SERMON NOTES
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As we proceed on our ongoing discourse relating to the experiences and expectations of the truly converted Christian and his spiritual journey, I find it imperative that we push forward as scripture says “therefore, leaving the discussion of the elementary principles of Christ, let us go on to perfection, not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God, 2 of the doctrine of baptisms, of laying on of hands, of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. 3 And this we will do if God permits. Hebrews 6:1-3 (NKJV).
This is even more interesting when we call to mind that the same Apostle Paul who gave this admonition also said in Galatians 1:8-9 (NKJV) “8 But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed. 9 As we have said before, so now I say again, if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be accursed”. This indicates that his admonition is not for us to proceed to anything other than that gospel that our Lord Jesus preached; rather it challenges us to proceed after expectedly comprehending and accomplishing the basic principles (Elementary).
In other words we must be quick to accomplish the basic principles such as baptism, laying on of hands, resurrection of the dead and an understanding of the eternal destination as a consequence of life-time choices (Acceptance or rejection). These are the basic foundation of our faith and we must be quick to accomplish them and proceed to perfection.
The charge for an upward journey to perfection is directed at those who have come to understand the importance of their salvation; that a huge price has been paid on their behalf. The realization of this great benefit should cause us to provide or produce an expected outcome. We must come to maturity by expressing the original plan that God had for His creation from the beginning, as stated in the Book of Genesis.
This call to proceed to perfection is duly captured a few verses down in Hebrews 6:7-12 “7For the earth which drinks in the rain that often comes upon it, and bears herbs useful for those by whom it is cultivated, receives blessing from God; 8 but if it bears thorns and briars, it is rejected and near to being cursed, whose end is to be burned. 9 But, beloved, we are confident of better things concerning you, yes, things that accompany salvation, though we speak in this manner. 10 For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister. 11 And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end, 12 that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises. (NKJV)
If the earth that takes in water is expected to bring forth excellent returns that is pleasing to God, imagine the expectation of the One who paid the debt over your life; a debt you could never have paid. We are therefore seen as those who should bear good fruit, not thorns and briers but excellent works. Our Lord Jesus highlighted this in the Gospel according to John, where He said “1 "I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. 2 Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. John 15:1-2 (NKJV).
Some of us may be going through a painful pruning experience because the vinedresser has found us productive and desires to assist us to do better. Pruning is not designed to be pleasurable; it is very necessary for continued yield and development. God is building something with me and you: He is at work with us livingstones. He is not building my empire; rather He is building in accordance to His eternal master plan. So every believer is a Livingstone. the Bible states in 1 Peter 2:1-5 “1 Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking, 2 as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby, 3 if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious. 4 Coming to Him as to a living stone, rejected indeed by men, but chosen by God and precious, 5 you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 2:1-5 (NKJV)
When we call to mind this scripture above, it begins to show clearly that we have parts to play in the eternal plan of God. If I fail in my part, the entire body and Church suffers as a consequence. We risk being replaced or passed over. May we not be replaced in Jesus Name! Our faith in God should propel us to seek to be profitable in His service. That God made us is like Him taking a selfie: A reflection of His image and likeness. Today, consider yourself as one appointed to a ministerial position: to show the light of God in every situation. We must be answers in a world that is steeped in wickedness and darkness, in your family, place of business/office etc.
We do not place emphasis on the blessings that follow His people because it is clear and certain. Our Lord Jesus came upon Peter’s mother-in-law who was in a distressing situation. The moment she was raised from her bed of affliction, she rose and began to cook for them.
Let us dedicate our lives to His service for indeed: a great price has been paid.
Why do people do the things they do? Why do people sin? Adultery, armed robbery, kidnappings, fraud, ... “James 4:7 says “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you”.
Why are we tempted? Why do people scorn others? Yet heavens gifts are freely given! Since heaven is neither for rich nor poor but for the righteous, why do we do the ungodly things we do? We do these things because we have been deceived into imagining that we can escape the consequences of our actions.
Esther 2:21-23; Esther 3:1 This reading follows a background of Xerxes and Vashti...The Queen refused the King's summons! Imagine that! Did she perhaps forget her duties as a queen? Her responsibilities? Nooo! This Queen had failed to remain in a state of warfare.
She was sick; she was slack in her obligations, forgetting how powerful her King was. If she had known... The fact that one gets away with something one day is no guarantee of the continuity of this state of affairs. God is slow to anger but abounding in mercy We need to remember there is a war going on. It takes wisdom and faithfulness to prosecute and be active in a state of warfare.
This story in the book of Esther introduces Mordecai- an advantageously placed scribe, an official in King Xerxes' court. He was loyal to God. He was opportune to hear a plot by two soldiers against the king's life. This was made known to the king in Mordecai's name through his cousin Esther who was now Queen. The punishment was meted out to the plotters immediately. The reward for revealing the coup was a recording in the annals of the King, nothing seemingly tangible was done for Modecai.
Eccl 8:11 states as follows "Because the sentences for evil work is not executed speedily therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil." Perhaps our world could have been a better place if there was rapid response for evil - an immediate reckoning.
Because humans are creatures of time, the lack of immediate punishment causes insensitivity to the wages of sin! Psalm 18:25-26 reminds us that God will be merciful with the merciful, with the upright He will be upright, with the pure He will be pure, with the froward, He will be froward. Hebrews 6:10 God will always reward even if circumstances and events make it seem like he has forgotten. Note that it seemed God had forgotten in the case of Mordecai.
After this, the next line points to the appointment of Haman the Agagite and Mordecai is 'forgotten'. Esther 3:2 even continues that some uncommon honour came along with this promotion- every one was compelled to bow before him by decree of the king but Mordecai would have none of it. Who knows - perhaps Haman even needed the backing of the king to receive any respect as a result of personal despicable character traits. What was Mordecai's reason? The Bible is silent on this but did Mordecai perhaps discern something unholy, corrupt or undeserving of such respect? Or for the simple reason of the 1st Commandment, being separated as a Jew.
Esther 3:6 states that Haman was so furious he disdained to punish Mordecai only but to eliminate all Jews. In verse 7 a date is chosen after they cast lots (Divination). - He forgot that 33 “The lot is cast into the lap, But its every decision is from the LORD”. “Proverbs 16:33 (NKJV) He also forgot that “There are many plans in a man's heart, Nevertheless the LORD'S counsel--that will stand”. “Proverbs 19:21 (NKJV)
Mordecai was not privy to all the conniving and plotting until a decree went out with the King's seal approving the total annihilation of all Jews. Esther 3:15 tells us that the King and Haman then went to drink ...while the whole of Shushan (where the Jews reside) was perplexed. Mordecai refused the covering that Esther sent him, choosing to stand with the Jews. He warned Esther not to be deceived into thinking she might escape. Mordecai perceived more than the present- how far reaching the consequences of such a decree could be.
Alas! God overthrew the wicked plans of Haman against the Jews, by causing the King to lose sleep and call for the records. He remembered that nothing had been done for Modecai as compensation for saving the kings life. The dynamics of events became altered in favour of Modecai and the Jews. God is faithful! He alone knows when He will reward you. He won't do wayo either way. Is the enemy telling you the contrary? That God has forgotten your labour of love? God can not forget.
Hezekiah was seen to have prayed for and received healing according to his desires but my prayer is for God to answer me according to His riches in glory, not because of my desires but his desires for me. Remember in Joseph’s life - Gen 40:23 ... for two years that butler forgot then God caused him to remember. God's due season will surely come. Do not even be deceived by others with sudden or spectacular breakthroughs. There is still a reward for good, for righteousness and waiting on the Lord. There is recompense for evil too! Isaiah: 49:16 says that God has carved us in the palm of His hand He can NEVER forget. Keep doing good! Keep doing righteousness and sowing good seeds. God never forgets!!!
A born again Christian is one who has changed location; who has changed kingdoms. Though it rarely appears dramatic as would be expected from something of this magnitude; something fundamental indeed takes place at that moment that we repent of our sins, ask for forgiveness and confess Jesus as our Lord and Savior. We are indeed transformed from death to life having become the inheritors of the price Jesus paid on the cross of Calvary. The Bible states in Col 1:13 “He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, 14 in whom we have redemption through His blood,[a] the forgiveness of sins”.
Our Lord Jesus told Nicodemus in the Gospel of John 3:3 (NKJV) 3 “Jesus answered and said to him, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." One should therefore be diligent to examine the nature of this kingdom. It is important to ask “What is the nature of the kingdoms in existence and to which do I belong?” Scripture makes it clear to us that there are two kingdoms opposed to each other; the kingdom of God and the kingdom of this world. One is immediate and earthly (Temporary) while the other is eternal (unchanging) Anything that men labour for or desire on earth but has no eternal value; anything that at any point in time will not be relevant, is of this world. The kingdom that our Lord Jesus came to deliver to us is not of this world. Whatever is a big deal today but will not be a big deal in years to come is of this world. No matter how critical in value or influence, as long as it can be made to change by whatever means; it is not of the kingdom of God.
In John 18:36 (NKJV) 36 Jesus answered, "My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, My servants would fight, so that I should not be delivered to the Jews; but now My kingdom is not from here." It is this kingdom that is unshakeable, everlasting and eternal. This kingdom for which our Lord Jesus paid a huge price is indeed for the whole world, but can only be accessed by receiving the love offered. But these two kingdoms are vehemently contrary to each other; the rules that operate in these locations are completely different. It is therefore folly of immense proportions when we apply worldly parameters to matters relating to the kingdom of God. When we hear references to Churches such as Mega Church, Largest Church or largest church auditorium as well as other ways by which physical things are measured; we should be alarmed. You will also hear about the Choir; the best choir, most vibrant choir etc.; the major question here is this; who determined which is the best choir?
Imagine an educational system where you have a monkey, a dog, a bird and an elephant; all you want is the person who will be the first up the tree. This test automatically makes nonsense of what a test should be because the animals chosen do not belong to the same class. An integral part of the average believers’ frustration lies in evaluating themselves based on the values of the world. When we sit down and arrogate these scores to the elements of God’s kingdom, do we allow Jesus who gave us the kingdom cast his vote? Was the vote cast in accordance to the parameters that Jesus set for His Church? Is it righteousness, peace, joy, humility, patience, long-suffering that are the parameters for the measurement?
Unfortunately, we have allowed the standards of the world; its glories and values to permeate our definition in the kingdom of God. We have told the world that we are of a different kingdom; yet we desire and lust for the things of the kingdom of the world. How can a Church be built for the worship of God and an unbeliever is invited to dedicate it because he is the Governor? How can you envy a sinner flaunting the proceeds of sin and rebellion? How can we join the world to measure the blessing of God by the number of cars, houses, estates and mansions? Will these items matter to a man who has breathed his last? When we witness to the world, we tell them about Jesus and that they must be born again. At the same time we are telling them they are lost and need salvation; yet we lust after what they have.
The scenarios and characters experienced and portrayed during the birth of our Lord Jesus will surely be replayed on His return. The same way it was noted at His birth that there was no space found in the comfortable and lofty places for Him will surely repeat itself. Those who had the records and were knowledgeable enough to be inquired from; were insensitive and given to a desire to frustrate the entire venture. The fact that foreigners came to make this inquiry stirred nothing in these people. Our prayer is that we will be on the side of men and women who are zealous for this eternal kingdom.
In the Old Testament we have examples of men and women in covenant with God that received physical and material blessings from God. They had length of days and great wealth. But looking at our New Testament examples, John the Baptist comes to mind; he had neither wealth from God nor length of days. He was beheaded to fulfill the desire of a little girl. In this new dispensation; our Lord Jesus said clearly that among those born of women, that there is none greater than John the Baptist. We must shift our gaze from the worldly things to those things which cannot be shaken.
I heard the story of a salesman who was in Saudi Arabia to market Coca Cola. Because of his lack of proficiency in Arabic, he decided to use drawings to communicate his product. So he drew someone weak in the desert, who had a drink of coca cola and became strengthened and stronger. He was unable to sell a single item in spite of his efforts. He was later to say that his failure was due to his ignorance of Arabic; he didn’t realize that the language reads from right to left. So his drawing showed that a strong man drank coca cola, became weak and died. This miscommunication was his undoing; we must be careful to place things where they belong.
Every kingdom and location has its parameters; depending on where you are going, the message you bring may be appropriate or inappropriate. The things that are weighty in the kingdom of God are righteousness, holiness, kindness, love, patience, honesty etc. This doesn’t mean we don’t need physical things; they are secondary to our main objective and motivation. Let us not be distracted; we must place our focus on those things that will remain after the shaking.
May God help us all!
And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.
John 17:3 NKJV
Eternal life is knowing God and Jesus Christ, whom He has sent.
To know something or somebody is in degrees, our concern today is to know the difference between knowing someone and knowing how he operates.
To know God and to know how to walk with God is a world of difference, unfortunately we think that when we know something, that is enough to make us benefit from it.
Being able to identity something does not help, unless you have the knowledge of how it works.
Many of us are only just comfortable with the knowledge about God from what people say, like how God parted the red sea, how He is omnipotent etc, by that we just identify God without any deep knowledge of Him.
Most people have stopped at just identifying God through those attributes mentioned by others about Him.
Knowing is a deep word as referenced in the bible as was used in Genesis 4:1 between Adam and Eve, connoting a level of intimacy, that brought forth Cain.
Jesus was referring to another level of intimacy with God that brings forth eternal life and becomes beneficial to us.
Knowing what the Bible says is different from benefiting from what it says.
Knowing 'about', in itself cannot bring about a Cain.
Knowing about something only talks about its characteristics, without the knowledge of how it operates.
Many can identify the historical works of God which in essence great to know but they will not benefit you until you begin to ask how you can move from just knowing to how you can benefit from such acts of God.
Joshua was told to meditate on the scriptures so he can observe to do what is written so he can be successful.
A lot of people are reading with Bible plans, just for knowledge and no meditation, which makes it difficult to gain deeper knowledge of God.
Meditation brings deep knowledge.
We must dig deep to find God, we must go away from religion to deep knowledge of God.
having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!
II Timothy 3:5 NKJV
We have been denying the power of God without being steadfast in doing things commanded.
We have a form of godliness but we deny His ability to turn things around by our attitudes.
We claim the knowledge of God and His omnipotence but we do not connect with Him so His omnipotence can manifest in our lives.
always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.
II Timothy 3:7 NKJV
If we are not being equipped its because we are resisting the ways of God.
We must know God not only in retrospect but also in what He is doing now and in the future so we can make profit with it.
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness,
II Timothy 3:16 NKJV
When the word of God comes it is sent to change someone, if you do not obey it or work in it, you may never go beyond the level you are at.
If the scriptures cannot instruct you, you cannot make good progress, the scriptures will profit you when you adhere enough to do what it says!
It is in your interest that you observe to know how to operate with God.
We must diffuse the lie of the enemy that observation without participation brings benefit.
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Moreover, brethren, we make known to you the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia: that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded in the riches of their liberality. For I bear witness that according to their ability, yes, and beyond their ability, they were freely willing, imploring us with much urgency that we would receive the gift and the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. And not only as we had hoped, but they first gave themselves to the Lord, and then to us by the will of God. So we urged Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also complete this grace in you as well. But as you abound in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all diligence, and in your love for us— see that you abound in this grace also.
II Corinthians 8:1-7 NKJV
100% GRACE!
My actions are not based on my circumstances. I do what I do based on my revelations.
Our faith guides our actions, Habakkuk 2:4 says, the just shall live by his faith.
We are living in the world but our world experiences are determined by our interpretation of the Circumstance.
What you are doing or not doing is as a result of your revelation of the situation, we have no excuse for not doing or doing what we should do.
You can do according to your ability and beyond your ability, the choice is yours.
The Macedonians first gave themselves to the Lord, most people have Jesus as their saviour but have not engaged Him as their Lord, this criteria (engaging Jesus as Lord) is the enabling factor for doing the will of God as directed according to His will.
The Macedonian church was able to do what they did because of grace and by this we understand that grace is an overbearing power of God that mixes with any situation you go through to produce glory for God.
Grace helps you to be totally obedient to God.
When God is involved, great afflictions will be met with abundance of joy while deep poverty will be met with great liberality.
Grace is for everyday miracle.
Grace is not for you to continue to sin, it covers your sin and makes you an avenger for sin.
Grace helps you to go the extra mile opposite of where you were before grace.
Grace in Christ is not for you to work in reverse, its for you to go out and use God's ability to do what you couldn't do!
If you look like your situation, grace in your life is being frustrated.
If you do not have a before and after, grace is not working in your life.
Grace takes a thief and makes him a worker and a giver.
If you are a fornicator, grace will supply overcoming power to come out of fornication and make you an evangelist for Christ.
Grace turns you around, it takes the decay and makes it a sweet perfume!
Grace is to work in you so that your circumstances cannot explain you, in giving and in attitude!
The life of a born again child of God is measured by how much grace he has taken in.
Never say you can't! It will surprise you what you can do and what grace you have when you choose to apply it.
There is no limitation to anything, its all in your head!
Grace fills what is lacking and supplies strength for abundance.
If God spent so much to save us, will He not also invest in our sustenance?
Philippians 4:11-12
Just as Paul learnt to abound and to abase, he learnt both to be full and hungry and to suffer need, you must learn to shine in any situation without letting them put you down, you can be immovable.
The prosperity of the Christian is in Constance.
With grace, no matter the situation you are in, you can produce life.
Grace is to bring into my life an ability never to "fall the hands of Jesus"!
Gen 49:24
You will remain in strength and your hands will be made strong by the hands of the mighty God even in this season of supposed lack in the world!
You can forgive those who hurt you through grace.
Grace is not that you will be sloppy at your place of work so they will forget your name when they are sacking workers, grace is given so that you will excel and rise to the pinnacle of your career through diligence!
Grace is to help you!
Don't under utilize the grace of God!
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Your life is a journey you must travel with a deep consciousness of God. It cost God plenty to get you out of that dead-end, empty-headed life you grew up in. He paid with Christ’s sacred blood, you know. He died like an unblemished, sacrificial lamb. And this was no afterthought. Even though it has only lately—at the end of the ages—become public knowledge, God always knew he was going to do this for you. It’s because of this sacrificed Messiah, whom God then raised from the dead and glorified, that you trust God, that you know you have a future in God.
1 Peter 1:18-21 MSG
What do you value?
Why do people buy a Rolls Royce car and not use it often but rather park it and use smaller cars that are even of lesser quality and strength to the Rolls Royce? Its because of the value they attach to it.
When you value the salvation you have and the price Jesus paid for it, you will not be testing the capacity of the strength in the price paid to know how much forgiveness the blood of Jesus can avail you by walking casually in sin.
Those who use gold usually reserve it for special occasions but use costume jewelry more often, without considering that the gold will withstand wear and tear more than the costume jewelry. This is as a result of the value they attached to the gold.
If you know the price that was paid for you and what it cost, you will attach a lot of value to yourself and cherish the price so much that you will not meddle with things that will reduce the value of what you have or the value God placed on you by paying the ultimate price Himself!
Remember that you are bought with blood, made a King and a priest unto your God so you shall reign in life!
If God paid such precious price for you, you must not be bowed down, you must look up and be expectant because you are of great value!
Don't think too low of yourself, let your imagination change. Do not entertain fear, if you knew the capacity that has been put in you, you will value yourself.
Speak to mountains, arise and become a solution to the world. You are not a victim you are the victor and greater is He that is in you than he who is in the world.
Are you a born again child of God? Go and speak comfort to the world!
You are rich not poor, you are healed and not sick!
Everything concerning you has already been accomplished by God. He is not going to do anymore, its all in the finished work.
Jesus was slain from the foundation of the earth significantly showing from when the work was done.
Something that has been done and sealed by God cannot be undone.
There's a work that has been finished about you. (There's an "I dey kamkpe" about you)
Without faith we can throw in the towel but with faith we can look at the circumstances and declare to them that this is not what God finished.
Thanksgiving is identifying with what God has finished. Those who see the finished work through the eyes of faith, always live the life of thanksgiving.
Obedience is a key factor for entering God's rest, the finished work leave us with the responsibility of obedience to do what God says to do.
The life of a believer is on a grand display for heaven so God can boast about us.
We must diligently align with what God has done through obedience.
Anytime we align ourselves with the prepared work of God, we walk in joy unspeakable.
The sons of God to be revealead are the people that will walk today like it was written concerning them from the foundations of the earth.
Every situation is subject to change because the truth is that God has a better record of the situation by the already finished work.
We are receivers, we are what God says we are, therefore let's come boldly to the throne of grace to find grace to help in time of need for we have a great High Priest in heaven!
The Apostle Paul had this to say in 1 Corinthians 2:1-5 “1 And I, brethren, when I came to you, did not come with excellence of speech or of wisdom declaring to you the testimony of God.
2 For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified.
3 I was with you in weakness, in fear, and in much trembling.
4 And my speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of human wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power,
5 that your faith should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God”. (NKJV)
Many of us, though believers, have faith that rest on the wisdom of men. We do things that the world is also doing. If this is the case, then it cannot be said to be the gospel. The Bible says that the wisdom of God is foolishness to the world. You can have faith in so many things as well as anything; faith is confident expectation that what you believe will come to pass. Having faith is not the same as having faith in God.
Our Lord Jesus stated clearly that we should have faith in God. This is a different faith from the confident expectation in outcomes. The world will try to duplicate or compare the genuine faith in God with that of the world. When Moses appeared before Pharaoh for the first time, and performed the miracle of casting down his rod before Pharaoh that was transformed into a snake. The magicians of Pharaoh also did the same, just that the rod of Moses swallowed theirs. When Faith is true, it will swallow up whatever seeks to counterfeit it.
Looking at our nation and the time we are in at this time, I can see clearly that things will always happen; matters will always be at the front burner in this life and our society. A few weeks ago it was the fuel scarcity, then the removal of subsidy, now it is about a woman beheaded in Kano. Cast your mind back to the fear of the millennium bug in the run up to the year 2000. Things keep happening and changing; some will make you happy and some will make you sad.
But I just realized that heaven is not mindful of most of what we have concerned and occupied ourselves with. The real businessman will concern himself with his bottom-line; how does he make profit. Everyone has a different perspective and different objective from the same incident. When you lose a dear one, it may be a family tragedy but a business opportunity to those who sell caskets. So there is always varying perspective in every situation.
Heaven has her own interest. The apostle Paul said 1 Corr 2: 2. “...Determine not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ crucified”. While the book of Matt 6:33 says "...seeking first the kingdom..."(para phrased). It is all about the kingdom. Not being distracted by things, needs and deprivations of earthly value but being focused on Heaven's agenda and establishments. We must be careful to maintain the Christian 'world-view'. (Wish that there were ' special spectacles' for us to look through all the time with a worldview of understanding in Christ).
In view of the current turmoil and wickedness in our world, the hateful atrocities committed against innocent persons, can we find it in us to even love and pray for those who have wronged us? Those we perceive as 'monsters'?
The Church must prod itself and return her focus back to God. The hope of God in all this is that the world will find salvation through the spread of the Word through believers. He has come for all to be saved. Turnover defines how much activity has been generated but does it always reflect true profit? No. The kingdom's desire is that all be saved. Not some.
Mark 15:18- 32 recounts the crucifixion journey. The Cross! The Way of The Cross was a very difficult process for even His apostles to fathom. How could God allow this? How could One so powerful let Himself be treated thus? What is the difference- the way God works is different from the way men work. We MUST view events and happenings from a different perspective.
Man was created for God's glory and fell from Grace into sin eventually as time went on but God had a plan for redemption. We MUST view through God's eyes. God is saying now- that we should look through the pattern of the Cross. This path is so incredible - not even every Christian understands or agrees with it. But by renewal of our minds through Christ it is possible. The wisdom of God is to submit under the mighty hand of God. God is the 'exalter'. John 13:3-4 Jesus, our example girded His loins with a towel and washed the feet of His disciples. May we humble ourselves before God and ask of Him and receive from Him the ability to look through His eyes in Jesus name.
As we have been learning lately, the Christian journey or life is warfare, we must never lose sight of this fact. It is very important that we remind ourselves of what is at stake. We did not start the war, but we have become enlisted in it.
But I am compelled to inquire from you today whether you are aware of the issues at the heart of the struggle. What sort of fight and what is at stake? What is the strategy of the enemy? What are we fighting for and what are we defending? Is it our finances, families, Joy, welfare or honor? What is the enemy really after in my life? The bible asks a pertinent question which is “ For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?” Mark 8:36 (NKJV). This verse of scripture begins to answer the question for us – it points us in the direction of realizing that the battle on earth is for the souls of men.
For a Christian, the first level of this battle is the understanding that the adversary is eager to seize his soul, thereby truncating all that God could have used him to accomplish. Our mission is to keep ourselves and do damage to his kingdom through the deliverance of souls already bound. Clearly, the battle lines are ultimately defined.
But how do we fight? Eph 6: 10 says “10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.
11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.
13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
14 Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness,
15 and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
16 above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one.
17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God;
18 praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints” Ephesians 6:10-18 (NKJV)
Amazingly, the scripture above which some scholars refer to as the strategy for spiritual warfare begins with “finally”. It is interesting that the admonishment before “finally” had very natural and deliberate counsel. It says daily things like employees serving their masters truthfully and fairly, children being obedient to their parents. This suggests to us that the vital elements of spiritual warfare have to do with our daily choices.
This scripture futher tells us to “put on the whole armour of God” that you “may” be able to withstand the wiles of the Devil. This makes it clear that God has provided the armour for me to put on. This armour was made for me to withstand the strategy of the enemy. The strategy of the enemy is peculiar to each person; its not based on strength. He does not overcome us with raw power, he uses tricks and deception. In terms of power there is no contention between God and the adversary, at the mention of the name of Jesus every knee will bow. There is no contention as regards power; God created the devil. The enemy simply uses cunning deception; for instance, he can reveal the weakness of someone to me, so I can judge them and thus be caught up in the sin of pride.
Fighting our battles successfully requires that we take sides with the word of God. That is the only safe place where the enemy cannot reach . Anytime you take a position on any matter based on any reason other than truth; you have sided the devil. We are advised to put on the whole armour of God, complete gear in all ramifications. So there is a path for us to play in the warfare we are involved in; a lot depends on us. Our war is not against people. We are at war with one who fights by decoy, tricks and subterfuge. “12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places”. Ephesians 6:12 (NKJV)
When Daniel was praying, he was called greatly beloved based on his standing on righteousness. There was great contention over Daniel and heaven had to send reinforcement. We must be careful to make a point of standing right at all times.
Every Nigerian, who is a christian must be aware that because of God’s agenda, there is a fierce battle over the soul of our nation, Nigeria. If the believers in our nation would stand at the place Jesus wants us, on truth; we would really bruise the head of the enemy. When the bible says, “Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth”. Truth means that whether I like it or not, it is constant. Truth means whether I agree or not it is clearly standing as truth. Truth is the same; as I live my life daily and as the word of God.
The girdle of the Roman soldier is what holds together the whole of his dressing including his sword; thats what was used in the scripture to depict truth. Without the girdle, the soldier would be naked. 2 Corinthians 10:4-5 4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, 5 casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ”(NKJV). Once we hold on to truth, we are at liberty to put down the lies of the devil. Truth enables us to hold on to Jesus, while discarding whatever is contrary. If every Christian in Nigeria begins to war with truth; Nigeria will change overnight. We cannot make excuses based on our interest because truth is truth; it does not waver. It has integrity (whole). If you believe in prosperity, you must believe in judgment and righteousness as contained and expressly stated in God’s Word etc.Truth is what you look at and take a dressing; we cannot look at truth and adjust it. When we look at it, it serves to reveal to us where we need realignment.
I have realized that the trickiest matters that result in our failures are not the complex things; they are actually the simplest issues. The simplicity of these facts; the fact that they appear basic and mundane, deceive us into overlooking them.
Scripture records that our Lord Jesus was emphatic in making reference to being childlike “ 1 At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, "Who then is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?"
2 Then Jesus called a little child to Him, set him in the midst of them,
3 and said, "Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. 4 Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. “Matthew 18:1-4 (NKJV)
This vital instruction is easy to overlook because it is so simple. Knowing human beings, we would have taken it more seriously if it were something more demanding or tasking than this simple admonition. If for instance Jesus said, you cannot enter except you fast 40 days and nights; this would probably have become one of the cardinal teachings of Christianity and would be accorded great relevance.
When questioned on which of God’s commandment was the greatest, Jesus replied "'You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.' 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like it: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' 40 On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets." Matthew 22:36-40 (NKJV)
In all that the children have depicted in the course of their performances, it’s easy for one to see why Jesus made the earlier reference regarding being converted to be like children. Their love and loyalty to God surpasses everything; and their love, friendship and genuine care for each other is what God expects us to learn as adults. They mix completely; not mindful or respectful of any prejudices.
Our Lord Jesus said, “21 He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him." John 14:21 (NKJV). This makes it plain how God views love. He said He who has His commandments; which is one side of it. The second part is in the doing or adherence to His word. In other words, the love of the Father is conditional. His love for His world, His creation is universal. Entering into the Father’s love must be through the cultivation of a relationship – conformance is precedent to enjoying it.
The walk with God is simple, it is not complex. There is only one God and His creation. One side of that equation is strong, one is weak. One side is wise, the other is foolish. God is the strong and wise one; I am the weak and foolish one. Once you walk with God based on this premise, everything falls into place. God is the one who calls the shots, He is the originator, the One who started it and will also end it.
Some of the factors critical to being childlike are trust and obedience. Children are so trusting and obey different levels of their caregivers and parents. It is important we are truthful to the children so we do not lose their trust and cause them to rebel against everything. Also important is being mindful as adults of our conduct and behavior, because what they see is what they will copy. We must be consistent in reinforcing righteousness and be firm in reprimanding as appropriate. If anything we should, like children copy Jesus Christ in all we do. The same way we were able to copy worldly stars as youngsters, it should be nothing to copy Jesus. Our Lord Jesus told us to learn from Him, “29 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Matthew 11:29 (NKJV)
What shows whether you are a child of God includes what you thirst and hunger to be filled with. If you stayed for two days without feeling any physical hunger for food, immediately you will seek help in hospital. It should be the same hunger for food as with the word of God. When you hunger and thirst after righteousness, you will be filled.
God is looking for children, who are ready to participate in every area especially spiritual things. He is not looking for old men and women already set in their ways. We must be ready to be transformed by new light, adjusting to the image and stature of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ.
Children will not spend their time in bitterness, envy, jealousy and all the other conditions that are inimical to our spiritual life and development. The purity of a child’s heart passes the prayer purity test, lets not forget that every prayer is purified. Like our Lord Jesus said, let us all be converted and be like little children, so that we can enter into the kingdom of God. Let us humble ourselves like children, so that we can be the greatest in the kingdom of God.
When we consider the totality of what Jesus has accomplished for us, the natural response is to give Him worthy praise. As we appeared in Church looking splendid as we all are, we would have been dragging different kinds of animals to this place of worship. Some would come with cows, he-goats, turtledoves, pigeons and so many others depending on the kind of sin they committed. On arrival at the place of sacrifice, a priest will carefully examine the animal that you brought for sacrifice to ensure it is free of every blemish. It can only be sacrificed if it is certified okay by the priest.
Yet that animal no matter how perfectly bred and reared, had no power to cleanse the sin totally. When we recall that our Lord Jesus who was without sin and certified as suitable by God himself, offered the greatest sacrifice; a sacrifice sufficient to cleanse the sins of mankind once and for all, thanksgiving becomes a dutiful sacrifice.
The Book of Hebrews 13:15 states as follows “Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name”. It teaches us to recognize our praise and thanksgiving to God through our Lord Jesus Christ as a sacrifice. This joy and gladness comes as a result of our appreciation of the sacrifice made by our Saviour on our behalf.
This sacrifice provides us great privilege; where there is great privilege there is also great temptation. It becomes easy to take everything for granted when we consider the love God has for us. It’s easy for us to think everything is about us, forgetting that we were created for God’s pleasure; we are essentially creatures of pleasure. We must be mindful of the fact that our attitude and motivation counts for a lot in any dealing with God.
Praise is comely or fitting in the lips of the righteous, Psalm 33:1 “Rejoice in the Lord, O you righteous! For praise from the upright is beautiful”. This scripture means that it is the right thing for the saved to praise God as a consequence of the revelation of what God has done for them. Our praise must be total and unconditional; we understand that everything that has breath should give God praise.
As believers we must remember that God is very jealous and takes it personal when we place anything before or higher than him. We are in warfare and the enemy is doing his work of trying to keep us perpetually in negativity; if we allow him. Even the football that we watch, which we regard as leisure, some term their religion. There are people who will not identify with Jesus as a brand, but are quick to praise their teams. They pay no attention to the things of God but will be beside themselves with joy or sorrow as relating to their teams. Their passion to these things surpass their allegiance to God and His agenda. What a wasteful misplacement of priority.
Some think that because they are educated and enlightened they shouldn’t be beside themselves for God; this is the lie of the devil. King David understood that it’s not about who he was as king; that it was more about where God brought him from to the palace. He carefully and deliberately made it clear to Michal, his wife who was Saul’s daughter that considering where God brought him from; it was very fitting for him to uncover himself and dance like a commoner before God.
Clearly, if you understand where God brought you from, what He saved you from going through; you will be speaking to one another in Psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord Eph 5:19.