₦airaland Forum

^^^

All churches are big enterprises.

Are you a christian? Do you attend a church ?

@op

It's by faith , when you start asking questions, it's no longer of faith. Study your bible. And be convinced. Someone else telling you Yes or No will still not be of help to you.

There is a difference between asking if first fruit is scriptural or applicable . But when you personalise it . Asking if you should give. No one can answer for you. It's like saying "should I eat rice?

Romans 1:16
For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first and also to the Greek ().

The Gospel is the power of God unto salvation. What this means is that the power of God to heal, deliver, strengthen, help and rescue anyone is wrapped up in the Gospel. This is easy to understand considering the fact that word “salvation” derives from the Greek word “soteria” which is an all-inclusive word that typifies the entire acts, processes and results of our redemption in Christ Jesus. In other words, the Gospel of Jesus Christ, which is the good news of Christ’s salvation, is the power by which God saves, heals, protects, delivers, preserves and prospers men.

However, this power only works for those who believe as our opening scripture reveals:

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek (Romans 1:16).

Yes, God is all-powerful and His power is unlimited and available to everyone, but that power will not save, heal, deliver or prosper you until you believe the God that makes the power available. You must believe in God, and in Jesus Christ whom He has sent, and receive eternal life.

God has power to create whatever He wants. He has power over the universe and over His angels; He can do anything. However, His power to save men is the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The power of God to bring someone out of trouble, distress, sin and death is in the good news of Christ’s salvation.

2 Timothy 1:10
Everyone that hears and believes the Gospel is at once translated into the Kingdom of God’s dear Son, and becomes a partaker of God’s divine nature! He becomes an associate of the God-kind, having received God’s eternal and immortal life, for the through the Gospel, the Bible says life and immortality have been brought to light

Prayer
Dear Father, I thank you for granting the grace to receive and believe the Gospel of Christ’s salvation, thereby making me a sharer and participator in the divine experience. Thank you for the message of Christ which is your power to preserve and sustain me in the divine life, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study
1 Corinthians 1:18
For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.

2 Timothy 1:8-10
Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God; Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began, But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel:

2 Thessalonians 2:7-8
For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming

The Apostle Paul in our opening scripture talks about the second coming of Christ, and shows us that we’re the restraining force against evil in our day. The only reason satan has not led the world to man’s total annihilation is because of the resistance put forth by the body of Christ – the Church (1 Corinthians 12:27). Our presence in the earth preserves it, and forbids satan from unleashing terror upon it.

But someone might say, “There’s so much evil and terror in the world already.” Well, that should let you know how much worse it could have been but for our being here! We’re the ones preserving the earth (Matthew 5:13) and limiting the power of the evil one.

Man, on his own, is capable and wicked enough to destroy himself:

“For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, and evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: All these evil things come form within…” (Mark 7:21-23).

But the prayers of the saints have prevented satan in our day and in days gone by from holding sway over men’s lives. For example, when the death angel came into Egypt, he needed a sign (blood marks on the lintel and doorposts) of the children of Israel to restrain him from destroying God’s people.

Same way, you’re that preventative power against evil today in your home, in your family and amongst your loved ones! The fact that you belong to Christ means His blood is marked on you, and His Name is named upon you! Therefore, when the evil one comes, he passes over you and those of your household. Your presence in a place prevents the devil from dominating and wielding wicked influence over the lives of men and women in the place, because you represent the Body of Christ there.

Understand that you’re the reason there’s a check on the works of darkness in your world, such than men’s lives are preserved and influenced with the Gospel. That’s why you shouldn’t take prayer lightly, especially praying in the Holy Spirit. It dispels the works of darkness and puts to flight the devil and his cohorts. As you speak in other tongues, satan and his demons are perplexed and frustrated, and their evil works vanquished!

Prayer
Dear Father, thank you for making me the restraining force against evil in my family, and in my world! Indeed, I’m the light of the world and the salt of the earth! Therefore I stand my ground in intercession today and declare that the forces of evil in and around me are quelled and overturned in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study
Ephesians 6:10-18
Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints

1Corinthians 10:13
There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way of escape, that ye may be able to bear it ).

A young Christian lady once asked if it was a sin to go to work on Sunday, instead of Church, since the nature of her job demanded it. No, it’s not a sin but you’ve got to learn to create opportunities to accommodate such challenges. The Bible says in
Hebrews 10:25 “not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much more, as ye see the day approaching.”

This is very instructive about attending Church services in your local assembly.

The case of Christians living in Arab countries for example readily comes to mind in reviewing such peculiar cases. Now, in many such countries, Sundays are workdays, while Fridays are set apart for religious activities. So, main service days for most of these Christians would be on Fridays since they go to work on Sundays. Is that then a sin? No! They’re only making the best of the situation.

So, likewise, if as a Christian you find yourself in a situation where your job makes it difficult for you to attend church service on Sundays, what you need to do is to bring the Church to your place of work. You can start up a cell; talk to your pastor and discuss the possibility of starting a fellowship at your place of work.

That way, you and your Christian colleagues who may be facing the same challenges can then come to work perhaps an hour before the scheduled time of resumption or at break time to fellowship together! By doing so, you’d have solved not only your problem but that of several others. Then you’d also have successfully turned a challenging situation into an opportunity for the Gospel, to the glory of God.

ogajim:
Apostle Paul didn't request protection from the army as you are leading some to believe, rather the Commander arranged protection for him after finding out he was a "Roman citizen" and thus had a right under the law to appeal his case before Caesar in Rome, his nephew overheard 40 men basically swearing an oath not to eat until they killed Paul.

What are You saying? Why did Paul have to go and report "Threat to life" complain to the centurion.? What was he expecting.  Look at newmi post again. Why didn't he ignore the information  since angels are on guard.

What of Jesus escape from the mob? And hiding.?  
My point is for us to understand the balance . There are times God demonstrates deliverance from danger in a spectacular way. There are other times he grants us wisdom to go about it other ways.

Take for example when God hindered paul from going to Asia . Couldnt God have gone with him. Why did he stop paul. When we humble ourselves we will have the full comprehension of the many sides of God. Than looking at things from one myopic angle.

Abi Donnie,

The thread has dragged too long . Let's hit the nail on the head. Is it wrong to have security when there seems to be a need ?

Why was paul requesting security? He had 200 soldiers , 70 horsemen and 200 spear men to protect him from 40 men
Why were the disciples of christ carrying sword
Why did Jesus ask them to sell their clothes to buy sword
Why did Jesus hide dodged,and escaped. Why didn't he call the angels?

If Jesus was wrong. Let every MOG be wrong . But if Jesus didn't do wrong by having men arround as security or him dodging and escaping from being mobbed. why don't we just leave the matter and go to bed. Instead of going in circles like market women.

Thsts Nonsense!. I've explained that. My explanation was the truth. Why are you changing topic. Come and explain scriptures here.don't derail the topic. When you guys get hooked ,you look for personal attacks.

Yes , by enemies of truths. Jesus was a frausdter too . According to blind men.

John 7:12
12 There was a lot of discussion about him among the crowds. Some said, "He's a wonderful man," while others said, "No, he's duping the public."

Satan has children in every generation. Their attacks are always gospel preachers.

^^^^
thanks for reminding me jare. I didnt want to answer but I considered verse 5

Proverbs 26:5
5 Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit.

Sometimes it's necessary.

It's bible dear. Don't create a personal religious image for Jesus . When we deal with truth look at it critically. This only reveal your double standard hypocrisy. Jesus can run for cover. Arrange for sword but if it's an MOG That does that , especially your opaks . He'll will be let loose . Pls let's do righteous judgement.

. I made similar point . Im wondering if our good friends deliberately overlooked them. There is a balance to these things. We just love criticism. Without consideration. . If Jesus, GOD. ran for cover and safety . . . .The critics should start with him first.

@Ogajim

Can you answer me sincerely
Why was paul requesting security? He had 200 soldiers , 70 horsemen and 200 spear men to protect him from 40 men
Why were the disciples of christ carrying sword
Why did Jesus ask them to sell their clothes to buy sword
Why did Jesus hide dodged,and escaped. Why didn't he call the angels?
Leave joagbaje out of this, let's look at the bible ? And give me bible answers.

Proverbs 26:4
4 Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.

Ask Jesus why he ran.

I am not advocating security men for ministers. But if someone feels the need for such. Nobody should criticise. I'm only showing you balance from scriptures. People carry weapon for security . That doesn't mean they must use it. It scares evil men away. I'm not aware any MOG security men shot bullet at any person. So that's why jesus would have rebuked Peter. He had encouraged them to get the sword, but that didn't mean they should strike.   When you see a security man , you behave yourself. That's the message. Paul suffered several armed robbery attacks. If he had security, he could have averted it.

Look at this story again.

Acts 23:12-17
12 And when it was day, certain of the Jews banded together, and bound themselves under a curse, saying that they would neither eat nor drink till they had killed Paul. 13 And they were more than forty which had made this conspiracy. 14 And they came to the chief priests and elders, and said, We have bound ourselves under a great curse, that we will eat nothing until we have slain Paul. 15 Now therefore ye with the council signify to the chief captain that he bring him down unto you to morrow, as though ye would enquire something more perfectly concerning him: and we, or ever he come near, are ready to kill him. 16 And when Paul's sister's son heard of their lying in wait, he went and entered into the castle, and told Paul. 17 Then Paul called one of the centurions unto him, and said, Bring this young man unto the chief captain: for he hath a certain thing to tell him.

Why did paul do that? SECURITY. And what was the outcome ? They got Paul security. Armed to the teeth!

Acts 23:23-24
23 And he called unto him two centurions, saying, Make ready two hundred soldiers to go to Caesarea, and horsemen threescore and ten, and spearmen two hundred, at the third hour of the night; 24 And provide them beasts, that they may set Paul on, and bring him safe unto Felix the governor.



Either MOG or not. Any public person who is being protected from evil men should not be condemned .

ogajim:
With this submission Pastor JoAgbaje, you've over written every point you ever made about faith and God's grace.

Our God is able to protect his TRUE followers no matter the strength of the enemy because he is ALPHA and OMEGA so quit this "mog" need protection from crowd/parishioners nonsense.

. Do you lock your door at night ? Do you have security for your car? . If you do , you are a hypocrite. Angels should keep your doors !

Enigma:
^^^ Do you see how the fraudster lies in public without any shame saying Jesus had his disciples as security? Sometimes he's just so pathetic you just leave him to it!

Check your bible before attacking me. So why did Jesus run for safety? Where were his angels?

John 8:59
59 Then took they up stones to cast at him: but Jesus hid himself, and went out of the temple, going through the midst of them, and so passed by.

How can MOG jesus be hiding ? Where were his angels? . And Why did Jesus tell the disciples to buy sword. Where did Peter get his sword from?

Luke 22:36
36 Then said he unto them. . . . he that hath no sword, let him sell his garment, and buy one.


The disciples acted as security for Jesus also. They obviously carried sword about.Look at the next verse.

Luke 22:38
38 And they said, Lord, behold, here are t[b]wo swords[/b]. And he said unto them, It is enough.

So those swords they carried arround Jesus was it for killing mosquitoes?
When paul heard some people have taken oath to kill him ,what did Paul do?

SECURITY IS COMMON SENSE.

It's a simple common sense. It's not everyone that needs security men. But when there seemed to be threat to a person.of attcks . He should be wise enough to accept help. Even though his trust is in God.A man who has no tendency of being attacked has no reason for security . But scripturally nothing is wrong to have security for men of God. We should not argue blindly. Jesus had his desciples as security. David was a prophet , he had security. When there was threat to paul's life. He called for security protection. Nehemiah under the commission of God to rebuild the city Walls  Had to arm his men ,even priests with spear and sword in the during the building project.

Any interested person should Pls reach me by mail

Ephesians 5:18
And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit…

In our opening scripture, the Apostle Paul was writing to a Church that was already acquainted with the doctrine of the Holy Spirit. He wasn’t telling them to receive the Holy Spirit afresh! As you study the book of Acts, you would see that from time to time, Luke, by inspiration of the Holy Spirit talked about the Apostles and how that they were constantly filled with the Spirit.

In Acts chapter 2, when Peter and the other believers received the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost, they were filled with the Holy Spirit, simultaneously. But they continued to experience other times of infilling. An account is recorded in Acts 4:31: “…when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.” This wasn’t referring to the Apostles alone, but all the other believers with them.

The story in Acts 4 also tells us of Peter and John’s arrest while they preached that Jesus had resurrected from the dead. But while the magistrates, elders and scribes were assembled in Jerusalem for Peter’s trial before the Sanhedrin, the Bible says “Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel…” (Acts 4:8). Notice that this incident wasn’t referring to Peter receiving the Holy Spirit, but that he was filled with the Spirit.

A Christian who has received the Holy Spirit without experiencing this continual infilling will live an ordinary life in this world. The Apostle Paul lived an extraordinary life because he understood the importance of being constantly filled with the Spirit. To the Church in Corinth, he said “I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all…” 1 Corinthians 14:18). You can get yourself filled with the Spirit today as you speak in other tongues, study the Word of God, and give yourself to it in meditation.

Prayer
Dear heavenly Father, I thank you for filling me with your precious Holy Spirit, and causing your Word to dwell in me richly, causing my heart to overflow with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs that declare your goodness, mercy and grace to all generations. Amen.

Further Study
Acts 1:8
But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

Ephesians 5:18-20
And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;

Forgiveness is not on Gods part. He has forgiven. It's on your part to recieve forgiveness by faith. Believe youre forgiven . That's all.

We are not supposed to wait for what Christianity will do for us. God is rather concerned about what we do with Christianity

Gombs how are you holding up in jos there? I hope you've released your angels.

And who says anything is wrong with a lady wearing a trouser or not covering hair. The ukraine experience should prove to you God is not concerned about those things we religiously fight over. The bible says that God doesnt look at the outward appearance but at the heart . If he heals a woman in pants and she was acceptable in his sight , we ought to check our theology.

Check the Greekword for witchcraft

What do you mean? Is it miracle that happened through a person or the one that happened to the person.

MrBible:
Joagbaje
The works of the flesh below are caused by demons and the devil, we don't see demons and the devil walking about, the devil and demons operates through people.

Galatians 5:20

19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,

20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,

21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.

By the definition alone "WORKS OF THE FLESH" it speaks for itself . Not "WORKS OF DEMONS" they may look similar but they are not thesame. The solution to works of the flesh is to be renewed by the word and walking in the spirit. But if a person is possessed of demons. YOU NEED TO CAST THEM OUT!.

The person that drinks as a fleshly thing van stop through knowledge but the person who has a demon of addiction must get rid of the devil first.

Dr David olusegun agbaje

So pastor kumuyi is into healing too? I've not seen this in his programmes (few though) that I watched. The power that worketh in us. where are the people who doubts the gifts of healing in the body of christ? Healing fire is spreading all over the world.

There is a difference between the works of the flesh and the manifestation of demons. How do you know your wife demons?

Those allegations are false. Which one did you witness? Apart from hearsay