• Greetings People of God, here is the continuation of Sunday (8/23/26) Sermon Excerpt, "The Power of Wordless Evangelism: Let Your Life Speak" - 'The Limitations of Wordless Evangelism' and 'Cultivating A Life That Preaches'
    Greetings People of God, here is the continuation of Sunday (8/23/26) Sermon Excerpt, "The Power of Wordless Evangelism: Let Your Life Speak" - 'The Limitations of Wordless Evangelism' and 'Cultivating A Life That Preaches'
    0 Commentarios 1 Acciones 57 Views
  • TODAY'S KINGDOM INSIGHTS:

    SERMON TOPIC:

    THE REAL REASON BARABBAS WAS SET FREE AND NOT JESUS.

    Main Text:

    Matthew 27:15–26; Mark 15:6–15; Luke 23:13–25; John 18:38–40


    There are moments in Scripture that make us stop and ask, “How could this happen?”
    Jesus was innocent.
    Barabbas was guilty.
    Jesus healed the sick.
    Barabbas was a criminal.
    Jesus preached love, forgiveness, and the Kingdom of God.
    Barabbas was associated with rebellion and violence.
    Yet the crowd shouted:
    “Release Barabbas!”
    And concerning Jesus:
    “Crucify Him!”
    It looks like injustice won.
    But here is the deeper truth:
    Barabbas was not simply released because Jesus lost the argument. Barabbas was released because Jesus was going to take his place.
    The story of Barabbas is actually a picture of the Gospel.
    Barabbas represents the guilty sinner.
    Jesus represents the innocent Savior.
    Barabbas walked away free because Jesus walked toward the cross.

    And that is the mystery of grace:
    The guilty goes free because the innocent One takes his place.
    1. BARABBAS WAS GUILTY, BUT JESUS WAS INNOCENT
    Pilate examined Jesus and repeatedly found no sufficient reason to condemn Him.
    Luke 23:22 says:
    «“I have found no reason for death in Him.”»
    Jesus was innocent.
    But Barabbas had committed serious crimes.
    Mark 15:7 tells us that Barabbas had been involved in rebellion and murder.
    So, humanly speaking, the choice should have been obvious.
    But the crowd chose Barabbas.
    Why?
    Because the cross was not an accident.
    Jesus had already declared that He came to give His life for others.
    Mark 10:45 says:
    «“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”»
    Jesus knew why He came.
    He came to become the substitute.

    Spiritual Insight

    Sometimes we ask, “Why did Jesus have to die?”
    The answer is partly found in Barabbas.
    Someone had to bear the consequence of sin.
    And Jesus willingly took that place.
    2. BARABBAS RECEIVED WHAT JESUS DESERVED
    This is the shocking part of the story.
    Barabbas deserved punishment.
    Jesus deserved no punishment.
    Yet Barabbas walked out of prison.
    Jesus walked toward Golgotha.
    Barabbas went free.
    Jesus was condemned.
    Barabbas was released.
    Jesus was crucified.
    This is substitution.
    The guilty person goes free because the innocent person takes his place.
    Isaiah 53:5 declares:
    «“But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities.”»

    Notice the language:
    Our transgressions.
    Our iniquities.
    Our punishment.
    The cross was personal.
    Jesus was not dying because He had sinned.
    He was dying because we had sinned.

    Think About This

    Barabbas probably did not understand everything that was happening.
    He may have walked out of that prison wondering how he escaped death.
    But we know something he may not have understood:
    Another Man died in his place.
    And spiritually, that is our story.
    We were guilty.
    Christ took our place.
    3. THE RELEASE OF BARABBAS REVEALS THE DEPTH OF GOD'S GRACE
    Grace is not God pretending that sin does not matter.
    Grace is God dealing with sin through the sacrifice of Christ.
    Romans 5:8 says:
    «“But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”»
    That means Jesus did not wait for us to become perfect before He loved us.
    He loved us while we were still sinners.
    Barabbas did not earn his freedom.
    He did not negotiate his release.
    He did not pay the governor.
    He simply received an unexpected release.
    That is grace.
    Grace is receiving what you could never earn because someone else paid the price.
    You cannot boast about salvation.
    You cannot say, “I saved myself.”
    No.
    Jesus saved you.
    4. THE CROWD CHOSE BARABBAS, BUT GOD WAS WORKING THROUGH THE CROSS
    The crowd thought they were making the final decision.
    But heaven had already established a redemptive purpose.
    Acts 2:23 says that Jesus was delivered according to the “determined purpose and foreknowledge of God.”
    This does not mean the people were innocent.
    Their choices were still sinful.
    But God was able to accomplish His redemptive plan through what sinful people intended for evil.
    This is one of the mysteries of God's sovereignty.
    People thought:
    “We are getting rid of Jesus.”
    God was accomplishing:
    “I am providing salvation for humanity.”

    The cross looked like defeat.
    But it became victory.
    The grave looked like the end.
    But resurrection was coming.
    Never Judge God's Work Too Early
    There may be seasons in your life when everything looks like it is going in the wrong direction.
    But remember Calvary.
    Friday looked like defeat. Sunday revealed the victory.
    Do not conclude the story while God is still writing it.
    5. BARABBAS IS A PICTURE OF EVERY SINNER WHO RECEIVES SALVATION
    We often read the story and say:
    “Why did they release Barabbas?”
    But there is another question:
    “What if I were Barabbas?”
    What if you were the one sitting in that prison?
    What if you knew punishment was coming?
    What if you knew you were guilty?
    Then suddenly, the story becomes personal.
    Barabbas walked out because Jesus took his place.
    And every person who comes to Christ in genuine faith can say:
    “I deserved judgment, but Christ took my place.”
    2 Corinthians 5:21 says:
    «“For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.”»
    That is the Gospel.
    Jesus took our place so that we could receive His righteousness.

    BIBLICAL CASE STUDY:

    THE CROSS

    Look at the sequence.
    Barabbas: Guilty.
    Jesus: Innocent.
    Barabbas: Imprisoned.
    Jesus: Free.
    Barabbas: Released.
    Jesus: Condemned.
    Barabbas: Walked away.
    Jesus: Walked toward the cross.
    Barabbas: Lived because another died.
    Believers: Receive eternal life because Christ died and rose again.
    The cross is therefore more than a religious symbol.
    It is the place where justice and mercy met.
    Justice says sin must be dealt with.
    Mercy says sinners can be saved.
    At the cross, Jesus bore the judgment so that mercy could reach us.

    PRACTICAL LESSONS FOR CHRISTIANS.

    1. Never take salvation for granted.
    You were not saved because you were better than someone else.
    You were saved by grace.
    Therefore, remain humble.
    2. Stop trying to earn God's love
    You cannot work your way into salvation.
    Serve God because you love Him, not because you are trying to purchase His acceptance.
    3. Forgive others
    If Christ has forgiven you, you must learn to extend forgiveness to others.
    4. Live like someone who has been set free
    Barabbas walked out of prison.
    The believer has also been delivered from the dominion of sin.
    Do not keep living like a prisoner when Christ has made you free.
    5. Tell someone about Jesus
    Your testimony may be simple:
    “I was guilty, but Jesus took my place.”
    That is powerful enough.

    QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION

    1. Have I truly understood what Jesus accomplished for me on the cross?
    2. Am I trying to earn God's acceptance instead of receiving His grace?
    3. Do I live like someone who has been set free?
    4. Have I truly repented of my sins?
    5. Who can I tell about the saving grace of Jesus Christ?
    6. Do I extend to others the same mercy I have received from Christ?

    POWERFUL PRAYER POINTS

    1. Prayer of Thanksgiving
    Father, thank You for sending Jesus Christ to take my place. Thank You for Your mercy and grace. I will never take my salvation for granted. In Jesus' name, Amen.
    2. Prayer of Repentance
    Lord Jesus, forgive me for every sin, disobedience, pride, and rebellion in my life. Cleanse me and help me walk faithfully with You. Amen.
    3. Prayer for Freedom
    Every chain of sin, addiction, fear, and spiritual bondage in my life, break in the name of Jesus. I declare that whom the Son sets free is free indeed. Amen.
    4. Prayer for Grace
    Father, help me to understand the depth of Your grace and to live every day with gratitude for what Christ has done for me. Amen.
    5. Prayer for Others
    Lord, use my life to bring other Barabbases to Jesus—people who feel condemned, rejected, broken, and far from You. Let my testimony point them to the cross. Amen.

    DEEP SPIRITUAL TRUTH

    Here is the heart of the message:
    Barabbas was released, not because he was innocent, but because another took his place.
    And that is the Gospel.
    We are not saved because we are perfect.
    We are saved because Jesus is perfect.
    We are not accepted because we deserve it.
    We are accepted because Christ paid the price.
    We are not standing before God because of our righteousness.
    We stand because of His righteousness.
    The cross says:
    “Your sin is serious, but God's grace is greater.”

    CALL TO ACTION

    Today, do not simply admire the story of Barabbas.
    See yourself in it.
    You were guilty.
    Christ took your place.
    You were condemned.
    Christ bore the condemnation.
    You were far from God.
    Christ opened the way back to the Father.
    The question is not merely:
    “Why was Barabbas released?”
    The deeper question is:
    “What will I do with the Jesus who took my place?”
    Will you continue living for yourself?
    Or will you surrender your life completely to Him?
    Will you keep returning to the prison of sin?
    Or will you walk in the freedom Christ purchased for you?
    Jesus took your place.
    Now give Him your life.
    «“Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.” — John 8:36»
    You are not free because you were innocent.
    You are free because Jesus became your substitute.
    THE CROSS WAS HIS PLACE.
    THE FREEDOM WAS YOURS.
    THE SACRIFICE WAS HIS.
    THE GRACE IS YOURS.
    Come to Jesus. Remain in Jesus. Live for Jesus. And tell the world about Jesus.
    Amen.

    Give your life to Jesus by joining a Bible believing Church near you.
    You can get inspirational ebooks from my selar/amazon shops below

    https:/selar.com/m/umoh-edem1

    https://selar.com/m/umoedem

    https://www.amazon.com/author/umohedembooks

    CONTACT - WhatsApp +2349024173027, +2349055447540

    Email pastor.umoedem@gmail.com

    https://afrikdp.com/author/umohedem-9128

    https://www.facebook.com/share/14futvERWUD/
    TODAY'S KINGDOM INSIGHTS: SERMON TOPIC: THE REAL REASON BARABBAS WAS SET FREE AND NOT JESUS. Main Text: Matthew 27:15–26; Mark 15:6–15; Luke 23:13–25; John 18:38–40 There are moments in Scripture that make us stop and ask, “How could this happen?” Jesus was innocent. Barabbas was guilty. Jesus healed the sick. Barabbas was a criminal. Jesus preached love, forgiveness, and the Kingdom of God. Barabbas was associated with rebellion and violence. Yet the crowd shouted: “Release Barabbas!” And concerning Jesus: “Crucify Him!” It looks like injustice won. But here is the deeper truth: Barabbas was not simply released because Jesus lost the argument. Barabbas was released because Jesus was going to take his place. The story of Barabbas is actually a picture of the Gospel. Barabbas represents the guilty sinner. Jesus represents the innocent Savior. Barabbas walked away free because Jesus walked toward the cross. And that is the mystery of grace: The guilty goes free because the innocent One takes his place. 1. BARABBAS WAS GUILTY, BUT JESUS WAS INNOCENT Pilate examined Jesus and repeatedly found no sufficient reason to condemn Him. Luke 23:22 says: «“I have found no reason for death in Him.”» Jesus was innocent. But Barabbas had committed serious crimes. Mark 15:7 tells us that Barabbas had been involved in rebellion and murder. So, humanly speaking, the choice should have been obvious. But the crowd chose Barabbas. Why? Because the cross was not an accident. Jesus had already declared that He came to give His life for others. Mark 10:45 says: «“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”» Jesus knew why He came. He came to become the substitute. Spiritual Insight Sometimes we ask, “Why did Jesus have to die?” The answer is partly found in Barabbas. Someone had to bear the consequence of sin. And Jesus willingly took that place. 2. BARABBAS RECEIVED WHAT JESUS DESERVED This is the shocking part of the story. Barabbas deserved punishment. Jesus deserved no punishment. Yet Barabbas walked out of prison. Jesus walked toward Golgotha. Barabbas went free. Jesus was condemned. Barabbas was released. Jesus was crucified. This is substitution. The guilty person goes free because the innocent person takes his place. Isaiah 53:5 declares: «“But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities.”» Notice the language: Our transgressions. Our iniquities. Our punishment. The cross was personal. Jesus was not dying because He had sinned. He was dying because we had sinned. Think About This Barabbas probably did not understand everything that was happening. He may have walked out of that prison wondering how he escaped death. But we know something he may not have understood: Another Man died in his place. And spiritually, that is our story. We were guilty. Christ took our place. 3. THE RELEASE OF BARABBAS REVEALS THE DEPTH OF GOD'S GRACE Grace is not God pretending that sin does not matter. Grace is God dealing with sin through the sacrifice of Christ. Romans 5:8 says: «“But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”» That means Jesus did not wait for us to become perfect before He loved us. He loved us while we were still sinners. Barabbas did not earn his freedom. He did not negotiate his release. He did not pay the governor. He simply received an unexpected release. That is grace. Grace is receiving what you could never earn because someone else paid the price. You cannot boast about salvation. You cannot say, “I saved myself.” No. Jesus saved you. 4. THE CROWD CHOSE BARABBAS, BUT GOD WAS WORKING THROUGH THE CROSS The crowd thought they were making the final decision. But heaven had already established a redemptive purpose. Acts 2:23 says that Jesus was delivered according to the “determined purpose and foreknowledge of God.” This does not mean the people were innocent. Their choices were still sinful. But God was able to accomplish His redemptive plan through what sinful people intended for evil. This is one of the mysteries of God's sovereignty. People thought: “We are getting rid of Jesus.” God was accomplishing: “I am providing salvation for humanity.” The cross looked like defeat. But it became victory. The grave looked like the end. But resurrection was coming. Never Judge God's Work Too Early There may be seasons in your life when everything looks like it is going in the wrong direction. But remember Calvary. Friday looked like defeat. Sunday revealed the victory. Do not conclude the story while God is still writing it. 5. BARABBAS IS A PICTURE OF EVERY SINNER WHO RECEIVES SALVATION We often read the story and say: “Why did they release Barabbas?” But there is another question: “What if I were Barabbas?” What if you were the one sitting in that prison? What if you knew punishment was coming? What if you knew you were guilty? Then suddenly, the story becomes personal. Barabbas walked out because Jesus took his place. And every person who comes to Christ in genuine faith can say: “I deserved judgment, but Christ took my place.” 2 Corinthians 5:21 says: «“For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.”» That is the Gospel. Jesus took our place so that we could receive His righteousness. BIBLICAL CASE STUDY: THE CROSS Look at the sequence. Barabbas: Guilty. Jesus: Innocent. Barabbas: Imprisoned. Jesus: Free. Barabbas: Released. Jesus: Condemned. Barabbas: Walked away. Jesus: Walked toward the cross. Barabbas: Lived because another died. Believers: Receive eternal life because Christ died and rose again. The cross is therefore more than a religious symbol. It is the place where justice and mercy met. Justice says sin must be dealt with. Mercy says sinners can be saved. At the cross, Jesus bore the judgment so that mercy could reach us. PRACTICAL LESSONS FOR CHRISTIANS. 1. Never take salvation for granted. You were not saved because you were better than someone else. You were saved by grace. Therefore, remain humble. 2. Stop trying to earn God's love You cannot work your way into salvation. Serve God because you love Him, not because you are trying to purchase His acceptance. 3. Forgive others If Christ has forgiven you, you must learn to extend forgiveness to others. 4. Live like someone who has been set free Barabbas walked out of prison. The believer has also been delivered from the dominion of sin. Do not keep living like a prisoner when Christ has made you free. 5. Tell someone about Jesus Your testimony may be simple: “I was guilty, but Jesus took my place.” That is powerful enough. QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION 1. Have I truly understood what Jesus accomplished for me on the cross? 2. Am I trying to earn God's acceptance instead of receiving His grace? 3. Do I live like someone who has been set free? 4. Have I truly repented of my sins? 5. Who can I tell about the saving grace of Jesus Christ? 6. Do I extend to others the same mercy I have received from Christ? POWERFUL PRAYER POINTS 1. Prayer of Thanksgiving Father, thank You for sending Jesus Christ to take my place. Thank You for Your mercy and grace. I will never take my salvation for granted. In Jesus' name, Amen. 2. Prayer of Repentance Lord Jesus, forgive me for every sin, disobedience, pride, and rebellion in my life. Cleanse me and help me walk faithfully with You. Amen. 3. Prayer for Freedom Every chain of sin, addiction, fear, and spiritual bondage in my life, break in the name of Jesus. I declare that whom the Son sets free is free indeed. Amen. 4. Prayer for Grace Father, help me to understand the depth of Your grace and to live every day with gratitude for what Christ has done for me. Amen. 5. Prayer for Others Lord, use my life to bring other Barabbases to Jesus—people who feel condemned, rejected, broken, and far from You. Let my testimony point them to the cross. Amen. DEEP SPIRITUAL TRUTH Here is the heart of the message: Barabbas was released, not because he was innocent, but because another took his place. And that is the Gospel. We are not saved because we are perfect. We are saved because Jesus is perfect. We are not accepted because we deserve it. We are accepted because Christ paid the price. We are not standing before God because of our righteousness. We stand because of His righteousness. The cross says: “Your sin is serious, but God's grace is greater.” CALL TO ACTION Today, do not simply admire the story of Barabbas. See yourself in it. You were guilty. Christ took your place. You were condemned. Christ bore the condemnation. You were far from God. Christ opened the way back to the Father. The question is not merely: “Why was Barabbas released?” The deeper question is: “What will I do with the Jesus who took my place?” Will you continue living for yourself? Or will you surrender your life completely to Him? Will you keep returning to the prison of sin? Or will you walk in the freedom Christ purchased for you? Jesus took your place. Now give Him your life. «“Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.” — John 8:36» You are not free because you were innocent. You are free because Jesus became your substitute. THE CROSS WAS HIS PLACE. THE FREEDOM WAS YOURS. THE SACRIFICE WAS HIS. THE GRACE IS YOURS. Come to Jesus. Remain in Jesus. Live for Jesus. And tell the world about Jesus. Amen. Give your life to Jesus by joining a Bible believing Church near you. You can get inspirational ebooks from my selar/amazon shops below https:/selar.com/m/umoh-edem1 https://selar.com/m/umoedem https://www.amazon.com/author/umohedembooks CONTACT - WhatsApp +2349024173027, +2349055447540 Email pastor.umoedem@gmail.com https://afrikdp.com/author/umohedem-9128 https://www.facebook.com/share/14futvERWUD/
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  • Today’s Walk in the Word is a brief devotional by Joe Barnett that appears Monday through Friday.



    Aug 25, 2026 11:00 pm

    God Listens to Your Prayers

    God has surely listened
    and has heard my prayer.
    —Psalm 66:19

    It was a Saturday afternoon. I was chatting with a neighbor who was out for a walk with her daughter. She said something to the child, who put her hands over her ears. The lady said, “That’s what she does when she doesn’t want to hear what I’m saying.”

    It was a Sunday morning. I saw a lady approach the teacher as he gathered his class notes. He leaned in toward her, turned his head slightly (favoring his good ear, I’m guessing), and listened intently. She had his full attention.

    When you pray, God doesn’t cover his ears. He leans in and listens. He wants to hear what you have to say. “The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer” (1 Pt 3:12).

    Talk to Him.

    The post God Listens to Your Prayers appeared first on Pathway Evangelism, Inc..



    share on Twitter Like God Listens to Your Prayers on Facebook

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    Copyright © 2026 Pathway, All rights reserved.
    We send this daily devotional to those who have signed up for it on our Web site.
    Our mailing address is:
    15500 Cutten Road #2101, Houston, TX 77070


    Today’s Walk in the Word is a brief devotional by Joe Barnett that appears Monday through Friday. Aug 25, 2026 11:00 pm God Listens to Your Prayers God has surely listened and has heard my prayer. —Psalm 66:19 It was a Saturday afternoon. I was chatting with a neighbor who was out for a walk with her daughter. She said something to the child, who put her hands over her ears. The lady said, “That’s what she does when she doesn’t want to hear what I’m saying.” It was a Sunday morning. I saw a lady approach the teacher as he gathered his class notes. He leaned in toward her, turned his head slightly (favoring his good ear, I’m guessing), and listened intently. She had his full attention. When you pray, God doesn’t cover his ears. He leans in and listens. He wants to hear what you have to say. “The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer” (1 Pt 3:12). Talk to Him. The post God Listens to Your Prayers appeared first on Pathway Evangelism, Inc.. share on Twitter Like God Listens to Your Prayers on Facebook forward to a friend Copyright © 2026 Pathway, All rights reserved. We send this daily devotional to those who have signed up for it on our Web site. Our mailing address is: 15500 Cutten Road #2101, Houston, TX 77070
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  • Greetings Brethren, here is the continuation of Sunday (8/23/26) Sermon Excerpt, "The Power of Wordless Evangelism: Let Your Life Speak" - 'Hindrances To Wordless Evangelism'
    Greetings Brethren, here is the continuation of Sunday (8/23/26) Sermon Excerpt, "The Power of Wordless Evangelism: Let Your Life Speak" - 'Hindrances To Wordless Evangelism'
    Like
    Praying
    3
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  • Going to church does not automatically make you spiritually mature.

    Yes, you heard me.

    You can attend church every Sunday and still be far from God.

    You can sit in the front row, carry your Bible, sing every worship song, shout “Amen!” to every prayer, and still have a heart that has not truly surrendered to God.

    Church attendance is good. But church attendance alone is not spiritual maturity.

    Imagine someone who goes to the gym every single day.

    They wear gym clothes.
    They take pictures in the gym.
    They know the names of all the machines.
    They even tell people, “I am always at the gym.”

    But they never exercise.

    Will their body change? No.

    They were physically present, but they were not participating.

    That is how some people are spiritually.

    They are always in church… But they don’t pray.

    They hear the Word… But they don’t obey it.

    They sing about forgiveness… But they refuse to forgive.

    They preach about love… But they hate people.

    They shout about holiness… But secretly live a completely different life.

    They know Bible verses… But they don’t know the God behind the verses.

    And this is where we need to be brutally honest with ourselves.

    You can be a church member and still be spiritually immature.

    You can know the language of Christianity without carrying the character of Christ.

    You can know when to say “Praise the Lord” while your heart is full of pride, bitterness, lust, jealousy, unforgiveness and selfishness.

    And sometimes, the most dangerous person is not the person who knows nothing about God… It is the person who knows the Word, hears the Word, teaches the Word, but refuses to live the Word.

    Because knowledge without obedience can become self-deception.

    Spiritual maturity is not measured by how many years you have been going to church. It is seen in how you behave when nobody is watching.

    Can you control yourself when temptation comes?

    Can you forgive when you have been deeply hurt?

    Can you walk away from sin even when nobody would ever know?

    Can you say “no” to something you desperately want because you know God is saying no?

    Can you love people who cannot do anything for you?

    Can you admit when you are wrong?

    Can you humble yourself?

    Can you obey God even when obedience is painful?

    That is where spiritual maturity begins.

    Because Christianity is not just about being found in church. It is about allowing Christ to be found in you.

    And maybe this is the question we need to stop asking: “Did I go to church today?”

    And start asking: “Did I become more like Christ today?”

    Because one day, God will not be impressed by the number of Sundays you occupied a church seat.

    He will look at the life you lived after you left that seat.

    So please… Don’t just be a regular churchgoer. Be a growing Christian.

    Don’t just hear the Word. Live it.

    Don’t just carry the Bible. Let the Bible change you.

    Because the greatest evidence that you have been with God is not how loudly you worship in public… It is how differently you live when nobody is watching.

    I am Anthony Chukwuebuka - THE BOO OF THE BOOLESS; Yes, you can spend your whole life sitting in God’s house and still never allow God to build His house inside your heart.

    Think about that.
    Going to church does not automatically make you spiritually mature. Yes, you heard me. You can attend church every Sunday and still be far from God. You can sit in the front row, carry your Bible, sing every worship song, shout “Amen!” to every prayer, and still have a heart that has not truly surrendered to God. Church attendance is good. But church attendance alone is not spiritual maturity. Imagine someone who goes to the gym every single day. They wear gym clothes. They take pictures in the gym. They know the names of all the machines. They even tell people, “I am always at the gym.” But they never exercise. Will their body change? No. They were physically present, but they were not participating. That is how some people are spiritually. They are always in church… But they don’t pray. They hear the Word… But they don’t obey it. They sing about forgiveness… But they refuse to forgive. They preach about love… But they hate people. They shout about holiness… But secretly live a completely different life. They know Bible verses… But they don’t know the God behind the verses. And this is where we need to be brutally honest with ourselves. You can be a church member and still be spiritually immature. You can know the language of Christianity without carrying the character of Christ. You can know when to say “Praise the Lord” while your heart is full of pride, bitterness, lust, jealousy, unforgiveness and selfishness. And sometimes, the most dangerous person is not the person who knows nothing about God… It is the person who knows the Word, hears the Word, teaches the Word, but refuses to live the Word. Because knowledge without obedience can become self-deception. Spiritual maturity is not measured by how many years you have been going to church. It is seen in how you behave when nobody is watching. Can you control yourself when temptation comes? Can you forgive when you have been deeply hurt? Can you walk away from sin even when nobody would ever know? Can you say “no” to something you desperately want because you know God is saying no? Can you love people who cannot do anything for you? Can you admit when you are wrong? Can you humble yourself? Can you obey God even when obedience is painful? That is where spiritual maturity begins. Because Christianity is not just about being found in church. It is about allowing Christ to be found in you. And maybe this is the question we need to stop asking: “Did I go to church today?” And start asking: “Did I become more like Christ today?” Because one day, God will not be impressed by the number of Sundays you occupied a church seat. He will look at the life you lived after you left that seat. So please… Don’t just be a regular churchgoer. Be a growing Christian. Don’t just hear the Word. Live it. Don’t just carry the Bible. Let the Bible change you. Because the greatest evidence that you have been with God is not how loudly you worship in public… It is how differently you live when nobody is watching. I am Anthony Chukwuebuka - THE BOO OF THE BOOLESS; Yes, you can spend your whole life sitting in God’s house and still never allow God to build His house inside your heart. Think about that.
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  • Hello Brethren, here is the continuation of Sunday (8/23/26) Sermon Excerpt, "The Power of Wordless Evangelism: Let Your Life Speak" - 'Other Wordless Evangelists'
    Hello Brethren, here is the continuation of Sunday (8/23/26) Sermon Excerpt, "The Power of Wordless Evangelism: Let Your Life Speak" - 'Other Wordless Evangelists'
    Like
    Love
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  • 𝐓𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐦 𝐀𝐥𝐬𝐨
    “𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘵𝘩 𝘸𝘦 𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘯 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘮𝘦𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘺;
    𝘛𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘎𝘰𝘥’𝘴 𝘞𝘰𝘳𝘥, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘢𝘴𝘴 𝘪𝘵 𝘰𝘯 𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘥𝘢𝘺.”

    We live in a generation flooded with information but starving for truth. Thousands of voices are accessible in seconds, yet trust is hard to find. Even believers may settle for hearing sermons without helping others grow. Whether new or seasoned in faith, the question isn't just if we are learning—but if we are helping others learn to follow Christ.

    Jesus ends the Great Commission in 🕮 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐰 𝟐𝟖:𝟐𝟎: "𝘛𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘵𝘰 𝘰𝘣𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘷𝘦 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘴𝘰𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘐 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶..." It doesn't end when someone believes. Christ called disciples to teach others to obey all He commanded. The work of the Gospel is not merely making converts—it is making disciples. We don't just bring lost people to Christ; we help them grow in Christ.

    Picture a relay race where the runner crosses the finish line still clutching the baton, refusing to pass it on. The race stops with him—no matter how fast he ran. Faith works the same way. Truth received but never taught dies with the one who held it. Christ calls us to pass the baton, generation after generation, until He returns.

    Scripture commands us to pass truth on: “𝘎𝘰 𝘺𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴” (𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐰 𝟐𝟖:𝟏𝟗). Paul told Timothy, “𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶 𝘩𝘢𝘴𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘥...𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘮𝘪𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘢𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘮𝘦𝘯, 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘴” (𝟐 𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐲 𝟐:𝟐). We are urged to “𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘸 𝘪𝘯 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘭𝘦𝘥𝘨𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘓𝘰𝘳𝘥” (𝟐 𝐏𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟑:𝟏𝟖), as Scripture is “𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘧𝘪𝘵𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘥𝘰𝘤𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘦, 𝘳𝘦𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘰𝘧, 𝘤𝘰𝘳𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯, 𝘪𝘯𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯” (𝟐 𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐲 𝟑:𝟏𝟔). God’s Word transforms lives.

    Teaching isn't just for pastors. Parents teach children, mature believers encourage younger ones, Sunday school teachers disciple classes, and one believer opens Scripture with another. Don't be a spiritual reservoir that only receives but never releases. What God teaches us through His Word must become truth we share. We aren't called to collect sermons alone—we are called to multiply disciples.

    Before Christ commanded us to teach others, He first taught us the truth that leads to salvation. He declared, "𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘺, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘵𝘩, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦" (𝐉𝐨𝐡𝐧 𝟏𝟒:𝟔). He died for our sins, was buried, and rose again according to the Scriptures (𝟏 𝐂𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝟏𝟓:𝟑–𝟒). The risen Christ is not merely the subject of our teaching—He is the Saviour at the center of it. We teach His Word because we have first been transformed by His grace.

    Who is spiritually starving while you feast on the Word? You have been hoarding the Bread of life (𝐉𝐨𝐡𝐧 𝟔:𝟑𝟓) instead of breaking it for others. You don't need Christ merely to give you something to teach—you need Him because He is the Truth you are called to know, live, and proclaim. Learn His Word. Live His Word. Teach His Word. What God has faithfully taught us was never meant to end with us.

    𝐏𝐫𝐚𝐲𝐞𝐫: Heavenly Father, thank You for giving us Your truth through Your Word. Forgive us for receiving biblical instruction without faithfully passing it on. Help us grow in wisdom and grace, and give us opportunities to teach others faithfully, patiently, and clearly. May every disciple we influence become more like Christ. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

    Remember, a dose of God’s Word a day will keep you going all day!
    𝐀𝐥𝐰𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐁𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐧 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐆𝐨𝐝...
    _____________________________________________________
    All scripture references were taken from the KJV Bible.
    Thank you for allowing this ministry to be a part of your day…

    If my posts speak to your heart, you may be blessed by the full devotional series created for deeper reflection and journaling:
    FREE FlipBook Previews:
    https://heyzine.com/flip-book/ae17998766.html
    Also available now on Amazon (Kindle & Paperback)
    Read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited!
    https://www.amazon.com/author/dennislastimoso

    Also, just in case you need a reliable, dedicated online Bible Study Tool, I created one for you.
    Try it here for FREE, anytime at your hand: https://www.baptistry.app

    Your support helps us continue this ministry, edifying the believers around the world.
    May God bless you more abundantly…
    𝐓𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐦 𝐀𝐥𝐬𝐨 ✍️ “𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘵𝘩 𝘸𝘦 𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘯 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘮𝘦𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘺; 𝘛𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘎𝘰𝘥’𝘴 𝘞𝘰𝘳𝘥, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘢𝘴𝘴 𝘪𝘵 𝘰𝘯 𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘥𝘢𝘺.” We live in a generation flooded with information but starving for truth. Thousands of voices are accessible in seconds, yet trust is hard to find. Even believers may settle for hearing sermons without helping others grow. Whether new or seasoned in faith, the question isn't just if we are learning—but if we are helping others learn to follow Christ. Jesus ends the Great Commission in 🕮 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐰 𝟐𝟖:𝟐𝟎: "𝘛𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘵𝘰 𝘰𝘣𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘷𝘦 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘴𝘰𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘐 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶..." It doesn't end when someone believes. Christ called disciples to teach others to obey all He commanded. The work of the Gospel is not merely making converts—it is making disciples. We don't just bring lost people to Christ; we help them grow in Christ. Picture a relay race where the runner crosses the finish line still clutching the baton, refusing to pass it on. The race stops with him—no matter how fast he ran. Faith works the same way. Truth received but never taught dies with the one who held it. Christ calls us to pass the baton, generation after generation, until He returns. Scripture commands us to pass truth on: “𝘎𝘰 𝘺𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴” (𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐰 𝟐𝟖:𝟏𝟗). Paul told Timothy, “𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶 𝘩𝘢𝘴𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘥...𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘮𝘪𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘢𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘮𝘦𝘯, 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘴” (𝟐 𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐲 𝟐:𝟐). We are urged to “𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘸 𝘪𝘯 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘭𝘦𝘥𝘨𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘓𝘰𝘳𝘥” (𝟐 𝐏𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟑:𝟏𝟖), as Scripture is “𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘧𝘪𝘵𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘥𝘰𝘤𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘦, 𝘳𝘦𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘰𝘧, 𝘤𝘰𝘳𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯, 𝘪𝘯𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯” (𝟐 𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐲 𝟑:𝟏𝟔). God’s Word transforms lives. Teaching isn't just for pastors. Parents teach children, mature believers encourage younger ones, Sunday school teachers disciple classes, and one believer opens Scripture with another. Don't be a spiritual reservoir that only receives but never releases. What God teaches us through His Word must become truth we share. We aren't called to collect sermons alone—we are called to multiply disciples. Before Christ commanded us to teach others, He first taught us the truth that leads to salvation. He declared, "𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘺, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘵𝘩, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦" (𝐉𝐨𝐡𝐧 𝟏𝟒:𝟔). He died for our sins, was buried, and rose again according to the Scriptures (𝟏 𝐂𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝟏𝟓:𝟑–𝟒). The risen Christ is not merely the subject of our teaching—He is the Saviour at the center of it. We teach His Word because we have first been transformed by His grace. Who is spiritually starving while you feast on the Word? You have been hoarding the Bread of life (𝐉𝐨𝐡𝐧 𝟔:𝟑𝟓) instead of breaking it for others. You don't need Christ merely to give you something to teach—you need Him because He is the Truth you are called to know, live, and proclaim. Learn His Word. Live His Word. Teach His Word. What God has faithfully taught us was never meant to end with us. 𝐏𝐫𝐚𝐲𝐞𝐫: Heavenly Father, thank You for giving us Your truth through Your Word. Forgive us for receiving biblical instruction without faithfully passing it on. Help us grow in wisdom and grace, and give us opportunities to teach others faithfully, patiently, and clearly. May every disciple we influence become more like Christ. In Jesus' Name. Amen. Remember, a dose of God’s Word a day will keep you going all day! 𝐀𝐥𝐰𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐁𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐧 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐆𝐨𝐝... _____________________________________________________ All scripture references were taken from the KJV Bible. Thank you for allowing this ministry to be a part of your day… If my posts speak to your heart, you may be blessed by the full devotional series created for deeper reflection and journaling: 👉 FREE FlipBook Previews: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/ae17998766.html 📚 Also available now on Amazon (Kindle & Paperback) ✨ Read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited! https://www.amazon.com/author/dennislastimoso Also, just in case you need a reliable, dedicated online Bible Study Tool, I created one for you. 👉 Try it here for FREE, anytime at your hand: https://www.baptistry.app Your support helps us continue this ministry, edifying the believers around the world. May God bless you more abundantly…
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  • Sunday 24 August 2026
    Portland Metro Church Assembly of God
    Church Services Notes: God gave them over to their desires
    By Pastor Jon H.
    (Bible verses King James version)

    Romans 1:24-32- Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; 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, Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: 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.

    Romans 1:24 Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves:

    1. The problem of the free will.

    2. God abandoned them…

    3. Three stages of God's abandonment to spiritual
    and moral impurity.

    4. When people trade truth for a lie.
    Romans 1:25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.

    5. God's plan for sexual relationships.
    Romans 1:26,27 For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature:27 And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet.

    6. The homosexual sins and desires
    Romans 1:28-32- And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;29 Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers,30 Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,31 Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful:32 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.
    Leviticus 18:22 Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it is abomination.

    7. How do we know that sin deserves punishment?
    Romans 1:32 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.
    Sunday 24 August 2026 Portland Metro Church Assembly of God Church Services Notes: God gave them over to their desires By Pastor Jon H. (Bible verses King James version) Romans 1:24-32- Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; 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, Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: 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. Romans 1:24 Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: 1. The problem of the free will. 2. God abandoned them… 3. Three stages of God's abandonment to spiritual and moral impurity. 4. When people trade truth for a lie. Romans 1:25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. 5. God's plan for sexual relationships. Romans 1:26,27 For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature:27 And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. 6. The homosexual sins and desires Romans 1:28-32- And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;29 Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers,30 Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,31 Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful:32 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. Leviticus 18:22 Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it is abomination. 7. How do we know that sin deserves punishment? Romans 1:32 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.
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  • One failing of the American church today - there are surely others as well, but I'm going to focus on this one - is the lack of connection. The book of Acts tells us that the church met daily. House to house. Breaking bread. Of course with fellowship, and that would mean mutual support.

    Now that does not mean we have to meet together every day. Nor does it mean that we must go from house to house. Our modern culture and society is different. And that's ok. We don't have to copy, to the detail, the methods of that time.

    But the spirit of the idea should remain the same. But when the normal for us is to show up three minuets before the beginning of the Sunday morning service, and be in our cars driving away three minutes after the final benediction, we're never going to have connection with our fellow believers. You can't offer a quick handshake and a "how are you doing?" and a "good to see you," as we pass on down the aisle toward our own seat, and call that "being friendly."

    You could do that every Sunday morning for years and never actually know the other person. Some of us remember when after Sunday morning church, we'd either invite someone to come have dinner at our house, or have someone invite us to theirs. It is over a meal that you get to know the person. What is that person, or that family going through right now? What might be the struggles they're dealing with?

    But we seem to live in a time when nobody wants to know anything about our neighbor. That person, or that family who sits in the pew in front of us, or behind us. And we don't want anyone else to know about us either. Certainly not know our business. But that's not the accurate definition of a "body of Believers."

    So what are we going to do to change that? Or would we rather keep it as it is. It's more tidy that way, we believe, and that's the way we seem to like it. But that is not the way of the church.
    One failing of the American church today - there are surely others as well, but I'm going to focus on this one - is the lack of connection. The book of Acts tells us that the church met daily. House to house. Breaking bread. Of course with fellowship, and that would mean mutual support. Now that does not mean we have to meet together every day. Nor does it mean that we must go from house to house. Our modern culture and society is different. And that's ok. We don't have to copy, to the detail, the methods of that time. But the spirit of the idea should remain the same. But when the normal for us is to show up three minuets before the beginning of the Sunday morning service, and be in our cars driving away three minutes after the final benediction, we're never going to have connection with our fellow believers. You can't offer a quick handshake and a "how are you doing?" and a "good to see you," as we pass on down the aisle toward our own seat, and call that "being friendly." You could do that every Sunday morning for years and never actually know the other person. Some of us remember when after Sunday morning church, we'd either invite someone to come have dinner at our house, or have someone invite us to theirs. It is over a meal that you get to know the person. What is that person, or that family going through right now? What might be the struggles they're dealing with? But we seem to live in a time when nobody wants to know anything about our neighbor. That person, or that family who sits in the pew in front of us, or behind us. And we don't want anyone else to know about us either. Certainly not know our business. But that's not the accurate definition of a "body of Believers." So what are we going to do to change that? Or would we rather keep it as it is. It's more tidy that way, we believe, and that's the way we seem to like it. But that is not the way of the church.
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  • A Life That Reveals God Has a Greater Impact Than Lips That Merely Speak About Him!

    The Christian life is not merely about speaking about God; it is also about revealing through our lives that God lives within us.

    It is not only important how beautifully we speak about the name of God. What truly matters is whether people can see God through our conduct, words, decisions, relationships, forgiveness, integrity, and love.

    Jesus said:

    > “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”
    (Matthew 5:16)



    Notice this the purpose of our good works is not for people to glorify us, but for them to glorify our Heavenly Father.

    Our lives must become a living testimony.

    If we speak about love, that love must be revealed in the way we forgive even those who hurt us.
    If we speak about faith, it must be revealed by trusting God even when circumstances are against us.
    If we speak about holiness, it must be revealed by living a holy life even when no one is watching.
    If we speak about God's grace, it must be revealed by showing grace even to those who have wronged us.

    Our lives should never contradict the message our lips proclaim.

    Joseph did not spend his time in Egypt merely preaching about God. Yet through his integrity, purity, wisdom, and fear of God, those around him recognized that the hand of God was upon his life.

    Daniel was the same. He did not simply say that he trusted God; even under pressure, he refused to compromise his prayer life. His life became the evidence of his faith.

    The world often sees our lives before it listens to our preaching.

    Therefore, every day we must ask ourselves:

    When someone looks at my life, do they see me or do they see Christ living within me?

    Glorifying God is not something we do only during Sunday worship. It must happen at home, at work, in our relationships, in solitude, in trials, and in times of success everywhere and at all times.

    More powerful than what you say is the way you live; your life is the strongest testimony of your faith.

    Let us proclaim God with our words and glorify Him through our lives.

    Hepsi Sam
    A Life That Reveals God Has a Greater Impact Than Lips That Merely Speak About Him! The Christian life is not merely about speaking about God; it is also about revealing through our lives that God lives within us. It is not only important how beautifully we speak about the name of God. What truly matters is whether people can see God through our conduct, words, decisions, relationships, forgiveness, integrity, and love. Jesus said: > “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16) Notice this the purpose of our good works is not for people to glorify us, but for them to glorify our Heavenly Father. Our lives must become a living testimony. If we speak about love, that love must be revealed in the way we forgive even those who hurt us. If we speak about faith, it must be revealed by trusting God even when circumstances are against us. If we speak about holiness, it must be revealed by living a holy life even when no one is watching. If we speak about God's grace, it must be revealed by showing grace even to those who have wronged us. Our lives should never contradict the message our lips proclaim. Joseph did not spend his time in Egypt merely preaching about God. Yet through his integrity, purity, wisdom, and fear of God, those around him recognized that the hand of God was upon his life. Daniel was the same. He did not simply say that he trusted God; even under pressure, he refused to compromise his prayer life. His life became the evidence of his faith. The world often sees our lives before it listens to our preaching. Therefore, every day we must ask ourselves: When someone looks at my life, do they see me or do they see Christ living within me? Glorifying God is not something we do only during Sunday worship. It must happen at home, at work, in our relationships, in solitude, in trials, and in times of success everywhere and at all times. More powerful than what you say is the way you live; your life is the strongest testimony of your faith. Let us proclaim God with our words and glorify Him through our lives. Hepsi Sam ✍️
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