Deacons must exhibit reverence, integrity, and self-control, adhering to the faith while being tested for service. Their conduct and that of their spouses are emphasized. The writer reflects on their personal journey toward embodying these values, seeking boldness in faith and striving for self-improvement in their spiritual life.
The Bishop
This content discusses the qualifications for a bishop, emphasizing the importance of being blameless, disciplined, and a good family leader. It highlights differing views on women's roles in church leadership. The author expresses uncertainty about church offices and a commitment to serving God's ministry, seeking guidance for obedience in this calling.
We Don’t Get It from Man
The passage emphasizes that Paul's gospel is divinely revealed, not learned from man. Despite his rigorous Jewish upbringing and efforts to persecute the church, he received a transformative revelation of Jesus Christ. The importance of personal revelation by the Holy Spirit, alongside understanding Scripture, is highlighted, urging a deeper connection with God.
A prayer for the Equipped
“And He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of... Continue Reading →
Who is God?
Who is God? It is important to know who God is, because we were made in His image. Most of my Christian walk, I thought that it was important for me to know who God was because I needed to know who God could be to me. As I allowed Him to display that portion... Continue Reading →
Casting Lots
”But Jesus was saying, “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.” And they cast lots, dividing up His garments among themselves.“. Luke 23:34 This was foretold in Psalm 22 “…They pierced My hands and My feet; I can count all My bones. They look and stare at Me. They... Continue Reading →
A Time
The prayer reflects on the various seasons of life as described in Ecclesiastes, expressing gratitude for times of birth and healing, while seeking comfort for those facing death. It calls for wisdom for farmers, encourages healing for individuals and the nation, and emphasizes the importance of love, truth, and spiritual warfare amidst life's challenges.
Obedience Shows Faith
The discussion centers on Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s interpretation of biblical callings, emphasizing that true discipleship requires immediate obedience to Jesus without excuses. He contrasts Matthew's straightforward response to Jesus's call with others who hesitated. Bonhoeffer stresses the necessity of leaving comfort zones and the cost of discipleship, which involves self-denial and faith.
God’s Perfect Work
“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.”James 1:2-4 Driving east on interstate 40 there is really rough roads as you head from Arizona into... Continue Reading →
Not Burdensome
Truly the signs of an apostle were accomplished among you with all perseverance, in signs and wonders and mighty deeds. For what is it in which you were inferior to other churches, except that I myself was not burdensome to you? Forgive me this wrong! 2 Corinthians 12:12-13 Paul let the Corinthians know he was an apostle to... Continue Reading →
