*We Must Keep Practicing*

In *Philippians 4:9,* Paul tells the Philippians to model his behavior by putting everything they have learned, received, heard and seen from him into practice. There are at least three benefits to this approach.

First, it’s effective. We learn best through imitation. We would never just tell a child how to kick a football. We would show them. A carpenter wouldn’t take up their trade by reading a manual alone. They would apprentice under a master and practice.

Likewise, we shouldn’t just read about what our faith should look like, we should practice. Because although we can certainly read about selflessness, humility, forgiveness and compassion, we get a stronger sense of what those qualities look like when we see them lived out in fellow brothers and sisters.

Second, it’s relational. In *1 Thessalonians 1:6-7,* Paul reveals how this process plays out. He imitates Christ. Believers also should imitate Christ. It’s a chain reaction.

Third, it’s attached to a promise. This is the best part. Paul tells us that if we put these things into practice, the God of peace will be with us. And not just any peace — a peace that Paul says surpasses all understanding.

*Prayer To Practice Biblical Principles*
Lord Jesus, we thank You. Thank You for putting on flesh, saving us, and providing us with the ultimate example. Lord, I ask that you put people in our lane that show us what it looks like to live like You. And we pray that we receive power to put what we've learn in Your Word into action, displaying faith that brings more people to Your peace. Displaying love that brings comfort to people.
*Have A Blessed Day!*

LET US GO ON TO SPIRITUAL MATURITY
Going On to Spiritual Maturity | Part 4

Scripture Focus: Hebrews 6:1–3

“Therefore, leaving the discussion of the elementary principles of Christ, let us go on to perfection, not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God.”

Hebrews 6:1, NKJV

There comes a time in every believer's spiritual journey when we must make a decision.

Am I going to remain where I am spiritually, or am I going to continue growing into everything God has called me to become?

That is the question confronting us in Hebrews 6:1.

For the past three days, we have been examining what the writer of Hebrews teaches concerning spiritual maturity.

On Monday, we learned that spiritual growth begins with a heart willing to hear and respond to God's Word.

On Tuesday, we discovered that spiritual age is not the same as spiritual maturity.

On Wednesday, we examined how spiritual discernment develops through the continual practice of God's Word.

Now, today, the writer brings us to a powerful invitation:

“LET US GO ON TO PERFECTION.”

Those words are not merely a suggestion.

They are a call to spiritual progress.

God never intended for salvation to be the end of our spiritual development.

Salvation is the beginning of a lifelong journey of becoming more like Jesus Christ.

1. THEREFORE, LET US GO ON

Notice how Hebrews 6:1 begins.

“Therefore...”

Whenever we encounter that word in Scripture, we need to examine what came before it.

In Hebrews 5:11–14, the writer has just explained that these believers had become dull of hearing.

They had remained spiritually immature when they should have been growing.

They still needed milk when they should have been ready for solid food.

Their spiritual senses had not developed through consistent practice.

Now comes the response to that condition.

“Therefore... let us go on.”

The Greek verb translated “let us go on” is pherō, here appearing in a form that conveys being carried or moved forward.

There is something beautiful about this expression.

Spiritual maturity is not merely something we manufacture through human determination.

We must cooperate with the work of God in our lives.

Paul explains this relationship in Philippians 2:12–13.

He instructs believers to work out their salvation with fear and trembling, then explains:

“For it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.”

Philippians 2:13, NKJV

God works within us.

We respond through faith and obedience.

Spiritual growth involves God's transforming power and our willing participation.

We cannot mature apart from His grace, but neither should we remain passive toward His Word.

2. WHAT DOES “PERFECTION” MEAN?

This is where understanding the original Greek becomes especially important.

Hebrews 6:1 uses the Greek word teleiotēs, meaning maturity, completeness, or the state of being fully developed.

The writer is not teaching that Christians can reach a condition in this life where they never make another mistake.

He is calling believers toward spiritual completeness and maturity in Christ.

Paul expresses a similar goal in Ephesians 4:13:

“Till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.”

Ephesians 4:13, NKJV

Notice the standard.

It is not another Christian.

It is not the pastor.

It is not the person who has attended church the longest.

The standard is Christ Himself.

God's purpose is to conform us to the image of His Son.

Romans 8:29 tells us that those God foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son.

Think about that.

God's purpose for your life extends beyond forgiveness.

He wants His character developed in you.

His love demonstrated through you.

His truth established within you.

His righteousness reflected in your conduct.

Spiritual maturity is becoming increasingly Christlike in the way we think, speak, believe, and live.

3. LEAVING THE ELEMENTARY PRINCIPLES DOES NOT MEAN ABANDONING THEM

Hebrews continues:

“Not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God.”

Hebrews 6:1, NKJV

This is a critical distinction.

The writer is not telling Christians to abandon the foundational truths of salvation.

He is telling them to build upon those foundations rather than continually starting over.

Think about constructing a house.

Before the walls can rise, the foundation must be established.

Without a solid foundation, the entire structure is unstable.

But imagine a builder who spends twenty years pouring the same foundation without ever building anything upon it.

The foundation is necessary.

But the foundation was never intended to be the completed house.

Jesus taught this principle in Matthew 7:24–27.

The wise man built his house upon the rock.

The foundation determined whether the house would stand when the storms came.

Likewise, spiritual maturity requires that our lives remain firmly established upon Jesus Christ and His Word.

Paul writes:

“For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.”

1 Corinthians 3:11, NKJV

We do not grow beyond Christ. We grow deeper into Christ.

We do not graduate from repentance, faith, or obedience.

We grow in our understanding and application of these foundational truths.

4. SIX FOUNDATIONAL TEACHINGS

In Hebrews 6:1–2, the writer identifies six foundational subjects.

They are:

Repentance from dead works. Turning away from works that cannot produce spiritual life and turning toward God.
Faith toward God. Trusting God, His character, His promises, and His Word.
The doctrine of baptisms. Foundational instruction concerning washings and baptisms, understood within the broader biblical teaching.
Laying on of hands. A biblical practice associated with blessing, prayer, commissioning, and ministry.
Resurrection of the dead. The certainty that God will raise the dead, including the promised resurrection of those who belong to Christ.
Eternal judgment. The reality that every person is accountable before God.

These are not insignificant subjects.

They are foundational truths.

And there is something important we need to recognize.

A believer cannot build a mature spiritual life upon a foundation he has never properly understood.

This is one reason discipleship is so important.

Jesus did not simply command His followers to make converts.

He commanded them to make disciples.

Matthew 28:19–20 includes both making disciples and teaching them to observe everything He commanded.

Notice those words:

“Teaching them to observe...”

Not merely teaching them to know.

Teaching them to observe, to put into practice.

That is the difference between simply acquiring religious information and becoming a disciple who follows Jesus.

5. GOD IS LOOKING FOR GROWTH, NOT JUST ATTENDANCE

One of the great concerns facing the Church today is the possibility of confusing religious activity with spiritual maturity.

We can become very busy doing church activities while neglecting our personal development in Christ.

We can attend services regularly.

We can participate in programs.

We can know the language of Christianity.

Yet still struggle to demonstrate patience, humility, forgiveness, self-control, and genuine love.

Paul identifies these qualities as the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22–23.

And Jesus gives us the key to producing that fruit.

“He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.”

John 15:5, NKJV

There is our answer.

Spiritual maturity is not produced by religious activity alone. It develops through an abiding relationship with Jesus Christ, nourished by His Word and expressed through obedience.

The closer we walk with Him, the more His character should become evident in our lives.

6. MATURITY MEANS WE STOP BEING SPIRITUALLY UNSTABLE

Paul describes another important purpose of spiritual maturity in Ephesians 4:14.

He says believers should:

“No longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine.”

Consider how relevant those words are today.

We live in a world filled with competing voices.

Social media.

Political opinions.

False teaching.

Cultural pressure.

Religious confusion.

People continually attempting to redefine truth.

Without spiritual maturity, believers can become vulnerable to every persuasive argument that comes along.

But a mature believer has learned to examine what he hears through the authority of Scripture.

He does not simply ask:

“Does this sound good?”

He asks:

“Does this agree with the Word of God?”

That is why our previous teaching from Hebrews 5:14 was so important.

Spiritual senses become trained through practice.

And trained senses develop discernment.

Maturity gives us stability because our faith becomes increasingly established in Christ and His truth.

7. “AND THIS WE WILL DO IF GOD PERMITS”

Hebrews 6:3 adds an important statement:

“And this we will do if God permits.”

Hebrews 6:3, NKJV

Notice the humility expressed here.

The writer is committed to moving forward.

But he recognizes that spiritual progress remains dependent upon God.

We cannot produce spiritual maturity by self-effort alone.

We need the Holy Spirit.

We need God's grace.

We need His Word.

We need His transforming power working within us.

Jesus said in John 15:5:

“Without Me you can do nothing.”

That is not a statement intended to discourage us.

It is a reminder of where our strength comes from.

The same Lord who calls us to maturity supplies the grace necessary for our growth.

And as we yield ourselves to Him, His Word continues transforming our lives.

THE QUESTION WE MUST ASK OURSELVES

As we come toward the conclusion of today's teaching, I want us to consider something personally.

How long have we been walking with the Lord?

Five years?

Ten years?

Twenty years?

Forty years?

Perhaps even longer.

Now ask yourself a more important question.

Am I spiritually stronger today than I was five years ago?

Do I understand God's Word more clearly?

Am I quicker to obey?

Am I more patient?

Am I more forgiving?

Am I better equipped to recognize deception?

Am I helping others grow in their relationship with Christ?

Am I becoming more like Jesus?

These are the questions that help us examine our spiritual progress.

And remember, this is not about condemnation.

It is about growth.

Paul said:

“Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead.”

Philippians 3:13, NKJV

Paul understood something every believer needs to understand.

Yesterday's spiritual growth does not eliminate the need for today's obedience.

There is always room to grow.

There is always more of God's Word to understand.

There is always another opportunity to demonstrate Christ's character.

And there is always a reason to keep pressing forward.

LET US GO ON TO MATURITY!

That is the invitation of Hebrews 6:1.

Do not become satisfied with spiritual infancy.

Do not become comfortable with merely hearing the Word.

Do not measure your spiritual condition by how many years you have attended church.

Instead, examine how deeply God's Word has transformed your life.

Keep growing.

Keep learning.

Keep practicing the Word.

Keep developing discernment.

Keep your eyes upon Jesus.

Because the Christian life was never intended to be a journey where we simply begin with Christ and remain unchanged.

It is a lifelong journey of becoming more like the One who saved us.

And by the grace of God, we can continue moving forward.

SCRIPTURE TRAIL FOR DEEPER STUDY

Hebrews 5:11–14 → Hebrews 6:1–3 → Matthew 7:24–27 → Matthew 28:19–20 → 1 Corinthians 3:11 → Romans 8:29 → Ephesians 4:11–16 → Philippians 2:12–13 → Philippians 3:12–14 → John 15:1–8 → 2 Peter 3:18

These passages reveal a beautiful progression:

Foundation → Instruction → Obedience → Transformation → Discernment → Stability → Christlikeness.

CLOSING PRAYER

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for saving me and bringing me into Your family.

But Father, I understand that salvation was never intended to be the end of my spiritual growth.

You have called me to become more like Your Son.

Help me never become satisfied with simply knowing about You when You have invited me to walk in fellowship with You.

Establish me firmly in Your Word.

Renew my mind through Your truth.

Train my spiritual senses to recognize good and evil.

Give me a heart willing to receive correction and the humility to acknowledge where I still need to grow.

Holy Spirit, continue Your transforming work within me.

Let the character of Jesus become increasingly evident in my thoughts, my words, my decisions, and my relationships.

And Father, help me take what You have taught me and faithfully pass it on to others.

I do not want to remain spiritually immature.

By Your grace, I want to go on to maturity.

In the mighty name of Jesus Christ,

Amen.

GOING ON TO SPIRITUAL MATURITY | PART 4
LET US GO ON TO MATURITY!

Hebrews 6:1–3

God did not save us merely to begin a spiritual journey. He calls us to continue growing until our lives increasingly reflect the character of Jesus Christ.

TODAY'S QUESTION:

If spiritual maturity is measured by how much our lives reflect Jesus Christ, rather than how long we have been Christians, what area of your life is God calling you to grow in today?

Tomorrow, Part 5: "PRESSING ON TO MATURITY, A LIFE THAT CONTINUES TO GROW."

We will bring this week's teachings together and examine how the truths of Hebrews 5:11 through 6:3 become a lifelong commitment to spiritual growth, discipleship, and Christlikeness.

I want to begin with a foundational principle: before you build, you must become. Every meaningful work requires more than an idea, a vision or an opportunity. It requires a person with the character, understanding, skills, convictions and capacity to carry it. This is why formation matters.

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You must KNOW: understand God, His principles, yourself, your purpose and the realities of the world in which you have been placed.

You must BECOME: develop the character, discipline, competence and capacity required to live and work according to what you have been entrusted with.

Then you can BUILD with wisdom, excellence, responsibility and purpose.

This is the foundation of Called to Build, a Christian formation and equipping initiative under Madare Impact Limited. The aim is to help Christians connect faith with the realities of life: family, work, career, business, leadership and society because faith cannot be disconnected from how we live, work, lead and create.

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What we build will ultimately be influenced by who we are.

KNOW. BECOME. BUILD.
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#oludaremafe #purposedrivenlife #purposedrivenbusiness #calledtobuild #godgivenpurpose

MATTER OF QUALITY, NOT QUANTITY
“For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven. A time to be born and a time to die. A time to plant and a time to harvest.” —Ecclesiastes 3:1–2 NLT
Reflecting on the passing of human life, ethicist Michael Josephson wrote, “Ready or not, someday it will all come to an end. There will be no more sunrises, no minutes, hours or days. . . . So what will matter? How will the value of your days be measured? . . . Living a life that matters doesn’t happen by accident. It’s not a matter of circumstance but of choice.” 
The author of Ecclesiastes wrote, “For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven. A time to be born and a time to die. A time to plant and a time to harvest” (Ecclesiastes 3:1–2 nlt). The psalmist wrote, “My future is in your hands” (Psalm 31:15 nlt). And Job said to God, “You have decided the length of our lives. You know how many months we will live, and we are not given a minute longer” (Job 14:5 nlt). 
Contemplating how short life is and how powerless we are to change that can trigger anxiety in some people. It magnifies the importance of being proactive in the choices you make, not to mention the importance of starting to make those choices as early as possible.
To put it another way: The evening of your life is determined by the morning of your life. If you start prioritizing healthy eating and exercise as a young person and continue the practice throughout your life, you will enjoy the benefits for years and years.
Likewise, if you start prioritizing the things of God as a young person and continue the practice throughout your life, you will reap unimaginable blessings for as long as you live. 
The author of Proverbs touched on this principle when he wrote, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6 rsv). If you’re in the morning of your life—if, statistically speaking, you likely have many years ahead of you—now is not the time to sow your wild oats or to do the things you plan to repent for later.
Now is the time to establish the habits, practices, and principles that will guide your life. Now is the time to study God’s Word, to memorize and apply it to every area of your life. Now is the time to begin the discipline of prayer, to set aside time every day to speak and listen to the Lord. Now is the time to develop and sharpen your skills when it comes to sharing your faith.
If time is on your side, don’t let that advantage slip away. If you’re in the afternoon or even in the evening of life, the same principle applies, just in a different time frame. It’s never too late to adopt God-honoring disciplines. And right now, you’re as young as you’ll ever be. 
God bless you! 

The Church Between Abuse and State Control: A South African Perspective
By M.R. Mahlaule DipTheol
Introduction
South Africa finds itself in the midst of a difficult but necessary conversation about religion, accountability and constitutional freedom. On the one hand, the country has witnessed the rise of so-called "pseudo churches" and self-appointed religious leaders who have exploited vulnerable people, commercialised the gospel and brought Christianity into disrepute. On the other hand, proposals aimed at regulating religious institutions have raised legitimate concerns among churches that government may be extending its authority into matters that properly belong to the church.
The question before South Africa is not whether abuse within religious circles should be addressed. It must be addressed. The real question is how to protect the public without violating the constitutional principle of religious freedom.
The Rise of Pseudo Churches and Religious Abuse
The concern about religious abuse did not arise without reason. Over the past two decades, South Africans have witnessed cases involving financial exploitation, manipulative leadership, false miracle claims and harmful practices disguised as religious activities.
The Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities (CRL Rights Commission) conducted hearings into what it termed the "commercialisation of religion and the abuse of people's belief systems". The Commission argued that certain religious leaders were exploiting the absence of effective accountability structures within some faith communities.
From a biblical perspective, such practices should be unequivocally condemned. Scripture warns against false prophets who exploit God's people for personal gain (Matthew 7:15; 2 Peter 2:1-3). The church has a responsibility to protect believers from deception and to uphold integrity in ministry.
The misconduct of a minority has unfortunately damaged the public reputation of many genuine churches that have faithfully served communities for generations.
Government Response and Growing Concern
In response to these abuses, proposals have been advanced over the years suggesting greater oversight of religious organisations. The debate intensified following recommendations associated with the CRL Rights Commission's investigations into religious abuse. Some proposals discussed in public discourse included forms of registration, peer-review mechanisms and accountability structures within the religious sector.
Many church leaders support accountability but have expressed concern that regulation could evolve into state oversight of internal church affairs. Critics argue that if government bodies gain authority to determine who may lead churches, what constitutes acceptable doctrine or which organisations may operate as churches, the line between regulation and control may become blurred.
These concerns are not merely theological. They raise important constitutional questions.
What South African Law Says
The South African Constitution strongly protects religious freedom.
Section 15(1) of the Constitution states:
"Everyone has the right to freedom of conscience, religion, thought, belief and opinion."
In addition, Section 31 protects the rights of religious communities to practise their religion and to form and maintain religious associations. The CRL Rights Commission itself acknowledges these constitutional protections as part of its mandate.
The Constitution therefore establishes two important principles:
1.Religious communities are free to practise and organise their faith.
2.This freedom exists within the broader framework of the rule of law.
Freedom of religion does not place religious leaders above the law. Criminal conduct such as fraud, assault, theft, abuse or intimidation remains subject to prosecution irrespective of religious status.
At the same time, constitutional protection means that the State should not dictate doctrine, appoint ministers, determine acceptable beliefs or control worship practices.
The Principle of Separation of Functions
The South African constitutional system does not establish a state church. Government and religious institutions have different responsibilities.
The State exists to uphold justice, ensure public order and protect citizens' rights.
The Church exists to proclaim the gospel, provide spiritual leadership, disciple believers and serve communities.
Problems arise whenever either institution attempts to assume the role of the other. When churches ignore legal obligations, public trust is undermined. When the State seeks to influence doctrine or church governance, religious freedom is threatened.
A constitutional democracy functions best when both institutions operate within their respective spheres while respecting each other's role.
A Biblical Approach to the Debate
The Bible teaches both freedom and accountability.
Church leaders are instructed to be above reproach, honest and faithful stewards (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9). Congregations are encouraged to test teachings against God's Word (Acts 17:11).
At the same time, the church belongs to Jesus Christ. Christ declared, "I will build my church" (Matthew 16:18). The authority of the church in spiritual matters comes from God and not from the State.
This biblical balance rejects both lawlessness and excessive state control.
Possible Solutions
1. Strengthen Self-Regulation within Churches
Major denominations and independent church networks should strengthen internal accountability systems.
Churches that effectively discipline unethical leaders reduce the need for external intervention.
2. Enforce Existing Laws
South Africa already has laws dealing with fraud, corruption, assault, tax offences and financial misconduct.
Where religious leaders commit crimes, law enforcement agencies should apply these laws rigorously rather than creating sweeping controls over all churches.
3. Promote Financial Transparency
Churches should voluntarily adopt sound governance practices, including:
•Financial reporting.
•Independent audits where appropriate.
•Proper record-keeping.
•Transparent leadership structures.
Such measures build public confidence without compromising religious independence.
4. Encourage Ministerial Training
Many abuses flourish where leaders lack sound theological formation and accountability.
Theological education, ethical formation and mentorship should be promoted across denominations and independent churches alike.
5. Develop Voluntary Religious Frameworks
A practical alternative to state control is the development of voluntary codes of conduct and accountability mechanisms created by faith communities themselves.
Such frameworks can promote ethical leadership while preserving constitutional freedoms.
6. Facilitate Continuous Dialogue
Government, constitutional bodies and faith communities should engage in ongoing consultation rather than confrontation.
Mutual respect will produce better outcomes than adversarial approaches.
Conclusion
South Africa faces a genuine challenge. Pseudo churches and abusive religious practices cannot be ignored. They harm individuals, communities and the witness of the Christian faith. Yet the solution cannot be the erosion of the constitutional freedoms that have protected religious communities since 1994.
The answer lies in a balanced approach: strong accountability, effective law enforcement, responsible church leadership and respect for religious liberty.
Churches must reject exploitation and uphold biblical integrity. Government must protect citizens while respecting the constitutional autonomy of faith communities. If both obligations are honoured, South Africa can address abuse without sacrificing freedom.
As Jesus wisely taught:
"Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's" (Matthew 22:21).
This principle continues to provide a sound framework for navigating the relationship between Church and State in democratic South Africa.
References
•Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, Sections 15 and 31.
•Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities (CRL Rights Commission). Mandate and public reports.
•Banda, C. (2019). Redefining Religion? A Critical Christian Reflection on the CRL Rights Commission's Proposal to Regulate Religion in South Africa. Verbum et Ecclesia.
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Conflict and Courage
For the love of money is the root of all evil:

which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. 1 Timothy 6:10.
How tenderly the Saviour dealt with him who was to be His betrayer! In His teaching, Jesus dwelt upon principles of benevolence that struck at the very root of covetousness. He presented before Judas the heinous character of greed, and many a time the disciple realized that his character had been portrayed, and his sin pointed out; but he would not confess and forsake his unrighteousness. He was self-sufficient, and instead of resisting temptation, he continued to follow his fraudulent practices.... Jesus dealt him no sharp rebuke for his covetousness, but with divine patience bore with this erring man, even while giving him evidence that He read his heart as an open book. He presented before him the highest incentives for right doing; and in rejecting the light of Heaven, Judas would be without excuse.11Ibid., 295.

Satan is playing the game of life for every soul. He knows that practical sympathy is a test of the purity and unselfishness of the heart, and he will make every possible effort to close our hearts to the needs of others.... He will bring in many things to prevent the expression of love and sympathy. It is thus that he ruined Judas. Judas was constantly planning to benefit self. In this he represents a large class of professed Christians of today. Therefore we need to study his case. We are as near to Christ as he was. Yet if, as with Judas, association with Christ does not make us one with Him, if it does not cultivate within our hearts a sincere sympathy for those for whom Christ gave His life, we are in the same danger as was Judas....

We need to guard against the first deviation from righteousness; for one transgression, one neglect to manifest the spirit of Christ, opens the way for another and still another, until the mind is overmastered by the principles of the enemy. If cultivated, the spirit of selfishness becomes a devouring passion which nothing but the power of Christ can subdue.12Testimonies for the Church 6:264, 265.

As a preacher, theological student/writer, and contributor to church publications, the article below seeks to provide a balanced biblical evaluation of both secularism and Christian nationalism while presenting authentic Christianity as taught by Christ and the apostles.
From Secularism to the Solid Rock: Understanding the Limits of Christian Nationalism and Rediscovering True Christianity
By M. R. Mahlaule DipTheol
Introduction
The modern world is increasingly divided between competing visions for society. On one side stands secularism, which seeks to organize public life without reference to God. On the other side stands Christian nationalism, which argues that Christian identity should be fused with national identity and political power. While these positions appear to be opposites, both can lead believers away from the true essence of Christianity when taken to extremes.
The church of Jesus Christ must carefully evaluate both viewpoints through the lens of Scripture. Christians are called neither to abandon God in the public sphere nor to place their ultimate trust in earthly governments. Instead, believers are called to build their lives upon Christ, the Solid Rock, whose kingdom transcends all nations, cultures, and political systems.
This article explores the strengths and weaknesses of secularism and Christian nationalism and points toward the biblical understanding of authentic Christianity.
From Secularism to the Solid Rock
What Is Secularism?
Secularism is the belief that society should function independently from religious authority. In a secular framework, government, education, law, and public institutions operate without giving preference to any particular religion.
Historically, secularism emerged partly as a response to religious conflicts and abuses of power. Its supporters argue that it protects freedom of conscience and allows people of different beliefs to live together peacefully.
There are certain positive aspects associated with secularism. It can:
•Protect religious liberty.
•Prevent state control of religion.
•Reduce coercion in matters of faith.
•Allow diverse communities to coexist peacefully.
However, secularism becomes problematic when it moves beyond neutrality and begins to exclude God from public life altogether.
The Danger of Godless Secularism
A society that removes God from its moral foundations often loses a stable basis for truth, justice, and human dignity. If there is no higher authority than human opinion, moral standards become increasingly subjective.
The Bible teaches:
"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom" (Proverbs 9:10).
When societies reject divine authority, people may begin to define good and evil according to personal preference rather than God's revealed truth.
Romans 1:21 describes humanity's tendency when it turns away from God:
"Although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him."
Secularism can therefore drift into secular humanism, where human beings become the ultimate authority. Such a worldview often results in spiritual emptiness because the human heart was created for a relationship with God.
Christ as the Solid Rock
The answer to spiritual confusion is not merely religious influence in society but a return to Christ Himself.
Jesus declared:
"Everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock" (Matthew 7:24).
The church must call people away from dependence on changing cultural trends and back to the unchanging truth of Jesus Christ.
True transformation begins not with political reform but with spiritual renewal. Nations become stronger when individuals experience conversion, repentance, and obedience to God.
What's Wrong With Christian Nationalism?
Understanding Christian Nationalism
Christian nationalism is the belief that Christianity and national identity should be closely linked and that the nation should officially promote Christian values and symbols.
Its supporters are often motivated by genuine concerns. They observe moral decline, weakening family structures, increasing secularization, and hostility toward Christian beliefs. Consequently, they seek to preserve Christian influence within society.
These concerns should not be dismissed lightly. Christians have every right and responsibility to contribute positively to their countries.
However, problems arise when Christianity becomes identified primarily with political power rather than with the gospel.
The Risk of Confusing the Kingdom of God With Earthly Nations
One of the greatest dangers of Christian nationalism is that it can blur the distinction between God's kingdom and human governments.
Jesus clearly stated:
"My kingdom is not of this world" (John 18:36).
Christ did not come to establish a political empire. He came to establish a spiritual kingdom that reaches every tribe, language, people, and nation.
Whenever Christians treat a particular nation as uniquely chosen above others, they risk overlooking the universal nature of the gospel.
The church belongs to Christ, not to any political party, ethnicity, race, or nation.
The Temptation of Political Power
Throughout history, religious institutions have sometimes become entangled with political authority. Whenever this occurs, spiritual priorities often suffer.
The early church grew rapidly despite having no political influence. The apostles changed the world through preaching, prayer, holiness, and sacrificial service.
Jesus resisted political expectations. When crowds sought to make Him king by force, He withdrew from them (John 6:15).
The mission of the church is not primarily to gain political dominance but to make disciples of all nations.
The Danger of Excluding Others
Christian nationalism can unintentionally create barriers between believers and those they are called to reach.
When national identity becomes central, immigrants, minorities, or people from different backgrounds may feel excluded. Yet the gospel consistently tears down barriers.
Paul wrote:
"There is neither Jew nor Gentile... for you are all one in Christ Jesus" (Galatians 3:28).
Christianity unites people through faith in Christ rather than through nationality.
The Gospel Cannot Be Legislated
Laws can restrain certain behaviors, but they cannot transform hearts.
A nation may pass moral laws, but only the Holy Spirit can produce genuine repentance and faith.
Christian renewal therefore cannot be achieved merely through legislation. Spiritual awakening comes through prayer, evangelism, discipleship, and the work of God's Spirit.
The True Meaning of Christianity
Christianity Is About Christ
At its core, Christianity is neither secularism nor nationalism.
Christianity is a living relationship with Jesus Christ.
The name "Christian" itself means a follower of Christ. The focus is not a nation, culture, political movement, or philosophical system. The focus is the person and work of Jesus.
Paul declared:
"For me to live is Christ" (Philippians 1:21).
The believer's identity is first and foremost found in Christ.
Christianity Is a Kingdom Reality
Jesus came preaching:
"The kingdom of God has come near" (Mark 1:15).
The kingdom of God is not confined to geographical borders. It exists wherever God's rule is embraced.
Citizens of this kingdom may come from South Africa, Nigeria, Brazil, China, the United States, or any other nation. Their primary allegiance is to Christ.
Believers are therefore patriotic citizens of earthly countries while recognizing that their highest loyalty belongs to God's eternal kingdom.
Christianity Calls for Transformation
The gospel addresses the human heart.
Jesus taught that humanity's greatest problem is not merely political corruption or social injustice but sin.
Therefore Christianity begins with:
•Repentance.
•Faith in Jesus Christ.
•New birth through the Holy Spirit.
•Ongoing sanctification.
Any movement that focuses solely on cultural reform without personal conversion falls short of biblical Christianity.
Christianity Produces Love and Service
Jesus summarized God's commandments in two principles:
1.Love God.
2.Love your neighbour.
True Christianity cannot be measured merely by public religious expressions or political victories. It is measured by obedience, humility, holiness, compassion, and love.
A genuine Christian seeks justice while also showing mercy. He stands for truth while extending grace.
Christianity Engages Society Without Worshipping It
Christians are called to be salt and light in the world (Matthew 5:13-16).
This means believers should:
•Participate responsibly in society.
•Pray for government leaders.
•Promote justice and righteousness.
•Defend human dignity.
•Oppose evil.
•Care for the poor and vulnerable.
Yet they must never place their hope in political systems.
Psalm 146:3 advises:
"Do not put your trust in princes, in human beings, who cannot save."
The church serves society best when it remains faithful to Christ rather than becoming dependent upon political influence.
Conclusion
Secularism and Christian nationalism present two different responses to the challenges facing modern society. Secularism often seeks to remove God from public life, while Christian nationalism may seek to advance Christianity through national or political structures. Both contain dangers when elevated beyond their proper limits.
The biblical answer is neither a godless society nor a politically controlled faith. The answer is Jesus Christ, the Solid Rock.
Christianity is not fundamentally about controlling governments, preserving cultural dominance, or withdrawing from society. It is about following Christ, proclaiming the gospel, making disciples, and living as citizens of God's kingdom while faithfully serving within earthly nations.
The church must therefore remain anchored in Christ alone. Political systems rise and fall. Nations emerge and disappear. Ideologies come and go. But Jesus Christ remains the same yesterday, today, and forever.
When believers build upon this Solid Rock, they discover the true meaning of Christianity: a transformed life, a redeemed community, and an eternal kingdom ruled by the living Christ.
"On Christ the solid Rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand."
.

SPIRITUAL AGE IS NOT THE SAME AS SPIRITUAL MATURITY

Going On to Spiritual Maturity | Part 2
Scripture Focus: Hebrews 5:12–14

“For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God.”
Hebrews 5:12, NKJV

Yesterday, in Part 1, we looked at the warning of Hebrews 5:11: “You have become dull of hearing.”

Today, the writer takes us one step deeper. He shows us what happens when our spiritual hearing dulls.

Growth stops.

And here we discover an important truth:

Spiritual age is not the same thing as spiritual maturity.

A person can have been saved for many years and still remain spiritually immature. Time gives us opportunities to mature, but it does not produce maturity.

Hebrews makes this very clear.

“BY THIS TIME YOU OUGHT TO BE TEACHERS”

Those words are important:

“By this time...”

The writer expected progress.

These believers had been exposed to the truth long enough that they should have been able to help teach others. Instead, they needed someone to teach them the foundational truths again.

This does not mean every Christian must stand behind a pulpit.

Teaching can happen around a kitchen table. It can happen between a father and his children, between two friends, in a Bible study, or when one believer helps another understand God's Word.

The principle is spiritual reproduction.

What God has taught us should eventually become something we are capable of passing on to somebody else.

Paul told Timothy:

“And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.”
2 Timothy 2:2

Look at the progression:

Paul → Timothy → faithful men → others.

That is discipleship.

Mature believers do not merely consume truth. Eventually, they become capable of sharing truth, demonstrating truth, and helping others grow in truth.

MILK IS GOOD, BUT WE ARE NOT SUPPOSED TO LIVE ON IT FOREVER

Hebrews continues:

“And you have come to need milk and not solid food.”
Hebrews 5:12, NKJV

There is nothing wrong with milk.

Peter actually tells newborn believers:

“As newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby.”
1 Peter 2:2

Milk is necessary at the beginning.

The problem is not drinking milk.

The problem is never progressing beyond it.

Think about physical development. We celebrate when a baby drinks milk. But if twenty years later that person can still digest nothing but milk, we know something has gone wrong.

The same principle applies spiritually.

There are foundational truths every Christian must understand. Salvation by grace. Repentance. Faith toward God. Baptism. Resurrection. Eternal judgment. Our identity in Christ.

These foundations are essential.

But a foundation is meant to have something built upon it.

That is exactly where Hebrews is taking us.

MATURITY REQUIRES PRACTICE

Hebrews 5:14 gives us one of the clearest descriptions of spiritual maturity in the New Testament:

“But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.”

Notice what maturity is connected to.

Not simply knowledge.

Not simply time.

Not simply church attendance.

It is connected to:

“By reason of use.”

The Greek word behind “exercised” is gymnazō. It carries the idea of training or exercising through disciplined practice. It is where we get our English word gymnasium.

That gives us a powerful picture.

Spiritual discernment must be trained.

We hear the Word.

We receive the Word.

We obey the Word.

We practice the Word.

And through repeated use, our spiritual senses become increasingly trained to recognize what agrees with God's truth and what does not.

That connects directly with James:

“But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.”
James 1:22

Yesterday we talked about hearing.

Today we see what hearing is supposed to produce.

Practice.

And practice produces maturity.

INFORMATION IS NOT TRANSFORMATION

This is where we need to examine ourselves carefully.

It is possible to know Bible verses and remain immature.

It is possible to listen to sermons for decades and remain immature.

It is possible to understand doctrine intellectually while never allowing that doctrine to govern our attitudes, relationships, decisions, words, and conduct.

Paul told the Corinthians:

“I... could not speak to you as to spiritual people but as to carnal, as to babes in Christ.”
1 Corinthians 3:1

They possessed spiritual gifts. They had knowledge. Yet Paul still described them as babes.

Why?

Their lives were still marked by envy, strife, and division.

That tells us something important.

Spiritual maturity is not measured merely by what we know. It is revealed by what the truth has produced in us.

Are we becoming more like Christ?

Are we walking in love?

Are we learning obedience?

Are we becoming faithful?

Can we receive correction?

Can we distinguish good from evil?

Can we stand firmly when culture contradicts Scripture?

Can we help another believer grow?

These are marks of maturity.

GOD IS CALLING US FORWARD

This teaching is not meant to condemn believers who are still growing.

We are all growing.

Paul himself said:

“Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on...”
Philippians 3:12

The issue is not whether we have arrived.

The question is:

Are we progressing?

That is where tomorrow's teaching becomes so important.

Hebrews does not simply tell us that we should mature. It tells us what to do next:

“Therefore, leaving the discussion of the elementary principles of Christ, let us go on to perfection [maturity]...”
Hebrews 6:1

There is movement in those words.

Let us go on.

God does not want us living forever on yesterday's revelation, yesterday's obedience, or yesterday's spiritual experience.

There is more to learn.

More character to develop.

More truth to practice.

More discernment to exercise.

More of Christ to know.

You may have walked with God for many years, but spiritual age is not the same as spiritual maturity.

The real question is not:

“How long have I been a Christian?”

The better question is:

“How much has Christ formed His character, His truth, and His ways in me?”

Scripture Trail for Deeper Study

Hebrews 5:11–14 → 1 Peter 2:2 → 1 Corinthians 3:1–3 → James 1:22–25 → Romans 12:1–2 → Ephesians 4:11–16 → 2 Timothy 2:2 → Philippians 3:12–14 → Hebrews 6:1–3

Prayer

Father, thank You for every truth You have taught me. But Lord, do not allow me to become satisfied merely because I have known You for many years. Help me grow. Teach me to take Your Word beyond hearing and put it into practice. Exercise my spiritual senses through Your truth. Give me discernment to recognize good and evil, humility to receive correction, and faithfulness to pass Your truth to others. Form the character of Christ in me, and by Your grace, lead me onward into spiritual maturity. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Going On to Spiritual Maturity | Part 2

SPIRITUAL AGE IS NOT THE SAME AS SPIRITUAL MATURITY

Time allows us to grow. Practicing God's Word is what moves us toward maturity.

GLORIOUS SUNDAY SERMON OF
4TH OCTOBER 2026
DIGITAL FAITH SERIES 4

DON'T JUST READ, ENJOY THE FULL VIDEO HERE
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PLEASE WATCH, LIKE, COMMENT AND SUBSCRIBE
TO HELP MY CHANNEL GROW. THANKS


Beloved of God, you are welcome to another powerful encounter with God. As we enter the month in which Nigeria commemorates her independence, we thank God for the journey of our nation. Independence is a gift, but maintaining and building a nation requires responsibility, discipline and obedience to lawful principles. And that will lead us to today's spiritual lesson...” Since we started our DIGITAL FAITH SERIES, We have been using the language of technology to understand timeless spiritual truths. Today however,
we are moving from the system to the password.
May God give us ears to hear, hearts to understand, and grace to obey His Word in Jesus name.

PRAYER
Our Father and our God, in the name of Jesus, open our hearts to Your Word today. Show us anything that is hindering our walk with You. Give us grace to return, reset, and obey You completely. In Jesus' name. Amen.

LESSON: Deuteronomy 28:1–2

TOPIC: PASSWORD RESET REQUIRED!

TEXT:
Now it shall come to pass, if you diligently obey the voice of the LORD your God, to observe carefully all His commandments which I command you today, that the LORD your God will set you high above all nations of the earth. And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, because you obey the voice of the LORD your God. (Deuteronomy 28:1–2 (NKJV)).

INTRODUCTION:
Have you ever tried to enter an account and suddenly received the message:“PASSWORD RESET REQUIRED.” You know the account belongs to you. You know there is something valuable inside. But without the right password, you cannot gain access. Spiritually, there is a powerful lesson here. God has given us His Word, His promises, His purpose and His instructions.
And one of the greatest keys God has given man is obedience. Be immensely blessed by the word.

EXPOSITION:
[1]. THERE IS VALUE BEHIND THE ACCESS
Let me share something personal.
There was a time when I had some cryptocurrency in an account. It was not a huge amount, but it had value to me. Unfortunately, I lost my phone. I also discovered that the password I needed had not been properly backed up. I searched where I thought I had written it, but I could not find it. I tried to recover the account, but some of the information required for recovery was no longer available. The painful lesson was simple: The value was still there, but I could no longer access it. And that made me think spiritually.

There are things God has deposited in people's lives: gifts, opportunities, assignments, relationships, purpose and promises. But sometimes the issue is not that there is no value. The issue is access.
You may carry something valuable and still fail to experience its full expression because something has gone wrong in your walk. So don't only ask, “Lord, what have You prepared for me? ”Ask also:“
Lord, am I walking according to Your instructions?”

[2]. THE PASSWORD IS OBEDIENCE
This is where our main Scripture speaks loudly.
“If you diligently obey...”Notice the word: IF.
God did not merely say, “Listen to My voice.”
He said, obey. And then He connected obedience with the blessings that follow. Obedience is not simply hearing what God says. It is doing what God says.
We find the same principle in other Scriptures.
Jesus said in John 14:15, “If you love Me, keep My commandments.

James 1:22 tells us to be doers of the Word and not hearers only. And Samuel declared in 1 Samuel 15:22 that obedience is better than sacrifice. So what is the password? OBEDIENCE. Not religious activity without obedience. Not hearing without obedience.
Not knowing without obedience.
Sometimes we are asking God for another blessing when God is waiting for our obedience to the last instruction He already gave us. The password has not changed. We simply stopped using it.

[3]. WHEN ACCESS IS LOST, RESET YOUR WALK
The beautiful thing about technology is that when you forget a password, you don't necessarily throw away the account.You look for a way to reset it.
Spiritually, there are moments when we need a reset. Perhaps we have disobeyed. Perhaps we have compromised. Perhaps we have allowed bitterness, pride, unforgiveness, laziness or distraction to interfere with our walk with God.

The answer is not to run away from God. Reset. Return to His Word. Repent where necessary. Restore what needs to be restored. And begin again in obedience. A password reset does not mean the account was worthless. It means access needs to be restored. Maybe somebody listening today needs a spiritual reset. You have not lost your purpose.
You have not become useless. You may simply need to return to the place of obedience.

CONCLUSION:
RESET THE PASSWORD TO JUST OBEY!
Beloved, the message is simple. There is value in the account. There is access to be gained. And there is a password. OBEDIENCE. Don't spend your entire life admiring God's promises while ignoring God's instructions. The blessing is not something we manipulate God into giving us. It is God who blesses according to His wisdom and grace. But when God gives us an instruction, obedience is our response. Today, if your spiritual screen seems to be saying: “PASSWORD RESET REQUIRED,” don't be discouraged. Return to God. Return to His Word. Return to obedience. And let God restore your walk.
As we celebrate a nation that gained independence, may God also give us freedom from everything that keeps us from obeying Him.

PRAYER:
Everlasting Father King of glory, we thank you for this word of truth you have spoken to us. Please, give us the grace to obey You completely. Wherever we have gone outside Your will, bring us back. Where we have become careless, awaken us. Where we have forgotten Your instructions, remind us.
Help us not only to hear Your Word but to live by it. Restore our spiritual access and guide us into Your purpose. In Jesus' powerful name. Amen.

PROPHETIC DECLARATION / AFFIRMATION:
I receive grace to obey God.
I will not ignore His instructions.
I will not exchange obedience for excuses.
Every area of my life that needs a spiritual reset is receiving divine attention now!
I will walk in God's Word, follow His direction, and remain aligned with His purpose for my life.
My password is not compromise. My password is obedience. In Jesus' mighty name. Amen.

HAPPY SWEET SUNDAY
HAVE A MEMORABLE WEEK.

LIKE IT OR NOT!
JESUS IS COMING BACK AGAIN SOON!!
REPENT AND BE READY FOR HIM!!

This wonderful message is brought to you
With Love from Pastor M O Glorious,
CHRIST APOSTOLIC CHURCH ,
Palace of Mercy, Royal District, Restoration Zone. Damolapa, Laketu, Lucky Fibre, Ikorodu Lagos Nigeria.
For prayer or counseling, pls contact us@
08055646358: 09018952081
or
peganmireAnderson Mwila.com

#DigitalFaithSeries #PasswordResetRequired #Obedience #Faith #GodsWord #ChristianMessage #SpiritualGrowth #Purpose #JesusChrist #GloriousPositiveVibes
Lagos Nigeria
© 2026

Ellen G. White
It is not enough that we believe on Christ for the forgiveness of sin; we must by faith be constantly receiving spiritual strength and nourishment from Him through His word.... “The words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” Jesus accepted His Father’s law, wrought out its principles in His life, manifested its spirit, and showed its beneficent power in the heart.... The followers of Christ must be partakers of His experience. They must receive and assimilate the Word of God so that it shall become the motive power of life and action. By the power of Christ they must be changed into His likeness, and reflect the divine attributes.
It is by receiving the life for us poured out on Calvary’s cross that we can live the life of holiness. And this life we receive by receiving His word, by doing those things which He has commanded. Thus we become one with Him.[ [ML 275.]