₦airaland Forum

MaxInDHouse:
Jesus didn't say John (the baptist) is the least in the Kingdom of God but the least person is greater than John which means John will not even be in God's Kingdom!


(Matthew 11:11)
Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist: notwithstanding he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. ~ KJV


Truly I tell you, among those born of women there has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist; yet whoever is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. ~ NIV


Truly I say to you, among those born of women, there has not been raised up anyone greater than John the Baptist, but a lesser person in the Kingdom of the heavens is greater than he is. ~ NWT


You can find other translations to verify that John the baptist will not be in God's Kingdom according to Jesus.

So what did Jesus mean by this statement?

Wrong interpretation!

John lived under the Old Covenant, and though he was righteous and fulfilled a critical role in God's plan, the new covenant brought by Jesus offers believers greater privileges. Jesus' followers have the opportunity to experience the Holy Spirit and a deeper connection with God than those before.

Also Jesus is emphasizing the value of humility in the Kingdom of Heaven. Even the "least"[b] (those who humble themselves) [/b]in God's Kingdom are greater than John in this new context of grace and the fullness of God's presence

Kobojunkie:
Stop creating these useless threads all over the place already! You Christians refuse to accept that Jesus Christ Himself declared He was only sent to the Lost Sheep of Israel — the bloodline of Israel — by His Father, God of Israel. Of what value are your lies when you were rejected from the start by the same man whom you all pretend today to follow and know?

It’s important to approach discussions like these with understanding and context. While Jesus did say in Matthew 15:24, "I was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel," His mission later expanded beyond Israel. This is evident in verses like Matthew 28:19, where He commands His disciples to "go and make disciples of all nations."

The early church, as seen in the New Testament, welcomed both Jews and Gentiles (non-Israelites) into the faith, emphasizing that salvation through Christ is for everyone who believes (Galatians 3:28). The message of Jesus is rooted in love and inclusion, not division. Perhaps the focus should be on how His teachings encourage unity rather than disputes over who qualifies.

Thank you.

Many people debate whether Jesus is truly God. The explanation below provides a detailed understanding of why Jesus Christ is called God. The Bible says, " Matthew 11:27 says:
"All things have been committed to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him."

While we acknowledge the Father and the Son, the divine nature of Christ establishes Him as God.


In John 1:1 - "In the beginning was the word, and the word was with God and the word was God "

Explanation using the key component

1. In the beginning: this echoes Genesis 1:1, emphasizing the eternal nature of the word
2. The word : a title for Jesus Christ, highlighting His role as the embodiment of God's message, wisdom and creative power.(Colossians 1:16)
3. Was with God: this indicate a close intimate relationship between the word and God.
4. And the word was God: this affirm the divinity of Jesus Christ, establishing His equality with God.(Philippians 2:16)

Key implications of Jesus divinity

1. Eternal existence: Jesus has always existed, having no beginning or end. ( John 1:1-3, Hebrews 13:
2. Omnipotent: Jesus possesses all power and authority being able to accomplish anything He desires ( Matthew 28:18, Revelation 19:6).
3. Omniscience : Jesus has complete knowledge and understanding, knowing all things past, present and future (John 16:30, Colossians 2:3).
4. Omnipresent: Jesus is present everywhere being able to be with all people at all time Matthew 18:20, Ephesians 4:6).
5. Immutable: Jesus is unchanging, being the same yesterday, today and forever (Hebrews 13:
6. Holy : Jesus is completely holy, being separate from sin and morally perfect (Luke 1:35, Hebrews 4:15).

Happy Sunday!!!

TenQ:
He is just trolling you. He is an atheist and he doesn't want to know anything from you!
Stop responding to him: he will waste your time!

Shalom

Lol, thanks.

Truthseeker10:
Is paradise and Abraham's bosom the same?

What part of a human goes to Abraham's bosom and paradise after death?

Paradise and Abraham's Bosom are similar but not identical.

Paradise is described as a temporary realm of joy and rest for believers before the final resurrection (Luke 23:43; 2 Corinthians 12:4). It is a place of comfort and peace where believers await their ultimate resurrection while Abraham's Bosom, on the other hand, is the realm of the dead. It is portrayed as a place of comfort and rest for the righteous, such as Lazarus, in the presence of Abraham (Luke 16:22-23). This area is distinct from the part of Hades where the wicked experience torment.

According to the Bible, it is the immaterial part of a human—such as the soul and spirit—that goes to either of these places after death.

Please note that I have not experienced either personally ( paradise or Abraham'sbosom) . Most of what I share here is based on faith, biblical teachings, and research.

Truthseeker10:
How do you know that the paradise or Abraham's bosom exist in the spiritual realm?
Where in the spiritual realm is the paradise or Abraham's bosom?

Is Abraham's bosom the same place as paradise? If yes, did Jesus go to Abraham's bosom when he died?

The existence of Paradise and Abraham’s bosom in the spiritual realm is primarily a matter of faith, grounded in Scripture. In Luke 16:19–31, Jesus recounts the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, where Abraham’s bosom is depicted as a place of comfort for the righteous dead. Similarly, in Luke 23:43, Jesus tells the repentant thief on the cross, "Today you will be with me in Paradise," suggesting a distinct place of peace and rest in the spiritual realm. These references imply that such places exist beyond the physical world, accessible only after death.

Scripture does not provide specific details about the "location" of these places in the spiritual realm.
Jesus did go to Paradise after His death, as He promised the thief.

Truthseeker10:
So faithful people who died before Abraham went where?

And where is the location of this paradise or Abraham's bosom?

Faithful individuals who lived before Abraham, such as Abel, Enoch, and Noah, were regarded as righteous because of their faith and obedience to God (Hebrews 11). Scripture implies that they were acknowledged as faithful and likely went to the same place as other Old Testament believers.

As for Abraham’s bosom or paradise, the Bible does not provide a specific geographic location. It is most likely a spiritual realm rather than a physical place, with its descriptions serving as symbolic representations of comfort and closeness to God.

Truthseeker10:
So are you saying that a person who is not born again cannot be saved?

Were faithful men of God like Abraham and Noah born again? If yes, why did they not go to heaven when they died as Jesus showed in John 3:13?

Abraham and Noah were saved by their faith, but their salvation was not yet fully realized.

Before Jesus' ascension, heaven was not open to believers, and they entered an intermediate state, often referred to as "paradise" or "Abraham's bosom" (Luke 16:22-23, 23:43). This was a temporary realm where believers awaited the resurrection and the opening of heaven.. After Jesus' resurrection and ascension, the way to heaven was opened, and believers can now enter heaven at death.

Engaging in immorality after coming to the knowledge of Christ and becoming a partaker of His grace is a serious matter that can render our spiritual weapons ineffective. All wrongdoing is sin, but sexual immorality carries a particularly severe impact on believers. It opens the door for the enemy, the accuser of the brethren, to ridicule and spiritually weaken anyone involved. It puts believers in a state of captivity, leading to one of the worst humiliations a backslidden believer can face, whether their fall was intentional or unintentional.

How do I know this? After walking in the light of God’s Word, a negative thought crept into my mind. I underestimated the consequences, believing a minor misconduct couldn’t give the forces of darkness an opportunity to humiliate me. However, after engaging in immorality, I had a spiritual encounter in my sleep. My spirit was taken to a demonic realm, a place I had been delivered from before by the name of Jesus. But this time was different.

Upon arriving in that realm, I was immediately attacked with condemnation. I tried to quote Romans 8:1, “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus,” but they mocked me. I lacked the boldness to fully recite it because I had already walked in the flesh. I called on the blood of Jesus and Holy Ghost fire, but nothing happened. I was still held captive. Then, a word was dropped into my heart—MERCY. I began to cry out, shouting MERCY repeatedly, and eventually, I was released and came back to myself.

After this, I went to God in prayer, seeking His mercy. Through this experience, I realized how relentless our adversary, the devil, truly is, just as the Bible describes. This was a wake-up call for me to hold on to my salvation diligently, lest I fall prey to the enemy. The Bible warns us, “Let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall.”

I’m sharing this experience so others can understand and avoid similar pitfalls. If you’ve never encountered such an experience, let this be a reminder to stay vigilant.

May His love and fire continue to burn in our spirits.

Dtruthspeaker:
See awon "finished work".

Continue sinning and see what shall befall you.

This is the Word of God, not of man. If you have a deeper understanding beyond my perspective, please share it respectfully rather than insulting or dismissing my point of view. Your perspective could serve as a wake-up call for others. In everything we do, let's act as representatives of Christ.(Colossians 3:17)

Also, you can tell me if you didn't see this in what I wrote: "Confessing Sin: Bringing sins into the light and turning from them out of love for God and a desire for deeper fellowship with Him (Psalm 32:5; 1 John 1:9)."

gohf:
"When Jesus taught this prayer, it was before His crucifixion and the establishment of the new covenant through His blood."
You know I heard this once as well, but this isn't true, the teachings of Jesus were not pre crucifixion and post crucifixion, there isn't a basis for such believe. Do we then say his commands change after he resurrected? No.

Jesus taught us a lot of things, including how to pray, if there be any change it would be mentioned by Jesus and it was, the change of having to use the name of Jesus in prayer.

When we speak about the finished work of Christ, we don't mean that Jesus has done all that God requires of him, but it pertains to the work of reconciliation and opening up the way to God, which like the book of Hebrews teaching was done once a year, regularly but Jesus didn't have to it regularly for he offered a more excellent offering and the way is open forever. And because the offering is once and eternal is continually speaks for us.

Take for instance the verse you quoted
Heb.10.14 For by one offering He has perfected forever those who are being sanctified. (NKJV)

Does that mean we are already perfect, no, it means we are being perfected through sanctification and that work of sanctification includes us confessing and separating us from sins. Now if we don't humble ourselves and seek God's forgiveness would we receive grace, would the grace which saves us be at work in our lives. Think of Paul who cries out to God and received grace from God. Does it mean he didn't believe in the finished work, no, it was because he believed in it that he cried out for mercy and grace.

The prayer Jesus taught us was based on the new covenant which was yet to be established, for it starts with Our Father, which we only become as we are reconciled and redeemed into God's family by the blood of Jesus.


Another thing which I had also heard, and you wrote as well, "For believers today, who live under the new covenant, Jesus' sacrifice has already secured full forgiveness for all sins—past, present, and future"


Through the blood of Jesus we receive forgiveness of sins by God's kindness, that's Ephesians 1:7 and then Col.2.13 You were dead because of your sins and because your sinful nature was not yet cut away. Then God made you alive with Christ. He forgave all our sins.

Now this means that the death of Jesus was to deal with our nature, and the power of sin over us. And God forgave all our sins according to the law,

That's why Paul wrote in the next verse
Col.2.14 having canceled the written code, with its regulations, that was against us and that stood opposed to us; he took it away, nailing it to the cross.

Now you may ask, what are sins according to the laws of Moses, well they were what made the regulations needed, the sacrifices of blood and the many offerings but the blood of Jesus put an end to that. That's why the law is fulfilled but yet we are to obey the commandments of God, the 10, which are grouped into love God and love you neighbors.

That's why our sins which John says we should ask for forgiveness for are the same with when Jesus taught if you brother offends you, tell him, take others, tell the church and if he repents forgive. So when we forgive others, God will forgive us as well. This sins are based on relationships. And we maintain them by seeking forgiveness not assuming that we are already forgiven.

So indeed our sins, according to the laws of Moses which will bring accusations against us, have been dwelt with and we are purified by the blood of Jesus that doesn't dry up and it paves way for us to go to the Father to obtain mercy when we fall or make mistakes.

There is an assurance for forgiveness not a certificate of exemption that no matter what a person does they are already forgiven.

Let's look at a practical example, Jesus had died and resurrected but still He visited Peter and asked him three times do you love me.

Jesus sent letters to the churches and some of them he told to repent, while they could still repent. Now if forgiveness was once and for all, or automatically, there would not be a need for acknowledging their faults and repenting.

Or you may well say, we don't have issues with God anymore but what about Jesus whom we have to obey. This by the way.

I have no issues with the prayer, "Father, I confess my sin and thank You for the forgiveness already provided through Jesus. Help me to walk in Your grace and forgive others as You have forgiven me."

Nor that we shouldn't doubt the finished work of Christ but that we should at least understand the finished work and not assume what it is or exaggerate it, and remove what is required of us to do, like carrying our cross and following Jesus. Just a side example.
So saying God should forgive us doesn't mean we doubt that God has forgiven us, but because we believe God has forgiven us for the sins of our fathers, for the sins of Adam, for the sins we are guilty of by the laws of Moses, that we believe He will forgive us when we fall and make mistakes.

Look forgiveness isn't cheap and that's the truth, we have to be responsible and their are consequences for some of our actions, and this doesn't mean God doesn't forgive us, it is just that God is faithful and just even to those we may have offended as well. So confessing our sins isn't just about mentioning them but also about making amends and when we ask God to forgive us it is usually when we hurt and fail others, maybe you didn't speak to that person when you should and they got into trouble or they died. Or you lied or took what wasn't yours and didn't return it on time.

We are not re-earning forgiveness for past records, but for our daily lives, His mercies are new every morning. But they are not free, they are kept and are to be obtained.

If one confesses without seeking forgiveness what then is the purpose of the confess, is there humility when a person says O i did something wrong but i know you have forgiven.. that is presumptions.

I tell you, presumptions.... why did Paul fast after he encountered Jesus, do you think they fasted and sought God's mercy at times, it is to find help and strength to do what is right, it is for God to continue to work with us.

If sin becomes iniquity in us, and we become workers of Iniquity even though we shout and confess Lord lord, we will be denied.

We show that we respect and love God when we apologize for our wrongs, like a servant to his forgiving master.

Thank you so much for your response. I’ll take some time to dig deeper into it. May God continue to bless our understanding and His Word.

gohf:
Asking God for forgiveness is because we make mistakes, forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us

Blessed are the merciful for they shall obtain mercy.

If the basis of our receiving mercy and forgiveness is that we too are required to be merciful and forgiving it means there isn't an expectation from God that we will be perfect in our flesh. That's why Jesus said forgive your brethren 70x7.

Ps.32.5 Finally, I confessed all my sins to you and stopped trying to hide them. I said to myself, "I will confess my rebellion to the LORD." And you forgave me! All my guilt is gone.

Confession is need for there to be forgiveness, so we confess for the purpose of asking for forgiveness

1John.1.9 But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us and to cleanse us from every wrong.

It's oh Father I have done something wrong, please forgive me. Why would one be afraid of not being forgiven if they believe God is faithful and just to forgive us. We approach God with our sins from the confidence we get through Jesus that He will forgive us as we admit them and seek his grace to turn away from them.

Rom.8.1 Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus,...

Condemnation is for those who reject God's love and mercy, and not for those who believe, repent and follow Jesus

John.3.18 "He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.

1John.3.20 even if our hearts condemn us. For God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything.

Our hearts can condemn us when we do something wrong, but that is guilt and not God's condemnation. Our hearts and conscience judges us that you have done something wrong and it's a gift to us to humble us and make us go before God's throne to obtain mercy. It's a gift to us to help us make peace and make amends.

A person who doesn't feel guilty when they have done wrong is probably justifying themselves and that's dangerous and I know at times through wrong teachings people feel guilty for not doing what men want, and the devil manipulates and make many continually feel guilty and keeps them under a bondage of guilt.

That's why John said, even if your heart condemns you, God is greater than your heart and there is no condemnation for those who sincerely repent, make amends and desire to do what is.

Yes it's new forgiveness for His mercies are new every morning. Jesus has paved the way for us to obtain it, our hearts have been cleansed and made new but our minds need to be renewed and our actions will be filled with mistakes not resulting from our hearts but from our flesh dying on the cross fighting the spirit of God within us.

Righteousness is through our faith in the blood of Jesus which is us obeying and doing what God expects of us. So righteousness are the works of God we do, to love, to care, to rejoice and be at peace, to endure, to be kind, to give and be good, to be faithful and honest, to be humble and have self control all these are the works of the spirit of God in us and not works of the flesh not works of sacrifices and religion.

God forgives us and cleanses us, and seeking forgiveness is receiving that reassurance that God forgives us. God will punish us and correct us but He won't reject His children who turn to Him.

You raise an important point. The phrase "Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us" (Matthew 6:12) is part of the Lord's Prayer, which Jesus taught His disciples. At first glance, it may seem to conflict with the idea that believers should confess their sins rather than repeatedly ask for forgiveness. However, this statement can be understood in light of Christ's finished work on the cross.

When Jesus taught this prayer, it was before His crucifixion and the establishment of the new covenant through His blood. At that time, the full revelation of His once-for-all sacrifice (Hebrews 10:10-14) was not yet made clear. Jesus was teaching His disciples to acknowledge their sins, seek God’s mercy, and extend forgiveness to others, reflecting a heart of humility and grace.

For believers today, who live under the new covenant, Jesus' sacrifice has already secured full forgiveness for all sins—past, present, and future (Ephesians 1:7; Colossians 2:13-14). This forgiveness is positional and permanent for those in Christ. However, confessing sins remains essential for maintaining close fellowship with God. Saying "forgive us our trespasses" is not asking for a new application of Christ’s forgiveness, as though His work were incomplete. Instead, it acknowledges a daily need for God’s grace, recognizes areas of failure, and expresses gratitude for the forgiveness already provided.

The second part of the prayer, "as we forgive those who trespass against us," reminds believers that extending forgiveness to others is a vital response to having received God’s grace. Jesus emphasizes in Matthew 6:14-15 that forgiving others reflects a true understanding of God's forgiveness. Refusing to forgive others reveals a heart that has not fully grasped the depth of grace received through Christ.

Praying "forgive us our trespasses" today is less about doubting our positional forgiveness and more about restoring daily fellowship with God. Believers can pray, "Father, I confess my sin and thank You for the forgiveness already provided through Jesus. Help me to walk in Your grace and forgive others as You have forgiven me."

This prayer teaches believers to live in humility, dependence, and gratitude for God’s mercy while extending the same grace to others. It is not about re-earning forgiveness but about staying aligned with God’s will and reflecting His character in our relationships.


Let me add this because you talked about it, believers confessed to restored fellowship with God. When believers sin, their relationship with God remains secure because of Christ’s finished work, but their fellowship with Him can be disrupted. Sin creates a barrier in intimacy with God, much like wrongdoing can strain a relationship between friends or family members.

Confession is the act of acknowledging sin to God, which restores closeness and renews the joy of fellowship.

Every Christian doctrine must be firmly grounded in the light of Christ’s finished work, which establishes the new covenant.

You raise an important point. The phrase "Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us" (Matthew 6:12) is part of the Lord's Prayer, which Jesus taught His disciples. At first glance, it may seem to conflict with the idea that believers should confess their sins rather than repeatedly ask for forgiveness. However, this statement can be understood in light of Christ's finished work on the cross.

When Jesus taught this prayer, it was before His crucifixion and the establishment of the new covenant through His blood. At that time, the full revelation of His once-for-all sacrifice (Hebrews 10:10-14) was not yet made clear. Jesus was teaching His disciples to acknowledge their sins, seek God’s mercy, and extend forgiveness to others, reflecting a heart of humility and grace.

For believers today, who live under the new covenant, Jesus' sacrifice has already secured full forgiveness for all sins—past, present, and future (Ephesians 1:7; Colossians 2:13-14). This forgiveness is positional and permanent for those in Christ. However, confessing sins remains essential for maintaining close fellowship with God. Saying "forgive us our trespasses" is not asking for a new application of Christ’s forgiveness, as though His work were incomplete. Instead, it acknowledges a daily need for God’s grace, recognizes areas of failure, and expresses gratitude for the forgiveness already provided.

The second part of the prayer, "as we forgive those who trespass against us," reminds believers that extending forgiveness to others is a vital response to having received God’s grace. Jesus emphasizes in Matthew 6:14-15 that forgiving others reflects a true understanding of God's forgiveness. Refusing to forgive others reveals a heart that has not fully grasped the depth of grace received through Christ.

Praying "forgive us our trespasses" today is less about doubting our positional forgiveness and more about restoring daily fellowship with God. Believers can pray, "Father, I confess my sin and thank You for the forgiveness already provided through Jesus. Help me to walk in Your grace and forgive others as You have forgiven me."

This prayer teaches believers to live in humility, dependence, and gratitude for God’s mercy while extending the same grace to others. It is not about re-earning forgiveness but about staying aligned with God’s will and reflecting His character in our relationships.

It’s true that many believers often pray for forgiveness of sins rather than simply confessing them. This is largely due to a misunderstanding of what forgiveness and confession mean in light of Christ’s finished work.

Asking for Forgiveness: This often implies seeking something we don’t already have. Some believers may think they need to repeatedly ask God to forgive their sins in order to remain saved or to make their relationship with God right. This mindset can unintentionally overlook the completeness of Christ’s sacrifice (Hebrews 7:27; 10:10).

Confession: Biblical confession is agreeing with God about our sin, acknowledging it as wrong, and turning from it. 1 John 1:9 encourages believers to confess sins, trusting in God’s faithfulness to forgive and cleanse. This doesn’t mean believers are seeking new forgiveness, but they are maintaining their fellowship with God by acknowledging their need for His grace

Why the Confusion?

1. Legalistic Backgrounds: Some teachings emphasize works-based righteousness, which can lead people to feel they need to repeatedly ask for forgiveness to stay in God’s good standing.

2. Emotional Guilt: Many people feel the weight of guilt and naturally respond by pleading for forgiveness, even though their sins have already been forgiven in Christ (Romans 8:1).

3. Lack of Understanding: Many do not fully grasp the concept of positional forgiveness (justification) and confuse it with the daily cleansing of sin’s effects on their lives (sanctification).


The Right Perspective

Believers should focus on:

1. Resting in Christ’s Finished Work: Knowing they are already forgiven and secure in their salvation (Ephesians 1:7; Colossians 2:13-14).

2. Confessing Sin: Bringing sins into the light and turning from them out of love for God and a desire for deeper fellowship with Him (Psalm 32:5; 1 John 1:9).

3. Living in Gratitude: Thanking God for the forgiveness already provided and asking for strength to walk in righteousness (Colossians 3:13).


In Practice:

Rather than praying, “Lord, please forgive me for my sins,” believers can pray:

“Lord, I confess my sin of [specific sin]. Thank You for forgiving me through Jesus. Help me to turn from this sin and walk in Your righteousness.”

This approach shifts the focus from fear of losing forgiveness to joy in the grace and freedom already given in Christ.

gohf:
I appreciate your response and your biblical texts attached to each point.

Let me share with you what I have learnt from your explanation.

So the transformation of being born again is a process that begins when one accepts Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

Now while some have heard God's word and experienced the joy of conversation they don't bear fruit, they have no evidence of being born again, because they lacked depth in God's word, they were not rooted in it. They did not go through work of transformation by the Holy spirit which gives them that depth.

And while some resist, some cooperate with God's work in their lives. And some due to wrong teaching about salvation believe they are already saved because of their declaration so don't feel a need for more depth and growth.

Dearest friends, you were always so careful to follow my instructions when I was with you. And now that I am away you must be even more careful to put into action God's saving work in your lives, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the desire to obey him and the power to do what pleases him. (Philippians 2:12-13)
So the work of salvation in us is continuous.

I agree with your conclusion, would have highlighted it but I also agree with your explanation as well and there are many valid points there to highlight.

My thoughts agree with what you have explained and is valid for the salvation of souls.

My perspective is that when a person believes God's word and repents, returning back to God, they become born again and they experience and see the kingdom of God which is the purpose of repentance and proof one genuinely believes, repented and is born again. The only reason one would not have this experience is either because they rejected God's word or they were not given God's word in the first place, so what they believed was a lie. And it is God's word that is power to save.

Looking at what Peter wrote
1Pet.1.23 For you have been born again. Your new life did not come from your earthly parents because the life they gave you will end in death. But this new life will last forever because it comes from the eternal, living word of God.

And what he wrote previously shows that it is only through God's word we come to trust in God.
1Pet.1.21-22 - Through Christ you have come to trust in God. And because God raised Christ from the dead and gave him great glory, your faith and hope can be placed confidently in God. Now you can have sincere love for each other as brothers and sisters because you were cleansed from your sins when you accepted the truth of the Good News. So see to it that you really do love each other intensely with all your hearts.

The issue is that many are not proclaiming God's word but theirs, or they are teaching and practicing the laws of Moses, instead of the gospel, so many are not even hearing the gospel to begin with and what they are hearing leaves them in the same state they were in, in the beginning as a result of the deception of the devil.

If we say to receive the gospel is the conception of one's faith, where we go from death to life, being cleansed by the blood of Jesus and then being able to obey Jesus and love, we can say such a person is born of God's word and has new life, having a new heart and is born again.

So when one receives a dead word like a dead sperm, there will no conception, no new life and no birth. So they won't experience anything that occurs within those who actually received the living word of God.

Now when we want to go deeper, and consider that seeing the kingdom of God, like Jesus said in John 3:3 which is the privilege of those who are born again, is different from the privilege of those born of the spirit which enter the kingdom of God John 3:5.

First I can say that just as a baby is dependent completely upon it's mother while in the womb, such is the process from believing to receiving of the Holy Spirit, so before the Holy Spirit can work in a person such a person has to have received him. And that's why Jesus is the author of our faith, who through his blood cleanses us and liberates for the reception of the Holy Spirit. For the spirit of God is where liberty is, and who the son sets free is free indeed. But if people are still in bondage and not set free would they receive the Spirit of truth which the world cannot receive? No. But for those who do become born again, receiving the Holy Spirit, it is evident by the change that occurs within them that God has chosen them.

That's why my perspective is that being born again, is like a baby who sincerely desire the milk of God's word but also would have to make effort in their growth as you have mentioned so that the transformation is complete and also seen more outwardly. And it is as natural though a war, they overcome because they are willing and submissive to God's work in their lives. And this work lasts throughout our lives.

Now should we also consider that being born in the spirit and becoming spirit isn't something that can occur while one is still in the flesh, which means the process occurs at one's death.

That is why Paul would say, it is what he looked forward to attain and obtain it. So therefore the work of the Holy Spirit which begins upon reception must continue in a man's life until they leave this world. Wherein Jesus says those who stay till the end is saved.


So being born again we receive that gift of new life and God's spirit, tasting God's power and having the assurance of things to come. But unfortunately many are not genuinely born again so they leave and as John would say, they left because they were never a part of us.

Things like persecution and lust for money would not permit them to bear fruit because the Holy Spirit that makes us fruitful isn't at work within them.

This is my perspective, hearing from you was a blessing we need more messages on the need for discipleship. Thanks

You’re welcome. My struggle with lust (specifically masturbation) has helped me recognize what is lacking in my spiritual life. After hearing a message from Bishop Mike Okonkwo, i put it into action and with the help of Holy Spirit, i was set free indeed—though I’m not a member of TREM—but of his sermon opened my eyes to what Christians need in order to resist the forces of sin, even after confessing Christ as their personal Savior.

gohf:
it's nice that you trying to explain this but you wrote
"being born again refers to the spiritual transformation that happens when someone accepts Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior."
Then wrote
"Unfortunately, many Christians stop at accepting Christ without experiencing the transformation that being born again brings."

A transformation that occurs when they are Jesus is stopped by them, why, how? Or are you saying they do get transformed and are born again but don't experience what it is supposed to bring?

Then your conclusion
"In summary, many have accepted Jesus into their lives but have not truly been born again, as they lack the spiritual transformation that follows."

You are saying it is possible to accept Jesus and not be transformed? Who taught you that?

Thank you for pointing out these important questions. Let me clarify what I meant and address your concerns thoughtfully.

When I said, "being born again refers to the spiritual transformation that happens when someone accepts Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior," I was describing the ideal process—what should happen when someone genuinely embraces Christ. This transformation involves a deep, inner renewal by the Holy Spirit, changing one's heart, mind, and actions in alignment with God’s will (John 3:5-6; 2 Corinthians 5:17).

However, my follow-up statement reflects the reality that not everyone who professes faith in Christ experiences or fully embraces this transformation. Here’s why:

1. Faith Without Depth: Some accept Jesus intellectually or emotionally but do not allow the Holy Spirit to truly work in their lives (Matthew 13:20-22). This can result in a lack of genuine transformation.

2. Resistance to Growth: While salvation is a gift, spiritual growth requires cooperation with God. Some resist surrendering fully, holding on to old ways, which stunts their transformation (Ephesians 4:22-24).

3. Misunderstanding of Salvation: There is sometimes a misunderstanding that accepting Christ is just a one-time declaration, rather than the start of a lifelong journey of faith and renewal (Philippians 2:12-13).

So, when I concluded, "many have accepted Jesus into their lives but have not truly been born again," I wasn’t saying that true transformation is optional or incomplete. Instead, I was highlighting that outward acceptance doesn’t always equate to genuine, inward rebirth if there’s no evidence of spiritual growth and change.

Ultimately, Jesus taught that true discipleship involves both hearing His words and putting them into practice (Matthew 7:21-23). Accepting Jesus is the starting point, but the journey of being born again involves yielding to the Holy Spirit, leading to a life transformed by grace.

What are your thoughts on this? I’d love to hear your perspective!

Nnamdipapa:
I am writing about this topic not only because of my interaction with the Nairalander @MrPresident1, but because of my observations on Nairaland and the lived experiences of my contacts with people who profess to be Christians, especially the Pentecostal varieties.
I have attached a screenshot of our conversation, and you will notice how he immediately resorted to insults and abuses. This is someone who goes by the title of “born again,” has more than 200 topics on the Rapture, and is quick to quote Bible verses.

Now to the crux of the matter: does going to church, being born again, or religion in general lead to any change in life in a positive direction? Are the spiritual encounters we experience in our churches mere emotional manipulations with no tangible positive life changes?

This is not only related to this individual alone; I see lots of Bible-touting pastors resort to insults and curses when challenged or countered. I am proud to say I have never been to any church, read the Bible for more than two years now, and will never do so in the future.
Believe me when I tell you these people will speak in tongues in the morning and physically fight and curse you in the evening. I am unchurched, and I am well-behaved and more in control of my emotions than over 99% of these people.
Are the change of life experiences or being born again a big scam?

I understand you, and I’d like to explain something about being "born again" that many people may not fully realize. Many Christians have accepted Jesus as their Savior, but they are not truly born again. While these two concepts are closely related, they are not the same.

According to Scripture, being born again refers to the spiritual transformation that happens when someone accepts Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. It is a rebirth or regeneration of the spirit, symbolizing a new beginning in one's relationship with God. On the other hand, accepting Christ involves the act of recognizing your sinfulness, acknowledging your need for a Savior, and receiving Jesus as your Lord and Savior.

To put it another way, accepting Christ is like opening the door to your heart, while being born again is the work of the Holy Spirit entering and transforming your life from within.

Unfortunately, many Christians stop at accepting Christ without experiencing the transformation that being born again brings. After receiving Christ, there must be a renewal of the mind. Without this renewal, old habits and sinful behaviors—such as lying, insults, fighting, immorality, and other wrongdoings—may persist in a person's life.

In summary, many have accepted Jesus into their lives but have not truly been born again, as they lack the spiritual transformation that follows.

Masturbation is a struggle many people face today. Some have prayed, fasted, and disciplined themselves in an effort to break free, yet find no lasting solution. Even believers can wrestle with this issue because faith and the renewal of the mind must work together. Many feel helpless and ashamed to share their struggles, fearing judgment or rejection. However, overcoming the power of the flesh and lust is not something we can achieve in our own strength. It requires surrendering completely to Christ.

Here’s why: relying on personal efforts—such as prayer, fasting, and self-discipline alone—often leads to frustration because victory over sin comes only through the power of God. We cannot legislate righteousness; instead, we must release ourselves into God's hands and allow Him to transform us. Below are practical, Christ-centered steps to overcome masturbation:

1. Acknowledge Your Inability to Overcome on Your Own

Recognize that you cannot conquer this struggle through your own strength. Efforts like praying tirelessly, fasting, and self-discipline can reflect self-reliance, rather than complete dependence on Christ. Surrender fully to Him and trust His power to work in you.

2. Believe in the Finished Work of Christ

Place your faith in the truth that Christ has already overcome sin on your behalf. Romans 3:25 (NLT) says, “For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood.” Believe that His sacrifice has settled your struggle completely.

3. Engage in Daily Bible Study

Immerse yourself in God’s Word, which renews your mind and transforms your thinking. Colossians 3:10 (NLT) encourages us to, “Put on your new nature, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him.” Gradual mind renewal occurs as you fill your heart with His truth.

4. Listen to Teachings on Grace

Seek out preachers and teachings that emphasize the grace of God. Understanding His grace helps you live in the freedom Christ has provided, rather than striving in your own effort.

5. Thank God for Your Redemption

Consistently thank God for the eternal redemption, salvation, and forgiveness He has given you. Walk in faith, confident that lust and sin no longer have a hold on you. As John 10:27-29 (NLT) assures us, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from me, for my Father has given them to me, and he is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father’s hand.”

Final Encouragement

Dear brethren, follow these steps with the full understanding of who Christ is and what He has done for you. This is not about adding rigorous prayers, fasting, or self-discipline, but about surrendering your life into His hands. Watch as lust loses its power naturally under His grace.

May God continue to strengthen and uphold you. Amen.

Urheadmaster:
Fake news

How is this fake news? You always seem to expect bad news. Verify your information before commenting.

vanbonattel:
A bag of rice is #85,000 now.

Idiotic administration

Some Nigerian with their useless comparison, do you want to eat a bag for a month? Let be realistic in our thinking, even though they increased the minimum wages to N140,000,, I pretty sure you utter same statement thinking you know most...

David0002:
I really thank God for giving me the gift of speaking in tongues, ever since then, my prayer life has changed. Now I can pray for 3 hours, 4 hours without getting tired.

I still remember 31st of may, 2024. It is a day I will never forget. I didn't even dream that I will ever speak in tongues, I never prayed about it, infact I was not expecting it.

Let me tell you you truth, initially, I hated the idea of praying in tongues, I thought it was not possible, I thought it was scam, I thought that people were just speaking anything that comes out of their mouth. It was because I have prayed earnestly for it before that God should give me this gift and enable me to pray in tongues, but I didn't see it forth-coming. I prayed seriously for it, read books that dealth on Holy Ghost baptism, exercised my faith, opened my mouth for God to fill it, yet nothing happened, so I gave up the idea and stopped praying about it. But little did I know that God heard the prayer and was waiting for the appointed time to bring it to manifestation.

On that day, I was hungry to just praise and worship God and nothing more. Once it was 4.pm in the evening, I started with praise. I praised God for a very long time.

After I was true with praise, I entered into deep worship song. I worship God with songs with all my heart for a very long time.

When I was true with worshipping God with songs, I entered into a prayer of praise and. I began to call God sweet names, I was calling Him by His attributes praising and and worshipping Him. Then I became tired. I decided to sit down because I have been standing for over one hour.

As I sat down, I felt a sensation in my body, from that moment, I knew in my spirit that something was about to happen, and it happened.

Immediately something began to move from my body, immediately, it came to my mouth. Before I knew it, my mouth opened, I started to speak in tongues or pray in tongues. It was so powerful. It was like rivers of living water flowing out of my belly.

For almost 45 minutes, I was praying in tongues as the Holy Spirit gave me utterance. It was so great. It was lovely. It was so much that it didn't want to stop. It was like borehole water that doesn't finish, infact I have to force myself to stop it.

After that encounter, my prayer life has never remained the same. I can now pray for longer hours like 3 hours, 4 hours without getting tired. Before I received the gift of tongues, I could only pray for 30 minutes to 1 hour before getting tired or running out of words.

It has reached to the extent of whenever I want to pray but don't know what to pray, I will pray a simple prayer and tell God that I want to pray in tongues that the Holy Spirit should possess my lips, and that the Holy Spirit should pray through me. Immediately, my lips will open and I will start praying in tongues. God is alive, and He answers prayer. My prayer life have changed since then. Infact I am addicted to prayer. It is burning inside of me. Any day that passes without me praying is like I want to die. I can't survive without prayer.

My fellow pastor, evangelist, brother, sister, desire this gift of praying in tongues. It is more powerful and effective than praying with your understanding. By praying in tongues, you don't know what you are praying. But in the spirit, you are speaking mysteries. As you are praying in tongues, God can use your prayer and heal someone in China. Your prayer can travel to India, Japan, U.S.A, London, even to your village etc and lose someone in bondage.

I plead with you, desire this gift more than anything else. Remember, prayer is a powerful weapon. With it, you can touch anybody around the world right on your knees.

Good morning and have a pleasant day.

Happy Sunday.

Congratulations!, Speaking of tongue is good and encouraging but learn how to pray in an understanding language using the biblical text as Jesus do in Matthew 4: 1-11 as this won't make you a lazy Christian when praying, most of the people that pray in tongue for hours are often become lazy in prayers.

PulsingPurple:
I think it's wrong to say Faith in God is all about asking God for something and having faith that you'll get what you asked for.
The definition is just not complete.

Faith in God is very broad, it's not all about asking and receiving.

Faith starts by believing in God, that He exists. And believing in Jesus and the Scriptures.
Faith goes on to cover the aspect of trusting in God— that He is indeed God, hence, wiser than us.

Faith without work is, as the name implies, any form of believe or trust in God that doesn't stir up action in you.

‭James 2:19-20
“You believe that God is one. Good for you! Even the demons believe that—and shudder. O foolish man, do you want evidence that faith without deeds is worthless?”

Even demons believe there is one God.

Your Faith should be practical in this sense:
If you trust God, you'll obey Him right?
If you believe in Him, you'll do as He says right?

So your Faith should drive you to do whatever Godly things you can think of.
Your Faith should make you live a life free of Sin.
Like the other man added, you as God for something (according to His will), you also work towards achieving it.

Your Faith will make you face persecutions and temptation because of Christ as time goes on. Your faith should help you overcome.
Read Hebrews 11 again.

I understand you, I answered him based on the angle of his question.
Now back to your response, why do we need to have faith in God, it is basically for us to have someone who is powerful enough to save and care for us. No one believes in God without having the sense of receiving from him, Heb 11 defined faith;"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see". The word "hope" implies belief or expectations that something wish for can or will happen. If no one expect anything from God both physically or spiritually, I see no reason having faith in Him.

WhatsDifficult:
Another question, how will somebody know which teaching is correct?
Upon all the churches that have different explanation, how will someone know the one to believe

The bible says in Jn 8:32 "And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free".
Any messages that contradict the words of salvation or attached any materialistic message of world to get saved is not a true gospel and one need to run.

Finally, study the words of God and meditate on it.

WhatsDifficult:
Even this thing of faith without work I don't really understand
So if I just sit down in my house and hav faith in God but I don't do anything it means my fate is fake or what

Let look at it from this angle, having faith in God means you have something you are expecting from him and God want everyone to make a move before getting what you need from him. Take for instance, praying to pass exam without reading will render the faith dead, likewise praying for healing from sickness without visiting hospital or using necessary medication would render faith dead.
The effort you put in place as a man while expecting things from God is the work you have added to faith.