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

Refreshing Worship Service – Sunday – 09:30

Systematic Bible Study – Monday – 19:30

Dynamic Revival Service – Thursday – 19:30

For further help:

Deeper Christian Life Ministry

Koningin Beatrixschool, Hoefkade,

Saenredamstraat 4, 2525 TN Den Haag;

Email: dclm-thehague@me.com;

Website: www.dclm.org;

Blog: www.blog.dclmhq.org;

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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).

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)

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).

​

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?

OVERCOMING THE SPIRIT OF THIS AGE

Matthew 24:10-13; I Timothy 4:1-3; II Timothy 3:1-5

The heavenly vision requires constant renewing. A lot happens here below that could block the pilgrim’s view to his aspired homeland. God is calling our attention to the perilous times in which we live. We in the western world need to be extra cautious because our society is so secular that true Christianity and heavenly living have become strange. We could begin to lower our heavenly focus to be acceptable to our society, or we could become completely secular and abandon the heavenly vision altogether. These are perilous times and we need to be very watchful.

CHARACTERISTICS AND CONFLICT OF THIS AGE

The age we live in is described in the Bible in many vivid ways. It is called ‘evil world’, ‘latter times’, ‘last times’, ‘evil days’, ‘perilous times’, etc (Galatians 1:4; Ephesians 4:16; I Timothy 4:1; II Timothy 3:1; I John 2:18). And the inhabitants are described as ‘an evil generation’, ‘an untoward (lawless) generation’, ‘children of disobedience’, ‘a perverse nation’, etc (Matthew 12:34,39; Acts 2:40; Ephesians 2:2; Philippians 2:15). In order words, this age has a different interest, focus and agenda than that of God for His children. This implies conflict for the heavenly pilgrim in many ways. One, there is conflict of loyalty. Who will be lord over us? Whose will do we hold supreme? Two, there is conflict of faith. Shall we continue in the purity of the Bible or change its claims to accommodate the changing views of human minds? And three, there is conflict of lifestyle. Shall we keep on the old-fashioned way or yield to the demands of our modern-day world? Unfortunately, the spirit of this age has affected some believers such that they are no longer heaven-focus. Are you part of them? The true believer must watch to avoid being swept aside by the mentality and spirit of this age. It is a battle we cannot afford to lose.

CHALLENGES FOR CHRISTIANS IN THIS AGE

The last days pose several practical challenges to the believer. The Bible is very clear that the days are evil and it requires the violence of faith to overcome (Matthew 11:12). What are the challenges?

1.     The common temptations of the heavenly pilgrim (I Corinthians 10:12,13).

2.     Personal, peculiar trials that can make the pilgrimage tedious (Job 2:11-13).

3.     Distractions and enticement from a world that craves our attention constantly (Proverbs 1:10).

4.     Increasing iniquity that discourages the mind and makes righteousness seem extra difficult, with the result that the love of the pilgrim begins to wax cold (Matthew 24:12).

5.     The pressure of daily living: what to eat, drink, put on, how to make ends meet, etc (Matthew 6:31).

6.     The legitimate cares of a busy and challenging ministry (II Corinthians 11:27-29).

7.     Family trials or troubles that baffle the mind and undermine the faith (Genesis 25:20-22).

8.     Perilous struggle for survival and quest for personal advancement (James 4:13).

Care is necessary to manage these challenges. The believer needs to make a courageous choice to stand for the Lord and serve Him wholeheartedly despite the prevailing pressures.

CHOICE AND COURAGE IN THIS AGE

“But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved” – Matthew 24:13. You can be victorious in this age. Two things are required: choice and courage. Choose your destiny (Philippians 3:20; Hebrews 13:14). Where will you spend eternity? Choose your doctrine (I Timothy 4:15,16). Will you believe the totality of God’s word or only what seems convenient? Will you stick to the old-time truth or bend to the popular gospel that makes light of the way of holiness? Choose your companions (Psalm 119:63). You will be like your friends. Will you go with the godly few or the compromising or sinning multitude? Choose your lifestyle (I Peter 2:9). Will you live like a pilgrim or like a tourist? Lastly, choose your ministry (Hebrews 12:28,29). What kind of service will you render to God – a wholehearted, consecrated one or the one that seeks to please men at the expense of God?

Courage is also essential for total victory. Courage exhibits several elements. One, it is to keep on to the truth despite fierce opposition (Hebrews 10:39). Two, it is to keep standing for the truth in the presence of error and perversion (II John 8-11). Three, it is to keep on preaching the word when it seems very unpopular (II Timothy 4:1-5). Four, it is to keep on praising God when your trials multiply (Job 1:20-22). Five, it is to keep on praying till you get the victory (Luke 18:1). Six, it is to keep on resisting temptation till it is overcome (Hebrews 12:4). And seven, it is to keep on faithfully watching and waiting till the Bridegroom comes (Matthew 25:10; Luke 21:34-36). He that shall come will come; He will not tarry.