy (1 Peter 3:8). What this means, we as believers are to share in another’s pain and extend a hand of courtesy to the person or family. Lastly, we are to be slow to take offense or become angry and always be ready to reconcile our differences (Ephesians 4:30-32). It takes a big person to say I am sorry. More importantly, this phrase will and has reconciled many differences and initiated more forgiveness than any phrase known to man.
In closing our dialogue on the basic covenant as it relates to believers and the church, it was the writer’s intent to enlighten, encourage and refresh the memory of readers on their basic duties. Hopefully, the discussion was stimulating as the covenant was discussed in-depth; for it is our agreement between the church, God and one another. Let’s honor our covenant relationships and be blessed.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Personal Christian Living - Covenant
This week's discussion on the Basic Covenant deals with the believer duties from a personal Christian living point of view.
The first thing is to maintain family and secret devotions (1 Thessalonians 5:17-18; Acts 17:11). First, the family structure needs to be recognized as a unit that God instituted, man, wife and children; where man is the head as God is the head of all. The family as a praying unit is a family that recognizes prayer as their communication with God and in the process establishes a relationship with the Father. This represents a godly family because they give thanks to God for what He has done in their lives. Furthermore, the family that places vital importance on family time together and outings as oppose to having the family operates on the postal system syndrome recognizes the true meaning of family.
Second, Christian living take serious the religious education of their children (2 Timothy 3:15; Deuteronomy 6:4-7) and they do not rely on secular education or the child to learn about God in a hit or miss manner. All parents set an example in their Christian education by living godly lives before the child and then they practice Deuteronomy 6:4-7. In addition, parents enroll their children in a structured Christian educational setting where the true Word of God is being taught. The child’s first education begins in the home when the child’s learns to talk. The child’s biblical teachings progresses as the child grow, meaning the child is growing spiritual and physically thus giving the child a solid foundation to withstand Satan’s attacks.
Third, our Christian living should be a Bible to the lost world for generations to come. Therefore, we as believers are to seek the salvation of the lost (Acts 1:8; Matthews 4:19; Psalm 126: 5-6; 2:14-15; Proverbs 11:30) in that we are witnesses for Christ; we have power through the Holy Spirit residing in us.
Fourth, we are to walk circumspectly in the world and just in our dealings, faithful in our engagements and exemplary in our behavior (Ephesians 5:15; Philippians 2:115; 1 Peter 2:11-12). What does all this mean? First let’s look at the word circumspect(ly) it means to carefully consider all circumstances, weigh you options or possible consequences. This what the writer means when she is teaching young children and adults about critical thinking, consider the consequences. Next, we are to be fair in our dealings as God is fair and just with us. To be faithful is to be committed in whatever we promise to do, in other words, let your yes be yes and no’s be no’s. Finally, be exemplary is to set an example, or serve as a model and lastly be above reproach.
Fifth, Christian living is to avoid gossip and excessive anger (Ephesians 4:31; 1 Peter 2:21; Colossians 3:8; James 3:1-2). We are to speak kindly of others because we are all God’s children and we are to emulate Him and then we must love one another. How must we control anger? This is accomplished with meekness, which is anger under control.
The sixth attribute of Christian living is to abstain from the sale or use of liquors (Ephesians 5:18; Habakkuk 2:15). Scripture encourages us to be filled with the Holy Spirit instead of spirits from the vines (fermented wines or intoxicating beverages) to the point of intoxication. Wine was commonly used in religious (Lord’s Supper) setting but it is believed to be of the non fermented or non-toxicating variety.
The seventh and final attribute of Christian living is for believers to be zealous in our efforts for Christ (Titus 2: 14). What does this mean? Believers are to have the zeal of Christ as He is our example in holy living.
Next week's topic will conclude our discussion on the Basic Covenant. It covers our duties to fellow members.
Read and be blessed
The first thing is to maintain family and secret devotions (1 Thessalonians 5:17-18; Acts 17:11). First, the family structure needs to be recognized as a unit that God instituted, man, wife and children; where man is the head as God is the head of all. The family as a praying unit is a family that recognizes prayer as their communication with God and in the process establishes a relationship with the Father. This represents a godly family because they give thanks to God for what He has done in their lives. Furthermore, the family that places vital importance on family time together and outings as oppose to having the family operates on the postal system syndrome recognizes the true meaning of family.
Second, Christian living take serious the religious education of their children (2 Timothy 3:15; Deuteronomy 6:4-7) and they do not rely on secular education or the child to learn about God in a hit or miss manner. All parents set an example in their Christian education by living godly lives before the child and then they practice Deuteronomy 6:4-7. In addition, parents enroll their children in a structured Christian educational setting where the true Word of God is being taught. The child’s first education begins in the home when the child’s learns to talk. The child’s biblical teachings progresses as the child grow, meaning the child is growing spiritual and physically thus giving the child a solid foundation to withstand Satan’s attacks.
Third, our Christian living should be a Bible to the lost world for generations to come. Therefore, we as believers are to seek the salvation of the lost (Acts 1:8; Matthews 4:19; Psalm 126: 5-6; 2:14-15; Proverbs 11:30) in that we are witnesses for Christ; we have power through the Holy Spirit residing in us.
Fourth, we are to walk circumspectly in the world and just in our dealings, faithful in our engagements and exemplary in our behavior (Ephesians 5:15; Philippians 2:115; 1 Peter 2:11-12). What does all this mean? First let’s look at the word circumspect(ly) it means to carefully consider all circumstances, weigh you options or possible consequences. This what the writer means when she is teaching young children and adults about critical thinking, consider the consequences. Next, we are to be fair in our dealings as God is fair and just with us. To be faithful is to be committed in whatever we promise to do, in other words, let your yes be yes and no’s be no’s. Finally, be exemplary is to set an example, or serve as a model and lastly be above reproach.
Fifth, Christian living is to avoid gossip and excessive anger (Ephesians 4:31; 1 Peter 2:21; Colossians 3:8; James 3:1-2). We are to speak kindly of others because we are all God’s children and we are to emulate Him and then we must love one another. How must we control anger? This is accomplished with meekness, which is anger under control.
The sixth attribute of Christian living is to abstain from the sale or use of liquors (Ephesians 5:18; Habakkuk 2:15). Scripture encourages us to be filled with the Holy Spirit instead of spirits from the vines (fermented wines or intoxicating beverages) to the point of intoxication. Wine was commonly used in religious (Lord’s Supper) setting but it is believed to be of the non fermented or non-toxicating variety.
The seventh and final attribute of Christian living is for believers to be zealous in our efforts for Christ (Titus 2: 14). What does this mean? Believers are to have the zeal of Christ as He is our example in holy living.
Next week's topic will conclude our discussion on the Basic Covenant. It covers our duties to fellow members.
Read and be blessed
Monday, April 14, 2008
Members duties to the Church
What are our duties to the church as it relate to the covenant?
First, we see that members are to walk together in Christian love, for God is love and we are to emulate Christ.
Second we are to strive for the advancement of the church by promoting its prosperity and spirituality (see Philippians 1:27; 2 Timothy 2:15; 2 Corinthians 7:1; 2 Peter 3:11). How do we advance the church’s prosperity? The most familiar is giving of our time, talent and tithes. God requires one tenth according to Malachi 3:10, which speaks to the blessings in store for believers. The question is often asked, “Will a man rob God” (V8)? Who wants to given all He has done for humanity and everything belongs to Him. In reverencing to God we give back the first of what He has already given us. How do we advance the church spiritually? According to 2 Corinthians 7:1 we are to cleanse ourselves of all unholiness and resist sinful desires of the body (paraphrased). Then if we are committed to Christ and have accepted Him as our personal savior, the Holy Spirit who dwells within us, as He cannot resides in a filthy place; subsequently it behooves every believer to lead and live sanctified lives daily. We have the indwelling Holy Spirit to aid believers in advancing the church spiritually; the true church is the believer. Let’s discuss briefly advancing the church with our time and talents; time is contributing to a ministry of the church or our community as God has blessed each believer with a gift (talent) and each is to edify the body of Christ. Consider your body; each member (part) of the body serves in its designed function contributing to the entire body. The same principle applies to the church (body of Christ); each gift is given to work together in harmony for the church’s advancement.
Third, we are to sustain its worship, ordinances, discipline and doctrines (Hebrews, 10:25; Matthews 28:19; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26; Jude 3). Let’s pose a series of questions, what is worship? What are the church ordinances? What is discipline? And finally, what is doctrine? Worship is “reverence offered a divine being or supernatural power” (Merriam-Webster Dictionary P 1065). A series of questions come to mind; when do we worship? Where do we worship? How do we worship? Is it in sincerity or superficially? How often do we worship? Take a self-analysis of your answers. An ordinance is “an authoritative decree or direction” (MwD p. 624). In religious settings and especially the Baptist faith ordinances are recognized as the Baptist Hiscox Guide and or the Articles of Faith. A discipline is defined “as self-control” (MWD p.252). Other denominations have authoritative decrees as a guide for their believers. Speaking on a spiritual note, how believers maintain self-discipline is with the aid of the Holy Spirit. The last question’s answer what is doctrine? Doctrine is teachings. Merriam- Webster (p.262) defines it as “strictly implies authoritative teaching accepted by a body of believers or adherents of a philosophy or school.” The secular and biblical definitions are parallel in their meanings.
From here we will segway to the fourth duty of the believer to the church, which is to give it pre-eminence in our lives (Matthew 6:33). What this means is to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness first and allow Him to take care of our needs.
The fifth duty as a member to the church is to contribute cheerfully and regularly (1 Corinthians 16:2; 2 Corinthians 8: 6-7). We as believers should make giving a part of our worship being a blessing to others as God has blessed us. Why? Because our true blessings come from God and it is His desire that we follow Christ’s example set before us. He stated that “the poor we would have with us always.” Additionally, our giving should be in proportion to our income, meaning that believers should set aside God’s tenth first each pay as we do our mortgage and experience God’s continuous blessings. Furthermore, we must make a conscious decision to serve God with our time, not just our money (Matthews 6:24). Finally, giving increases our dedication to God (Matthews 6:21) and activate the work of God in our financial affairs (Luke 6:38). More importantly, our primary focus should be God’s righteousness and His kingdom instead of our material wealth. He promised to supply all our needs; He is the good shepherd.
The sixth and final duty as a member of his or her local church is, upon leaving one’s current church, then promptly join another church so the believer will remain active in church work wherever the person may live (see Acts 11:19-21; 18:24-28).
This concludes our discussion on members and church duties; our next topical discussion will be on personal Christian living as it relates to believers and the covenant.
First, we see that members are to walk together in Christian love, for God is love and we are to emulate Christ.
Second we are to strive for the advancement of the church by promoting its prosperity and spirituality (see Philippians 1:27; 2 Timothy 2:15; 2 Corinthians 7:1; 2 Peter 3:11). How do we advance the church’s prosperity? The most familiar is giving of our time, talent and tithes. God requires one tenth according to Malachi 3:10, which speaks to the blessings in store for believers. The question is often asked, “Will a man rob God” (V8)? Who wants to given all He has done for humanity and everything belongs to Him. In reverencing to God we give back the first of what He has already given us. How do we advance the church spiritually? According to 2 Corinthians 7:1 we are to cleanse ourselves of all unholiness and resist sinful desires of the body (paraphrased). Then if we are committed to Christ and have accepted Him as our personal savior, the Holy Spirit who dwells within us, as He cannot resides in a filthy place; subsequently it behooves every believer to lead and live sanctified lives daily. We have the indwelling Holy Spirit to aid believers in advancing the church spiritually; the true church is the believer. Let’s discuss briefly advancing the church with our time and talents; time is contributing to a ministry of the church or our community as God has blessed each believer with a gift (talent) and each is to edify the body of Christ. Consider your body; each member (part) of the body serves in its designed function contributing to the entire body. The same principle applies to the church (body of Christ); each gift is given to work together in harmony for the church’s advancement.
Third, we are to sustain its worship, ordinances, discipline and doctrines (Hebrews, 10:25; Matthews 28:19; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26; Jude 3). Let’s pose a series of questions, what is worship? What are the church ordinances? What is discipline? And finally, what is doctrine? Worship is “reverence offered a divine being or supernatural power” (Merriam-Webster Dictionary P 1065). A series of questions come to mind; when do we worship? Where do we worship? How do we worship? Is it in sincerity or superficially? How often do we worship? Take a self-analysis of your answers. An ordinance is “an authoritative decree or direction” (MwD p. 624). In religious settings and especially the Baptist faith ordinances are recognized as the Baptist Hiscox Guide and or the Articles of Faith. A discipline is defined “as self-control” (MWD p.252). Other denominations have authoritative decrees as a guide for their believers. Speaking on a spiritual note, how believers maintain self-discipline is with the aid of the Holy Spirit. The last question’s answer what is doctrine? Doctrine is teachings. Merriam- Webster (p.262) defines it as “strictly implies authoritative teaching accepted by a body of believers or adherents of a philosophy or school.” The secular and biblical definitions are parallel in their meanings.
From here we will segway to the fourth duty of the believer to the church, which is to give it pre-eminence in our lives (Matthew 6:33). What this means is to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness first and allow Him to take care of our needs.
The fifth duty as a member to the church is to contribute cheerfully and regularly (1 Corinthians 16:2; 2 Corinthians 8: 6-7). We as believers should make giving a part of our worship being a blessing to others as God has blessed us. Why? Because our true blessings come from God and it is His desire that we follow Christ’s example set before us. He stated that “the poor we would have with us always.” Additionally, our giving should be in proportion to our income, meaning that believers should set aside God’s tenth first each pay as we do our mortgage and experience God’s continuous blessings. Furthermore, we must make a conscious decision to serve God with our time, not just our money (Matthews 6:24). Finally, giving increases our dedication to God (Matthews 6:21) and activate the work of God in our financial affairs (Luke 6:38). More importantly, our primary focus should be God’s righteousness and His kingdom instead of our material wealth. He promised to supply all our needs; He is the good shepherd.
The sixth and final duty as a member of his or her local church is, upon leaving one’s current church, then promptly join another church so the believer will remain active in church work wherever the person may live (see Acts 11:19-21; 18:24-28).
This concludes our discussion on members and church duties; our next topical discussion will be on personal Christian living as it relates to believers and the covenant.
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