₦airaland Forum

Gentlemen, we've derailed enough, can we get to the book?

BabaGnoni, I have seen the thread you made that comment, wonders why WinsomeX said it was Bidam's invention. No need pasting the link, I want to avoid further derailing.

Thanks. Would put up chapter 5 tomorrow!

Candour:
It's quite baffling the way you get easily carried away with your own hype. Nora, DrummaBoy, PastorKun and even Christemmbassey have at one time or the other put their details in various posts on NL. You don't ned to be techy or whatever to know it. You only need to be observant. I know when you got your Job with your bank, the day you did your medical etc. I know the name of your bank and if it was important, i could decipher who you are from our interactions on here and my association with your church in Jos and i could get the branch you work with too. Ditto for some of your friends on here. The difference is of what use will your personal details be to me? and what will i gain from spreading them?

I Don't work with Diamond Bank anymore, I moved on to something more profitable! Bankers dey try sha, that na suffer suffer job, not that I'm saying it's bad.. I am not in Jos, I work away from there... my parents are there though, would go see them by December, meehn, Jtown!

If only you knew how I got some details, if only you knew! For example, unlike you, I never went through Goshen's posts, I simply stumbled on it on google while searching for grass cutters!

For instance i got Christemmbassey's phone no from a post he made on NL and we've been chatting since then. I know Nora's daughter is a health volunteer somewhere in Africa because she mentioned it and her job too. We all know DrummaBoy's history because he tried to be very open when he was seeking the truth to some questions bugging him and people thought he was a fake. We all know Kun's own because he never hid them here. I'm sure you have some about me too because i reveal somethings about myself here too.

Pls anybody can get any info you need about anybody. Keep digging if you so wish but it's very cheap to be painting a picture of an Edward Snowden.

Your opinion is noted!

They went on an ugly digging spree in politics section sometime ago and it wasn't pretty. pls don't start that race here. We might get angry at each other here but we are not mad. We don't have to pose a security threat to someone else because they diasagree with us and were open enough to leave some personal details here. You might be descending into a stalker. like BabaGnoni said, rein in before it becomes something else.

Can we get back to the book?

[quote author=mbaemeka post=27467937]

Gombs, I strongly believe Lobeez is SirJohn. Use that insanely intelligent techy mind of yours to prove my hypothesis right

Ummm, I doubt, SirJohn seems way smarter than Lobeez, I can tell alot from one's writings, but now you've mentioned it, I'd set to work.

As for the Public rebuke crew. Maybe you should start by telling us how Eve had sex with a serpent. And if you believe she didn't, why not publicly rebuke the oaf that mouthed off such gross inanity?

It's hilarious how whoever came up with that idea, came about it. I'm interested in that now, any links?

[quote author=WinsomeX post=27467279]

Don't mind him and his demonic practices. So what's the difference btw you and the white garment people who names angels?

Do you also have reading issues? Where did I name angels o! What's wrong with you all lately?

That scriptures he quoted clearly stated that angels are "sent to care" or "sent to serve" God's people. The question Gombs should answer is who is doing the sending?

I send my angels on errands...spiritual errands, don't get seizures now!

God or the saint?

Both. God is the boss that sends us all, my angels are ministering to me. Simple
[KJV] Hebrews 1:14 Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?
Now, I hate to use greek on you, since english is a challenge already, but, for sakes of others, the word ministering is from the greek leitourgikos (Phonetic: li-toorg-ik-os'l) relating to the performance of service, employed in ministering

Minister on the other hand is from the greek Transliteration: diakonia (Phonetic: dee-ak-on-ee'-ah) meaning service, ministering, especially of those who execute the commands of others

If you still want to be contentious, fine!

I hope we won't have to resort to another "rebuke before elders" sort of debate to understand that it is God that sends angels to care for saints by his sovereign will and not us calling angels as if we are practising metaphysics or occultism.

You are gradually getting worse than your former moniker

trustman:
What is/are the name(s) of the angel(s) assigned to you?

A perfect blueprint for half witted questions. What's the name of the Holy Spirit with you?

How do you give them orders?

Hagin gave you an example. Go read! Let me give you a hint "...Ministering spirits, go make it happen... "

[size=20pt] 17. Paul advocated contentment and denounced covetousness. [/size]

Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
—Philippians 4:11-13

Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
—Hebrews 13:5

This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work. A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous. . . . Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre.
—1 Timothy 3:1-3,8

For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre.
—Titus 1:7


The lie of covetousness is: "If only I had more money," or "If only I had such and such, I would be happy." But contentment says, "Because of Jesus Christ, I am happy no matter what the circumstances."

[size=20pt] 18. Paul stressed the individual's responsibility to provide for his family.[/size]

But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.
—1 Timothy 5:8


[size=20pt] 19. Believers are not to love or trust in money. [/size]

Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself. But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.

But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. 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. . . .

Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.
—1 Timothy 6:5-10,17-19


[size=20pt] 20. Believers in the Early Church considered their material possessions of much less value than their faith. [/size]

But call to remembrance the former days, in which, after ye were illuminated, ye endured a great fight of afflictions; Partly, whilst ye were made a gazingstock both by reproaches and afflictions; and partly, whilst ye became companions of them that were so used. For ye had compassion of me in my bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling of your goods, knowing in yourselves that ye have in heaven a better and an enduring substance.
—Hebrews 10:32-34



The Williams translation of verse 34 says, ". . . and cheerfully submitted to the violent seizure of your property, for you knew that you had in yourselves and in heaven one that was lasting."

[size=20pt] 21. Believers were strongly warned against favoritism and partiality based on wealth. [/size]

My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons. For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment; And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool:

Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts? Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him? But ye have despised the poor. Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats? Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called?
—James 2:1-7



[size=20pt] 22. Exploitation of the poor by the rich is condemned. [/size]

Go to now, ye rich men, weep and howl for your miseries that shall come upon you. Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are motheaten. Your gold and silver is cankered; and the rust of them shall he a witness against you, and shall eat your flesh as it were fire. Ye have heaped treasure together for the last days.

Behold, the hire of the labourers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth. Ye have lived in pleasure on the earth, and been wanton; ye have nourished your hearts, as in a day of slaughter. Ye have condemned and killed the just; and he
doth not resist you.
—James 5:1-6



[size=20pt] 23. "Making merchandise" of the saints by ministers is condemned. [/size]

And many shall follow their pernicious [highly injurious or destructive] ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. And through covetousness shall they with feigned [not genuine] words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.
—2 Peter 2:2,3


The Phillips translation of verse 2 says, "Many will follow their pernicious teaching and thereby bring discredit on the way of truth."
Notice some other translations of verse 3:

"Motivated by greed, they will exploit you with their counterfeit arguments" (Modem Language).
"In their covetousness they will try to make you a source of profit by their fabrications" (The Twentieth Century New Testament).
"In their greed they will exploit you with messages manufactured by themselves" (Williams).
"These teachers in their greed will tell you anything to get hold of your money" (TLB).
Second Peter chapter 2 records another passage regarding this issue.

But these, as natural brute beasts, made to be taken and destroyed, speak evil of the things that they understand not; and shall utterly perish in their own corruption; And shall receive the reward of unrighteousness, as they that count it pleasure to riot in the day time. Spots they are and blemishes, sporting themselves with their own deceivings while they feast with you;

Having eyes full of adultery, and that cannot cease from sin; beguiling unstable souls: an heart they have exercised with covetous practices; cursed children: Which have forsaken the right way, and are gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son of Bosor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness; But was rebuked for his iniquity: the dumb ass speaking with man's voice forbad the madness of the prophet.
—2 Peter 2:1246



[size=20pt] 24. God wants His children to prosper. [/size]

Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.
—3 John 2

Weymouth's translation of this verse says, "Dearly loved one, I pray that you may in all respects prosper and keep well."
The Twentieth Century New Testament says, "Dear friend, I pray that all may be well with you and that you may have good health."
As I mentioned in Chapter 1 of this book, some people have argued that the phrase "that thou mayest prosper" does not refer to financial prosperity.

According to both Wuest's Word Studies in the New Testament and Robertson's Word Pictures in the New Testament, the Greek word translated "prospereth" is "euodoo," which means a good road or a good journey. So at the very least, the phrase meant to have a good and prosperous journey.

No one can have a good and prosperous journey if he is broke, lacking, in poverty, and in want every step of the way. Wouldn't the wish for someone to have a prosperous journey include his having enough resources to travel safely and comfortably?

Besides, the word translated "prosper" here is the same Greek word Paul used in First Corinthians 16:2 where he instructed the believers to set aside some money each week "as God hath prospered him." So the word prosper can certainly and without doubt be used—and is used—in reference to financial prosperity.

I believe this verse clearly means that God wants His children to prosper materially, physically, and spiritually.
I pray these Bible principles selected from the Epistles will be helpful and encouraging to you. I urge you to study them carefully and refer to them often. Remember, the Epistles were written to you!

[size=20pt] 3. Believers are called upon to be diligent in business. [/size]

Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord.
—Romans 12:11

Montgomery's translation of this verse reads, "In your diligence be free from sloth. . . ."
While the Apostle Paul touches on this important topic, the Book of Proverbs is full of admonitions that apply to every believer. Believers cannot expect to prosper if they are not diligent and responsible in discharging their duties in life.

[size=20pt] 4. Believers are called upon to be responsible toward their financial obligations. [/size]

For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very dung. Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour. OWE NO MAN ANY THING, BUT TO LOVE ONE ANOTHER: FOR HE THAT LOVETH ANOTHER HATH FULFILLED THE LAW.
—Romans 13:6-8

Weymouth's translation of verse 8 says, "Leave no debt unpaid except the standing debt of mutual love."

[size=20pt] 5. Believers have a duty to minister financially to those who have spiritually blessed them. [/size]

But now I go unto Jerusalem to minister unto the saints. For it hath pleased them of Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor saints which are at Jerusalem. It hath pleased them verily; and their debtors they are. For if the Gentiles have been made partakers of their spiritual things, their duty is also to minister unto them in carnal things.
—Romans 15:25-27

Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.
—Galatians 6:6

The Phillips translation of Galatians 6:6 says, "The man under Christian instruction should be willing to contribute toward the livelihood of his teacher."

[size=20pt] 6. Ministers have a right to be supported financially by their work in the ministry. [/size]

Have we not power [the right] to eat and to drink? Have we not power [the right] to lead about a sister, a wife, as well as other apostles, and as the brethren of the Lord, and Cephas? Or I only and Barnabas, have not we power
[the right] to forbear working? Who goeth a warfare any time at his own charges? who planteth a vineyard, and eateth not of the fruit thereof? or who feedeth a flock, and eateth not of the milk of the flock? Say I these things as a man? or saith not the law the same also? For it is written in the law of Moses, Thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn. Doth God take care for oxen? Or saith he it altogether for our sokes? For our sokes, no doubt, this is written: that he that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that thresheth in hope should be partaker of his hope. If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things? [The Williams version of this verse says,
"If we have sown the spiritual seed for you, is it too great for us to reap a material support from you?"] If others be partakers of this power [right] over you, are not we rather? Nevertheless we have not used this power [right]; but suffer all things, lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ. Do ye not know that they which minister about holy things live of the dungs of the temple? and they which wait at the altar are partakers with the altar? Even so hath the Lord ordained mat they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel. But I have used none of these things: neither have I written these things, that it should be done unto me: for it were better for me to die, than that any man should make my glorying void.
—1 Corinthians 9:4-15

Notice that Paul stresses that ministers have the right to be supported financially . Even though in one particular circumstance Paul chose to forfeit this right rather than be accused of abusing that right, he makes a point that he and other ministers deserve to be supported.

Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine. For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward.
—1 Timothy 5:17,18

The Williams version of verse 17 says, "Elders who do their duties well should be considered as deserving twice the salary they get, especially those who keep on toiling in preaching and teaching."


[size=20pt] 7. Love must motivate the believer's giving. [/size]

And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.
—1 Corinthians 13:3

The Modern Language translation says, "And though I give all my belongings to feed the hungry and surrender my body to be burned, but I have no love, I am not in the least benefited."

[size=20pt] 8. Christians should practice consistent and systematic giving. [/size]

Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye. Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God has prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come.
—1 Corinthians 16:1,2

Verse 2, according to the Norlie translation, stresses that each person's giving should be ". . . according to his financial ability."
The Living Bible says "The amount depends on how much the Lord has helped you earn."

[size=20pt] 9. Giving is a "grace" that can be exercised in the midst of challenging circumstances. Giving is reflective of a life given to God and is rooted in the Person and example of the Lord Jesus Christ. [/size] *** this is why we sow seeds when we are confronted with difficult situations. ***

Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia; How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liber' ality. For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves; Praying us with much entreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints.

And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God. Insomuch that we desired Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also finish in you the same grace also. Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also. I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love. For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.

—2 Corinthians 8:1-9

Verse 2 in The New English Bible reads, "The troubles they have been through have tried them hard, yet in all this they have been so exuberantly happy that from the depths of their poverty they have shown themselves lavishly open-handed."


[size=20pt][b] 10. God wants all of us to do our part and to "carry our weight" in giving. [b][/size] *** that's why i said it is not always fun giving, but we have to

But try an equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want: that mere may be equality: As it is written, He that had gathered much had nothing over; and he that had gathered little had no lack.
—2 Corinthians 8:14,15

In this passage, Paul is specifically addressing the issue of prosperous Christians helping struggling Christians, but the concept of equality has other applications also. God wants everyone in the Church to do his or her part. Unfortunately, in many churches, a faithful few carry the financial load while others (who are able to give) are freeloaders. Because of different income levels, people might give different amounts, but God wants members of the church to have equal commitment. *** for those who think only the rich should give, everyone has something to give. ***

[size=20pt] 11. Ministers should be ethical and above reproach in their handling of church finances. [b][/size]

Avoiding this, that no man should blame us in this abundance which is administered by us: Providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.
—2 Corinthians 8:20,21

In The New English Bible, verse 20 says, "We want to guard against any criticism of our handling of this generous gift." And in the New International Version, verse 21 reads, "For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of men."

[size=20pt][b] 12. Paul clearly teaches the law of sowing and reaping. [/size] *** for those against seed sowing, who thinks pastors are being enriched***

But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly [sorrowfully], or of necessity [under compulsion]: for God loveth a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work.
—2 Corinthians 9:6-8

In The Twentieth Century New Testament, verse 8 says, "God has power to shower all kinds of blessings upon you, so that, having, under all circumstances and on all occasions, all that you can need, you may be able to shower all kinds of benefits upon others."
There are other scriptures that teach this law of sowing and reaping.

Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; hut he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.
—Galatians 6:7-9
Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction. Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning GIVING AND RECEIVING, but ye only. For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity. Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account. But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God. But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
—Philippians 4:14-19



[size=20pt] 13. Paul sought people's hearts, not their money. [/size]

Behold, the third time I am ready to come to you; and I will not be burdensome to you: FOR I SEEK NOT YOURS, BUT YOU: for the children ought not to lay up for the parents, hut the parents for the children. And I will very gladly spend and he spent for you; though the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved. But be it so, I did not burden you: nevertheless, being crafty, I caught you with guile. Did I make a gain of you by any of them whom I sent unto you? I desired Titus, and with him I sent a brother. Did Titus make a gain of you? walked we not in the same spirit? walked we not in the same steps?
—2 Corinthians 12:14-18


[size=20pt] 14. Paul was eager to give to the poor. [/size]

And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision. Only they would that we should remember the poor; the same which I also was forward [eager] to do.
—Galatians 2:9,10


[size=20pt] 15. Paul and John encouraged Christian charity among the brethren. [/size]

As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.
—Galatians 6:10

But whoso ham this world's good, and seem his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.
—1 John 3:17,18


[size=20pt] 16. Paul exemplified and taught a strong work ethic. [/size]

Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.
—Ephesians 4:28

Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ; Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; With good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men: Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free.
—Ephesians 6:5-8

Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God: And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.
—Colossians 3:22-24

For ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail: for labouring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God.
—1 Thessalonians 2:9

. . . study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your hands, as we commanded you; That ye may walk honestly toward them that are without, and that ye may have lack of nothing.

—1 Thessalonians 4:11,12

Neither did we eat any man's bread for nought; but wrought with labour and travail night and day, that we might not be chargeable to any of you: Not because we have not power [the right], but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us. For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that IF ANY WOULD NOT WORK, NEITHER SHOULD HE EAT. For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busy-bodies . Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.
—2 Thessalonians 3:8-12

[size=20pt]CHAPTER 8: TWENTY-FOUR PRINCIPLES FROM THE EPISTLES REGARDING MONEY, GIVING, AND RECEIVING[/size]


I am a great advocate of the New Testament, especially the Epistles. Throughout my years in the ministry, I've tried to keep every Bible I've ever used. One was destroyed by mildew in storage, but I have all the others. If you examined all those Bibles, you would notice that the pages in the back where the Epistles are found are worn much more than the rest.

Don't misunderstand me. I read and teach the entire Bible— from cover to cover. But many years ago I discovered that the Epistles (or letters from the Apostles) spoke to me in a direct and pointed way. They were written to Christians—and that includes me! [/b]So I decided to live in and by the Epistles.

The Old Testament was all the Bible there was for centuries. It was the Bible Jesus quoted from in His ministry. [b] The Old Testament is valuable to me because it teaches me about God, the early history of the world, and how God dealt with His chosen people, the Jews. It contains the Law and the Prophets, the Psalms and Proverbs. I appreciate the Old Testament and benefit from it, but it was not written to me.

The four Gospels are tremendous, recording the ministry and teachings of Jesus. By reading the Gospel accounts, I know about the birth of our Lord, His travels, His miracles, His teachings, His prayers, His death and resurrection. The Gospels present the plan of salvation and Christ's Great Commission to evangelize the world. I love the Gospels, but they were written for me, not to me.

The Acts of the Apostles is a detailed history of the Early Church. It talks about the first believers receiving the baptism in the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost and how churches were established throughout the known world. But again, Acts was written for me, not to me.
But when I read the Epistles, I find that they are letters written to the Church—to people who are born-again believers, trying to live their daily lives according to the teachings of the Lord. These letters provide specific teachings I need to understand—guidance, direction, and correction I can use in my own situations.

Many times as I read them I get the feeling that the author,moved upon by the inspiration of the Holy Ghost, looked down through the centuries and saw me struggling to find my way and said, "Go this direction! Follow this example."

Just to be sure we understand that the Epistles are addressed to us, several of the Apostles emphasized that they were writing to a wider audience than the original addressees. For example, in First Corinthians 1:2, Paul addressed a letter saying, "Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to he saints, WITH ALL THAT IN EVERY PLACE CALL UPON THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST OUR LORD. . . ." That "all in every place" includes you and me.

In his letter "to the saints at Ephesus," Paul also included, "... and to the faithful in Christ Jesus" (Eph. 1:1) . Thank God, I'm trying to be faithful, aren't you? So this letter is written to me.
The Apostle James addressed his letter, ". . . to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad . . . " (James 1:1).
And Peter addressed one of his letters ". . . to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ" (2 Peter 1:1).

So to me, the Epistles are a little bit extra special. I feel as though their teaching has great relevance to us today who are members of the Body of Christ. I've always found the teaching of the Epistles to be right to the point, clear, and unmistakable.
In this chapter, I have included twenty-four principles from the Epistles that relate to out general topic of money, giving, and prosperity. What the Apostles have to say is so plain that it requires very little commentary, so most of the text that follows
is Scripture. And sometimes I compare two or more versions or translations of the same passage.

[size=20pt] 1. Believers are not able to give anything to God that did not originate with God.[/size]

O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counsellor? Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again?
—Romans 11:33-35

Montgomery's translation of verse 35 says, "Who has first given to Him, So as to receive payment in return?"
This makes it clear that we are not to demand that God give us what we want. God in His graciousness has already provided everything for us.
The Old Testament tells how David wanted to see a house, or temple, built for God and how he collected a generous offering from his personal wealth and from the prosperity of the people of Israel. They amassed an enormous amount of gold, silver, precious stones, and other materials needed for the task. Then David prayed this eloquent prayer:

Thine, O Lord, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: FOR ALL THAT IS IN THE HEAVEN AND IN THE EARTH IS THINE; thine is the kingdom, O Lord, and thou art exalted as head above all. Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou reignest over all; and in thine hand is power and might; and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all. Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious name. But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able to offer so willingly after this sort? FOR ALL THINGS COME OF THEE, AND OF THINE OWN HAVE WE GIVEN THEE. . . . O LORD OUR GOD, ALL THIS STORE THAT WE HAVE PREPARED TO BUILD THEE AN HOUSE FOR THINE HOLY NAME COMETH OF THINE OWN HAND, AND IS ALL THINE OWN.

—1 Chronicles 29:11-14,16

Remember, too, that in First Corinthians 10:26 and 28, Paul declares that the "earth is the Lord's and the fulness thereof."
Both the Old and New Testaments recognize God as the Creator and Possessor of all things. Having given God something does not entitle one to arrogantly demand that God do something in return. Rather, giving is to be done worshipfully, recognizing that whatever we give to God was originally created by Him and then given to us. Therefore, the proper attitude for giving is one of worship and gratitude.

[size=20pt] 2. Some believers operate in a special grace of giving. [/size] *** Gbam (We aint just showing off)


Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: HE THAT GIVETH, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that showeth mercy, with cheerfulness.
—Romans 12:6-8

These are not ministerial offices like those listed in Ephesians chapter 4. Rather, they are simply special inclinations found in certain believers based on "extra grace" in a given area. For example, all believers are called upon by God to be merciful, but some have an extra grace in this area.
Some believers are given special grace and abound especially in the area of giving. But this does not excuse other believers from their basic responsibility of giving.

^^
Now, at least, I laughed heartily. You have a fantastic sense of humour. Yeah, I'm on the midas book now. In the pipeline!

BabaGnoni:
Some great length you went to simply what to show or prove a point. What an effort.
No one is fooled, yall usual way of doing things, especially, when on the receiving end, is to launch covert attacks
- the Goshen360 one and Bidam's remark, done out of desperation, are examples

Thanks. Happy Sunday and let's move on.

Aii, let's move on! But may God’s curse be on me if I had any malicious intentions for drawing Goshen' attention to that thread. Covert attacks! Hillarious

vooks:
You are a A CERTIFIED full-blown board idio.t for comparing a PM to a private rebuke.
The purpose of warning him is to prevent the existing public information (error) from leaking and be used against him. You did exactly opposite by reminding all of his publicly available confidential details,something you could have avoided by a simple PM

Am all for the most stress free rebuke while your camp has created all imaginable barriers to correcting your goDs including NEVER correcting them, limiting rebuking them to 'leaders' and so forth. I will remind you that Oyaks is divorcing NOW but many in his circles saw it coming and couldn't do nothing because of is very doctrine

He doesn't know what P in PM means! Dear Lord!

vooks:
My bad and apologies to image123. A PM could have done the job don't you think so?

A PM? How pathetic! So now, public rebuke was not palatable? Now, if Paul rebuked Peter thus as you guys thought he did, Peter would have moaned as you are already. Meeeehn, I was waiting for this example.

Next time, I would send a PM

You was trying to draw attention to Goshen's private details by pretending to care.

Quit being cynical. If I didn't care, I'd have not brought it up, if I had malicious intentions, I'd have done alot with those details, but I didn't, was it a crime to let him know of his details on a public forum? Even as I put the link here in a hidden format, even recommended a solution? It was only known to those who'd click? Na wa o

I read from trustman that you went for DrummaBoy with everything you got. In fact I see some negroes mocking Winsomex calling him aka DrummaBoy

Me? Heheheheheh, Drummaboy had a blog na, every body could easily know. I don't poach for memebers details and put it here, else, I know alot of you all full names and occupation, from nora to christembassey to Goshen to Pastorkun to shedemidemi etc. Don’t make me put you on my radar.

The only thing you can mentor me on is being thick and blind whenever I approach painful truth.

Eyaa...

PS: What is Hagin's stand on firstfruits?

BabaGnoni:
^^^
a private message (i.e. PM) would have served the purpose

@vooks, don't know why, sometimes they use underhand tactics, dishonestly, like Bidam or et al, in order to gain an advantage

Excuse me! A pm? Really? Reading and comprehension problems has been persistent in your camp. If for threads past, vooks still think image123 is feminine or that he was too in a haste to criticise, that he forgot I made the post, then, my friend Babagnoni, I think common sense has failed you too.

I should PM him abi? Now public rebuke did not sound ok as you lot advocate? I was waiting for this moment for someone to remotely him private correction, and here you are, meek and pious. I did not rebuke him, not correct him, I simply wanted to show how reading and comprehension has been in deficiency in your camp. Call the to order, send them a PM.

Thanks. Happy Sunday.

vooks:
Image123 is pettiness incarnate. She tried to blackmail Goshen by digging a 2006 thread and reminding him that she now knows him

Are you sure you are ok?


1. Image is not a she
2. If it's the post I made for him to correct, about his addresses and phone number, then, I am most certain, more than ever, that you have reading and comprehension disability.

Lobeez:
Do you mind sharing with us where you got this idea?

[NLT] Hebrews 1:14 Therefore, angels are only servants —spirits sent to care for people who will inherit salvation.

It's not an idea, it's in the good book. Read it and help your ignorance. If servants care for someone, it means they take instructions from the one they care for. Eg, the servants of GEJ who take care of him, who do you think give the other institutions? Now, God is the big boss, he can send them to instruct us. Eg if God sends Gabriel to me, my angels would have to stand down. It's called hierarchy. Go study

I love this translation

What are all the angels? They are spirits sent to serve those who are going to receive salvation.

Why was this possible? Simple

Romans 8:17
Now if we are children, then we are heirs--heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.

The Holy Spirit In You · Sunday, October 26th

Pastor Chris

Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works (John 14:10).

The Lord Jesus, in the days of His earthly ministry, walked in close fellowship with the Holy Spirit. He did nothing without the Holy Spirit. In the verse above, He identifies the Holy Spirit as the Father that dwells in Him. In John 5:19, He said, "… The Son can do nothing by himself, but what he seeth the Father do: for what things soever he doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise." He acknowledged the Holy Spirit as the Father in Him, and the doer of the work. That’s a fact you must recognize in your life as a Christian.

The Holy Spirit in you is your key to extraordinary and absolute success. None of those who walked with Him as revealed in the Scriptures was ever defeated; none was a failure. Everyone who received Him gained the mastery, and became the champion. Many in the Church today need to know for sure who the Holy Spirit is, and His ministry in their lives. He is Himself God. He’s the active power of the Godhead. To have Him in you is to be made for life.Having received the Holy Spirit to live in you, be in constant fellowship with Him. Listen to Him and act on His Word. Recognize that He’s a person, and He lives inside you, mingled with your spirit. If there’s anything I know, it’s my fellowship with the Holy Spirit; that’s where my confidence is. When I fellowship with Him, my limitations are removed; I’m conscious that He has made me a victor and a winner for life.

In walking in fellowship with the Holy Spirit, you must realize that He knows and understands you more than you know yourself. He knows how to handle you. There’s nothing about you that’s strange to Him. He’s more passionate about your success than you could ever be. Just be yielded and obedient to Him in all that He leads and guides you in, and your life will be such an inspiring example of the work of Grace.

Prayer...
Dear Father, I thank you for bringing me into such great union and fellowship with the Spirit. I walk in your perfect will today, and in my glorious inheritance in Christ, because I’m guided by the Holy Spirit; His wisdom is expressed through me today, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study: 
1 Corinthians 6:17; [KJV] But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit.

Romans 8:14; [KJV] For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.

Romans 8:9 [KJV] But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.

1 year Bible reading plan: Jeremiah 19-22 2 timothy 2:1-26
2 year Bible reading plan: Hebrews 13:1-25 Ezekiel 25-26

^^
I was about replying you concisely, but when I saw you doubted angels are miniistering spirits under the authority of a believer in Christ Jesus! Even though Hagin gave you scriprures? I didn't want to continue the use of greek words to explain somethings, because folks are having trouble understanding english already... I just decided to let you wallow in your ignorance! Oh! How I wish God will open your eyes to see how angels assigned to you await instructions from you, but guess what? He never will, till you understand why angels are angels.

But why is it that most of you have reading and comprehension problems? I must say Drummaboy and Kunle looks a bit sharper than the rest, who seem irredeemably dim witted.

I don dey go church.

Image123:
Your time is wrong, are you in Sierra Leone?
You delivered zero. None of those my posts say NONE of these fakeries and detestable acts happen locally. You understand English i'm sure?

Certainly, reading and comprehension skills is a deficiency with some folks here. Image, you were really waiting?

nlMediator:
First off, you have no idea how well or not the book, Midas Touch, has done in sales. Making such a conclusion based on an anecdote or two from a Nigerian bookstore is irresponsible. The book was not written primarily for a Nigerian audience. And even if it was, you need to base your assertion on more solid evidence like number of sales from the booksellers association, amazon rankings, etc.
Let's assume the book did not sell very well. I thought the explanation all along was that the contents of the book were not palatable to some owners of the church bookstores? Which is it, not naming names or not writing what they like? You guys need to make up your mind. Oh, by the way, your logic is less than pedestrian. Let me get it straight: the church bookshelves would have been filled with the book if the book had named the culprits; that way the culprits and their acolytes will ensure that their shelves are filled with the book that casts them in negative light with their names boldly displayed! Even you are capable of better reasoning!
Better still, if the books did not sell because names were not named, should it not concern any true christian that people would not buy a book whose message is relevant but would only do so if names are included? So, the draw is not doctrine but gossip? Interesting.
Regarding your WOF thread, you humor yourself a lot. Your thread is as useless as they come. The things you are complaining about have been out there even in bigger platforms. That you're ignorant of that does not mean such critical outlets do not exist. Even in Nigeria, I know of christian attacks against WOF for at least 20 years - saying similar things to what you say here. At the end of the day, they accomplish little. Perhaps, because the attackers are not going about it God's way or because they offer their hearers little, beside bitterness.
And talking of offering little, have you noticed that all of you that are devoted to attacking WOF would rather do anything but debate the substance of Midas Touch? It's rather (a) Hagin's motive in writing it; (b) preacher's motive in not adhering to the message; (c) whether rebuke should be publicly or privately done. You'd think that those that think WOF is rubbish have been handed an easy platform to demonstrate the rubbishness. But you can't. In fact, the opposite of your wishes is happening: people that don't care that much about Hagin are seeing that he's not the monster you've been painting him to be and have even seen areas of agreement. That's why you rushed for a video that you think puts him in a bad light because you can't bear to see him enjoy the opposite of your wish - a tarnished image. 1
Of course, you're failing woefully. As is your WOF thread. I hate to break it to you, but based on the immensity of investment into that thread, it is a monumental failure. With all the hype and your adverts from thread to thread, you've only mustered a few thousand views over several months. And even that is padded. 2 Because there are 3 principals of the thread, your visits are about thrice more than would be the case if there was one principal. Also, because you are so slow to post material there, people are forced to visit more often that would be the case. E.g., if you post 10 items in one day, somebody may visit once and read it all. If you take 10 days to post 10 items, some people would have to visit 10 times, thereby increasing the number of views. So, the real number of views (soon) would be about 500 in 5 months!
Which is not so bad, compared to the number of visits to your blog!! 3

The colored is so true, , that Drummaboy aka WinsomeX confidently copies from their sites and paste here. I know one anti WoF guy, who’s been writing and hating since 1996. From then till now, he has had no accomplishment, neither does he manage a comment in years. These guys are still jokers. I've already told them, their weapons of warfare are carnal.

BOld 1
They knew if they celebrate Hagin for the book, it would mean them eating a humble pie, so what next? They thought "let's call a dog a bad name, so that we can hang it."
Little do they know they made folks seach more about Hagin, and boy, I gave them more Hagin books and E. W. Kenyon. It's all working together for good bro!

Bold 2
Imagine same folks sitting and discussing, nothing to offer except copy and paste and some short videos, and in months, only a few thousand view, yet to some deluded mind, it was a success.

Bold 3
That blog! Hmmm, I wish he took his WoF campaign there, it probably would not have been this dead. At least his rag tag team would be there too. Let them have a field day, I'd continue the book.

Gradually turning this thread into a anti-WoF thread. Interesting!

I'd let you folks have a swell time, then, I'd Continue with the book. You lot were same number in you WoF thread, discusing within yourselves...Just about...like 5 of you all..maybe image I think too. No other new person, yet, it is a success according to WinsomeX. This thread has made folks download the book, and by reading, they'll improve. My inbox testifying already.

Anyways, a little assignment, take the number of daily visits to that WoF teaching thread by 6am, review it by 9pm. That thread on a good day (days you lot don't go in and out with ridiculous tales), your threads don't get 30 Visits, yet it was successful.

Anyways, I'd continue with the book when I see some sanity restored.

vooks:
Except you are a coward and you can't admit the obvious; Hagin debunked Firstfruits lies with the contempt they deserve

Your opinion is duly noted. Goshen your attention is needed here o


Please click here and tell them mods to do something about it, that's if it's necessary

Stumbled over it online, I now know what you look like sha. Cheers

Watching!

PastorKun:
Yeah I have been keeping a tab on the thread though I can't seem to keep up due to the avalanche of posts on the thread. That said I want you accept my sympathies as I am bewildered how an otherwise intelligent young man can be so thoroughly brainwashed that you now seem to be arguing against yourself whilst holding on to straws to justify oyak's fraudulent doctrines even when his oga at the top have refuted the doctrines.

I know you must be going through some very serious internal battles now as you are fighting the reality staring you in the face that your idol oyaks is a charlatan but it's all for the better. God would surely deliver you from the shackles of oyak's and his cult. Amen

No internal battles buddy! I'm focused, and sure I'm grounded. Funny you guys call Hagin right in regards firstfruits, and wrong in tithing, right in abuse and false practices, but he's wrong in Jesus' clothing. But me, I endorsed the book all through, and recommending it to others.

Pastor kun, I see you o! How are you today? You've been missing in the thread, I hope you are fine? Saw your tithe thread, and your efforts. Newbies are doing a great job there. Remain blessed.

Happy weekend

vooks:
Thank you but could you summarize Hagin's position on firstfruits in two sentences

Gombs:
I have given my summary of what Hagin said, flip this thread 2-3 pages back, if you aren't satisfied, I'm sorry then, nothing much I can do.

Just in case you missed it on the other post. I have already summarised it in more than 2 sentences. Thanks

vooks:
You need something smart, something Steve Jobs-esque

Can you in two sentences summarize Hagin's position on FIrstfruits

Yeah! Surely. Here's Hagin's summary in a sentence.

"A stupid man's report (vooks et al) of what a clever man says (Hagin) can never be accurate, because he unconsciously translates what he hears read into something he can understand.” ― Bertrand Russell, A History of Western Philosophy

Then with regards some folks who are saying Paul rebuked Peter in public glare, i summarised it thus;

“People demand freedom of speech as a compensation for the freedom of thought which they seldom use.” ― Søren Kierkegaardtags

Nlmediator's summary is below

“Never underestimate the power of stupid people in large groups.”  ― George Carlin

Meanwhile, my post you quoted has nothing to do with firstfruits, if you want to say something relating to someone else's post you quoted, make sure they are related. I have given my summary of what Hagin said, flip this thread 2-3 pages back, if you aren't satisfied, I'm sorry then, nothing much I can do.

Those who wants us to go to that WoF discussion, should endeavour to make it the one that went with nairaland tsunami. Oh yeah! Not the one you guys sat and discussed yourselves. That thread would be brought back, by me, hopefully. There, you'd see where true gospel preachers in serious blunder, yet, not being able to admit. That thread transformed Drummaboy to WinsomeX, and some others to rabid fellows.

There was where DB said there is no such thing as God kind of faith, his minions shedemidemi, babagnoni, goshen etc were behind him. Goshen, shedemidemi has had treasonable blunder, but thank God for NL tsunami.

When the tsunami took those threads, they immediately opened this one WinsomeX aka DB claims was a success, yet they all seem to have an agenda of putting it in every thread they visit.

If you guys want to discuss, bring back the old one, or ask me to... or on second thought, I will bring it back.

Now, back to the book. I'm having a bit issue with my modem o, and I don't want to take the sim off my tab and put in the modem. But, if push gets to shove, I will. Thanks for your patience

Be Diligent · Saturday, October 25th

Pastor Chris

Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men (Proverbs 22:29).

Diligence is the ability to exercise carefulness, persistence, and determination in ensuring excellence in any endeavour. It is giving the degree of care that’s required in a given situation. You’re diligent when you employ commitment and perseverance in transforming vision into reality. Those are two key elements of diligence: commitment and perseverance. The Lord expects this of us in carrying out all that He instructs us to do.

A diligent person puts his very best into what he or she does, and pays attention to details to achieve perfection. When you’re diligent, God promotes you and brings you to the place of influence and authority. That’s what we read in our opening verse: you’ll stand before kings and not ordinary men.

Consider David: his diligence and faith in tending his father’s "few sheep" (1 Samuel 17:28) eventually gave him the required training and experience, paving the way for him to defeat Goliath of Gath, and be the champion for Israel.

Read about him in 1 Samuel 17, and you’d realize how diligent he was in taking care of his father’s sheep. When his father sent him to the battlefront to enquire how his brothers were faring, the Bible tells us specifically that David left the sheep with a keeper (1 Samuel 17:20). He didn’t say, "Well, it’s only a short distance; I’ll be back in no time" and ran off; no. He got someone to tend the sheep while he was away; that’s being diligent. No wonder he was chosen of God to be king over Israel.

If you study the lives of successful men and women all around the world, no matter in which field, you’ll discover one common factor in their lives—diligence. It’s one vital ingredient for success that you must practise, both in your personal life, and in spiritual things also. Be diligent in prayer, study of the Word, and fellowship with the Holy Spirit. These will enrich you spiritually; you’ll become successful in your spirit, where true success really resides.

Confession...
 I’m diligent! I exercise carefulness, persistence and determination in ensuring excellence in everything I do! I pay attention to details, and employ commitment and perseverance in transforming vision into reality. I’m a good steward of Christ; faithful to His Word, and faithful to the fellowship with the Spirit! Halleluiah!

Further Study: 
Proverbs 10:4; [KJV] He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.

2 Corinthians 8:7 [KJV] Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also.

1 year Bible reading plan: Jeremiah 17-18 2 timothy 1:1-18
2 year Bible reading plan : Hebrews 12:14-29 Ezekiel 24

nlMediator:
Excellent response.

Besides, you said the clothes were worth 50k and you got them for 3k. The guy interprets it to mean that the clothes were worth 3k. What kind of math is that? The value of an item is determined exclusively by what is paid for them? I believe the guy's claim that he's a millionaire. I also believe he's a good christian. Only a loving God can make one a millionaire with such level of thinking or skill base.

https://www.reactiongifs.com/r/wsod.gif



Nlmdiator o... thanks for ending my night on a hearty note

sorry folks, got so busy i could not put up the said topics. I am so tired now. Tomorrow is a good day to discuss. Thank you all.

Mba, welldone... you're killing it.

Bidam:
Pls indulge my inquisitive mind, is this the ONLY message you teach your congregation? You are hardly on any threads except the tithe threads.

Hahhahhaahaahhaahahaha, *falls of chair laughing.

Folks, chapter 8 would have to wait... work things, but today's Friday, right? We'd Continue with the chapter we did yesterday. I saw more cogent articles we need discuss in that book.

Nannymcphee, I have answered my bit, I won't go in circles. If you don’t want to give firstfruits in cash, give it in foodstuffs or whatever you wish, thanks.

Chapter 8 Loading... 24 principles from the Epistles regarding Money, giving and receiving