RECOVERING THE LOST ART OF PERSONAL EVANGELISM

Text: Mark 16:15-20; Acts 1:8; John 3:1-7; 4:5-29

Personal evangelism is the person-to-person sharing of the gospel of Christ with sinners with the aim of leading them to salvation. The primary purpose of Christ coming into the world was to die for the salvation of man (John 3:14-18; 1 Timothy 1:15). He came to seek and to save the lost. He could not allow any other thing to becloud His vision of saving the lost. He came for that purpose and died for it (John 6:15; 19:37; 1 John 3:8). Christ preached to great multitudes who came from many regions to hear him (Luke 15:2; Matthew 4:23-25). He also used the personal evangelism strategy to reach individuals and families. He used different approaches to reach different people. (1) With Nicodemus Christ used a direct approach: “Ye must be born again” (John 3:1-7). (2) With the Samaritan woman, He used an indirect approach: “Give me to drink” (John 4:5-7). (3) With the woman caught in adultery by the Scribes and Pharisees, He used a situational approach (John 8:2-11). He applied the same approach with the informants who told Him of the Galilaeans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. “Jesus answering said unto them, Suppose ye that these Galilaeans were sinners above all the Galilaeans, because they suffered such things? I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish” (Luke 13:1-3). Jesus reached out to His twelve disciples, whom He called apostles, through personal evangelism (John 1:29-51; Matthew 4:19-22; Luke 6:13). 

For a local church to grow, the members must go and preach the Word right where the sinners are. Many sinners do not go to church, therefore, the church must go out to meet them where they are: in their houses, offices, town or village square, civic centres, playgrounds, hospitals, prisons, schools, marketplaces etc. (Acts 20:20; 17:16-31; 16:20-34). No other business should thrill the heart of a New Testament believer than personal evangelism. Winning the lost is a task that must be done; failure to carry it out carries great consequences.

CONSEQUENCES OF NEGLECTING PERSONAL EVANGELISM

John 3:16-18,36; Ezekiel 3:17-21; 18:4; 33:1-16; Romans 1:14-16; Matthew 10:32,33; John 4:35-38; 9:4; 1 Corinthians 7:29-31.

Sinners cannot get saved without the preaching of the gospel. It is the soulwinner’s duty to preach to them. The implication of neglecting personal evangelism includes (1) the loss and waste of ripened harvest, (2) requirement of sinners’ blood from negligent soul-winners (Ezekiel 3:17-21; 33:1-16), (3) Christ being ashamed of Christians that neglect to witness (Mark 8:38), (4) loss of soul-winners’ reward  (Daniel 12:3; Proverbs 11:30), (5) spiritual decline and stunted growth of local churches, and (6) delay in answer to prayer. The consequences of neglecting personal evangelism on the part of the sinners, the soul-winners and the church are so great. Every believer must therefore, wake up to this great responsibility. We must rise up to renew our first love for Christ (Revelation 2:1-5).

COMPELLING NECESSITY OF PERSONAL EVANGELISM

1 Corinthians 9:16; Jeremiah 20:9; Matthew 9:36; John 9:4; Acts 4:20; 18:5; 20:22-24; Ezekiel 3:17-21; 2 Corinthians 5:11a; John 4:35; Romans 9:3; 10:1; 1 Corinthians 9:22; Psalm 90:12; Mark 5:18-20.

Personal evangelism is a compelling necessity for every believer. It is not the will of God that anyone should perish: He wants all men to be saved. The Lord Jesus Christ was not only involved in personal evangelism but also sent out His disciples to do so. They were to preach to every creature everywhere. Paul the apostle said, “For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!”  (1 Corinthians 9:16). To him, souls are more valuable than any other thing in the world.

It is an obligation for every believer to personally bear witness of Christ and the task is urgent in view of (i) shortness of time, (ii) the brevity of life (Psalm 90:12; John 9:27-29), (iii) reality of eternal judgment of the lost (Psalm 9:17), and (iv) the need for believers to be free from the blood of all men (Ezekiel 3:17-21; 33:1-16). Concern for our loved ones,  members of our families, tribesmen, friends, co-workers and neighbours requires us to witness to them (Romans 9:3; 10:1). The vastness of the harvest field that is waiting for labourers should compel us to assist before they are wasted. 

COMMITMENT NEEDED FOR PERSONAL EVANGELISM

Isaiah 6:5-8; John 9:4; Luke 4:43; John 18:37; 1 Corinthians 9:16; Acts 4:13-20; 19:15-19; 20:20-24; Romans 1:14-16; 2 Timothy 2:3,4; Psalm 126:5,6; 1 Corinthians 15:58.

Commitment is an act of devoting oneself entirely to a given cause until the goal is achieved. Personal evangelism requires individual commitment. Our Lord Jesus Christ was personally committed to it. He said, “I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work” (John 9:4). Believers must be determined to preach to all men till the end of their lives on earth. In spite of trials, hardship and afflictions, a soul-winner must never give up.

Every spiritual effort must be made in order to sustain the zeal and fire for personal evangelism. This could be done through constant praying, yielding to the promptings of the Spirit to preach, regular reading of literature and listening to messages on evangelism, making deliberate plan to preach the gospel everyday, and maintaining the freshness of the Spirit (Acts 8:23,24; 1 Timothy 4:13; Romans 10:17; Acts 17:17). 

WHY JESUS?

JESUS is God – the Son, who died to save us from the bondage of SIN and eternal doom. Man was created in the righteous image of God but through SIN man lost that image (Gen 1:27; Rom 3:23; 5:12). God in His mercy, do not want man to perish forever send JESUS in the form of man to take away our SINS (Jn 3:16; Jn 1:29). With a singular demand that we turn away from our SINS in true repentance (Acts 3:26) for the forgiveness of our SINS (Acts 5:31; 1Jn 1:9) and believe in the death and resurrection of JESUS for the redemption and Justification of our souls (Rom 10:9,10; 5:1). Without Him there is no hope for lost humanity (Acts 4:12; Jn 4:6).

As we all know, death is inevitable and there is life after death because the soul of man is eternal (Heb 9:27; Gen 2:7). Therefore it is our individual responsibility to ensure the salvation of our never-dying soul – (Luke 13:3,5; Heb 2:3). It is not enough to belong to a Christian Fellowship, serve God in any capacity or give all you have for the cause of heaven. Nicodemus, The Ethiopian Eunuch, Paul the Apostle, Cornelius the Centurion were all religious to the highest degree of human recognition but without JESUS, their righteousness was not accepted in the sight of God. In His mercy, God saw their sincerity, sent His servants to preach JESUS to them all.

Don’t be deceived, God do not want us to continue in SIN: 

- He has no pleasure in the death of a sinner (John 3:16-18; 1Tim 2:4; Ezek 18:23; 2Peter 3:9;)

- He will punish SIN (Ezek 18:4, 20; Psa 7:11; 9:17; Rev 21:8)

How to be saved from SIN and its consequences:

- Accepts that you are a sinner and you cannot save yourself (Psa 51:5; Jer 3:13; 14:20; Isa 64:6)

- Believe that JESUS died on the cross for your SINS (Mat 1:21; John 1:29)

- Confess and forsake your SINS and ask God for forgiveness (Prov 28:13; Isa 55:7)

- Declare that you are saved (Rom 8:16; John 8:36)

After receiving JESUS as LORD and SAVIOUR, you are to:

- Join a Bible-believing Church (like the Deeper Life Bible Church) where you can receive help to grow in your new-found faith (Heb 10:25; 1Peter 2:2)

- Read and meditate on the Word of God (the Holy Bible) daily to grow in the knowledge of Christ (2Peter 3:18; Jos 1:8; 2Tim 2:15)

- Talk to God in prayer – prayer presupposes a belief in the personality of God, His ability and willingness to hold intercourse with us, His personal control of all things and all His creatures and all their actions (Luke 18:1; Phil 4:6; Eph 6:18; Rom 12:12; Col 4:2; 1Thess 5:17) 

- Confess Christ to others at the earliest opportunity and engage in soul winning (Mark 5:19, 16:15-16; Matt 28:18-19)

- Press on to the next experience of grace, sanctification and the baptism of the Holy Ghost (Heb 6:1; Acts 1:8)

Your spiritual welfare is our concern

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THE DESTINY OF MULTITUDES IN THE POPULAR WAY

Matthew 7:13

From the beginning and throughout the Sermon on the Mount, the Lord, Jesus Christ speaks about the Kingdom of heaven, the Kingdom of God (Matthew 5:3,10,19,20; 6:33; 7:21). His focus was on the destiny of man. The Lord looks at life as a journey, a journey from time unto eternity. He reveals that there are only two gates - the wide gate and the strait (narrow) gate; only two ways - the broad way and the narrow way; only two destinations - destruction and life. There are only two destinations unto which any of us can get to; the path we are treading will lead to either eternal peace and happiness in heaven or eternal torments, sorrow and suffering in hell. The choice we make of which gate we enter, which path, road or way we walk in will determine our final, eternal destiny after this life. God has ordained only two distinct places to be the final, eternal abodes of men after this life, and between them, He has fixed a great gulf so that none can pass from the one to the other (Luke 16:26).

There are only two gates, the wide gate of multitudes, the majority of the human race; and the narrow gate of the few who make the right choice which God has ordained. And there are only two ways, the popular way, the spacious road on which broadminded multitudes travel, and the narrow way, the unpopular road traversed by the few who walk and follow the Lord closely and consistently. There are only two destinations, not three. Some religious people have invented a third destination which they call ‘purgatory’. It is an imaginary place of human invention which does not exist. Men enter through the wide gate or the narrow gate; there is no third gate. Men travel on the broad way or the narrow way; there is no third way. There are only two classes of people - believers or unbelievers, saints or sinners, the few or the many. We are either in the light or in darkness; in the truth or in error; among the few or among the multitude; either righteous or unrighteous. There is no third category. There are only two ends - the end of the broad way or the end of the narrow way. There are only two destinations for travellers journeying through life - life or destruction. There are only two destinies - heaven or hell. Where will you spend eternity?

THE BROADENED ENTRANCE GATE FOR MANY INTO DEGENERATION

Matthew 7:13; Genesis 6:5,12; Psalm 14:2,3; Isaiah 59:7,8,13-15; Romans 1:28-32; Romans 3:9-19,23; Ephesians

2:2,3; Philippians 3:18,19; 2 Peter 2:1-3; 1 John 5:19.

“Wide is the gate.” Ancient cities have walls around them, and they have gates through which people may go out or come in. The wide gates are spacious enough to admit men and their loads or chariots while the strait, narrow gates take only individuals without loads or encumbrances. The examples of wide gates (for big trucks and vehicles) and narrow gates (for pedestrians) are still very common in cities and communities today. Our Lord, Jesus Christ, often used visible, known, natural things to illustrate spiritual, invisible, unknown, eternal realities. For travellers to get into the way leading to their destination, they go through the wide toll gate. The gate is the only avenue of admittance into the way and it must be taken in order to reach the destination. All who enter the wide gate will travel on the broad way and the only place this way leads to is destruction, doom and damnation.

The wide gate is the gate through which multitudes enter into life from the age of accountability. The gate takes in everyone with loads of sin and evil without any restriction or restraint. There is ample liberty for everyone desiring to go through the wide gate; the Pharisee and the Saduccee, the hypocrite and the reprobate, the covetous and the deceiver, the self-righteous and the religious, the fleshly, sensual and pleasure-seekers, despisers of God and opposers of righteousness, private and public sinners, unconverted moralists and unashamed criminals, the proud and the worldly, vicious, violent men and vile, vulnerable youths, wicked people and wandering backsliders, tempters, temptresses and their victims all go through the wide gate that leads to the broad way of the world.

THE BROAD, EVIL WAY OF MULTITUDES LEADING TO DESTRUCTION

Matthew 7:13; Psalm 36:1-4; Proverbs 14:12; Isaiah 1:28; 13:6-11; Ecclesiastes 11:9; Romans 2:16-24; 2 Thessalonians 2:8-12; 1 Peter 4:17,18; Jude 11-16.

“Wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat.” As we have noted already, the wide gate leads to the broad way which in turn leads to destruction. The broad way is deceptive; it seems right, proper and good to men of carnal reasoning. Since it is a crowded road with many rich, intelligent, worldly-wise, religious and church-going people walking therein; everybody thinks that these multitudes cannot be wrong. Among these travellers are scientists, philosophers, successful businessmen, preachers and priests, notable leaders among men, respected people in society. Can they all be wrong? If they are on the broad way, they are deceived.

The broad way is a downward road; it is easy, convenient and appears pleasant to travel on. It is “the course of this world.” It is the path of self-indulgence, self-gratification, self-interest, self-will, self-seeking and self-satisfaction. There is no hedge, control or self-denial. It is an easy, pleasant way to the flesh.

The broad way is a dangerous road. Unknown to the travellers, it leads to destruction, eternal, irreversible destruction. We can only escape the damnation if we turn back from the broad way by repentance from sin, faith in Christ, true and total conversion to Christ before reaching the end of the way. There is no repentance or second chance after death. No one can be absolutely sure of being alive another day. Decide today, enter the narrow gate and walk in the narrow way.

THE BITTER, ETERNAL WAGES OF MANY, DOOMED TO DAMNATION

Matthew 7:13; Philippians 3:18,19; 2 Thessalonians 1:8,9; 1 Timothy 6:9,10; Psalm 9:17; Isaiah 33:12-14; Matthew 23:14,25-28,33; Matthew 25:41; Luke 16:19-31; Psalm 2:10-12.

“Wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction.” The Greek word translated “destruction” does not mean annihilation. It does not mean that the “destruction” makes the many unconverted people who walked on the broad way cease to exist. See the use of the words “destroy” and “destruction” and compare with other verses in the New Testament (2 Thessalonians 2:8,9; 1:8,9; Revelation 19:20; 20:10). The destruction or damnation refers to a state and a place of conscious, unending, eternal torment and suffering.

Hell, a place of eternal punishment, is the final destination of all who walk on the broad way till the end of their lives. The infallible Word of God describes the final destiny of multitudes on the broad way as the lake of fire and brimstone (Revelation 20:15; 21:8), devouring fire and everlasting burnings (Isaiah 33:14), a furnace of fire (Matthew 13:41,42), a place of torments (Luke 16:23), a place of everlasting punishment (Matthew 25:46), a place of the blackness of darkness for ever (Jude 13), where there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth (Luke 13:28).

Did Jesus Say Anything About Homosexuality?

I have nothing but compassion for those trapped in sexual sin. My hope is that readers will read the entire article before drawing conclusions. Those who strongly believe in the Bible and God's will regarding sexual behavior also strongly believe in unconditional love and forgiveness. To say that authentic Christians hate or fear those trapped in the homosexual lifestyle demonstrates a gross misunderstanding of the Christian faith.

To "confront in love" simply comes from a desire to honor God and to truly love and care for others. The ability to relate to people on their level, show genuine concern, and love them regardless of their lifestyle is the mark of true Christianity.

In case you don't continue reading, let me offer some encouragement: if you're hopeless, depressed, and confused, look to the One who created you. He has the answers. No matter what you have done, you have the ability to turn to Christ and start anew: "If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved" (Romans 10:9). "If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come" (2 Corinthians 5:17).

It's no surprise that the church, and our nation, desperately need to hear "the voice of one crying in the wilderness" to awaken, convict, and restore. It was not so long ago that we were concerned about "the fall of America." America cannot fall because she has already fallen. We are now picking up the pieces of a broken nation reflected in our laws, lives, families, and children. America's moral heartbeat has ceased because we cut off the source of life. We need resuscitation, renewal, and revival of the truth.

When people, groups, denominations, or movements depart from absolute truth, and thus, quench and grieve the Spirit of God, they become mechanical in their approach to Christianity and lose the ability to guide. The Word of God is not in their hearts "like a burning fire" (Jeremiah 20:9), but relative, powerless, and debatable. This is what we see today.

Unfortunately, those who are sounding the alarm are often categorized as irrational, judgmental, bigoted, and intolerant. But how can we warn if we won't confront, correct if we won't challenge, and contend if we won't question? We must speak the truth in love…the Bible is crystal clear on sexual sin, including homosexuality.

Why is there a lack of conviction today? The reason may not be in the pew, but in the pulpit. Much depends on the prayer life of the preacher. Pastors, preachers, and teachers must spend extended time in prayer to be truly effective-God prepares the messenger before we prepare the message. Luther's motto, "He that has prayed well has studied well," rings true.

I'm convinced that the majority of the churches in America are seeking to please the masses rather than convict. Judgment is never mentioned; repentance is rarely sought; and sin is often excused. We want to build a church rather than break a heart; be politically correct rather than biblically correct; coddle and comfort rather than stir and convict. This leaves people confused and deceived because we teach and live a form of Christianity void of repentance…void of truth.

Consider the following in light of Jesus' teachings…in light of the truth:

1. The "moral" laws in the Old Testament such as killing, stealing, lying, adultery, sexual immorality, and so on are all valid today. Jesus referred often to the Old Testament, and said that He didn't come to abolish it, but to fulfill it. Although many of the ceremonial and dietary laws of the Old Testament do not apply today, the moral laws do. They are as significant today as they have been throughout history. For example, Leviticus 20:13 states, "If a man lies with a male as he lies with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination…." To suggest that this verse is invalid today is to advocate the dangerous practice of redefining or deleting what God has said. Jesus referred to the Old Testament often in regard to moral behavior.

The consequences of wrong actions may have changed, but the moral implications remain the same. For instance, even though we no longer stone to death those who commit adultery, this does not mean that adultery is acceptable or any less dangerous. Adultery is wrong even though there aren't legal consequences.

2. Jesus condemned "all" sexual activity outside of marriage between a man and woman when He said, "Out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications…these defile a man" (Matthew 15:19). Jesus was implying that all sexual activity outside of marriage between a man and a woman is harmful and immoral. The word "fornication" in the Greek is porneia; where the word "pornography" comes from. We cannot say, "But I was born this way," because we were all born to lie, cheat, lust, and deceive, but this doesn't make it right…it makes us sinful and in need of a Savior.

3. An argument cannot be based solely on silence. To suggest that Jesus approved of homosexuality simply because He did not use the term "homosexual," is to imply that He approved of necrophilia, pedophilia, incest, and bestiality. But, of course, we know better.

4. Other passage in the New Testament are clear on this issue as well. Romans 1:18-32 and 1 Corinthians 6:1-20 are good places to start. In short, mankind did not see fit to acknowledge God and they suppressed the truth; therefore, God gave them over to a depraved mind-to do those things which are not proper. Homosexual behavior, and sexual sin in general, is comparable with dishonoring the body and turning from God. "The sexual disordering of the human race is a judgment of God for exchanging Him for the creature" (John Piper).

5. Jesus said that since the beginning of creation, God created them male and female in order that they would be joined together and become one flesh. He adds, "Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate" (Mark 10:9). Marriage between a man and a woman is God's plan since creation. No matter how many laws are passed in favor of gay-marriage, it will not change God's mind. Man often rebels against God; this is nothing new.

In closing, Jesus would often speak out against sin, but His love and mercy also reached out to those who regretted and hated their condition. Forgiveness is a mark of genuine faith. We should have compassion for those who struggle with same-sex attraction because we all struggle with sin, but at the same time, we should not condone or excuse this type of sin any more than we condone or excuse any other sin

Source: http://m.christianpost.com/news/did-jesus-say-anything-about-homosexuality--120501/

THE POSSIBILITY AND POWER OF SAINTLY LIVING

Text: 1 Peter 1:14; Hebrews 12:14; Psalm 16:3; Ephesians 5:3

 

The word ‘Saint’ is used to describe someone that is living a holy consecrated and totally surrendered life. Such person having repented and be forgiven of all sins and washed by the blood of Jesus Christ lives his life in absolute reverence to God. The teaching of certain religious groups, who tell them that ‘Saints’ are, holy men/women who have lived and died long ago, sometimes misleads some youths. Such groups make them to believe that it is not possible to live a saintly life, while one is still living. This may be the reason why many youths have come to the conclusion that it is not possible for anyone to be a saint in this world. However, references from the bible will serve to correct such erroneous teaching (Psalm 16:3, Acts 9:32, Romans 1:7, Ephesians 5:3).

 

1. The Portrait of Saintly Life

Psalm 1:1-2; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 4:24-31

 

A portrait is a photograph with a vivid description of its image. The true photograph of saints is as presented by God through His word- the bible. A saint is a converted, renewed, holy and righteous person that lives according to God’s word. Such life makes the individual to be freed from lying, stealing, evil speaking, fornication, bitterness, wrath, anger, malice, examination malpractice, youthful lust, fighting, rebellion etc. Heaven becomes the goal and affection of such individual. Those things that excite worldly youths no longer excite him. His entire life is focused on heaven only anywhere he is; whether in the school, at home or in the church. His main pre-occupation is how to please the Lord only.

 

2. The Possibility of Saintly Living

Psalm 33:8; John 1: 29; 3:16-17; 4:42; 10: Hebrews 10: 13-20; Matthew 5:48; 1 Peter 1:14; John 8:31

 

God being a loving and merciful father will not give anyone any assignment that He knows will be unattainable. Hence, in Matthew 5:48, God commanded that man must be perfect as He is. In 1 Peter 1:14 the same demand for holiness is made by God. Examples of believers who have lived in this contemporary times as well as men of old as presented in the bible prove to us that living a saintly life is still possible today as ever. Indeed, we live at a time where we have a lot of privileges that the saints of old did not have. For example,

(i) We have anointed men of God preaching and organising programmes for us so that we can live the life that God wants.  Neither Joseph nor Daniel had this opportunity.

(ii) We have the mind of God documented for us in the bible but there was no bible at the time of Joseph or Daniel to study and have a coherent knowledge of God’s mind as we do today.

(iii) We have numerous Christian messages on the internet, literatures, discs and MP3 etc. which was not the case with Enoch, Elijah and Elisha or Daniel, Shedrach, Meshach and Abednago yet they lived holily and saintly in their respective generations.

(iv) Many of those people lived in idolatrous societies with a high level of fanaticism in their idol worship, yet they served the Lord. If you make up your mind today, saintly life is possible for you.

 

3.  The Power of Saintly Living

Proverbs 11:8; 14:34; 6:26; Luke 10:19; 1 John 5: 18

 

The reality of life and scriptural provisions has shown that righteousness empowers a man while sin and any form of wickedness weaken, limit and destroy its victim. Sin brings reproach but righteousness exalts (Proverbs 14:34). Righteousness empowers you for greatness (Genesis 39:2-4), it makes you bold and courageous (Daniel 3:16-18; Acts 4:29).

Indeed saintly living, righteousness or holy living have the following benefits:

(i) It brings you into great honour (Proverbs 22:21; Genesis 39:2-4)

(ii) It gives you protection and security (Psalm 15:2; Proverbs 13:6)

(iii) It gives you peace and quietness of life (Isaiah 32:17)

(iv) It delivers you from shame and ridicule (Romans 10:11)

(v) It delivers you from death and destruction (Proverbs 10:2) but sin brings you into danger and destruction (Proverbs 11:5;Numbers 21:6; 25:9)

(vi) It brings you success and prosperity (Isaiah 33:15-16)

(vii) It makes your prayers to be answered (Proverbs 15:29)

(viii) It gives you real freedom (Romans 8:2)

(ix) It gives you the power to overcome the world, sin and Satan (1 John 4:4; 5:4,18)

(x) It delivers you from the impending eternal damnation in hell fire and prepares you for eternity in heaven (Revelation 21:8; John 3:18).

Wisdom therefore demands that you make the right decision now before it is too late. Remember you have only one life.

HEAVEN: THE DESTINY OF SAINTS

MEMORY VERSE: "For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens" (2 Corinthians 5:1).

TEXT: Revelation 21:1-27

The subject of heaven is a revelation of hope and happiness to the redeemed of Christ, as well as that of doom and downcast for those who rejected the redeemer that died for the sin of mankind. Some scriptures give revelation about heaven, and insight of the existence of it as the dwelling place of God the Creator of all things. The Psalmist attempted to know the condition of dwelling with God in heaven after life on earth has ended. "LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? Who shall dwell in thy holy hill?'' (Psalms 15:1). When Jesus came into the world, He spoke about heaven. He preached the need of repentance by sinners (old or young) so as to have eternal life. He also warned against the danger of eternal damnation in hell. When comforting His sad disciples at the revelation of His crucifixion and death, He gave deeper insight into the likeness of heaven. He said "Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you'' (John 14:1, 2). 

In the first three chapters of the book of Revelation, the loving Saviour wrote to the seven churches to make them know their spiritual states and the fierce trials some of them would encounter. He exposed to the world the danger of rejecting Him and choosing the way of sin. The careless believers and the sinners are warned of the suffering that shall befall them after the rapture of the saints. After all these, detailed revelation about the beauty and glory of heaven, the destiny of the saints was given at the end of the book of Revelation by Christ. This is to let us know that after our light affliction comes the weight of glory which Jesus the righteous Judge has prepared for us in heaven.

Question 1: Give a clear description of heaven as revealed in our text.

In the language of man, there is no word found to describe the beauty and glory of heaven. It is only when we get up there that we shall understand the beauty and glory of the place where our great God dwells. Though the book of Revelation chapter 21 gives an insight into it, all we need is to endure to the end and strive to enter in at the strait gate, because when we shall enter there, only then shall we be able to explain. Attempt shall be made to give a clear description of heaven as explained in our text. We shall also see those that will be counted worthy to enter and dwell there. There will also be need for youths to take an appropriate decision to dwell in this beautiful city which description surpasses human understanding.

CLEAR DESCRIPTION OF NEW JERUSALEM (Isa 66:22; 65:17, 18; 64:4; Heb 11:10, 16; Rev 21:1-3, 9-23; 22:5).

"For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind'' (Isaiah 65:17). God promised in the Old Testament the creation of a new heaven. The Saints of old in their life-time sought for the heavenly city despite having little knowledge of it. There were things that were so sure to them about heaven: (i) It is a place where the Almighty God dwells with the holy angels; (ii) It is a better country; unlike the earth, it has a foundation; the maker is God Himself (Hebrew 11:10, 16). It was through the vision of John the beloved in the Isle of Patmos that the description was given.  It is a city that has wall of great height, with twelve gates and the names of the twelve tribes of Israel written on them.  The city lies foursquare, the length, breadth and height of the city are equal and it is seven million, nine hundred and twenty thousand feet (2414Km).The building is made of Jasper stone, the city also of pure gold like clear glass, her light was the glory of God like a stone most precious, even like a Jasper stone, clear as crystal. The foundation of the wall garnished with all manner of precious stone. 

Question 2: Read Revelation 21:19-21 and mention how many precious stones the foundation wall is garnished with.

The foundation of the wall of the city is garnished with all manner of precious stones as follows: the first foundation is Jasper; second is Sapphire; the third is Chalcedony; the fourth is Emerald; fifth is Sardonyx; sixth is Sardius; seventh is Chrysolyte; eighth is Beryl; ninth is Topaz; tenth is Chrysoprasus; eleventh is Jacinth; twelfth is Amethyst. The gates are made of twelve pearls each and every several gate a pearl. The street is made of gold as transparent as glass. There is no temple there, for God and the Lamb are the temple of it. No need of the sun and the moon for the glory of God does lighten it, and there is no night there. "For since the beginning of the world, men have not heard, nor perceive by ear, neither had the eye seen, O God, beside thee, what he hath prepared for him that waited for him'' (Isaiah 64:4). This city prepared by the LORD for the redeemed should be the desire of everyone. Youths, will you all be there?

CLEANSED DISCIPLES FOR HEAVEN (Rev 21: 5-7, 27; Joel 3:17; John 3:3; Heb 12:14; Psa 15: 1-5; Isa 65:18, 19).

It was a known fact even in the Old Testament that sinful men or sinning youths shall not inhabit heaven since it is the place where the holy God lives. A songwriter said "Heaven is a holy place, filled with glory and with grace, sin can never enter there''.  King David, when meditating, asked God, "Who shall ascend into the hill of the LORD? Or who shall stand in his holy place?'' And God gave the answer ''He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully'' (Psalms 24:3, 4). God's answer to David for this important question is, someone whose works and thoughts are clean and pure. Jesus Christ told Nicodemus that except a man is born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of God! Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews thought he was already a disciple for heaven. Having listened to Christ's messages several times, he thought it necessary to come to Him for clarity. This also is what Christ expects from Christian youths today. There is need for youths to come to Jesus who is speaking to them now. He is the one that shed His blood upon the cross of Calvary for the remission of their sins. 

Question 3: What conditions qualify sinning youths to dwell with God in heaven?

Sinning youths that have the hope of living in heaven at last must have acknowledged their sinfulness, confessed their sins, be cleansed from sins through the blood of Jesus, and turn away from them. They need to allow Christ to lead them in all their ways. They should make deliberate effort to be pure in heart through the sanctifying power of Christ and be at peace with all men and other fellow youths. It is written: "Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord" (Hebrews 12:14).

Question 4: Are all who go to Church qualified for heaven? 

Heaven is meant for the overcomers, those that persevere and endure affliction for Christ's sake. Those who deliberately refused to yield to temptation, those who do not retard at trials; and those that endure persecution. Their heart's determination is, "I have laid my hands upon the plough, and will never look back". "He that overcometh, shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son'' (Revelation 21:7). They must overcome the world (1 John 5:4, 5; 2:15-17), Satan (Revelation 12:11), False prophets (Mathew 7:15), self and sin (Romans 6:12). Heaven is more than a reward for believing youths. It is the consummation of God's redemptive work. The thought of dwelling with God in heaven is more attractive than merely living in the most beautiful place on earth. The purpose of our redemption is restoring back to man the lost glory before the fall. It is only in heaven we can enjoy full and sweet fellowship with God. Living in heaven allows us to see God, Jesus Christ, the angels and all the saints who had gone to glory. It will be wonderful to see our loved ones who had gone to be with the Lord again.

Question 5a: Mention some of the saints in the Bible that you hope to see in heaven.

Question 5b: Are you personally determined to be there?

CONSCIOUS DECISION FOR HEAVEN (Rev 21:8,27; Matt 16:26; Deut 32:29; Isa 55:6,7; Psa 15:1-5; Isa 65:18,19).

Everyone desires to spend eternity in heaven, even the sinners. From the foregoing, it is clear that sinners cannot make it to heaven. They may come to church everyday, pray and fast all the time, be given to good works, lead other youths and play important part in the school fellowship, sing in the Choir, have beautiful Christian names. Yet, without genuine repentance, they can neither see nor enter heaven. There is only one way to heaven, it is the highway of holiness which comes through real encounter with Jesus Christ the Saviour. There is only one decision to be taken consciously by the youths, that is, to give their lives to Christ. They should weigh the cost of losing their souls! Let me remind you once again how a songwriter puts it:

Have you counted the cost, if your soul should be lost,

Tho' you gain the whole world for your own? ...

Even now it may be that the line you have crossed,

Have you counted, have you counted the cost? 

Christ said "For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" (Mathew 16:26). For every decision you make or take, there is always a corresponding outcome! If you choose to continue in your sins, you have succeeded in choosing hell fire. "But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and Idolaters, and all liars, shall have their parts in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death'' (Revelation 21:8). For this reason we call you to take a conscious decision now as a sinning youth. 

The saved youth are admonished by the Lord "to endure to the end''. Therefore, do not give up to temptations. Trials will not destroy you but only make you stronger. Choose not to compromise, do not look back brothers and sisters; for we shall soon get to the shore of heaven where Christ will wipe away all our tears! It is only then we can tell the story how we overcome. The undecided youths, hear the word of God "O that they were wise, that they understood this, that they would consider their latter end!'' (Deuteronomy 32:29). Today is the day of decision. "Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD; and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon'' (Isaiah 55:6, 7). What is your decision now?

(Source: DCLM Youth Search the Scriptures - Vol 38, Lesson 494)

THE GREAT WHITE THRONE JUDGMENT

MEMORY VERSE: "And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment" (Hebrews 9:27).

TEXT: Revelation 20:11-15

In every sphere of life, it is in the nature of all human beings to err.  It is common to see youths in our schools, houses and environment being caned, rebuked or punished. Some other youths are even tried in the Juvenile Courts for offences and sentenced to different kinds of punishment. Guilty youths in our world today are always given some punishments when caught. This shows that the subject of judgment is not strange to us. With God, things are not different. 

Question 1: What do you understand by "The White Throne Judgment"?

In God's plan for the world, He will judge all those who reject His words, love and mercy. This great judgment which will come upon the disobedient is called "The Great White Throne Judgment". This is one of the fundamental doctrines of the Bible which anyone who neglects, do so at his own peril. This doctrine opens our eyes to the time when all wicked and ungodly people (from the age of accountability)  including youths, who reject the salvation of God will be judged and sentenced to eternal, unending punishment. 

JUDGMENTS IN THE SCRIPTURES (Isaiah 53:4-11; John 3:15-18; 1 Corinthians 11:31, 32; 2 Corinthians 5:10,11; Jeremiah 30:3-7; Matthew 25:31-46; Jude 6)

"And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment" (Hebrews 9:27). From this passage, it is clear that judgment is certain for all men. However, contrary to general assumptions, saints and sinners will not be judged at the same time. The judgement of God will be separate for different classes of people. The Lord God has always been just in His judgments: condemning the guilty and acquitting the innocent. Examples of judgments in scriptures include those lived during the time of Noah, Sodom and Gomorrah and Korah's company. God does not change.  His judgment remains the same today as it was in time past.  The guilty will be judged as God will keep to the same principle. "…For the rod of the wicked shall not rest upon the lot of the righteous" (Psalms 125:3)

Question 2: Why will believers not be judged like the sinners?

At the cross of Calvary, Jesus Christ became the substitute for sinners. Everyone who believes in Him, by virtue of His death have been judged for their sins (Isaiah 53:6; 2 Corinthians 5:21; John 3:18). "There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death" (Romans 8:1,2).

Question 3: Mention the various judgments found in scriptures. Support your answers with references?

There are different forms of judgment in Scripture. The first type of judgment we have in scriptures is when the repenting sinner personally exercises saving faith in the sacrifice of Christ and accept Him as Saviour. That person becomes judged and declared justified. "Some men's sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some men they follow after" (1 Timothy 5:24). Then, as the believing youth lives the Christian life, he daily judges (or examines) himself in the light of God's word (1 Corinthians 11:31, 32; 1 John 1:7). This is the second type of judgment. Failure in this type of judgment will result in suffering or chastisement (Hebrews 12:5-11). The third type of judgment will be experienced also by believers at the "Bema" seat of Christ (Romans 14:10; 2 Corinthians 5:10,11; 1 Corinthians 3:11-15; Revelation 22:12).This will be after the Rapture and the purpose will be to distribute rewards for the works done by all believers while on earth. In this third type of judgment, none will be condemned since all will be believers, but all believers shall be rewarded based on how they have utilized their talents in the work of the Lord.

The other types of judgment will be with the intent of punishing sin. These include the judgment of Israel during the Great Tribulation (Ezekiel 20:33-44; Jeremiah 30:3-11; Matthew 24:4-25) and the judgment of the (living) nations at the Second Advent (Matthew 25:31-46). Israel will be judged (for her many centuries of rebellion against God) by the cruel hand of the Antichrist. At the end of the ordeal, "all Israel shall be saved" (Romans 11:26) as they shall "look upon me whom they have pierced" (Zechariah 12:10). The nations of the earth will be gathered before the heavenly Judge to be accepted or rejected depending on their attitude towards Christ now (John 1:11; Romans 9:5). That is the judgment of the nations (Matthew 25:31-46). The judgment of angels for rebellion against God is identifiable as a sixth type of judgment in Scriptures (2 Peter 2:4; Jude 6, 7). The seventh is the final judgment and is known as the Great White Throne Judgment.

THE GREAT, TERRIBLE AND FINAL JUDGMENT (Revelation 20:11-15; Daniel 7:9,10; 12:2; Matthew 11:20-24; John 5:25-30; Act 24:15; Mark 9:43-48)

"And GOD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. And it repented the LORD that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart. And the LORD said, I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth; both man, and beast, and the creeping thing, and the fowls of the air; for it repenteth me that I have made them" (Genesis 6:5-7). The world is corrupt and polluted. The fall of Adam in the Garden of Eden brought mankind to shame, guilt and condemnation. From Adam, sin came into everyone that was born into the world. God made provision for the salvation of man but humanity has generally preferred to turn away from God's call to repentance and pardon. Man has remained rebellious and disobedient. For a long time, it has repented God that He made man on the earth for every imagination of the thoughts of man's heart has been evil continually. God predetermined judgment and punishment for the wicked. His word declares that "the soul that sinneth, it shall die" and that "the wages of sin is death" (Ezekiel 18:4; Romans 6:23).

God has been judging sinners over the ages. He judged the world in the days of Noah, when He destroyed all the living by the flood with the exception of eight persons (Genesis 6:17,18; 7:10-13, 21-24). He poured out His wrath and indignation upon Sodom and Gomorrah and destroyed all that were in them except Lot and his two daughters (Genesis 19:13, 24-26). On other occasions, He brought judgment on Korah, Dathan and Abiram with their supporters. He punished the Egyptians for refusing to let God's people go. At various times, He brought judgment on Nadab and Abihu, on Uzzah, on Sennacherib and his 185,000 Assyrian soldiers (Isaiah 37:36-38) and on Annanias and Sapphira (Acts 5:1-10). However, in the Great White Throne judgment all those who were destroyed in all those cases will still be judged.

What then is this judgment? It is the last and final judgment. It is the judgment that concludes the affairs of this present evil world. At the end of the millennial reign of Christ, the devil will be released from the bottomless pit for a while (Revelation 20:3, 7). He will go out to deceive people again and will gather multitudes to fight against Christ and His saints. This is referred to as the Battle of Gog and Magog. Satan and his people will be defeated. Fire will come from God in heaven to devour them. After this, Satan shall be cast into the lake of fire. With Satan finally sentenced to eternal torment in the lake of fire, the stage then becomes set for the final judgment of all sinning people.

Question 4: Describe in details, the make-up of, and proceedings at the Great White Throne Judgment.

The details of the judgment are as follows:

a. The Throne: The great God of heaven and earth shall sit on a great throne. It is white showing the purity of God. The setting of the throne is magnificent and of great splendor and glory that befits the eternal King.

b. The Judge: The Judge is God Almighty, the Omniscient and Omnipresent. He knows everything and so there will be no miscarriage of justice. He is everywhere, so all things are open to Him. His sight will be so terrible because it is judgment time.

c. Those to be judged: (verses 12,13). All those who died in sin from the time of Adam till the time of the Great White Throne Judgment will be resurrected (Daniel 12:2; John 5:28,29; Acts 24:15). They will all stand before God for judgment including: (i) All categories of sinners, living and dead; small and great; rich and poor; educated and uneducated; male and female; rulers and ruled will all be judged for neglecting the salvation of God (Hebrews 2:3). (ii) All backsliders who denied the faith of God who once bought them (Exodus 32:33; Hebrews 10:26-30,38, 39). (iii) All those who deny the deity of Jesus Christ (John 3:18,19). (iv) All religious hypocrites (Matthew 23:27). This judgment cannot be avoided by any sinner. The sea, death and hell will give up the dead in them. The bodies of all the dead will be united with their souls and spirits to stand before God to receive the just reward for their ungodly lives. It will be a very great and sobering gathering.

d. The Judgment: Everyone of these sinners will be judged according to his works (verses 12,13). It will be done in righteousness. It will be open and everyone on trial will know why he or she is going to the lake of fire. It will be to judge (i) All unrighteous deeds of youths (1 John 5:17). All unrighteousness that was not cleansed by the blood of Christ before then will bring condemnation; it includes unrighteous feelings and imaginations. (ii) The secret deeds of youths which others may not have known of, done in darkness: examination malpractices, immorality, pornography, secret cults, abortion and malice. (iii) The words of men: every idle word, gossip, backbiting or slander will be brought to judgment; all foolish and unedifying words; corrupt, graceless, defamatory1 and abusive words will be judged (Matthew 12:36,37; Ephesians 5:4). God's judgment will be fair, just and without partiality or respect of persons. No one can influence nor bribe God. "For the LORD your God is God of gods, and Lord of lords, a great God, a mighty, and a terrible, which regardeth not persons, nor taketh reward" (Deuteronomy 10:17). 

e. The books: (verse 12) "…and the books were opened". These are the books of records that will contain everything done by sinful boys and girls while on earth. It is according to the records written in these books that judgment will be delivered. This will remove all possibilities of arguments. There will be no room to say the sentence given was based on hearsay or guesswork. All things will be documented and these in many books.

f. The book of life: Only one book (verse 12). "…and another book was opened, which is the book of life:…" This is the book that contains the names of all those who are born again, washed in the blood of Jesus. Their sins had been judged earlier at Calvary when they repented of their sins, confessed them and received Jesus as their Lord and personal Saviour. We must endeavour to make sure our names are in this book. All saints in all ages, from the time of Adam to the time of the judgment have their names written in the book of life. Those whose names are in the book of life will be spectators at the scene of the White Throne Judgment.

Question 5: Where will those whose names are not in the book of life be?

"And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire" (Revelation 20:15).  An awful end awaits all those that have to appear before God in the Great White Throne Judgment for "God is a consuming fire" and "it is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God" (Hebrews 12:29; 10:31).

The lake of fire is the eternal abode of the devil and his angels (Revelation 20:10; Matthew 25:41). The lake of fire was not meant for man but all those who rejected God and be on the side of Satan, by committing sin, will have no choice than to share in their master's destiny. Death and hell will be cast into the lake of fire where the beast and the false prophets had originally been cast (Revelation 19:20). The fire will never go out, it cannot be quenched. It will burn forever and ever. The worms do not die. The fire does not destroy but continuous torments. It will be a terrible thing. Whosoever was not found written in the book of life will suffer forever in the lake of fire. His companions and neighbours will be Satan, the beast, the false prophet, demons and evil spirit. However, there is the possibility of escape from this judgment. This is through repentance from sin and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

ESCAPING THE FINAL JUDGMENT (2 Peter 3:9-14; 1 Peter 4:7; John 3:3,5,16; Mark 1:14,15; 1 Timothy 4:16).

"For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.  For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved" (John 3:16,17). 

Question 6: How can one escape the Great White Throne Judgment?

The will of God is that  all should repent and believe the gospel and be saved. To escape the Great White Throne Judgment, you need to repent of all sins, confess them and receive Jesus as your Lord and Saviour. Genuine salvation through repentance and faith in Christ is demanded from anyone who hopes to escape. Other conditions include living a holy life everyday, making your restitution, following peace with all men, preaching the gospel and avoiding every appearance of evil. "How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation?"

(Source: DCLM Youth Search the Scriptures - Vol 38, Lesson 493)

EARNESTLY CONTENDING FOR THE FAITH

MEMORY VERSE: "Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints" (Jude 3).

TEXT: Jude 3-13

Christian youths are called out of the world and the evil practices into the righteousness of God. It is a call to higher and better things. It is also a call to the heavenly things, unseen and eternal. It is a call from sin to Christ, from uncleanness to holiness. This is according to the Divine purpose and grace. The moment a youth gives his life to Christ, he has some forces to contend with, such as the Devil, sin, the world, and the flesh. Faced with all these odds, the Church is always contending, struggling, fighting and resisting oppositions. Generally, this struggle is not against flesh and blood or over the temporal, perishable things of life like money, land, possession or material things. The fight is one organised by the Devil and designed to take from us our great pearl, our treasure, the imperishable word, will, mind and revelation of the Almighty. This is refered to in the Scripture as the faith - the totality and entirety of all that we believe.

OUR CALLING: FOUNDATION FOR CONTENDING (Jude 1-3; Acts3:19; John 8:30-32; 2 Timothy 1:6-9; Hebrew 3:1-6; 1 Corinthians 7:23,24)

"Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints" (Jude 3). This epistle is addressed to all believers, those who had repented of their sin and accepted Christ as their Lord and Saviour. 

Question 1: What qualifies a youth to be able to contend for the faith?

At conversion, Christian receives "the power to become the son of God" and to "go and sin no more" (John 1:12; 5:14). The strongest of men without conversion is a prey for the Devil in the contest for faith. The weakest of men, with conversion, is a terror to the Devil and his host. Peter, the Apostle, in his message on the day of Pentecost, alerted his audience: "repent and be converted". 

"Thou whom I have taken from the ends of the earth, and called thee from the chief men thereof, and said unto thee, Thou art my servant; I have chosen thee, and not cast thee away" (Isaiah 41:9). God calls men because He is not willing that any should perish but that all should have eternal life. Christ came to call sinners to repentance. It is only after we have taken heed to that call that we can start contending for the faith. "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light" (1 Peter 2:9). Believers are called and chosen by the Lord to show forth His praise in any environment they find themselves.

Question 2: In what ways does the Bible describe our calling?

The Bible describes the calling God gives Christian youth in these ways. First, it is described as a high calling - one higher than any other calling we could ever have on earth. It is higher than a call to serve in government, foreign service, school organisation or to enjoy an overseas' scholarship. The highest call we can ever have is one coming from heaven above. Paul the Apostle puts it this way: "I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 3:14).  Second, it is described as a holy calling (2 Timothy 1:9). Why? It is a call that only the Holy Spirit can explain, interpret and impress on you. It is a call that has to do with holiness, because God, our Father is holy (Matthew 5:48). Third, it is a heavenly calling (Hebrews 3:1). It comes from heaven and opens the gate to us into the presence of the Father.  

Our call is further pictured in different ways in the Scriptures. Each of the description shows detail of the benefits accruing to us as a result of our response to the call of God. The Apostle Paul, in his epistle to the Corinthians described our call as one to the fellowship of His Son (1 Corinthians 1:9). If you profess partaking of the redemptive grace of God, know that we are called into the great riches of Jesus and we are to get into partnership with Him. In this relationship, we drop our poverty, destitution, want, dryness and get into the riches, prosperity, power and grace of God. Jesus, by the fellowship of sonship is lifting us up to His side on His throne (Ephesians 2:6). He is the Master of angels and all creation. His is the glory and majesty of heaven. He is calling us - suffering, sorrowful and sad ones - to come and share in fellowship and enjoy His glory, majesty and joy.

We are also called to eternal life and holiness (1 Timothy 6:12; 1 Thessalonians 4:7). The call of God on us not only brings us into the Kingdom, it also sanctifies us and preserves us in the Kingdom (Colossians 1:13). The translation that comes from our calling is one to a realm where Satan, witches, wizards and powers of darkness cannot reach us or operate. This preservation touches our soul, spirit and body. There is a hedge, an impenetrable wall around all the redeemed of the Lord who have responded to the call of God. Are you among the redeemed? Have you responded to the call of the Lord? Why not come today? (Matthew 11:28; 1 King 18:21).

REASONS FOR CONTENDING FOR THE FAITH (Jude 4-13; Acts 13:8; Jeremiah 5:31; 1 Timothy 1:9; Galatians 2:18; 2 Corinthians 2:17)

The epistle was written to guard believers against the false teachers who had begun to creep into the Christian church, and to scatter dangerous tenets, by attempting to lower all Christianity into a merely nominal belief and outward profession of the gospel. Having denied the obligations of personal holiness, they taught their disciples to live in sinful courses, at the same time flattering them with the hope of eternal life. The vile character of these seducers is shown, and their sentence is denounced, and the epistle concludes with warnings, admonitions and counsels to believers.

Question 3: In what ways is the devil deceiving youths into compromise today?

Compromise is an agreement with an opposer or something that somebody accepts because what was wanted is (seems) unattainable. There are some areas today where some Christian youths who were once fervent in the Lord compromised their faith, they build again those things they once destroyed (Galatians 2:18). They compromise in their: (1) faith - going after false prophets and doctrines; (2) fellowship - getting involved in modern Christianity, unequal fellowship; (3) friendship - unequal relationship, immorality and filthy communication, (4)fashion -worldly, carnal, indecent dressings; (5) their feasting - extravagant1 and sensual; (6)  faithfulness - dropped out, started giving excuses; (7) fervency - abandoned for coldness; (8) fruitfulness - no more good report and evangelism; (9) the fear of God- no longer retain God in their mind.

Question 4: What are the reasons they give for their compromise?

Some of the reasons are: intimidation: some youths yield to peer pressure because they want to be accepted, or because other youths may make fun of them if they don't go along with the group. They feel intimidated and then try to impress others or gain their approval by compromise. Another reason is their inquisitiveness. They are curious to try something new that others are doing. They are inquisitive to experiment with evil. The idea that "everyone is doing it" may influence some youths to leave their better judgement, or conviction and copy others contrary to what they know to be right.

"For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ" (2 Corinthians 2:17). False teachings always lowers the standard of righteous living, lightens the demand of God's laws, removes fear for the damnation of the soul, sears the conscience and takes away responsibility to both God and man. Those who love false teaching to create some comfortable spiritual environment for themselves are compromisers. The Lord surely frowns on any fellowship, partnership or relationship with agents of spiritual contempt and compromise. We should avoid the agents of the Devil who make believers to compromise and backslide. Their goal is to make standing believers make a shipwreck of their faith. "Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck" (1 Timothy 1:19). 

CHRISTIAN YOUTHS CONTENDING FOR THE FAITH (Jude 3; Nehemiah 13:23-27; 2 Corinthians 2:17; 1 Timothy 6:12-14; Jeremiah 35:5-10,18,19)

"Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints" (Jude 1:3). To earnestly contend is to strive manfully, tenaciously laying hold and keeping something Satan is labouring to take from us. 

Question 5: How should Christian youths contend for the faith?

Christian youths are commanded to contend for the faith earnestly, diligently, courageously, boldly, constantly, gainfully and honestly. Our strength, life, and our all must be involved in the struggle against anyone or anything who wants to take the faith away from us. As we contend for the faith, we must effect a clean separation from all those who compromise the faith even if it would result in persecution, deprivation or misconception. Nehemiah set an example of such a position as he contended for the faith (Nehemiah 13:23-27). We must also watch and pray - Wait on the Lord; Abide in Christ; Trust in the Lord for supply of strength; Continue in the faith; Hold fast the sound doctrine to the end. Preach the gospel earnestly; Refuse invitation from the camp of compromiser; Avoid self management; Yield yourself fully to God.

We must take these seven pledges as our commitment: (1) I pledge my loyalty to the law of Christ, (2) My labour to His commission, (3) My liberty under His control, (4) My lips to speak for Christ, (5) My looks under His control, (6) My league with others for Christ, (7) My life as hope for Christ and in support of those who hold on to the truth and holiness.

The whole Church must rise and contend for the faith, conquer and subdue the enemy and raise up an enduring standard in the church to save the church from the atrocities1 perpetrated all around us today. Join the army of the Lord.

(Source: DCLM Youth Search the Scriptures - Vol 38)