The Christian's Obligation To His Employers

Text: Ephesians 6:5-9; Titus 2:9-10

The sum total of a Christian's life includes his life at home, in the community, in the Church and in his workplace. Each of these areas will be brought under the searchlight of God at the judgment seat of Christ. Unfortunately, there are many believers who under the cover of religious zeal and piety have failed in their obligations to their employers.

Christian employees owe some duties to their employers whether the employer is a christian or an unbeliever, a secular or religious institution. (Colossians 3:22; 1 Timothy 6:1; Ephesians 6:6-7; Titus 2:9-10).

First among these is faithfulness. Christian employees must be faithful in the discharge of their responsibilities. These include proper accountability of finances put in their care and honesty. Loitering, deliberate wastage of materials, unauthorised usage of the company's property, truancy and late reporting at work are marks of unfaithfulness. Any useful information about the operations of the company which were obtained in the course of our employment or training must be place at the disposal of the employers.

Second is diligence. Adequate labour must be given for each day's pay. We must work not as men pleasers seeking the favour and appreciation of men but as the servant of Christ, as He were our employer, and knowing that someday we shall be rewarded.

Third is obedience. The rules and regulations of our work place and institutions passed while at work, as long as none of these violates the scriptures, must be carried out wholeheartedly. Insubordination is a trails of unbelievers and must not be seen in the Christian's life.

Fourth, every Christian employee must have the progress of his place of work in heart and seek to promote peace within the organisation. A true believer does not join the multitude to do evil and will always channel his grievances through the appropriate channels.

Fifth is respect and honour for those placed over us. We are to demonstrate through our Christian life the virtue of humility and meekness. Our testimonies can be affected and the doctrine blasphemed if our co-workers   observe in us any trail of arrogance or pride.

Lastly, we must pray for our employers. their spiritual needs must be of great concern to us. 

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)

CONTEMPORARY SOCIAL VICES: THE CHRISTIAN VIEW

MEMORY VERSE: “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” (Genesis 6:5).

 

TEXT: Romans 1:18-27; Philippians 4: 8, 9; 1 Peter 1: 6-11.

 

Since the fall, Adam and all generations after him have become easily influenced by evil imagination and actions. Through the ages past, mankind had shown the evil traits in many different ways. Modern youths live in a world that invents evil things. Man himself has a sin-generating mind. He has the capacity to generate or create sin and sinful entertainment. Sin, in itself, is inexhaustible. It is brewed in the depth of human heart. Man’s craving for evil and vices are insatiable. He ever craves for innovation of sin. Therefore, the contemporary youths –boys and girls, rich and poor, educated and illiterates, restricted and free - have some newly devised set of evil.

 

Question 1: What do you understand by contemporary vices?

 

These are present day evil practices in the society. “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” (Genesis 6:5). Since the flood, the heart of man has always been evil. God saw the whole imagination of the thoughts of man’s heart, and concluded that it was evil continually - every hour, every day, every year, every moment. He hardly deviated into good. Such is the authentic account of the whole race of mankind. Such were all men before God brought the flood upon the earth. And strange enough, the scriptures do not give us a reason to think otherwise of youths today. The mind of the modern youths is a sin-generating machine. Increase in technology meant increase in evil. The advent of the television, video, mobile phone, internet and the computer and their potential of conveying thoughts in picture, colour or language motion is accompanied by increased engagement in sinful entertainments and pleasures. The television, for instance, impresses some vices on the mind of youths and make light of violence, hooliganism, murder and  assault. Therefore, to live a victorious Christian life today, we must seek the Lord daily for His grace and strength.

 

DESCRIPTION OF CONTEMPORARY SOCIAL VICES AMONG YOUTHS (Romans 1:18-32; Genesis 6:1-6; Deuteronomy 22:5; Micah 2:1-3; James 4:4; 1 John 2:15-17).

 

“Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, … (Romans 1:29,30). 

 

Question 2: What are the common contemporary social vices that a Christian youth should guide against?

 

Drug addiction, a practice found among teenagers and students in secondary schools and institutions of higher learning, is a vice that ranks very high in contemporary times. Some freely say that scriptures do not say anything about the use of drugs. Yes, but it does warn us against defiling or, in modern usage, destroying the temple of the Holy Ghost which we have in us. “What? Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s” (1 Corinthians 6:19,20).

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The use of hard drugs is a contemporary vice and its effect on the life of its users is quite heavy. Hard drugs inflame the mind, sedate the heart and make the soul to feel “high”. Its end is more dangerous and deadly than the beginning. It leaves its victim a wretch and a danger to others. Closely related with drug addiction is involvement in cults among students in secondary schools and institutions of higher learning. Cults, these days, pretend to be a social club but when its activities are closely examined, it is revealed as the breeding ground of all contemporary vices - wild life, drug addiction and immorality. In recent times, dangerous weapons like life ammunition, machetes, spears and arrows are found among the members of cults in schools. This is a modern trend and it comes with every conceivable danger to lives and properties.

Another contemporary social vices is betting and pools-staking. The bottom line and motive in engaging in this practice is covetousness. An attitude to get-rich-quick and laziness is the driving spirit behind this practice. It is sad to see this creep into the midst of some believers years after they have claimed to be converted.

Common among students who are desperate to excel without corresponding input of labour and diligence is examination malpractice. In contemporary times, this has reached some level that frightens constituted examination bodies, school authorities, students who have the fear of the Lord and, of course, Christian parents. This practice looks like a contemporary vice that has come to stay in most societies. But its permanence or rationalisation does not make it right. It remains essentially evil and vicious.

Contemporary youths are unduly exposed to the practice ofpornography. The evil sight that stirs up the base nature of man through pornography has a demonic hold on youths. Some Christian youths cannot stand or continue in the faith because of pornography. Illegal sensual pleasure is basically sinful.Closely allied to pornography are the unclean practices of lesbianism and homosexuality. These are rampant practices among students in boarding schools and higher institutions. Some of them are found in religious circles.

From the days of old, music has always been   spiritual and edifying medium. The Scripture exhorts us to “admonish one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord”(Colossians3:16). David’s songs and playing on the harp had great spiritual and soothing impact on Saul. Elisha called for a minstrel under whose ministration he received inspiration (2 Kings 3:15). Indeed, hymn-singing is a great inspiration to those  who preach; just as good singing and music precede most of all preachings today. In heaven, music continues. “And I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder: and I heard the voice of harpers harping with their harps” (Revelations 14:2). Such is the traditional and even future use of music. But in contemporary times, music has been perverted from its original spiritual, inspirational and edifying context. Sensational music, which in the past was one exclusive of sinners in brothels and pleasure-mad houses, has now been brought to the Churches. Most churches have lost the solemnity, inspiration, freshness, and refreshing that come with God-glorifying music in the Bible. Contemporary youths are besieged by rock and roll, noisy music, drumming and tunes which are very much akin to those that obtain in heathen shrines. Secular music has a strong appeal which makes the mind stray away from the Kingdom. Contemporary pseudo-Christian music is a vice which believers must reject.

Finally, the use of slang and gutter language is another contemporary vice. The Bible says: “Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt” (Colossians 4:6). Christian language, as salt, should do five things. First, it should sweeten, edify the heart and mind of the hearers.Second, it should purify, not defile or offend; whiteness of salt symbolises purity. Third, it should preserve the hearers from decay and spiritual decomposition. Fourth, it should be pervasive in its influence, no matter how few the words are, just as a pinch of salt would pervade a whole meal. Fifth, it should be known for its characteristic. The Bible says “... a fool’s voice is known by multitude of words” (Ecclesiastes 5:3).The Christian’s use of slangs sourced  from brothels, drug addicts,  “heroes” in boxing, sports and theatre makes a believer to minister to sinners.  And the Bible asks: “...Can the blind lead the blind? Shall they not both fall into the ditch?”  (Luke 6:39). The Scripture says: “Let them alone, they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch” (Matthew 15:14).

 

DANGER OF CONTEMPORARY SOCIAL VICES AMONG YOUTHS (Romans 18,21,24,26,32; Genesis 6:5-7; Ecclesiastes 12:1,2,13,14; Zephaniah 1:8; 1 Corinthians6:15-20; 3:16,17; Revelation 20:11-15; 21:8).

 

"Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them” (Romans1:32). The danger of contemporary social vices among youths affects its victims now and in eternity.

 

Question 3: What are the dangers of contemporary social vices among youths?

 

Some of the dangers of contemporary social vices among youths include: (1) destruction of internal organs of the body of those who used hard drugs; (2) making one an enemy of God (James 4:4); (3)  backsliding and compromise; (4) hinderance to one’s education and progress in life; (5) exposure to deadly diseases such as Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD), Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS); (6)  dishonour to God and brings shame to His church; and (7) finally, eternal punishment in hell-fire. “And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him” (Luke 12:4,5).  

 

DECISION FOR CHRIST, THE SAVIOUR OF YOUTHS (Mark 1:14,15; Isaiah 1:16-20; Philippians 4:8,9; 1 Peter 1:5-11; 1 Corinthians 10:31-33).

 

There is no sitting on the fence for Christian youths. Christian youths cannot afford to pitch their tents with Sodomites and Gomorrhites and still claim to know Christ. The vices, known in contemporary times, are deceitful, but no Christian should be deceived. The Bible has given enough guides to Christians as to the position they must take on these issues.

 

Question 4: How should a Christian assess any practice or conduct that looks like a source of temptation?

 

 As a Christian daily faces temptation and allurements from any of these vices, he needs to ask some questions. First, does it glorify God? Would God behold it with joy? Can I do it in the presence of the Lord? Can I do it or talk about it without any shame or contradiction before the saints of God in the Church of the living God? Second, does it edify the saints of God? Does it provoke the brethren to love (Hebrews 10:24). Is it worth emulating? Third, does it point the sinner to Calvary? Is the practice of pornography, homosexuality, lesbianism, smoking, involvement in cult, sensational music, drug addiction, use of gutter language, gambling, betting and pools staking capable of gaining a soul for the Kingdom or challenging the sinner on the need for the salvation of his soul? Fourth, does the practice harm the temple of the Holy Ghost, whose body you are? Does it not weaken my frame, enlarge my heart, enfeeble my mind, waste my resources and enslave me for the rest of my life? Fifth, does it make me an example to believers? “Be thou an example to believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity”(1 Timothy 4:12). it is important for a Christian to always ask himself before embarking on any action: Does it draw me nearer to heaven? Does it enhance my preparedness for heaven? Does it make me rapture- ready? Sixth, will the practice, language or lifestyle earn me a smile of approval from my Lord and Savour? Finally, is the issue under consideration true, honest, just, pure and lovely, of good report? If it is not, a Christian’s position is a firm No!

 

Question 5: What is the way out of these contemporary social vices?

 

Victims of contemporary vices need a release. The vices are yokes and like every yoke, they must be broken.  Whoever has slipped into them should go back to the Lord in repentance and call on the Lord for salvation or restoration.  Repentance is followed by a return to the Lord (Isaiah 55:7). To return implies one has felt some brokenness and contrition and to such the Lord is very much keen to save and deliver. “The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit”(Psalm 34:18). After repentance, returning and restoration, it becomes very necessary to practise the abiding presence of the Lord. Imagine the Lord is ever by you and do only those things that He would approve of. “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you” (Philippians 4:8-9).

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

PERSONAL SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT FOR A VIBRANT LIFESTYLE

II Timothy 1:6; Isaiah 54:2

We have studied several aspects of soul-winning. To enable you fulfil your life as a vibrant believer and effective soul-winner, you need to take care of your inner life. Given the natural talents and divine resources Christians are endowed with, our potential for growth is infinite. There is however the need to ‘stir up’ ourselves and call forth the latent talents in us. It is our responsibility to claim the resources of grace and avail ourselves of the unsearchable riches in Christ. Our usefulness for God depends on the level of our spiritual development. It is helpful to be fed and motivated by others for growth but spiritual growth is often faster when there is personal consciousness and diligent commitment to it. It is a great day for a little child when he learns to feed himself; so it becomes a new era in a believer’s life when he forms the habit of going daily to the original source of spiritual truth for personal feeding.

HINDRANCES TO PERSONAL SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT

Want of talents or spiritual gifts is not always the cause of spiritual mediocrity but want of purpose for spiritual progress. Lack of vision makes a person to have no sense of mission. The main barrier to spiritual development is within the person. Lack of persuasion of the Christian faith leads to an unstable Christian life (Genesis 49:4; Revelation 3:15), while self-indulgence and loose habits are the bedrock of spiritual decay. Ungodly ambition (Exodus 32:6), complacency, want of determination (I Kings 18:21), worldly attachments (Hosea 7:8), laziness (Proverbs 6:611) and loose time control (Ephesians 5:16) are hindrances to personal spiritual development. Just as little leaks sink the ship, any of these hindrances will make a potential spiritual giant to become a slave. There is then the necessity for self-examination (II Corinthians 13:5) to remove any of these growth-deterrents.

HELPS FOR PERSONAL SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT

Divine resources are more than sufficient for our spiritual growth if we are ready to exploit them. Some of the helps we have for our personal spiritual development are:

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STUDY OF THE BIBLE (II Timothy 2:15; Joshua 1:8; Psalm 119:97; John 5:39)

No one can pretend to be a Christian without a competent acquaintance with the Scripture. Ignorance of scriptural injunctionsmakes a believer easily deceived. The Bible is a volume of inspiration of full fountain, ever flowing. A diligent study of the Bible fills the mind with the most splendid of heavenly truth, soothes the heart with an inexpressible sweetness, satisfies the sacred hunger and thirst for knowledge of God and imprints thedivine testimony firmly upon the mind, that believing souls rest upon it securely. Bible study aids, concordance, commentary, bible atlas and a complete Bible with references (KJV) are essentials for a systematic and profitable study of the Scripture.

GENERAL STUDY (I Timothy 4:13; II Timothy 4:13; I Peter3:15; Acts 7:22)

Every Christian needs to study to develop, whatever be his disposition. The aim of study is not to gather mere knowledge but to be aware of our environment, to understand God’s creation, to be relevant to our fellowmen as we minister to them and to be current with important events. Our studies of other books – Christian literatures, science and art – should draw us to the Bible and our goal should also be to draw our studies to the Bible. In our reading or study of books, we have to be selective. The books we read are an outward expression of our inner hungers and expression. Our reading should be regulated largely by what we are and what we do or intend to be. For a profitable study, we must think or reflect on what we have read. Invest in Christian literature, which includes (auto)biographies of notable believers, evangelism, spiritual growth, consecration, etc.

PRAYER AND DEVOTION (Luke 6:12; 18:1; Mark 1:35; Psalm 146: 1,2; 149:1; I Thessalonians 5:17)

Prayer should be natural to Christians as water is to fish. It is the Christian trade. Prayer is the appropriate channel of heavenly communications. It is not only circumstances that are changed through prayer but also the person. Prayer paves the way for transfiguration. A spirit of continual prayer, mixed with reading, is fuel for spiritual exploits. We need prayer for additional supplies of heavenly influence. Much prayer and little study advance the work of God more than abundance of study without prayer. Devotion is largely praise worship – prayer of praise and singing. It takes us away from the world of cares to our Father’s throne. It is a sweet moment of blessed communion with God.

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PERSONAL RETREAT (Psalm 46:10; Mark 6:31)

For spiritual growth, we often need distraction-free environment where we can have still times with God. Solitude is essential for rest, reflection, evaluation and meditation. We need to ‘come apart’in order not to ‘fall apart’. Personal retreat is essential for a personal revival. We need personal retreat when spiritually dry, dead, weakor overwhelmed with spiritual responsibilities. In a personal retreat, you set time aside (a whole day, a whole week or weekend) to pray, meditate on God’s word and reflect on your life. Time for personal retreat can be partly or wholly devoted to fasting. It is a time to order or reorder your life and make necessary adjustments. It is at such times that God communicates to you the next step in His will for your life (Acts 13:1-3). It is important also to meditate deeply in the scriptures, spend time to sing spiritual songs and listen to anointed messages from our ministers. Invest on these resources!

If you can cultivate the inner life, you are bound to flourish spiritually. There is no excuse to remain a spiritual pauper when you ought to be a giant. Why not rise up and stir up the gifts that are in you?

BIBLE DOCTRINE I - THE HOLY BIBLE

That the Holy Bible, consisting of 39 books of the Old Testament and 27 books of the New Testament, is inspired Word of God. We take the Bible as final authority in all matters concerning Christian conduct and work (II Timothy 3:16,17; Proverbs 30:5,6; Revelation 22:18,19).

God’s Word teaches:

The Holy Bible is the inspired word of God and it is the only source of knowledge of the Almighty God to all mankind. It is the contact point between the finite man with the Infinite God; and its prime purpose is to give mankind a revelation of God (II Timothy 3:15-17). The Bible is severally referred to as the Holy Scriptures (Romans 1:2; II Timothy 3:15), the oracles of God (Romans 3:2; Hebrews 5:12), the Book of the Lord (Isaiah 34:16), the word of God (Mark 7:13), the word of Christ (Colossians 3:16) and the word of Life (Philippians 2:16). It is in two major parts: the Old and the New Testaments. It consists of 66 books, 39 of which are in the Old Testament, 27 in the New Testament. The Bible was originally written predominantly in Hebrew and Greek. The Old Testament was written in Hebrew and Aramaic, while the New Testament was written in Greek language. There were over 40 authors drawn from disparate generations spanning a period of over 1800 years were used by God to write the Bible. Even though their occupations, education and social classes were divergent, their theme was the same as they were inspired by the Holy Ghost (II Peter 1:20). The inspiration of the authors can be attested to by some peculiar characteristics of the Bible, which are not found in any other book written by man. Such characteristics include its wonderful unity despite the fact that the authors lived at different ages; its versatility as it meets the needs of all people irrespective of race, and language, (Matthew 4:4); its superiority to other books; the influence on individuals and nations; its preservation over the centuries; its fulfilled prophecies (Isaiah 7:14; Ezekiel 36:19; II Chronicles 7:19) and its perfection (Psalms 19:7; James 1:25).

The Pre-eminence of the Bible (Isaiah 40:8; Psalms 119:89) makes it indispensable to all men today. While other books have limited influence on individuals because they are products of finite minds, the Bible which is God’s revelation to man has solution to every problem today. Therefore, no man's education is complete if he is ignorant of the provisions of the Bible. No Christian can live successfully without an adequate grasp of the Bible and no Christian Minister is really qualified for the Ministry of the church of Christ without a thorough knowledge of the Bible (II Timothy 2:15). Without a ready knowledge of the Bible, a Christian worker cannot be effective.

The central theme of the Bible is CHRIST and HIS WORK OF REDEMPTION (John 20:31; Luke 24:25-27; Revelation 1:1). He is the Old Testament concealed and he is the New Testament revealed. To fully understand the Bible and to rightly interpret its messages, we must first receive Jesus Christ as Savior and have a clear and definite experience of conversion. Those who do not know Christ and those who have wrong conceptions about Christ cannot interpret the Bible appropriately because the carnal man cannot understand the things of the spirit.

The Bible has a Ministry to the unbelievers and the believers. To the unbelievers, the Bible brings conviction for sin, which leads to repentance and faith in Christ Jesus. To believers, the goal of the Bible are various; it is to make believers perfect (Psalm 119:9,11); to reveal the condition of their hearts (Hebrew 4:12; Jeremiah 17:9,10); it is a light to the believers feet (Psalms 119:105; 130); the food of the soul (Deuteronomy 8:3, John 21:17; Psalms 19:10; Matthew 4:4); a medicine to the body and soul (Proverbs 4:20-22; Psalms 107:20; Matthew 8:8); and the sword of the spirit (Ephesians 6:17; Matthew 4:1- 11); it is a mirror to reflect (James 1:23); a hammer to convict and fire to refine (Jeremiah 23:29); seed to multiply (I Peter 1:23); aver to cleanse (Ephesians 5:26; John 15:3); rain and snow to refresh (Isaiah 55:10); gold to enrich (Psalms 19:7-10); and power to create life and faith (I Peter 1:23; Romans 10:17).

The Bible is God’s inspired revelation of the origin and destiny of all things. It is the power of God unto eternal salvation and it is the source of present help for the body, soul and spirit (Romans 1:16; John 15:7). It is God’s will and testament to men in all ages, revealing the plan of God for man here and now in the next life. It is the record of God’s dealing with men; past, present and future. It contains God’s message of eternal salvation to all who believe in Christ and of eternal damnation to those who rebel against the gospel (John 3:18,36).

The purpose of the Bible then is to reveal God to man, reveal man’s need of God and show man the way to God. Man by searching cannot find God except God makes himself known to him (Job 11:7). The Bible also reveals to man how to live and through the fulfillment of its prophecies all human needs are met - we receive salvation, sanctification, Holy Ghost Baptism, healing, deliverance, protection, etc.

For us to profit maximally from the study of the Bible, all hindrances to spiritual receptivity must be removed, such as hardened heart (Matthew 13:3-6; 18-21), double-mindedness (James 1:8; Mark 4:15-17), pride (Deuteronomy 8:11-14; Psalms 101:5; Proverbs 18:12), carnality (I Corinthians 3:1-5), and unbelief (Matthew 13:58).

Every believer in the church today can benefit from the hidden treasures in the Bible but this would require sacrifices on our part. Treasures are not found except by searching or digging earnestly. Likewise the deep Bible truths needs to be sought for and in doing this we will discover Christ the more (Colossians 2:3; John 5:39). Certain spiritual preparations are required from believers in order to discover these treasures that would make them develop into the fullness of the stature of Christ. There must be earnest love for truth for its own sake (Psalms 119:40,47,54,72,103); supreme love of God (Matthew 22:37; Deuteronomy 30:6; Psalms 73:25); and an intense desire to know more of Him (Psalms 42:1,2; 63:1). Also there should be a strong desire to make Him known to others (Proverbs 11:24-26; Romans 9:1-3), willingness to make personal sacrifice to study (Matthew 13:44-46; 12:42), a sense of ignorance and dependence upon divine teaching and willingness to practice as far as you learn (Psalms 119:60, 101, 106; James 1:22-25; Ezra 7:10). Other requirements are fixed purpose to know and do the whole truth (Psalms 119:63; 57:7; 108:1) and cultivating a state of mind that will not be diverted to make provision for the flesh (Romans 13:14; Matthew 26:41 ).

Above all, it is the regular habit of prayer, resignation to the whole will of God and His word that will make us discover the treasures hidden in the Bible.