The Cost and Reward of Evangelism

Evangelism is a notable, heartwarming, fulfilling, rewarding and glorious divine commission enterprise after Jesus Christ for building the Church, building nations and people for God.

Evangelism like Church mission in general is based on the supreme sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross. The cross is the spirit, message, life, direction and system of conduct of evangelism as Church enterprise.

It is the spirit and vehicle and glory of Go, Preach, Teach, Disciple the nations and the Great Commission.

Matthew 28:19

 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:  Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

Great, joyous and glorious but it comes at great cost to Church people but there is a promise of reward along the way as well as at the end.

Jesus Christ is the best example of evangelist. In John 4, he demonstrates how to evangelize in his encounter with the woman at the well.

The cost of Evangelism

Evangelism is a command by Jesus Christ to His disciples. Therefore, if you are a disciple of Christ you are under his command to bear fruits by winning souls for him.

John 20:21

Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you.-KJV

1.       The first cost of evangelism is abandoning self-interest, sacrificing desires, joys, gain and glory in life for the sake of the Gospel mission just as Jesus did.

Philippians 2:6-8

Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:

And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

2.       Living a sanctified, righteous and faithful life of identification with, obedience of and dependent upon Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit.

3.       Substituting to and depending upon God (Christ Jesus, the Holy Spirit and the Word of God).

4.       There is a cost of engagement with Satan- the works of the enemies of God and man and his agents among spirits, men principalities and powers.

a)      Jesus overcame satan as well as the challenges of human desires and dictates in the wilderness- Matthew 4:4-11

b)      Jesus proved humble and obedient in battles with the flesh, sin and death in the garden of Gethsemane- Matthew 26:36-46

c)       Jesus rejected the praise of man- John 6:15

THE REWARD OF EVANGELISM

We, as Christians are to tell the Good News of Jesus Christ either verbally, writing or most importantly our deeds.

Revelation 22:12

 And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.

1.       Our First and most important reward is ETERNAL LIFE. –John 3:16

2.       There are three main crowns in Christian service and life

a)      Crown of righteousness –II Timothy 4:8

b)      Crown of Life- James 1:12, Revelation 2:10

c)       Crown of Glory- I Peter 5:4

This apart, we have crown of pure gold (Revelation 4:4), the spirit of glory, also marks, garments and special names from God.

3.       There is promotion due to faithfulness in service (Matthew 25:21).

Evangelism is a great and wonderful divine ordered spiritual mechanism for creating new man, creating new societies, creating new world- great spiritual enterprise with eternal significance.

Matthew 10:32-33

Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven.

 But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven.

CHRISTIANITY AND SPORTS

I used to be a Real Madrid fan. I stayed all night in the newsroom just to watch 90 minutes of football match. Sports was just a ‘good thing’ for me. Therefore, Sports was okay until I got really born-again last year (2012).

Once I was born again, I hated the things I loved and loved the things I hated. Sports was something I used to love but now I hate it to the roots.

NOTE: You can NEVER be a dedicated Christian if you still follow your favourite sports team or sports idol.
The eternal benefit of sports is nil. The benefit of godliness is eternal company with God.

GOD HATES SPORTS

God has never been involved in sporting activities ever since creation. Sports is something created by the devil to destruct Christians and the world from following Jesus.

When Jesus Christ was ascending into Heavens he said ‘Go preach the gospel to world”. If the disciples were engaging in sporting activities I wonder where True Christians will be by now.

Sports is full of competition and God through His Son Jesus Christ taught us not to compete with each other. He said we should love one another and by that people will get to know Him (1 John 4:7-14)
Pastor Ken Raggio writes 'Sportsmanship is not one of the Christian virtues. Competition is quite contrary to the teachings of Jesus Christ. Jesus taught us to take the lower seat, turn the other cheek, defer to others, serve, honor and reverence one another. Sports enforce the exact opposite values. One-upmanship is very opposite of submission.'
 

SEPARATION FROM THE WORLD

The Bible clearly teaches an uncompromising stand against indulgence in the things of the world as represented by the dance, beauty pageant, the theater, sports, fame, lust of money, immorality, lust of power, lust of the flesh and movies.

Romans 12:2

And be not fashioned according to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, and ye may prove what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

  THE CHARACTER OF SPORTSMEN

Sportsmen have tattooed, put on ear rings, waste money on strip girls (Prostitutes), and married to unbelievers; they are always seeking their interest, fame, worth and status.

The question is if you claim to be a True Christian which of the above is commanded by God for Christians? Did Jesus seek after those things?

Sportsmen DO NOT care about Salvation or Eternity, all they care about is their bank account and girls to fornicate with.

When a Sports team wins a game, it’s promotes the activities of Prostitutes, gamblers, alcoholic beverages and sex. In fact those evil things depend on sports to survive.

Sports is an idea from Satan to destroy even True Believers of the Word of God. Some sports personalities seek the help of fetish priest, horoscopes, they cheat with their ages and they are enhanced by other negative factors to improve their performance.

SPORTS IDOLS

In the FIRST place, no True Christian baptized by the Holy Spirit will be involved in Sports. If you are doing sports, I urge you to go back to the Bible.  These sportsmen “ignorantly” point to Heaven and talk about God but deep down their hearts, their father is the devil.  

Remember God will judge our hearts, thoughts and actions not merely words of praises to Him. Jesus wants us to be doers of the Bible not hearers and praise singers.

TIGER WOODS was reported to have been sleeping with several other women daily when he was married.

MARIE JONES and other several athletics have been strip off their titles due to enhancement drugs.

DIEGO MARADONA was reported to be addicted with cocaine during his hay days.

ASAMOAH GYAN, Ghana’s team captain is a Hip-Hop artiste.

CHRISTIANO RONALDO has a baby with another woman whose identity cannot be revealed.

BENZEMA, RIBERY were reported to have raped an underage prostitute some years back.

The above and many more stories, actions, thoughts and decisions of these sports idols clearly lead to death. Sports and it’s icons will lead you to HELL if you follow them with all your heart, mind and soul. We even understand that there are some Lesbians in the female teams.

THOUGHTS

So tell me, can God involve Himself with this evil thing called sports?

Which Sports personality imitates Jesus?

Can these Sports idols engage in evangelism?

Have any life (soul) been saved through sports?

How can a True Christian have the same interest/ thing in common with gays, atheists, fetish priest, unbelievers and demons?

THE ‘FALSE PASTORS’

Sometimes, it hurts me to see Pastors praying for these sportsmen to win a match only to be using it for their lustful desires. Instead of the Pastors telling them to REPENT from their evil and cruel ways, they pray for them to win.

CONCLUSION

When Jesus Christ warned us to “Take Heed, and Keep your lamps burning”, He was not referring to your sports team. He said we should watch and pray, because the devil will deceive many. Don’t be deceived, Jesus is interested in saving souls to Heaven not sports or other fleshly activities.

Romans 8:6-8

 For the mind of the flesh is death; but the mind of the Spirit is life and peace: because the mind of the flesh is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can it be: and they that are in the flesh cannot please God.

Give your heart a a better passion, a passion for the love of God, people and eternal life. The things of the world means nothing on the day of Judgment!

Note: i have not watched TV since 2012 (when i became really born again)!

GOALS OF EVERY CHRISTIAN

Everybody has goals in this life.  As Christians we also have goals that determine our purpose in this life on earth. Our goals defers from the goals of the people of the world. The world (pagans) are aspiring to be famous, rich, wealthy, higher status, higher educational ladder, etc. But as Christians we CANNOT have the same goals as unbelievers.  

NOTE: A Christian is someone who is practicing the Word of God.

We are called to light in this dark world. We have to continue walking in the light of God and having faith that in the last day, Jesus will call us home to dine with him.

Today, we discuss the goals of every Christian.

1.     To  Please God

This is our primary motive on earth. There is no other purpose than to please Jesus Christ our Lord and Personal savior.  In all our daily activities, we should be mindful that all that we do should be in the glory of God and nobody (human) should take that credit.

Colossians 1:9-10

 For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God.

2.     To Know God

The second goal is know God. We can know God by reading and applying the Bible, praying and been led by the spirit.  Perhaps this is one of the challenging goals but we have the Holy Spirit to guide us and lead us. Knowing God do not come in a day, it takes continuous effort to reach there.  The Bible says Enoch walked with God for 300 years and he was righteous in the sight of God. God took him to Heaven.

John 17:3

 And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.

3.     To be fruitful to Jesus Christ

We are called to bear fruits to God. We can only bear fruits when we imitate Jesus Christ, the High Priest and the leader of the Church. Everything outside this is worthless. We should be ready to separate ourselves, suffer and carry our cross for the crown. We are going to render an account to Jesus for our decisions, actions and thoughts about Him.

John 15:4-5

 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.

 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.

4.     Love one another

In this world, people will hate you because of Jesus Christ but we (Christians) are not suppose to hate them but to love and pray for them. We must love as Jesus loves us.  Jesus said the whole commandment in the Bible is sum up as ‘LOVE’

John 13:34-35

A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.

 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.

5.     To live at Peace

Living at peace starts when we love one another. One of our goals is to live in peace with all men. Sometimes, it’s challenging but we have to apply the Biblical command with the help of the Holy Spirit. The world may provoke, insults and persecute you but we have to pray, love and to live in peace with them.

Romans 12:18-21

 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.

Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.

6.     To Spread the Gospel

If you know what you have been saved from by Jesus then it’s a sin not to spread the good news. The gospel can be sum up as the birth, death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ and the promise in Heaven for all who believeth. Christians are commanded to spread the message of the Lord Jesus to all tribes, nations, Kingdoms, and everywhere in the world.

Matthew 28:19

 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:

 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

7.     To grow to maturity

When we accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and personal savior that is the first step, the next step which is one of the goals of every Christian is to grow into maturity in Christ. Growing into maturity means to take the image of Jesus Christ. People should see Jesus Christ in all that you do. We have to be led by the Holy Spirit to bear all the fruits of the spirit. As Christians we have to be periodically examining ourselves of our level of faith and maturity in Christ.

Ephesians 4:13

Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:

8.     Our Final goal is Heaven

Our suffering, trials, persecutions, goodness, righteousness, and holiness are preparations to Heaven. Every Christian goal is to go to Heaven. If you don’t have such a goal then you have examine your salvation. Heaven is our home, earth is the preparation field therefore we should not live like the pagans do.  We have to be eternity minded.

Revelation 7:9-12

 After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands;

 And cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb.

 And all the angels stood round about the throne, and about the elders and the four beasts, and fell before the throne on their faces, and worshipped God, Saying, Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, be unto our God for ever and ever. Amen.

Conclusion:

God guarantees that all Christians should be able to meet their goals. We have no excuse in not reaching our goals. When we miss any of the goals we have indirectly miss the FINAL GOAL-Heaven. We ought to be extra careful in the way we live in this dark and evil generation.

The FINAL goal should be in our heart, minds and soul. We must be Ready, Prepare and Awaken for the Second Coming of Christ! Shalom.

The Beatitudes

God blesses you who are hungry now, for you will be satisfied. God blesses you who weep now, for the time will come when you will laugh with joy. 

God blesses you who are hated and excluded and mocked and cursed because you are identified with me, the Son of Man. 
"When that happens, rejoice! Yes, leap for joy! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were also treated that way by your ancestors. 

"What sorrows await you who are rich, for you have your only happiness now. 

What sorrows await you who are satisfied and prosperous now, for a time of awful hunger is before you. What sorrows await you who laugh carelessly, for your laughing will turn to mourning and sorrow. 

Luke 6:21-25 

FOUR NEEDS OF EVERY CHRISTIAN

In this short life on earth, we have needs that need to be met. That is why the people pressurize the government to meet their promises. Every human being needs the 4 basic things to be able to survive here on earth. The basic needs are shelter, clothing, food and water, and health.

As Christians we also need 4 basic things that can guarantee our passage through this life on earth to Heaven to see our Lord Jesus.

1.     We need a life-giver.

All Christians have a life giver in Jesus Christ.  He is the only one that can rescue us from our trials and tribulations.  Jesus Christ came to die on the cross and whoever believes in him will have a life guard for eternity. John 3:14-15 says “and as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.”

2.     We need Salvation

All born again Christians have Salvation. Without Salvation our live here on earth will be meaningless and worthless.

Acts 4:12

Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

If your Salvation is sure, real and true then you need to share the good news to the rest of world. You cannot be saved and remain silent about the joy you have received in the Lord Jesus.

3.     We need the Holy Spirit

When Jesus was leaving the disciples, He promised them the Holy Spirit would be their leader and fortress. Without the Holy Spirit many Christians would have it difficult to live the Christian walk of faith. The Holy Spirit speaks to us, guides us, protects us and directs us. The Holy Spirit transforms us and makes us different from among them.

Romans 8:12-16

Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:

KJV

4.     We need a future and home

We all retire to our various homes after the end of the day. Likewise, after our life on earth is over, we retire to see our dear Lord Jesus. Jesus our life giver and savior is preparing a place for us-His Children. We need to know that our sufferings and persecutions will soon end and we go home to dine with Jesus. Heaven and Hell is real, it’s going to be our address, and you decide which address you will be located.

Revelation 21:1-8

And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.

And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.

And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.

And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.

And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.

He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.

But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.

KJV

GOD HATE IDOLS

God hate idols. He is the ONLY God in the world. He does not want to share His glory with anybody or anyone in Heaven or on earth. God cast Satan down from Heaven because he had wanted to usurp his throne and share in glory.

The first commandment God gave the people of Israel is not to worship any other gods besides him.  Today, people worship fame, money, their businesses, television, properties and themselves instead of giving God His glory. We should know that whether we refuse to God His honour, He still remains God. We will one day bow down to worship Him.

The Bible in John 18:6 says ‘As Jesus said ‘I AM he,’ they all drew back and fell on the ground!’ This illustrates that even when Jesus was about to be crucified the soldiers worshipped him before handling him over to be trialed.

God is God, we are dust! We have no other business here on earth than to give him all the dew recognition and applause he deserves.

God or idols, why did people continually turn to idols instead of to God?

Idols are;

1.     Tangible

2.     Morally similar-have human characteristics

3.     Comprehensive

4.     Able to be manipulated

God is;

1.     Intangible-no physical form

2.     Morally dissimilar-have divine characteristics

3.     Incomprehensible

4.     Not able to be manipulated

Worshiping idols involves:

1.     Materialism

2.     Sexual immorality

3.     Doing whatever a person wanted

4.     Focusing on self

Worshiping God involves:

1.     Sacrifice

2.     Purity and commitment

3.     Doing what God wants

4.     Focusing on others

Lessons from the Suffering of Job

Children never tire of asking why. Yet the question produces a bitter taste the older we get. Children wonder about everything; adults wonder about suffering. We notice that the world seems to run by a system of cause and effect, yet there are some effects for which we can’t find a clear cause, and some causes that don’t lead to the expected effects.

We would expect Job’s wealth and family to give him a very happy life and, for while, they did. But the loss and pain he experience shock us. The first two chapters of his story are more than we can bear. To those so quick to ask why the smallest misfortune, Job’s faithfulness seems incredible. But even Job has something to learn. We can lean with him.

Our age of ‘instant’ everything has caused us to lose the ability to wait. We expect to learn patience instantly, and in our hurry, we miss the contradiction. Of all that we want now, relief from pain is at the top of our list. We want an instant cure for everything from toothaches to heartbreaks.

Although some pains have been cured, we still live in a world where many people suffer. Job was not expecting instant answers for the intense emotional and physical pain he endured. But in the end, what broke Job’s patience was not the suffering, but not knowing why he suffered.

When Job expressed his frustration, his friends were ready with their answers. They believed that the law of cause and effect applied to all people’s experiences. Their view of life boiled down to this: Good things happen to good people, and bad things happen to bad people. Because of this, they felt their role was to help Job admit to whatever sin was causing his suffering.

Job actually looked at life almost the same way as his friends. What he couldn’t understand was why he was suffering so much when he was sure he had done nothing to deserve such punishment. The last friend, Elihu, did offer another explanation for the pain by pointing out that God might be allowing it to purify Job. But this was only partly helpful.

When God finally spoke, he didn’t offer Job an answer. Instead, he drove home the point that it is better to know God than to know answers.

Often we suffer consequences for the bad decisions and actions. Job’s willingness to repent and confess known wrongs is a good guideline for us. Sometimes suffering shapes us for special service to others. Sometimes suffering is an attack by Satan on our lives. And sometimes we don’t know why we suffer. At those times, are we willing to trust God in spite of unanswered questions?

Job’s story is told in the book of Job. He is also referred to in Ezekiel 14:14,20 and James 5:10-11

Encountering God in the Silence voice

Elijah’s single-minded commitment to God shocks and challenges us. He was sent to confront –not to comfort. And Elijah spoke God’s words to a King who often reject his message just because he brought it. Elijah chose to carry out his ministry for God alone and paid for that decision by experiencing isolation from others who were also faithful to God.

It is interesting to think about the amazing miracles God accomplished through Elijah, but we should do well to focus on the relationship they shared. All that happened in Elijah’s life began with the same miracle that is available to us-he responded to the miracle of being able to know God.   

For example, after God worked an overwhelming miracle through Elijah in defeating the prophets of Baal, Queen Jezebel retaliated by threatening Elijah’s life. And Elijah ran. He felt afraid, depressed, and abandoned.

Despite God’s provision of food and shelter in the wilderness, Elijah wanted to die. So God presented Elijah with an “audiovisual display” and a message he needed to hear. Elijah witnessed a windstorm, an earthquake, and a fire. But the Lord was not in any of those powerful things. Instead, God displayed his presence in a gentle whisper.

Elijah, like us, struggled with his feelings even after this comforting message from God. So God comforted Elijah’s emotions and commanded action. He told Elijah what to do next and informed him that part of his loneliness was based on ignorance: Seven thousand others in Israel were still faithful to God.     

Even today, God often speaks through the gentle and obvious rather than the spectacular and usual. God has work for us to do even when we feel fear and failure. And God always has more resources and people than we know about. Although we might wish to do amazing miracles for God, we should instead focus on developing a relationship with him. The real miracle of Elijah’s life was his very personal relationship with God. And that miracle is available to us.

Full Story: 1 Kings 17:1-2Kings 2:11

THE BIBLE

Unique among the books of the world is the BIBLE. The perennial best seller, the Bible is to the believer the Holy Scriptures, the Word of God- and the wayfaring man, though he be fool, can by reading it find the way of Salvation.

The Bible is the best-seller of all times. Part of it has been translated into more than 2400 languages and every year30 to 40 more translations are added. Worldwide 200 to 300 million Bibles or Bible parts are distributed year. This is amazing and the question is, ‘Why does the Bible find such a wide circulation?’- This question can be answered by the testimony of millions of people who say that the Bible has been a real help in various situations in Life.

Let us see what the Bible says about itself, ‘All scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16)

LIVE THE WORD

It is extreme important that in reading the Bible we focus on living the Word. To obey God’s word, to practice it, to apply it to all areas of your life is the evidence that you love God and you live for Him (1 John 5:3). Applying God’s Word is the MOST IMPORTANT part of the Bible reading. The words of the Bible itself cry out to us, ‘Do not merely listen to the Word, and so deceive yourself. Do what it says’ (James 1:22)

APPLYING THE WORD

Successfully putting God’s Word into practice is a result of your disciplined obedience to God’s commands and the empowering of the Holy Spirit to carry out your obedience. You have a significant role to play in the process of application.

How to use the Bible

Every real Church accepts the Bible as the Word of God and endeavors to be govern by it. Christians have no discipline or Book of rules given by some council or other human authority, but believe the Bible to be sufficient rule of conduct for both the individual Christian and the local Church.

1.     Treat the Bible as the Word of God.

Accept it as such-there are three witnesses;

a.    Itself-it claims to be, for over 2,000 times the phrase of its equivalent occurs ‘Thus saith the Lord’

b.    Its writers – Luke 1:70, 2 Timothy 3:16

c.     The Lord Jesus-Mark 12:36

2.     Study the Bible as the Text –Book of Christian Doctrine- 2 Timothy 2:15

3.     Beware of Private Interpretation-Ephesians 4:14

4.     Read the Bible as the guide book of the Christian-Psalm 119:11

Conclusion: The best way to learn to use the Bible is to use it. Take this rule for your attitude toward the Bible: Believe it fully; study it reverently; trust it implicitly; read it regularly and use it confidently.

PERILOUS TIMES

We are in the last days, as a Christian you don’t need a Pastor or Preacher to emphasize this truth to you. The details in the news and the recent development are enough to keep us alert and watchful of the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. The Word ‘Perilous’ can be simply be define as ‘To reduce the strength of an intended purpose’.

The Bible makes it clear in the Book of 2 Timothy 3:1-9

This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

 For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts,  Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith. But they shall proceed no further: for their folly shall be manifest unto all men, as theirs also was.

REALITY

Today’s generation wants everything except the Word of God. This generation spent billions on sports, sex, worldly activities that have no external value. This generation is working 100% for the devil and little for the Man who died on the cross to save their souls. It is just unfortunate that this generation seeks the things of the flesh and engages in lustful activities yet wants to go to Heaven.

Brethren, the Word of God is the Mind of God, do not think that God is just another subject. God is all we need, that is why He gave us His ONLY begotten Son, Jesus Christ to die on the cross for us.

The Word of God was written more than 2,000 years ago yet it is relevant like it was written this morning. People are seeking high education for promotion, fame, sex, money, contracts, business, and properties and have abandoned their faith. Indeed, the Word of God said in the last days even Christians (Chosen ones) will backslide .In all that you do, do not fulfill a negative prophecy.

Even in gospel times there would be perilous times; on account of persecution from without, still more on account of corruptions within. Men love to gratify their own lusts, more than to please God and do their duty.

When every man is eager for what he can get, and anxious to keep what he has, this makes men dangerous to one another. When men do not fear God, they will not regard man. When children are disobedient to their parents, that makes the times perilous.

Men are unholy and without the fear of God, because unthankful for the mercies of God. We abuse God's gifts, if we make them the food and fuel of our lusts. Times are perilous also, when parents are without natural affection to children. And when men have no rule over their own spirits, but despise that which is good and to be honoured. God is to be loved above all; but a carnal mind, full of enmity against him, prefers any thing before him, especially carnal pleasure.

A form of godliness is very different from the power; from such as are found to be hypocrites, real Christians must withdraw. Such persons have been found within the outward church, in every place, and at all times. There ever have been artful men, who, by pretences and flatteries, creep into the favour and confidence of those who are too easy of belief, ignorant, and fanciful. All must be ever learning to know the Lord; but these follow every new notion, yet never seek the truth as it is in Jesus. Like the Egyptian magicians, these were men of corrupt minds, prejudiced against the truth, and found to be quite without faith. Yet though the spirit of error may be let loose for a time, Satan can deceive the nations and the churches no further, and no longer, than God will permit.

Downfall of Christian

We are in the last of the last on earth and you don’t need anybody to tell you when we hear of earthquake, suicide, tornadoes, murder, fornication, and lust.

The Bible says in the last days even the elected will fall prey to the deception of the world. ‘JESUS said Take heed that no one deceives you. For many will come in My name, saying, “I am the Christ,” and will deceive many’ ” (Matthew 24:4, 5, NKJV).

The world may seem to fall apart with the recent development of wars, hatred, and struggle for power and evil but the God is STILL in control of this fallen world.

There are 3 things that can lead to a downfall of a Christian whose name may have been in the BOOK of LIFE.

1.    SELF (PRIDE)

The first thing that can lead to a downfall of NOT only a Priest, Pastor or a leader but a Christian is the spirit of PRIDE.  God say He resist the proud, which means God cannot work with someone with a boastful attitude. Proverbs 11:2 says When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom. Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.  A Christian disqualifies himself when he exhibits the spirit of pride and arrogance.  The Bible in 2 Timothy 3:1 indicated the spirit of self in the last days ‘there will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good.

2.    SILVER (MONEY, FAME, POWER)

We live in a society of lies and deception.  Sadly, most Christians are following God because of the lust of fame, power and money. Politicians go to Church because they want vote and power from God for their selfish motives. Silver is causing a lot of Christians to backslide form the WILL of God.  JESUS CHRIST once said, you cannot worship God and money. The lust of money, fame and power is causing  many Christians to commit all sort of atrocities against their faith. Two thousand years ago Jesus said, "It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God." (Mark 10:25 NIV). Too often, rich people make wealth their number one priority instead of God. They spend most of their time making wealth, spending it, and increasing it. In a very real sense, money becomes their idol. God won't stand for that. He told us so in his First Commandment: "You shall have no other gods before me." (Exodus 20:3 NIV).

3.    SEX

This is one of the scared yet the number cause of backsliding and downfall of most Christians.  Pastors, Deacons, Leaders, Servants, the great and the small have fallen from GRACE because of sex. Indeed, as Christians we have to pray and be faithful to God because the devil is using this to bring shame in the House of God.

Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. 1 Corinthians 6:9

Ephesians 5:3
Let there be no sexual immorality, impurity, or greed among you. Such sins have no place among God's people. (NLT)

Seeing Ourselves as CHRISTIANS

Because of the world's false values, we seldom see ourselves as we really are. The truth is that in the eyes of God, every believer is rich and famous.

We possess the richness of a salvation that can never be taken from us. This is the treasure that's immune from moths and rust. We take it with us when we die, unlike money or fancy possessions.

We are famous and precious to our Savior, so much that he sacrificed himself so we can spend eternity with him. His love surpasses any earthly fame because it will never end.

It's time to stop comparing houses, cars, clothes, and bank accounts. It's time to stop feeling inadequate because we don't own the outward symbols of success.

Instead, it's time to turn our eyes to our intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. That's where we'll experience our greatest fulfillment. That's where we'll finally find all the riches we've ever wanted.

Right Decision

A young man had been promoted to an important position in his company. He'd never dreamed he'd be in such a position, much less at such a young age.

So he went to see the venerable old timer in the company, and said, "Sir, I was wondering if you could give me some ADVICE."

The old timer came back with just two words: "Right decisions!"

The young man had hoped for a bit more than this, so he said, "Thank you, that's really helpful, and I appreciate it, but could you be a little more SPECIFIC? HOW do I make right decisions?"

The old man responded: "Experience."

The young man said, "Well, that's just the point of my being here. I don't have the kind of experience I need. How do I GET it?"

The old man replied: "WRONG decisions!"

End of story.

Remember that God uses our failures, mistakes, or wrong decisions to make us a better person.

So if you made mistakes, don't be too hard on yourself.

Instead, memorize this Bible verse:

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." - Romans 8:28

A wife Prayer for her Husband

  Wives, this is how to pray for your husband from head to toe.
Dear Lord, today I pray for my husband, from head to toe.

• His Head –That he will look to You as Lord of his life. (1 Corinthians 11:13)

• His Mind - That he will have the mind of Christ and think as the Holy Spirit would lead him and not the flesh. (1 Corinthians 2:16)

• His Eyes –That You will keep his eyes from temptation and that he will turn his eyes from sin. (Matthew 6:13, Mark 9:47)

• His Ears - That he will hear Your still small voice instructing him. (1 Kings 19:12, Psalm 32:8)

• His Mouth – That his words will be pleasing to You. (Proverbs 19:14)

• His Neck –That he will humble himself before You and be strong, courageous, and careful to do everything written in Your Word so that he will be prosperous and successful. (James 4:10, Joshua 1:8-9)

• His Heart-That he will love and trust You with his whole heart. (Deuteronomy 6:5;  Proverbs 3:5)

• His Arms-That You will be his strength. (Psalm 73:26)

• His Hands-That he will enjoy the work of his hands and see it as a gift from You. (Ecclesiastes 3:13, 5:19)

• His Ring Finger – That he will be true to our marriage vows and that our love will never wane. (Proverb 3:3; Malachi 2:16)

• His Legs – That he will stand firm in his faith and not waver. (Psalm 62:6)

• His feet – That You will order his steps and that he will walk in Your truth. (Proverbs 4:25, Psalm 26:3)

Credit: girlfriendsingod.com

SUCCESS

What does it mean to be successful?


Success usually brings to mind financial achievement or being number one. Others would define success by the bumper sticker: "He who dies with the most toys wins." Some like to think that success is being busy--on the go, racing from one appointment to another, and having too much to do with too little time to do it.


The problem with these definitions of success is they exact a high cost. The Executive Digest has noted, "The trouble with success is that the formula is the same as the one for a nervous breakdown." That's sobering, uncomfortable, and too often true.


Maybe the definition of success that you are familiar with is not the correct one. I would encourage you to reassess your definition of success before it is too late. May I propose a new look at the word S.U.C.C.E.S.S.?


Service. There is no such thing as success without service. The secret of success lies in meeting the needs of others. And when we are meeting people's needs, we will discover fulfillment.


Understanding contentment. Let's not measure success by how much we own or how much money we have but by a sense of inner contentment. Real success is always internal, never external.


Character. Character is of greater value than how much money or status we have. A man's best test of character is revealed in how he treats people around him. So measure your success not by your possessions and achievements. Measure success by the quality of your character and conduct.


Compassion. What really matters is not money, power, and ego but issues of the heart--such as compassion, kindness, bravery, generosity, and love. Do you love people more than things?


Excellence. Excellence is not being the best but being your best.


Significance. The popular notion of success has not cut it. A growing number of people yearn for significance more than success. Significance comes by giving ourselves to something that is greater than us and that will outlast us.


Sacrifice. A problem in our society is that we are spending our entire lives looking for something worth living for. It would be better if we found something worth dying for.


Success under these guidelines will bring you into harmony with God's guidance.