Tag Archives: Jesus Christ

Daring to Be a Servant

16 Tuesday Mar 2021

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We live in a world that has become increasingly selfish and self-centered. It seems that many are only living in this life to please themselves rather than to serve others. As a result, there is a devaluation of others, rather than there being a focus on encouraging and esteeming our neighbors. When the object of self is the desire, it becomes difficult to see the needs of those around us.

This can create an entire social structure that is predicated on selfish ambition, rather than civil and collective servitude. But what does it mean to be a servant? What does it mean to be in the mode of serving others?

In John 13: 12-15 Jesus is seen washing the feet of His disciples. As He does so, he has a conversation with them that ties into the concept of serving:

“When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, “Do you understand what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you.”

Foot washing in the Bible was seen as one of the ordinances of the early and first church. It also symbolized humility and service unto others. If we think about Jesus for a minute, He is King of Kings and Lord of Lords which means that He has been given the role of having the ultimate authority by God. In the scripture above, Jesus is asking the disciples if they understand what He has done for them. Despite Him having the role of Teacher and Lord, He makes it clear that He had a distinct purpose for washing the disciple’s feet. Take note that Jesus says that He Himself is the example of servanthood or being a servant. Then He says, that the disciples are to also do the same as Jesus did.

There are really three principles that can be taken from the above scripture:

  1. Serving others is a selfless act – To serve means to take others into consideration and not to esteem oneself so highly. Being a servant is about ensuring that others are cared for and that their needs are being met before yours. It takes very little energy to receive, but it takes more energy and commitment to serve someone else. When a person is a servant, they are producing the fruit of humility and service to others expecting nothing in return. It is not about self, rather, it is about doing good unto those around you first.
  2. Serving others has nothing to do with position – We live in a world that is full of hierarchies. Positions such as President, King, Queen, Prime Minister, and even other leadership positions related to business, they exist all around us. However, regardless of any position, service is an independent act. There are those who believe that their position in leadership causes them to be immune to being a servant. In other words, some believe that they do not need to serve others, that their position of leadership elevates them above everyone else. However, Jesus shows us that even if one is in a prime position of leadership by title, serving is not optional but should be expected.
  3. Jesus is the model for servanthood – Jesus Christ is the model for humanity to follow in all areas, but specifically, He models serving others. In the scripture noted above, Jesus makes it clear that He is the sole example of serving. We as Christ followers should look to Jesus as our example for leading and serving.

So, the question here is, will you dare to be a servant? In a society that postures itself on self-gratification will you seek to serve others instead? Serving is not as easy as it sounds, because it involves sacrifice and a steady desire to fulfill the needs of those around you before yourself. However, there is a reward that occurs when we serve others. It is the fact that we are using our gifts, skills, time, and talent to help someone else. It then means we become fulfilled in our own lives and the cycle of service continues to spread.

Do you know Jesus in the pardon of your sins? If you don’t know Christ, today is a great day to accept Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior. Once you come to the knowledge of Christ and have a relationship with Him, He will enable you to serve others with a heart that is fixed solely upon fulfilling needs as opposed to receiving for selfish gain. Look to Jesus Christ, as He is our example.

Where Will You Spend Eternity?

23 Tuesday Feb 2021

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Most humans are focused on the here and now as it concerns their day-to-day life. We each have a routine that we adhere to, and some of us do so religiously. However, in the midst of the daily grind as it has been called, there is the inevitable presence of the “afterlife.” In many different religions, the afterlife is a place or a metaphysical condition that follows life here on Earth. Concerning Christianity, the Bible makes it clear that there are two destinations when a person leaves their Earthly body. Heaven is the eternal resting place that all who have given their lives to Jesus will spend eternity in the presence of God. Hell on the other hand is the place where those who rejected Christ and a relationship with God find eternal damnation and torment.

Regardless of what different religions ascribe to as the afterlife, the Bible which is the only authoritative truth speaks clearly as to what two directions are possible concerning humanity. In the Matthew 25:46 it says,

“And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”

Philippians 3:20-21 says, “But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself.”

Notice the two words mentioned in each of those scriptures. “Eternal life” and “Heaven” are meant to denote the reward and provision that God makes for those who choose to follow Him through Christ. Heaven is by God’s design and it is meant only for those who accept Jesus Christ. It is important to also understand that it is God’s desire that we experience a relationship with Him through Christ, and this also means that when our Earthly lives are finished, we have the opportunity to be present with the Lord.

However, Hell is also a destination only meant for those who refuse to acknowledge and accept Jesus Christ. Revelation 20:15 says “And if anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire.”

Matthew 10:28 says, “And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.”

Hell which is directly mentioned in the Bible is a place of eternal torment and separation from God. It was not ever designed for God’s creation, but it is a place that many go to due to their choice of rejecting Christ. The reason that Hell was established in the first place was to be a holding place for anyone who followed Satan. According to 2 Peter 2:4, there were fallen angels (who made the decision to defect and follow after Satan during his rebellion against God) who were banished into captivity in Hell. Anyone who stands in opposition against God and dies in that condition will find their same fate in Hell.

The Bible makes it clear that there are two roads that we as humans will find our eternity in. Jesus Christ died on the Cross and rose again so that we could have eternal life with God in Heaven. It is through the bloodshed of Christ that we can have our sins forgiven. However, anyone who does not accept Christ’s sacrifice will be eternally separated from God and fiery torment will be felt. God does not wish that any man or woman perish. Rather, God desires to have a relationship with us through His son Jesus.

Do you know Jesus Christ in the pardon of your sins? If not, today is a great day to give your heart and life to the Lord. Tomorrow is not promised, which means that none of us knows when our time on Earth is finished. You can have eternal assurance in your destination and that can be known through accepting Jesus Christ and living your life in service unto the Lord. Where will you spend eternity?

What Is Love? Part 1

03 Thursday Dec 2020

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The word “love” is a common word that is used in a variety of contexts. For example, love is often used to denote the romance and intense feeling of passion between two individuals. It is also used in ways that are not romantic (e.g. I love football). Love is a word that means different things to different people. That is because for one, experiences often shape how we define words.

In addition, the world as a collective has its own definition of what love is. However, what is love truly defined as? 1 John 4:7-11 gives us what the definition of love is.

(NKJV) “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. He who does not love does not know God, for God is love. In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.”

First, take note of what the first verse says, which is “love is of God.” Love as a concept and as it is meant to be defined comes from God Himself. This is qualified when the writer the Apostle John says, “God is love.” Before we can truly understand what love is, we must acknowledge that love has already been defined by God, because love is who He is. It is God’s character to love, which is why Jesus was sent as a sacrifice to reconcile humanity back to God.

It was God’s love for His creation, that prompted the sacrifice of Jesus so that we as humans could have an unbroken relationship with God the Father. If we do not know who God is, then we do not have a clear definition of love. We are also unable to love properly, if we do not have a connection to God through Christ, because it is required in order to know what love is, and to love others.

To be clear, the world has its varying definitions of what love is. As mentioned, it is often based on what a person experiences or their own world view of the concept of love. What makes the world’s definitions of love inaccurate, is that in most cases, it is not based on knowing God. Rather, it is based on self, or the views of others. Looking to the world as a means to define, will often leave incomplete pictures because the world around us does not take its cues from God. Instead, the Bible makes it clear that the world system is dominated by Satan Himself.

Ephesians 2:2 says (NLV) “
You followed the sinful ways of the world and obeyed the leader of the power of darkness. He is the devil who is now working in the people who do not obey God.”

Since Satan is the one who has influence over the world, he perverts all that is good. Therefore, it becomes altered automatically, which means anything that comes from the world view is taken from Satan first. Since that is the case, that also includes the view of what love is. It should be known that because God is love, then He is the one who shows us what love is and how to love. Without Him, we are left to make up what we believe love to be, and sometimes, there are toxic examples that some have justified to state what love is.

The other part of 1 John 4:7-11 that is important to take note of, is that God loved His creation (us) first. We did not love God, rather, it was His love for us that caused Him to send Jesus as a substitute for the penalty of sin that we all owe. Knowing this, it means that from the very beginning, God loved us, even in the midst of our sinful condition.

Do you know Jesus in the pardon of your sins? If you don’t know Jesus, today is the day to give your life to Christ through repentance, the acknowledgment of Jesus’ sacrifice on the Cross and Him rising again from the dead. Once you come to the knowledge of Christ, you will be able to truly love and understand what it means to love and be loved. Knowing God through Christ, gives us the correct and only way to understand love as it was meant to be.

What is Your Purpose in Life?

01 Tuesday Dec 2020

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Have you ever wondered why you were born? Is there in a time in your life when you wanted to know why you exist? Each of us, we all have a specific purpose and a destiny that we are meant to fulfill. The fact that you and I are living in the timeline of history suggests that there is a purpose to our being.

If we look at the world around us, we can see the results of every day people, who yearn and even search for their specific purpose in life. The fact that there is a sense of restlessness that we feel when we are not being productive, it speaks to the desire that we all have to fulfill a purpose. It is not by happenstance, rather, it is a gift that God has given to each of us.

Psalm 57:2 (ESV) “I cry out to God Most High, to God who fulfills his purpose for me.”

Jeremiah 1:5 (ESV) “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.”

The two scriptures above points to at least two areas concerning the topic of purpose:

  • God has a purpose for your existence – The Psalmist David wrote in Psalm 57:2 that it is God who fulfilled His purpose for him. The Lord has designed you to take part in not merely existing but to use the gifts and talents that He has given to you for His glory and His purposes. One can think of this in the same way that an automaker designs and produces vehicles.

    Each manufacturer has a specific design and purpose for each vehicle that is produced. The manufacturer already knows the plans and actual functionality of each model vehicle. It is already built in by the manufacturer, which means that the vehicle already has the purpose and capability to operate as intended.

    It is the same with with you and I. God has already given us a purpose to fulfill, but we must tap into who God is, through having a relationship with Jesus Christ.

    When we know who God is, our reason for being is activated because we are then connected to the one who made us and who already knew us even before we were born. Without that connection, we are left trying to figure out why we exist, and we end up never coming to the realization of why we were made, and we are then unable to give God the glory through our functions.

  • God already knew you before you were born – In the scripture of Jeremiah 1:5, the Bible is clear when it points to the fact that even before we were born, God already knew us. This goes back to the example of a vehicle manufacturer. The plans are already in the mind of the manufacturer, even before the vehicle is made. It is the same with all of us. God knows who we are because He created us. Therefore, He has already endowed you with certain gifts, skills, and abilities even before you discover them. This also includes your purpose. 

So, how do you discover your purpose? The only way is to have a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. If we as God’s creation do not take the opportunity to come to the knowledge of Christ and thereby becoming reconciled back to God, then we run the risk of forfeiting our actual destiny and purpose. Or, we end up claiming an identity that was never intended, which means we begin to operate outside of the scope of our original design. 

The way to have a relationship with God, is to first repent of one’s sins and acknowledge that Jesus Christ died on the Cross, was buried and resurrected again. John 14:6 says (NIV) “Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Jesus is the only way to have a connection with God the Father. Do you know Jesus in the pardon of your sins? If not, this is a perfect opportunity to accept the sacrifice of Jesus. Once you do, you will begin the journey to discovering what your purpose in life is. 

Which Path Will You Take?

24 Tuesday Nov 2020

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In life, we all have choices to make. From what we wear when we get dressed in the morning, to the decision of what to eat for breakfast. We even have the choice of skipping breakfast altogether, but we all have choices. There are monumental choices that can alter our destiny if we choose correctly or incorrectly. One can think of life as a summary of decisions, but even at a much deeper level, there are moments when we have two options set before us.

There are right and wrong choices that can be made in life. Depending on which way one chooses, the end result is the sum or total of what decision was made. The world around us would have us to believe that there isn’t just one way to reach the truth. While yes, there are multiple ways to live or exist, Jesus Christ made it clear in John 14:16 when he said “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”

There are different religions, belief systems, and even movements that center around non-belief. For thousands of years, there have been countless examples of a wide array of beliefs that encompass the ideology that there isn’t just one way to reach eternal life – or the very aspect of achieving an ultimate end. Rather, the worldwide belief is that all ways can lead to the truth, rather than as Jesus said that He is the truth, the way, and the life.

When Jesus made that statement according to John 14:16, He meant it just as He said it. The only way to receive life (in this context eternal life) is only through Jesus Himself. He is the truth, the way, and the life and the only way to know God is to know Jesus Christ. Many secular humanists and otherwise contend that all roads lead to the truth. Or, truth is what you make it to be, rather than it being concrete.

However, regardless of what a person or a group of people believes, there are only two choices. This fact is outlined in Matthew 7:13-14 which says:

“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the way that leads to life, and only a few find it. “

There are two choices that we as humans have set before us. We can take the narrow gate which is the way of Jesus Christ, or we can take the broad gate which is the way to Hell and destruction. The right path is to accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. The wrong path is to reject Him. The Bible makes it clear that most travel on the path that is broad, and that is because it is easier and more enticing. However, the path to everlasting life is narrow, meaning few people travel that path because it is harder and less appealing.

The overall point here, is that you and I, we have an opportunity to choose life or destruction. Will you choose the path that leads to eternal life through Jesus Christ? Or will you choose the path that leads to eternal damnation by rejecting Christ? Belief systems come and go, and trends in our world always change. However, it is the truth of Jesus Christ that remains.

If you don’t know Jesus in the pardon of your sins, this is a perfect opportunity to accept the sacrifice of Christ on the Cross by repenting, believing that Jesus rose again, and accepting His love. Which path will you choose?

The Christian Response to the World

12 Sunday Jun 2016

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Emergency Responders (also known as EMTs or paramedics) serve the purpose of responding to life-threatening circumstances. Daily throughout the world there are thousands of EMTs who risk their lives in order to save the lives of those who are in dire need. It is the job of a paramedic to deliver swift assistance despite any obstacles that may interrupt their mission.

Every paramedic that takes their job seriously understands the stakes involved in each assignment. It is critical for them to make it to their destination in a timely manner to avoid the death of a patient. There is, of course, no guarantee that said patient will survive the trip to the hospital, but it is the response and the understanding of the paramedic that creates an increased chance for survival. It is the duty of each responder to utilize their skill sets in addition to making the proper judgment call concerning a patient.

Today in our world, the subject of Christianity or being a Christian has taken on a different meaning than it has in years past. For example, according to a recent article published by CBN News, many Christians within the United States now feel threatened by those who are non-Christians. Essentially, the tide has turned towards marginalization against Christians worldwide.

While persecution against Christians isn’t a new concept, the increase in the negative pressures against Christ-followers has grown tremendously. However, even with the various threats and staunch opposition against Christians, there is still a response that every Christian should have toward the world. What is the Christian response to the world? Here are a few considerations:

Showing forth the Love of Jesus Christ – Often times, Christians are painted as hypocritical and extremely judgmental. However, the Christian’s response should be one of love towards those who are not in Christ. This does not mean that the truth should not be given to those who reject God. Ephesians 4:15 says that Christians are to speak the truth in love. Many see speaking God’s truth as being judgmental or harsh. This isn’t the accurate way to view the Christian’s response. Speaking the truth in love means to give each person who does not know Jesus Christ, an opportunity to hear the Good News. This means, sharing forth both the penalty that comes with sin (spiritual death and eternal damnation in Hell) and also the redemptive work of Jesus Christ which involves coming into the saving grace of God. We must love those who are in their sin without compromising the truth of God’s Word.

1 John 4:8 says,

(NKJV) “He who does not love does not know God, for God is love.”

Since God is love, then the Christian’s response to the world should be one of love because we who are in Christ are connected to God’s love because He is love. Loving those in the world means that we treat each person with kindness and showing forth a steady disposition of who God is through our conduct towards others. Galatians 6:10 says that we are to do good unto all men. We can only treat those in the world with love if we are abiding in Christ.

Standing for God’s Truth – In the current social climate, there are many examples of those who claim to be Christian and yet they have actively compromised what God’s Word says just to avoid ridicule from the world. The Bible makes it clear that we as Christians are to stand for God’s truth regardless of the cost.

1 Corinthians 16:13 says,

(NLT) “Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong.”

To stand for God’s truth is to be unwavering in what God’s Word says. If God has stated in His Word that something such as lying, homosexuality, murder, stealing, and fornication is a sin, then regardless of what the world says, it is still a sin. The truth of God cannot be changed and Christians should not compromise just to appease the masses. To do so is to give in to false doctrine or Satan’s deception. The Apostle Paul gives Christians a mandate in Ephesians 4:14:

(NKJV) “that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting,”

Paul is essentially saying that the Christian must be spiritually mature so that we are not subdued or deceived by every doctrine or belief that appears before us. Just because the world has approved of “same-sex marriage” or attempting to redefine gender norms doesn’t mean that Christians are to agree with such standards. Our standard is none other than God’s Word because He has established the order that humans are to follow through a relationship with Jesus Christ. The response of a Christian is to stand firm in the faith and remain in a solid position against Satan’s attempt to delude and confuse.

Surrendering our lives unto God – One of the key differences between the world and the Christian is that of a life of submission unto God. Those in the world submit to their fleshly desires which comes from the adherence to Satan’s influence. However, the Christian response to the world is to live in submission unto God because of our love for Him. Jesus said in John 14:15, (ESV) “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.”

Obedience is the way that a Christian ought to live. This means that if God impresses upon your heart to share the Gospel with someone who is lost, then it is your duty to be obedient in that moment. Daily, our lives are to be under the authority of God by the words that we say, the things that we do, and the associations that we have in our lives. The world operates in recklessness because those without Christ are outside of the boundaries of restraint which comes from the Holy Spirit and His influence. A life that is yielded unto God is a life that will reap the benefit of a fruitful existence.

Separation from the world – The Bible makes it clear that the Christian is to be separated from the world. The Apostle Paul says it this way in 2 Corinthians 6 verses 14-18:

(ESV) “Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness? What accord has Christ with Belial? Or what portion does a believer share with an unbeliever? What agreement has the temple of God with idols? For we are the temple of the living God; as God said: I will make my dwelling among them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Therefore, go out from their midst, and be separate from them, says the Lord and touch no unclean thing; then I will welcome you, and I will be a father to you, and you shall be sons and daughters to me, says the Lord Almighty.”

Essentially, Paul is saying that Christians are not to form partnerships with those in darkness. Light and darkness cannot exist in the same vicinity. One has to overpower the other, which means that the two are altogether different. The deception of the world offers a merger between Christians and those who are not. However, Paul says that there must be a separation between those in darkness and those in the light of Christ. So, we as Christians are to live separated from the ways of this world and not to adopt what the world has approved of.

At the end of it all, Christians are meant to show forth God’s Spirit here on Earth. It is our duty to respond to the world with love, God’s truth, submission unto God, and separation from a sinful lifestyle. Just as an EMT responds to emergency situations, our job is the same. The world needs the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We must proclaim Gods truth and do so without changing the message of hope or failing to make a plea for those to come out of their sin.

Do you know Jesus Christ as your savior? God desires that you know Him in a relationship with Him through Christ. Accept this gift of life by believing that Jesus died on the cross and rose again. Turn from your sin and follow Jesus Christ to a destiny of life in abundance.

Daring Not to Conform to the World

28 Saturday May 2016

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“Truth or Dare?” is a game that many adolescents have played for centuries and continue to play today. Historically, this game is said to have its roots as early as the 1700’s during the era of ancient Greece. Since then, many children and even teens have participated in this game as a way to have fun with their peers.

The object of the game is for one person to ask another to tell an embarrassing truth, or to perform an embarrassing or dangerous dare. More so than not, when a dare is performed it can alter a person’s reputation due to embarrassment or it can prove to be risky in terms of doing something that could have consequences towards one’s health. (e.g. Jumping across a steep canyon)

To dare is to take a chance at ridicule from others because it is out of the norm. However, to conform to the consensus of the majority is to essentially lay down what one believes to be accepted by those going in the same direction. Just as in the game of Truth or Dare, a person is chided into doing something risky. However, the person who is asked, they understand that once they perform the act they are no longer operating in the status quo. Not to do the dare only suggests that they would rather remain in the crowd and settle for taking the easier pathway to avoid public scrutiny should the dare be performed.

The Apostle Paul encourages Christians against the very act of conforming to this world system. In Romans 12 verses 1-2 he says the following:

(NKJV) “I beseech you, therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”

First, Paul broaches the subject of holiness in terms of being a living sacrifice unto God. What does it mean to be a living sacrifice? To be a living sacrifice, it means that a person has yielded their life and their lifestyle over to God through Jesus Christ. It is the crucifixion or death of one’s flesh or an end to the ways of sin. Paul makes it clear that a Christian should live in an acceptable way unto God.

We are living in a time that does not regard holiness or being a living sacrifice as a high priority. Rather, the way of the world is to live according to fleshly desires. As a result, anyone who attempts to deviate from what the world culture embraces is daring to be different but is also taking a risk for public ridicule.

The life of a Christian is one that is separated from the desires of this world and cleaves to the truth and holiness of God. Paul further encourages Christians not to be conformed to the world. This means, we who profess to be Christ-followers are not to agree with what the world dictates. The time that we are living in has made it so that there must be a clear stance for God’s truth. There is a clear line between God’s truth and Satan’s deception.

The question is, will you stand firm and be willing to go against the world culture? The destruction of the family unit through “gay marriage” and even the proposal of “gender identity” have become a part of the forefront of the assault on all that God calls Holy. This among other sins in our world have become commonplace, but yet Paul says in Romans 12 not to conform to the world.

The reason is because by conforming to the world you perpetuate the process of sowing to the flesh which reaps corruption according to Galatians 6:8. However, the gift of God is eternal life which means that you and I no longer have to reap corruption and spiritual death. Instead, Paul admonishes us to be renewed in our mind. This means we must have the mind of Jesus Christ and we must accept Him as Lord of our lives.

All around us, the world is continuing to erode both spiritually and socially. The culture has changed so drastically that sinfulness has created an unstable atmosphere that threatens the lives of all who want to live in peace. However, it is the peace of Jesus Christ that will provide safety for all who believe. Following the ways of the world is akin to jumping off of a cliff just because others are doing so.

Many are living in spiritual blindness because they are living without Christ. This is why Jesus said in John 18:12 that He is the light of the world. The world is already a dark place, but with Christ the illumination of one’s spiritual condition becomes apparent. It is at that moment that the recognition of a need for a savior is made evident. At the end of verse 2 in Romans 12, Paul finishes by stating that if you and I live with a renewed mind and do not conform to this world, that we will then prove the perfect and acceptable will of God.

It is not God’s will that you and I perish, but it is His will that we have everlasting life through Christ. The way that we do that is in a relationship with Jesus. We also accomplish this by being a living sacrifice on a daily basis. Holiness is a concept that is not addressed as much as it were in the past. The reason is because the attempt to merge Christianity and worldliness has taken root in the world around us.

However, God used the Apostle Paul and others in scripture to give us instructions for Holy living and obedience unto Jesus Christ. Without a standard then we as humans no longer have a measuring tool to discern what is right and wrong. It is dangerous when we as humans create our own standards that are outside of the will of God. In doing so, the erosion of the truth becomes an everyday occurrence which leads to deception. If one becomes deceived then Satan has a stronghold over the very life that God has given to us.

Will you dare to go against the world culture? Or will you follow the crowd toward destruction? Jesus Christ died on the cross and rose again so that you and I would not have to pay the penalty for sin. If you don’t know Jesus, you have an opportunity to know Him today. Accept Jesus as Lord and Savior and avoid conformity to this world system. The world is growing increasingly wicked day by day. You can avoid spiritual death by accepting the gift of God which is eternal life through Christ.

The Battle for Your Mind

20 Friday May 2016

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ID-10034140The mind is a major part of the human body. While other body parts such as the legs, arms, eyes, and even ears serve an important purpose to our well-being, it is the mind that controls the body as a whole. Our movements are tied to the signals that are sent directly from the brain. Essentially, the brain sends messages throughout the body through what are called “neurons.”

Neurons are nerve cells that transmit nerve pulses in response to the brain’s directions. This is done through the nervous system. The brain’s responsibility is to send signals through each neuron which carries out the instructions to a specific body part. The end result is that of a body part that moves based on the brain’s original signal. Without brain functionality, the body itself would cease to exist because the body cannot receive proper instruction unless signals from the brain are transmitted without interference.

Spiritually speaking, all of us are engaged in a battle over our mind. On one hand, the Almighty God desires to reign and have spiritual control over our mind. On the other hand, Satan desires to corrupt our mind so that we follow him in rebellion and in sin. There is no in between as it relates to God or Satan. However, it is better for every human being to have the mind of Christ just as the Apostle Paul says in 1 Corinthians chapter 2 and verse 16.

In 1 Corinthians chapter 2, in verses 6-16, the Apostle Paul talks about spiritual wisdom and the revelation that comes from knowing God through the Holy Spirit. Paul says in verses 6-8:

(NKJV) “However, we speak wisdom among those who are mature, yet not the wisdom of this age, nor of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, the hidden wisdom which God ordained before the ages for our glory, which none of the rulers of this age knew; for had they known, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.”

The Apostle Paul is speaking to the Corinthians at the church of Corinth in this chapter. In this part of chapter 2, Paul says that he and those who were working with him in the ministry (e.g. Apollos) were speaking wisdom to those who were mature. In this case, Paul was talking about those who were spiritually mature in Christ. The wisdom that Paul says he was speaking with was that of God’s wisdom and not of the world’s wisdom.

Verse 9:

(NKJV) “But as it is written: “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, Nor have entered into the heart of man The things which God has prepared for those who love Him.”

Paul continues in verse 10 by saying that God has revealed those things to us through His Spirit. “Those things” that Paul mentions are the deep things of God, which are only the spiritual aspects that can be found when you have a relationship with God. Basically, it is through the Holy Spirit and the presence of God that we as humans are able to discern and understand the things of the Spirit. Paul goes on in verse 12 to make a distinction between the Spirit of God and the spirit of the world:

(NKJV) “Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God.”

Going back to the analogy of the brain, our body operates based on the instructions sent from the brain. It is what we know within our brain that enables our body to function. The same works in a spiritual sense. By knowing God through Jesus Christ, and operating in the Holy Spirit, our lives begin to be transformed into the image of God.

However, conversely, if we are operating in sin and following Satan then our lives take on the very attributes that come with evil intentions and wickedness. Paul said in verse 12 to those who were in Christ that they did not receive the spirit of the world but the Spirit who is from God. In doing so, Paul said that they would know the things freely given by God.

Verse 14:

(NKJV) “But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.”

If you look at the world around you today, much of our world has shown signs of chaos, confusion, and wicked behavior. The reason is because there are many who are living their lives outside of the will of God, which means that they are unable to accept the things that come from the Spirit of God. If you are in sin, then your are not readily able to see your wicked ways because, in order to be convicted of sinfulness, you must be influenced by the Holy Spirit.

Upon receiving Jesus Christ as your savior, the Holy Spirit then comes into your life and begins to manifest Himself by changing old habits and old mindsets. This is why Paul asks the question in verse 16, “For “who has known the mind of the Lord that he may instruct Him?”

In other words, when you are following Jesus, and you are living under the influence of the Holy Spirit you will receive instructions from the Lord. In doing so, you are then enabled to be obedient unto God because then you have as Paul says in the latter part of verse 16, “the mind of Christ.”

What does it mean to have the mind of Christ? If you look at the life of Jesus, His life was one of submission unto God. In John 6:38, Jesus said that He came down from Heaven not to do His own will but the will of His Father who is God. The reason why that is important is because Jesus was obedient to the will of God. He gave up His own will at the instruction of God the Father.

Paul encourages Christians in Philippians 2:5 to let the mind of Christ be in us. Basically, to have the mind of Christ is to walk in obedience to God by being influenced and led by the Holy Spirit. It is a constant battle over our mind because God wants control so that He can instruct us in His ways so that we can fulfill the purpose He has given to us. As mentioned before, Satan also wants control. However, his goal is to corrupt our mind so that we may sow to the flesh which then leads to eternal destruction.

Having a life that is postured in surrender unto God through Christ is what leads to a transformed and renewed mind according to Romans 12:2. The reason why having a renewed mind through Christ is so important is because daily you and I are bombarded by this world system. Since Satan is the ruler of this world, he wants to impose his deception upon us.

Many have become deceived into thinking that sin does not exist, but rather it is something to be embraced. The reason why this deception occurs is because many do not have the mind of Christ that comes through the Holy Spirit. The remedy for sin and a corrupted mind is Jesus Christ. When you have a relationship with Christ, you begin to shed the mindset that Satan gives to you, and you take on a renewed disposition.

Do you know Jesus in the pardon of your sins? If not, then you are operating out of a spirit that comes from Satan himself. He wants to destroy your soul and make your life one that lacks abundance. However, Jesus came, died on the cross and rose again so that you and I could know God through Jesus Christ. Allow Jesus to come into your heart, make Him Lord, and let Him change your mind through daily renewal.

Who is the Antichrist? (Part 2)

27 Wednesday Apr 2016

Posted by in Bible, Christian, Christianity, Faith, God, Inspiration, Jesus, Jesus Christ, Life, Love, Spiritual

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According to dictionary.com, the definition of the term ‘globalization’ is “the act of globalizing, or extending to other or all parts of the world.” You and I are living in a globalized system and the concentration of integrating all nations with one another continues to take place daily. It has increased at such a rapid rate over several decades. Most would argue that globalization and erasing what were once barriers will create a stable and more open society.

However, the majority who are unaware of the scheme that has been set in motion by Satan, do not realize that globalization is merely a plot to bring the Antichrist into full power. As mentioned in the last blog post, the Antichrist will be a figure who will rise to world dominance according to Revelation chapter 13 and Daniel chapter 7. If you notice, over the last decade, we have heard terms that have been touted such as, ‘unity’, ‘new world order’, ‘global economy’ and ‘global society’.

Each of these terms are not just words spoken without meaning. These words are a part of a larger plan to bring this world system under one individual, who is the Antichrist. He will perpetuate a Satanic system for a season before he and Satan are utterly destroyed by God’s wrath according to 2 Thessalonians 2:8 which says:

(NLT) “Then the man of lawlessness will be revealed, but the Lord Jesus will kill him with the breath of his mouth and destroy him by the splendor of his coming.”

So, it is clear that Jesus Christ will ultimately reign in victory and triumph over the Antichrist and Satan. However, before that period comes the question is, how will the Antichrist assume power? What has to happen and what is happening that will lead to the shift in the world as it is known? The answer lies in a few aspects that are evident in scripture and in our daily lives.

Technology and its influence – Have you ever noticed that there has been a constant barrage of smartphone ads and an encouragement to purchase the latest technological gadget? Like it or not, technology has grafted itself into our daily lives. Many have become trapped in the constant presence of technology to the point that it has become an unknown addiction. The truth is, our world has become conditioned to believe that we must have it for survival.

In fact, there will come a day in which humanity will be forced to use technology because the world system will demand it. Think of the constant push to end cash transactions. Now, almost everything can be bought with a credit card, smartphone, or in the very near future an implanted chip. This Satanic system will use technology for the purposes of buying and selling products.

The Antichrist will be at the head of this new economy which is currently in place as we speak. Revelation chapter 13, verses 4-5 says the following:

(NLT) “They worshiped the dragon for giving the beast such power, and they also worshiped the beast. “Who is as great as the beast?” they exclaimed. “Who is able to fight against him?” Then the beast was allowed to speak great blasphemies against God. And he was given authority to do whatever he wanted for forty-two months.”

Notice that the Antichrist will be given authority. His authority will come from Satan who will empower him to do as he pleases for three and a half years. How will he be able to have this control? One major way is through technology. According to Revelation 13:17-18, at the time when the Antichrist will have power, those left behind will not be able to buy or sell without the mark of the beast. The number ‘666’ will be the world currency which means it will in some way be tied to technology. Much of how we buy things today is a subtle precursor to what will come later.

Global deception – If you look at our society today, you can see the wickedness and various changes that have occurred in the human lifestyle. Currently, there has been an open and rigorous debate over “same-sex marriage” and being “transgender”. Both of these issues seems to be the next phase that Satan is using in order to bring every person together under his world system. Anyone who goes against this latest change will be met with staunch opposition which will mean public and private ridicule. In some cases it may even mean imprisonment and or violence against those who don’t stand with the majority.

For the Christian, it should be clear that anything named as a sin in scripture is still a sin regardless of how the world tries to approve of it or make it seem harmless. Many have been deceived today into thinking that such lifestyles are not sinful but rather many believe that you are a bigot if you say otherwise. However, the Antichrist will use the same type of deception to fool the world and cause many to be destroyed.

Believe it or not, the Antichrist will make promises that will be fulfilled for a time. He will also perform miracles which according to Revelation 13:3, will create a massive following. Many will be deceived into thinking that the Antichrist is the one who can and will save a crumbling world system. However, those who worship the Antichrist will fall into destruction.

Taking advantage of political and social turmoil – If you were to turn on your television or even search the internet for your local and world news, you would find that our world is quite unstable. From Middle Eastern violence to threats of terrorism, to even constant violence existing between neighborhood citizens. The fact is, that in the last days the following things will happen according to 2 Timothy 3:2:

(NLT) “For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred.”

Just looking at each generation that comes forth, it seems that life and respect for others is no longer sacred. That is because, in the last days before Christ’s return, many would become as the Apostle Paul says in this scripture. As a result, political and economic chaos will ensue. We see constant fluctuation with our collective economies while at the same time terrorism remains to be a threat to human life.

All of these things we see daily are being used in order to create a global system that will be under Satan’s influence through the Antichrist. He will promise peace and provide answers to our world’s problems for a season. Then, for three and a half years he will cause chaos and destroy those who swear their allegiance to him. This is why organizations such as the U.N., NATO, and even world politicians are unable to solve the issues. The reason is because according to prophecy these things must happen which will lead to the Antichrist coming to power. Revelation 13:7 makes it clear that he will have power over every tribe, tongue, and nation.

After reading all of this, it sounds like bad news. Unfortunately, these things must and will happen. However, the good news is that Jesus Christ will reign supreme when all of this is over. At the end of the age, God will see to it that Satan and all of his followers will receive their due punishment. Evil will be eradicated and Satan’s system will be no more. Instead, the Kingdom of Heaven will be ruled by Jesus who will rule with an iron rod according to Revelation 19:15.

At the end of it all, Jesus will be King of Kings and Lord of Lord’s. Regardless of how things are in our world now, or how bad they will be later, God shall set up His Earthly kingdom and end the evil that Satan has put forth. The question is, do you know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior? If you take a look at our world around us, things are getting worse.

The signs are pointing to the coming of Jesus Christ. This means, that the opportunity to choose Christ in a better environment is quickly passing. Choose Jesus today, so you can avoid having to make a life or death decision at the hands of the Antichrist. Repent of your sins and turn to Jesus Christ. God will honor you for choosing Him, and He will also reward you with everlasting life. Choose Jesus Christ.

Who is the Antichrist? (Part 1)

26 Tuesday Apr 2016

Posted by in Bible, Christian, Christianity, Faith, God, Inspiration, Jesus, Jesus Christ, Life, Love, Spiritual

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World leaders and those who are considered to be highly influential have existed for thousands of years. Throughout history, many individuals both male and female have risen to a status that has left an indelible mark on the world stage. Individuals such as George Washington, Martin Luther King Jr, Mahatma Gandhi, and Mother Theresa achieved greatness that was not isolated to their own country but stretched into the world at large.

Some world leaders and well-known individuals were born into wealthy families. Others, arose out of obscurity only to find their place in history as recognizable to the vast majority. It is a person who assumes status as a world leader or an iconic figure who is remembered for the impact that they have on humanity and the world culture.

Spiritually speaking, there will be an individual who will also rise to critical acclaim. However, this individual will be unlike any other world leader that we have seen in our lifetime. This individual is described in Revelation chapter 13, and he will assume the role of “The Antichrist.” Who is the Antichrist and what does the Apostle John have to say about him in Revelation 13?

Before going into that chapter, it is important to know what the term “Antichrist” means. 1 John 2:22 says the following:

(NLT) “And who is a liar? Anyone who says that Jesus is not the Christ. Anyone who denies the Father and the Son is an antichrist.”

The Apostle John says in this verse, that the person who essentially denies that Jesus is the Christ, is an Antichrist. To be an Antichrist is to be against Christ. This is both a stance and an evil spirit that comes from Satan according to 1 John 4:3. However, while any person can assume the spirit of being an Antichrist, the Bible makes it clear that there will be one person who will embody this spirit that comes from Satan himself.

2 Thessalonians 2:3 calls this man “the man of lawlessness.” He is also known as “the man of sin” according to other translations. The point is that the Antichrist is an individual who will appear at a certain time in history. However, Revelation chapter 13 gives us a symbolic representation of who this man will be.

The Apostle John writes the book of Revelation in the format of what he sees in his visions from God. John is shown what is known as the “Tribulation period” which will be a time when chaos engulfs the world. This is also the time after the 2nd coming of Jesus Christ which is often referred to as “the rapture” in which all Christians who follow Christ will be taken out of the Earth to rest with God.

Those who reject Christ will be left to experience the challenging and destructive time that will occur during the tribulation period. The Apostle John starts in the first part of chapter 13 by stating that he sees a beast rising out of the sea.

Verse 1:

(NKJV) “Then I stood on the sand of the sea. And I saw a beast rising up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and on his horns ten crowns, and on his heads a blasphemous name.”

It is important to note the symbolism that John gives us from his vision. The first thing that he says is that he is standing on the sand of the sea and he sees a beast rising up out of the sea. This beast that John refers to is the Antichrist. But why is it important that he mentions the sea? Symbolically, a sea in scripture represents a mass of people. So, the Antichrist will rise out of humanity.

The seven heads represent seven kings or seven rulers within the world. John also sees these kings or heads with ten horns. The ten horns represent ten nations that are ruled by the seven kings. Historically, these kings and nations derive out of the Middle East and Europe.

In fact, Daniel chapter 7 also gives a similar prophecy that the Apostle John does.

Verses 23-24:

(NASB) “Thus, he said: ‘The fourth beast will be a fourth kingdom on the earth, which will be different from all the other kingdoms and will devour the whole earth and tread it down and crush it. As for the ten horns, out of this kingdom, ten kings will arise; and another will arise after them, and he will be different from the previous ones and will subdue three kings.”

Who is the fourth beast? It is none other than the Antichrist who will rise to power. The important thing to note is that these ten horns represent ten nations that are ruled by seven leaders or kings. Why does Daniel initially say that there were ten kings? As Daniel prophesies in verses 23-24, three of the kings or leaders were taken out of the equation leaving seven. Thus, as John points out in Revelation there are seven heads (leaders or kings) with ten horns (ten nations).

Why is this important for us to understand what the seven heads and ten horns represent? The reason is because the Antichrist or the beast will have control over the world system by taking power over the ten nations. The ten nations are critical because they represent nations that have economic and political influence in today’s time. It is believed by many Biblical scholars that these nations will indeed come from the Middle East and Eurpoe. Nations such as France, Spain, Egypt and Iran will be among them.

The point to be made is that the Antichrist will assume power over not only the ten nations that have political and economic influence but the Antichrist will control the entire world for a certain season. How do we know that this is true?

Daniel says in verse 23 that the beast will devour the entire earth and crush it. This means that once this individual who is the Antichrist rises to power, he will indeed be responsible for destroying the world by capturing the world system. The only way that it will be possible is through the power that Satan himself provides. Notice what John says in the latter part of verse 2 of chapter 13:

(NKJV) “The dragon gave him his power, his throne, and great authority.”

The dragon that John saw in his vision is none other than Satan. So, it is vitally important that you the reader understand that our current world system is being framed by Satan who will utilize the coming of the Antichrist to deceive and destroy. Satan’s goal is to increase his own kingdom through deception and through brute force. The Antichrist who has yet to be revealed here on Earth is simply waiting in the background for his cue.

In order for the Antichrist to appear, it will only mean that Jesus Christ has returned for His church. Believe it or not, the coming of Christ is sooner than we realize. While Jesus said that no man knows the day or the hour that Christ shall return, it is clear that based on the signs of the time that can be found in our world and throughout scripture that Jesus is soon to return.

The question is, are you eternally secured in Jesus Christ? If you don’t know Jesus as your personal Lord and savior, your time for redemption is right now. Delaying will only lead to your demise both eternally and even physically. The end of the world is yet upon us. The Antichrist will not only deceive many but he will destroy those who are left behind. Don’t delay your safety by rejecting Christ.

If you wait, you may be left behind after Christ returns only to be faced with losing your soul to Satan or losing your life in rejection of the Satanic system that is being cultivated at this very moment. While there is time, accept Christ and avoid the penalty of sin. Now is the time to come to Jesus Christ and have your sins forgiven.