MILESTONE OF CHRISTIAN JOURNEY

1. Salvation: “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God…For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”(Romans 3:23; 6:23). God of love and mercy knew that we would not be able to find a way of salvation out through our own efforts. As a result, He provided the solution. His love for fallen man made Him draw the plan of salvation. He allowed His Son, Jesus Christ, to suffer and die for us, so that through His suffering and sacrifice we can pass from death to life. “And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21). Therefore, we must Admit that you are a sinner, be willing to repent, believe that Jesus died for your sins, and go to God in prayer, repent and invite Jesus into your life. “But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name” (John 1:12). 2. Supplication: “Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak” (Matthew 26:41). Prayers remain the only key that opens heaven’s doors for abundance of God’s grace and prosperity in our Christian journey on earth (1Thessalonians 5:17; Ephesians 6:18). 3. Separation: “And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you. And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty” (2Corinthians 6:16-18). Just like oil and water cannot mix, so there is separation between believers and unbelievers. The unjust will hate the just; the unrighteous will hate the righteous (James 4:4). 4. Surrender (Submission): “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7). Every believer in Christ need to separate from the worldly system and practices that brings people into captivity. 5. Sanctification: After we are born again, there is still another experience that Christ gave on the Cross, sanctification, and He prayed for that, “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth” (John 17:17). The world cannot have sanctification, but they are to have salvation this second work of grace (1 Thessalonians. 4:3, 7-8; Hebrews 12:14). This sanctification is possible because faithful is He who has called you, He will do it in Jesus Name. 6. Spiritual baptism: “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” (Acts 1:8). The power of Holy Ghost upon you will teach you all things, and will bring to your remembrance the teachings and words of Christ, this is why it is important that you are baptized in the Holy Ghost. Also, this is the power for service in the kingdom of God. 7. Soul-wining: “And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15). We are on earth not just for the temporary gain of life, nor for bread and butter, but many have forgotten that, and do not prepare their soul, nor the soul souls of others for heaven, so they lose it. 8. Stewardship and service: “Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful” (1 Corinthians 4:2). God required faithfulness of true followers of Christ in service. Not only that, they are expected to be models of righteousness to other members of the church. Believers are to exhibit the true virtues of Christianity in their workplace. This is what differentiates us from others in the world.

END TIME WARNING!

“And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved” (Matthew 24:11-13).

Our Lord Jesus Christ foretold the major trends that would precede His return to earth and therefore, counseled all believers to endure to the very end irrespective of life challenges, trials, and persecutions they faced daily. He mentioned was religious imposters who would come in His name to deceive many. The world systems and traditions through Social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, WhatsApp, etc.) are taking over the hearts of many Christians today. But the truly wise child will take to the counsel of the Father through the Scriptures and turn away from their negative influences that engross his heart.

Therefore, stand on the word of God always, be ready to throw away anything that will not allow you to enter heaven when the end comes, and fight the good fight of faith so that you can make it to the end. The day of the Lord is coming nearer than you can ever think of, the love of many friends of Jesus is waxing cold daily, but God does not want it to be so for you. Dear friends, do you take Christ’s warning seriously? Then pray this prayer: Father Lord, grant me abundant grace to love and follow you to the end. Amen!

THE NINE BOOKS

THE EIGHT BOOKS

Do you want to:

* Be a well-rounded Christian

* Refresh the anointing upon your life

* Get answers to some salient and difficult questions?

Then, you need :

AKINBOWALE ISAAC ADEWUMI's paperback books, now available online with Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Lulu Books, Blurb Publishers, Google play, Xlibris Publishers et al.

TITLES:

1. Satanic attacks and the way out

2. Victorious Christian living essentials

3. Prevailing prayers of intercession and supplication guides

4. Satanic attacks and the way out (Revised edition)

5. Principles of Christian marriage and Family life

6. Evangelization and Christian development

7. Winning the Invisible War with Christ

8. Called to be a Soldier.

***Give yourself & others a blessed Christian development prepared for Christ’s coming!***

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FOUR STEPS TO SALVATION

1. Admit that you are a sinner; all human beings born into this world are sinners through the fall of Adam. Romans 3:23 says, “For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God” As a result, “The wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Romans 6:23).

2. Repent now. Acts 3:19 says, “Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord”. And 1 John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness”.

3. Believe that God loves and that Jesus died for you. Romans 5:8 say, “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us”.

4. Invite Jesus into your life through the prayer of faith. Revelation 3:20: “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.”

Pray thus:

Father, I have sinned against Heaven and before you, please have mercy and forgive me of all my sins and let the Blood of Jesus wash me and cleanse me from all sins, I confess that Jesus is the true Son of God. Lord Jesus, I accept you today as my Lord and personal Savior. Please come into my life, reign and save my soul from bondage of sin and f rom eternal damnation. Let the power to ‘go and sin no more’ come into my life from today. Thank you, Lord for the answered prayers, in Jesus’ mighty name I pray, Amen!

WE SHALL OVERCOME

“Their Redeemer is strong; the LORD of hosts is his name: he shall thoroughly plead their cause, that he may give rest to the land, and disquiet the inhabitants of Babylon” (Jeremiah 50:34 - KJV) God shall thoroughly plead our cause and deliver us from:

The Spirit of Judas Iscariot (spirit of betrayal).The Spirit of Herod (a killer of visionaries and missionaries).

The Spirit of Evil Contractors/Balaam hired to kill the innocent for selfish purpose).

The spirit of Absalom (hidden agendas, evil and lustful eyes, hidden strategies and hidden alliances) that wants to steal your blessings and destroy destiny.

The Spirit of Envy and jealousy (comparism, bitterness, hatred, division, rejection, accusation and murder)

The Spirit of Saul (Rebelliousness, Stubbornness, Disobedience and Witchcraft).

The spirit of Sanballat and Tobiah (secret hatred to hinder you from performing God’s work).

The Spirit of Marah (bitter situation of life).

The spirit of Pharaoh (spirit of pride, rebellious, oppression, and domination).

The spirit of Kadesh-Berna (Wilderness experience in life).

The spirit of Goliath (entity that threatening your life, peace, harassing you and intimidating).

The spirit of Nebuchadnezzar (the spirit that want you to bow down and worship a strange god or compromise your faith).

The Spirit of Pisgah (spirit that causes one to fail at the edge of breakthroughs).

The spirit of lying, seduction and manipulation (Controlling spirit of Jezebel in the church and family etc.).

When you are faced with any of this spirit of the devil, it brings about delay, stagnation, sickness, slow progress and sometimes untimely death. But for you the Lord your God will fight for you if you trust Him the more, do not give up! Look up to Him in prayers!! Never look down and succumb to your challenges!!! God is ever faithful and will surely fight for you as you trust Him in every situation.

Yours is the victory in Jesus mighty name! Now hear what God is saying to you today…” The Lord our God spake unto us in Horeb, saying, Ye have dwelt long enough in this (problem) mount” (Deuteronomy 1:6 KJV); therefore, that god that has not created you shall He (the Almighty God) subdued for you under your feet by His power. AMEN! !! !!!

THE RAPTURE OF THE SAINTS

“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also…For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord” ( John 14:1-3; 1Thesalonnians 4:16-17). The rapture is the greatest event that the church has been waiting for. It is the catching away of all saints in Christ to meet the Lord in the air. Christ, at the end of His first advent, was in in like manner taken up in the air to go and prepare a place for His own. The promise made by God when Jesus was going back to heaven was that He will return in like manner to receive His ‘Bride’ to be with Him forever.

There’s difference between the rapture and the second coming of Christ. At rapture, our Lord Jesus Christ will appear in the air. He will not be visible to the inhabitant of the earth. His goals then will be to resurrect all the dead saints, and the living believers, will put on immortality and shall be caught up to be with the Lord (1 Corinthians 15:53-55). Rapture event will take place in the twinkling of an ‘eye’ before the great and terrible day of the Lord, when the wrath of God will be poured down from the His cup of indignation without mixture – an event fitly called the Great Tribulation. The time of the rapture is unknown, even by the angels (Matthew 24:36). The rapture will be heralded by the voice of the Archangel and the blowing of the trumpet signaling the end of the church age (1 Thessalonians 4:13-15). The rapture was a mystery to the Old Testament saints and prophets. In the Old Testament, rapture was illustrated in Enoch and Elijah, the two living saints who did not taste death but were translated in a moment of time and caught up in the air (Genesis 5:24; 2Kings 2:11-12). Second, it was clarified in Christ in the New Testament. He died, was buried, and resurrected. While He talked with His disciples on Mount Olivet, He was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight (Acts 1:9-11).

God of mercy interrupted His program for Israel with the interpolation of Church age. Christ the Messiah came for the people of Israel, but they rejected Him (John 1:11), and God turned to the Gentles to take a people for Himself. The rapture will mark the end of this special period of grace. After the rapture, God will resume His program with Israel, thus ushering in the beginning of the Seventieth week in Daniel’s prophecy (Daniel 9:24-27). Christ, answering a pertinent question asked by His disciples on “… what shall be the sign thy coming …” (Matthew 24:3),gave in details what would be happening on earth shortly before His coming (Matthew 24:5-12, 30-39). He highlighted the following as what to expect:

Many false Christ’s will arise to deceive many unsuspecting believers. There will be wars and rumors of war, there will be international wars, famines (global recession), pestilences, and earthquakes in divers’ places. There will be severe persecution of true believers in Christ and some cases of martyrdom. The emergence of many false prophets, backsliding from the faith on the increase, and many people given to pleasure and merry making than those seeking the Lord.

To qualify for the rapture, one must be born again, live a transparent holy life, walk in the light, do service for God, watch daily, pray always with all prayers, and maintain these experiences at the time of the rapture or at the time of death as the case may be. But the sinning church members will not be able to go at the rapture, though saved before and baptized in water. Careless preachers will miss the rapture; it does not matter what Christian work they may have done in the past. All such people together with backsliders and sinners outside the church will be left behind to face the great tribulation.

VICTORY OVER TEMPTATION

“Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death. Do not err, my beloved brethren” (James 1:13-16). Temptation is common to all human beings on the surface of earth, most especially those who love to do God’s will. There are those who attribute their weakness as the fault of others or even blaming God for falling into temptation. This reveals the ignorant of men on the source and process of temptation and generally too proud to accept the workings of the lust and evil desires in themselves.

Ignorance and pride push men so far to the place where they accuse God as the tempter, as the one enticing or soliciting them to do evil. God is neither the direct nor the remote cause of our temptation, sin, and damnation. He who sent His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, to save us from sin, how can He tempt us or lead to sin that He wants to save and keep us from? Satan is the great accuser of God and man. He is ever at his wicked business of telling us that God does not love us, that God is the one that tempting us, wanting us to fall, rejoicing at our fall and having delight in our death and damnation. It is very important for us to know that “the Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9). Ans Satan is a liar (John 8:44), only those who accept his and permit his deception to take root in their hearts accuse of being the cause of their temptations, sin and evil. Who tempts us? Why are we tempted? What gives temptation so much strength to overcome some people? What provision has God made for us to overcome temptation? The Scriptures answer these and many other questions.

God is a holy God: He never entices us to do evil. His whole plan of redemption was designed to destroy sin and make us holy. “Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy” (1 Peter 1:16). If God expect us to be holy, how then can he encourage or entice any of His creatures to sin? That would be a violation of the purpose for which He gave His only begotten Son. God is holy, pure and perfect. He is not an agency of temptation. Evil of any type has no place in Him. He has no delight in making anyone to do evil. Evil or sin can never be an act of God.

As Adam and Eve shifted blame for their sin, so many today blame God for their temptation and sin. God cannot be a promoter of what is opposed to His holy nature.However, Satan brings temptation. “For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness All these evil things come from within, and defile the man” (Mark 7:21-23). Satan, demons, men and circumstances may conspire together to tempt man, yet what causes him to yield and fall is within him. When man is tempted, draw away of his own lust, lure into trap – is a hunting term.” Enticed” is a fishing term. The destructive hook is hidden or covered by the desired bait. An appeal is made to the passion and consuming desired which is peculiar to the individual. “His own lust” pulls him into the trap. “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; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting “(Galatians 6:7-8).

It is incredibly significant to know that temptation itself is not a sin but yielding to temptation is a sin. Our Lord Jesus Christ was tempted, yet without sin (Matthew 4:1-11). This implies that God provides the strength, grace and power to overcome. The book of James 1:17 says, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning”. God is always good and gracious; and does not change. As every good gift is from Him, so particularly our regeneration (the miracle of our new birth in Christ) and all the happy consequences of it are from Him. “These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the firstfruits unto God and to the Lamb” (Revelation 14:4).

Therefore, we owe the beginning, the strength and the consummation of our spiritual life to God. He accomplishes the new birth and all our spiritual victory by the instrumentality of the word of truth, as we daily study it meditatively and obey. Remember that our Lord Jesus Christ used the weapon, “it is written” when Satan tempted Him. The same sword of the Spirit is at our disposal to use against all the wiles of the devil. Being born again, we become “a kind of first fruits of His creatures”. And “blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him” (James1:12). May God give us the grace to endure and overcome every temptation that comes on our ways.

CHRISTIAN PERSECUTION AND TRIAL OF FAITH

“Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you” (Matthew 5:10-12). A Christian is someone who surrender absolutely to God through repentance “toward God, and faith toward Jesus Christ our and Savior”. Such is seeking to follow Jesus in everything. One of the experiences that meet every true Christian before he has gone far in the Christian life is persecution. Again, “all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution (2 Timothy 3:12). Coupled with this is the trial of our faith. However, there is no trial or persecution that will come to us that we will be too great for us to bear (1 Corinthians 10:13). So then, in all things, we are more than conqueror through Him that strengthens us..

Believers suffer persecution because of their Christian convictions. All categories of believers suffer one form of persecution or the other at different stages of their Christian life. Persecution is the common experience of all believers. When it first appeared in the family of Adam, Cain slew Abel. Why? “because his own works were evil, and his brother’s righteous (1 John 3:12). When it appeared in the family of Abraham, Ishmael, born after the flesh, persecuted Isaac, born after the spirit (Galatians 4:29)..

Joseph was hated and sold to slavery by his brethren for relating his God given dream. Moses was ridiculed by some of the people as he led Israel under God’s guidance through the wilderness. David was greatly persecuted by king Saul. Some of the saints of old were cut into two with carpenter’s iron saw (Hebrews 11:37). Jeremiah, Elijah, Elisha and other prophets suffered for supporting the sceptre of righteousness as did Shadrack, Meshack, Abednego and Daniel for their Christian stand in worshipping the only true God. The Lord Jesus was vehemently persecuted by the religionists of His day; who would have thought that Jesus Christ could be persecuted with all he did for humanity! The early church believers suffered persecution in the hands the religious Jews and through the pagan gentiles wherever they preached the gospel. They were arrested, tortured, jailed and sometimes martyred for speaking in the name of the Lord Jesus. Paul the apostle went through the similar experiences after his conversion. “And after that many days were fulfilled; the Jews took counsel to kill him: But their laying await was known of Saul. And they watched the gates day and night to kill him. Then the disciples took him by night and let him down by the wall in a basket” (Acts 9:23-25). The apostolic and church fathers suffered untold persecution..

The religion people hated and still hates anyone who walks contrary to the “traditions” of the elders. The compromiser can easily be accommodated and tolerated. But let a break away from traditions and stand for the truth, then the world will rage…. It is obvious that God does not persecute His children. So where does persecution come from? Persecution often come from those who disagree with God’s plan. “For ye, brethren, became followers of the churches of God which in Judaea are in Christ Jesus: for ye also have suffered like things of your own countrymen, even as they have of the Jews: Who both killed the Lord Jesus, and their own prophets, and have persecuted us; and they please not God, and are contrary to all men: Forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they might be saved, to fill up their sins alway: for the wrath is come upon them to the uttermost” (1 Thessalonians 2:14-16). Persecution always come from the children of the devil; and sometimes from believers who allow themselves to be used by the devil.

Persecution may take various forms like slanders, being hated, reviled, abused, and insulted, having one’s promotion withheld or one’s entitlements seized by one’s parents, being denied jobs that one is qualified for etc. Please note that being jobless because of laziness or unfaithfulness, being punished because of lawlessness, etc. are not to be regarded part of the believer’s persecution (Please read Romans 13:1-7; 1 Corinthians 11:22-30)..

True believers must maintain love, peace, joy, and faith during persecution. The fruit of the spirit should be conspicuously manifested in the believer’s life every moment all through his life. Holding on to your integrity and faith will bring the victory. Be ever conscious of the eternal weight of glory that awaits us in heaven..

“Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him” (James 1:12). Overcoming persecution will obviously strengthen our faith. There is great heavenly reward for us as we endure. We shall be rewarded for every pain and suffering we passed through for Christ’s sake. The overcomers will reign with Christ in glory.

THE GOSPEL LANDMARK

“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works” ( 2Timothy 3:16-17). Bible doctrines to the church are like what a foundation is to the erected building. It is the canon of faith on which a believer’s faith is firmly hold. A building with a weak foundation is likely to collapse under intense unfavorable weather and environmental conditions while a building with a solid foundation would weather through every storm (Mathew 7:24-27).

However, a believer’s steadfastness and stability in the Lord is dependent on a firm grasp of the truth revealed in the Bible. Whereas lack of knowledge of the fundamental truth leads to backsliding and destruction as stated in the book of Hosea 4:6. Likewise, Second Timothy 2:15 admonished every believer to “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth”. In a world of deceit and error which is engineered by Satan and his cohorts (John 4:44), a better needs to be well grounded in the truth in order to defeat every lie of Satan if He is to remain in faith..

The early believers perfectly understood the need to be grounded in the Bible doctrines of the truth. All believers without exception engaged in spiritual activities of the that built up their Christians characters and convictions. They study the Bible, prayed and celebrated the Lord’s supper (Acts 2:41-47). It should be observed that the study of bible doctrines took a place of pre-eminence in their life and ministry..

These spirit-directed programs of the church led to the phenomenal growth of the early church. With exception of this, it brought about boldness of faith, steadfastness of conviction, and growth to the extent that the whole of Jerusalem was filled with Christ’s doctrine of Jesus Christ. “Saying, did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us” (Acts 5:28).Not only that, Paul understood the uniqueness of Bible doctrines to Christian maturity; Hence, he counselled the Ephesians church that spiritual gifts were given them in order to teach doctrines of the Bible that would bring about Christian perfection (Ephesians 4:11-14). He told Timothy his son in the Lord was, “take heed unto the doctrine, continue in them; for in doing this thou shall both save thyself and them that hear thee” (1 Timothy 4:16). He also advised Titus who was left in Crete to set things in order there and hold fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers (Titus 1:9)..

As believers, workers, leaders, preachers/pastors, missionaries, and leaders like Paul, Timothy and Titus, our steadfastness to the end is dependent of on the understanding of the doctrines. Also, the salvation of the church members depends on the understanding of the doctrines. A thorough understanding of the doctrines then is essential to every believer in the church. The strength or weakness of the church depends on the member’s understanding of the doctrines (John 5:39; Colossians 3:16)..

The Bible clearly teaches on Repentance, Holy living, Heaven and hell, and the second coming of the Lord, among others. These Bible doctrines revealed treasures that a Christian cannot do without. The reason and hope of our faith are embedded in these doctrines (1 Peter 3:15). Every believer today, old and young needs to benefits from the doctrine. This can only come through in-depth studies and prayerfully imbibing its teaching and practicing. Neglect of Bible doctrines and the pursuit of superficiality have done in-calculable damage to the church in our generation. Significance on activities with the attendant and neglect of God’s word has ruined many lives. This ruinous effect has manifested in superficial Christian living, incessant backsliding, worldliness, lukewarmness, and entertainment of false doctrine..

We are in perilous times (2 Timothy 3:1-5), and to be able to hold our heads above waters for sustenance, it is imperative that we must earnestly contend for the faith. Believers (spiritual solders) are constantly on the battlefield and we must take it by force by doing violence with Satan and his hosts before we can have entrance into heaven (Matthew 11:12). Our chief weapon of warfare is the truth, which is embedded in the doctrines of the bible. Knowing the truth, we make us free from the lies of Satan and guarantee us true freedom (John 8:32). In order to counteract the devil’s strategies, we need to dig deep into the doctrines of the holy Bible.

The mission of the church as light to the world (Matthew 5:16) is only achievable with a grasp of the fundamental truth. A church that is ignorant of the fundamental truth cannot teach the world as the blind cannot lead the blind. Yet the mission of the church is clearly stated in (Matthew 28:19-20). The church is to evangelize the world and teach the world. The responsibility of this falls on individual believers within the fold today. It is the aggregate that makes the whole and without a well-informed congregation, the church would be unable to fulfill this goal. Knowledge of the fundamental truth greatly helped the early church to fulfill its mission. The early church was able to establish new converts in the faith, challenge the errors of the Pharisees and Sadducees and go through the persecution of adversaries..

The time has come to accomplish Christ’s mission to the world but the battle for the truth can only be fought by the enlightened believers. We as individuals’ members of the church ought to arise today and fill the gaps left by the saints of old. Lastly, Jesus said, “Occupy till I come” (Luke 19:13).It is our sole responsibility to spread the gospel of Christ to every creature, and obedience to this call bring the blessings.

HIS DWELLING PLACE

JOIN THIS CHARIOT

“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen” (Matthew 28:19-20). The need for every believer to reach out to the sinning relations, friends and neighbors cannot be over emphasized. The call of our Lord Jesus Christ is still biding on every believer today as a command, “And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature” Mark 16:15). It is divine command which is compelling for every Christian without an exception. This assignment become easier when Christian reach out to their friends and peers who are not born again. Yes, Jesus as given us a mandate.

The exploits of converted saints of old like Joseph, Esther, prophets and apostles should be a challenge to us all, they stood out for God in their own generations. Furthermore, the age in which we are today demand that we should wake up to the holy calling of God and save our generation from destructions and evils around them through the gospel of Christ. If you are saved, you cannot afford to sit on the fence when millions of souls are going into a Christ-less eternity. The prevalence of false prophets and apostles who deceive and close the doors of the heart of the sinning people and the ever increasing vices such as drug addiction, thefts, brazen immorality, cultism and many others should arouse the sympathy of every believing Christian to join the chariot of mass evangelization. Be wise, the scriptures say “…He that winneth souls is wise” (Proverbs 11:30).

In spite of the need and urgency to reach out to the sinning world, God cannot use sinners. God cannot work or entrust the divine command of evangelism to sinners. “Can two walk together except they be agreed” (Amos 3:3). The Bible makes it clear that, “the sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord” (Proverbs 15:18). The moment you are born again, you are called to join in this great commission. You do not have to wait until you know every verse of the scripture. The Holy Spirit is able use the little you have known to bring sinners into repentance. When God called the Philip to join himself to the chariot, he did not delay. “Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot. And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest?” (Acts 8:28-29). In similar way, every believer should not delay answering this call because time is short.

It is the Lord’s desire to see that we are winning souls for His kingdom from time to time. To be a successful soul winner, we need to equip ourselves with the word of God after salvation. In addition, the life of a soulwinner should be pure and transparent. Such a person should be freed from shame and reproach otherwise., it will be a hinderance to the gospel. To live unblameably always, you need the sanctification experience. Holy Ghost baptism is also paramount for one to do exploit in the area of evangelism. All these Christian experiences are available for those who will earnestly desire and pray for it. Furthermore, a soul winner must pray for compassion for the perishing souls and passion for evangelism. There should be fervent prayer before and after witnessing to sinners. Prayer is a spiritual weapon with which we dislodge and defeat Satan’s hold on the lives of the sinners.

Various method of evangelism abounds. Direct preaching of the word of God alone or in the company of others as opportunities come or by creating the opportunities. Inviting friends and relations to church meetings and programs can work wonders in their lives. One can also send tracts and writer letters to unsaved friend. Buses and other means of transportation are also place where effective preaching can be done. In addition, phone calls, text messages, and other social media platform like Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, etc. could be used as means of winning souls. The message must be Jesus the Savior of the whole world and not the church. “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved…That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved” (Acts 4:12; Romans 10:9). At the end of the message, the sinner must be led to make decision to follow the Lord as Phillip did to the Ethiopia Eunuch.

For every believer who will join the chariot of soul winning, there are rewards here for them on earth and crown awaiting them in eternity. Soul winning ensures self-preservation in God’s kingdom. “Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee” (1 Timothy 4:16). Soulwinners are special in God’s sight because they witness often and pray often which make the possibility of backsliding very remote. Their prayers receive quick answers and attention from the Savior. Apart from all these, there will be stars on their crowns on the last day.

THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT IN NEW CREATURES

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit…For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth” (Galatians 5:22-25; Ephesians 5:9). The Lord is concerned about the life and character of every believer. There is a great different between the work of the flesh and the fruit of the Spirit.

Works are produced by human energy; why fruit is grown as a branch abides in the vine. The Christ likes qualities or virtues seen in new creatures are referred to in the bible as the fruit of the Spirit. God is glorified when the believer brings forth fruits. He derives joy and happiness in seeing Christ’s life in His Children. Fruit bearing is a mark of true discipleship. “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another” (John 13:35). Believers are known by the kind of fruit they bear; Love tops the list which means there is a single fruit of the spirit -Love, is the very basic essential life of the living Christ which expresses itself in all the nine fruits listed in Galatians 5:22-23, the other eight are anchored in Love. The single-minded lifestyle called “The fruit of the Spirit”. This produced in God’s children as they allow the spirit to direct and influence their lives and work in the fellowship with God. Christ commends fruit bearing Christians and condemns the fruitless ones. The branch that does not abide in the true vine cannot bear fruit, such is cast forth, withered, branch cast into the fire and burnt (John 15:1-7).

A Christian who does not bring forth the fruit of the fruit is rejected, while the fruit bearings are replenished to bring forth more fruit. The bearing of the fruit of the fruit is conditioned upon the possession of the salvation experience. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing” (John 15:4-5). In addition to this, Apostle Peter counselled, “And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 1:5-8). The fruit of the Spirit is the product of the Spirit. It is a gift from God the true vine.

A real living relationship and union with Christ is the only condition and qualification for fruit bearing. Church membership, tithing, good morals and water baptism are good, nut not good enough to qualify anyone for heaven or to bear the fruit of the Spirit; the bible declares: “All our righteousness are as filthy rags”. And Jesus said “Abide in me for without me ye can do nothing”. Have you be struggling to live a holy life., making resolution every time, yet living a defeat life, today you can make up your mind to come to Jesus the source of life and the gate into fruitful life. As you keep contact with Jesus and fellowship with people of like precious faith, your life will never remain the same. Have you been depending on the energy of the flesh? Today I tell you the grace of God is available for you. Abide in Christ constantly that is the secret of fruit bearing.

Meekness: The meek is gentle, plain, flexible but firm and frank. The meek is submissive, quiet, kind, soft and patience especially with the weak (Matthew 11:29).

Temperance: This is referred to as self-control, moderation or self -restraint. Temperance is the outward sign of a well-discipline life. It means bringing the total man (body, spirit, and soul); control.

Love (Charity): A caring for and seeking the highest good of another person without motive of personal gain.

Joy: The feelings of gladness based on the love, grave, blessing, promises and nearness of God that belong to those who believe in Christ.

Peace: Peace is the selfless, self-giving, self-loosing, self-sacrifice love that in manifest in spite of all adverse of life; Jesus the Prince of peace is the source of peace, it is calm in crisis, untroubled in trial and determined in disaster. “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7).

Longsuffering: This is also referred to as enduring or patience. It is the strong ability of selfless love to bear all things and continue in adverse situations. It is a ungrudging willingness to understand an unwelcome difficult people disturbing events situation that God allows to come your way (Hebrew 12:2). The benefits of longsuffering are disciple, development and direction.

Gentleness: It is the fruit that comes from the life that has received God’s abundant grace.

A Christian whose life reflects goodness is one with noble purpose, strong character, reliable conduct and trustworthy lifestyle. He is good, gracious and generous, always in the business of making others happy (Acts 10:38).

Faith: (Hebrew 11:6), faith is our basis for belief. It is the divinely implanted principle of inward and whole-hearted confidence, trust and reliance in God and His word. The Christian who is full of faith loves to the point of trusting and yielding himself faithfully to the service of other follow men, and the church. There will be no demonstration of God’s love where there is no faith.

FAITHFULNESS IN GOD’S SERVICE

He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much. If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man's, who shall give you that which is your own…Moreover, it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful” (Luke 16:10-12; 1 Corinthians 4:2). Fingers are not equal. It is not a mistake, that is exactly how God created them. But each function in its own capacity faithfully doing its own part.

There are diversities of spiritual gifts and ministries in the household of faith. The Spirit of the Lord writing through Apostle Paul said, “For the body is not one member, but many…But now hath God set the members everyone of them in the body, as it hath pleased Him” (1 Corinthians 12:14-18). Whatever work you are doing for the Lord, whether small or great, the Lord expects you to be faithful.

Faithfulness, even when the duty does not suit your fancy or rhyme with your social status or spiritual standing faithfulness is all the Lord requires of you. For the Lord won’t accept any excuse for failure (Matthew 25:24-27,30).There is a clarion call for faithful, committed and dependable ministers in God’s vineyard. God is daily searching for men and women, young and old who are ready to serve Him selflessly, committedly, and faithfully. Unfortunately, many of those who take up appointments in God’s house are only after material or financial benefits they could acquire by serving the Master. But a faithful servant does whatever his hands find to do with all his might, knowledge and wisdom (Ecclesiastes 9:10). He does not tolerate sin, seek self-glory or reward from men. He is undeterred by affliction, persecution, want and initial failure. He holds fast that which the Lord has given him and labor on in hope.   He daily trims his lamp of service with the oil of faith, purified his heart of all doubts and ensures that his hands are continually on the plough (Luke 9:62). Jesus Christ our perfect example in all things. As servants in his service, we are called to follow His steps. “Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers” (Titus 1:9).

Christ was faithful to the Father who sent Him, and He remained faithful to the end. Faithfulness glues the believer to his duty post. It moves him to do the task assigned to him rain or sunshine. Faithfulness is tenacity of conviction and commitment to purpose and practice. The faithful does not waver, cringe or recant. He remains unmovable in his conviction, firm in his confession and fixed in his commitment and consecration. He is ready to die at his duty post.The reason why many ministers fail in their service to God is lack of faithfulness. Those who doubt the power of God or unwilling to pay the price but rather look for help in Egypt using diabolical powers to deceive the unguided flock yest saying. “Thus saith the Lord” when the Lord has not spoken, are unfaithful.

If your convictions, commitment and consecration change with time and tide of prosperity and popularity, you are unfaithful. Whatever work you are doing for the Lord, whether small or great, recognized, or otherwise, it is faithfulness that God requires. Therefore, God expects you to be faithful. To do this, do the following:Magnify your office and put your best into it (Romans 11:13). Discharge your duties with a high sense of responsibility (2 Corinthians 2:16). Be bold, uncompromising, forthright and unsparing in the denunciation of evil and declaration of the truth (Acts 4:13; Titus 1:13).Adhere to the word of God who has called you (2 Corinthians 4:2). Live a challenging true Christian life (Matthew 5:16; Titus 2:8). Be determined to please the Lord , not surrendering to people’s whim and praise.“Therefore,my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58). The work you do for the Lord, the office or position you hold in your church might not have a big name or great title attached to it, yet you need to be faithful, loyal, committed, and selfless in discharging your duties because your work shall be rewarded. “Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest” (Ecclesiastes 9:10).

Faithfulness in a little office brings promotion to bigger office. If you are a faithful soul winner today, tomorrow, God will make you a dynamic preacher or evangelist. Whatever lowly position you think occupy today, if you would be faithful, higher position than you would ever dream of awaits you tomorrow. As in the case of David ( 1 Samuel 16:11), you might be the youngest and unrecognized but if you are faithful in little, God will bring you to the limelight for greater honor and service. Remember Joshua’s appointment after Moses’ death and Elisha’s appointment after Elisha’s appointment after Elijah’s transition. You should, however, avoid murmuring, bitterness and complaint which fill the service of some. These will block your chances of promotion to something higher and greater. Therefore, be faithful. Faithfulness will earn you favor of God and His untold blessings here on earth and in the life eternal.

PRAYER LIFE FOR REVIVAL AND EXPLOITS

”But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly… we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word” (Matthew 6:6; Acts 6:4). Revival and exploit are the desire of every believer, but these cannot be achieved unless there is an effective and growing prayer life. Prayer life translates to the closet life of a believer. Prayer life is the pillar of personal spirituality and public service. A believer in the first instance a private Christian, his closet is his armory from where he obtains arsenal of weapons to ensure daily victory in life’s battles.The prayer and closet life approximate or affect a believer’s:

Worth: A believer is what he is on his knees that he is and no more. The influence we yield for God’s glory, men’s good and hell’s devastation is diversely proportional to our prayer life. Walk: life can never be better than the quality of prayer life.Winsome: you are as pure as you are, prayerful souls dwell in the holy atmosphere of the father’s presence, hence they are kept sweet, holy and pure.

Warfare: prayer is the determinant of life’s warfare to pray is to prevail.Witnessing: a believer’s prayers give wings, power, pungency, and penetrating might to his preaching.In summary, the time of a believer strength, sensitivity, spirituality, and solemnity his is prayer life.Revival and exploit cannot come by mere wishing; they must be brought down by strong prayers. That is what was done by the saints of old.Abraham set up early in the morning (Genesis 19:27), Job rose early in the morning (Job 1:5), David prayed in the morning,noon and evening (Psalm 55:17), Daniel kneel upon his knees three times a day.(Daniel 6:10), Apostles gave themselves to prayers (Acts 6:4), Paul prayed night and days (1 Thessalonians 3:10), and Epaphras labored fervently in prayers (Colossians 4:12). No wonder the saints of old had revival and did exploit in their times. We should also rise and resolve to give ourselves continually to prayers.We learn to pray by praying and we grow in prayers by praying. We must be committed to:Periods of prayer: Sacred, sanctified hours for effectual fervent prayers. “Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer,being the ninth hour” (Acts 3:1).Place(s) of prayer: severe,tranquil or quiet place to facilitate deep concentration and devotion in communion (Genesis 19:27).Partner(s) in prayer: seriously and serially prayer with devout saints who are prayerful. “Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven”.

(Matthew 18:19).Prohibition of possible distractions: simply delegate and supervise all tasks so as to concentrate on all important duty of prayers.There is no doubt; a believer who prays will surely have success in life and ministry. Join the band of believers to pray for this latter time harvest of souls into God’s kingdom.There is personal and corporate success through prayer. Patriarchs and Prophets of Old Testament experience stupendous achievement in life and ministry through prayer. In the New Testament Apostles, evangelists, pastors, and teachers accomplished supernatural feats through prayer. The church prayed for the release of Peter, the work of the ministry expanded as the leadership determined to give themselves continually to prayers among other things. Paul enjoined the Romans Christians to strive together in prayer for him (Romans 15:30-32).

When in 1890 Albert Simpson, the author of Jesus only is our message, challenges his congregation to prayer pledge. It was said that the alliance people were not fulfilling the task for which they were organized. Contribution were meager and missionary candidates few. But in 1891, after the church had signed to a prayer of pledge, the floodgates of contributions and consecrations were opened. At the end of the year, the alliance had 100 missionaries, and had received funds for their transportation and support. In less than 10 years over 350 missionaries had been sent abroad and the churches multiplied throughout North America. What a challenge on what a praying congregation and praying Christians could achieve!

THE CHRISTIAN STANDARD IN A CORRUPT WORLD

Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you. And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty” (2 Corinthians 6:14-18).

The new birth experience is the greatest of all miracles, the greatest thing that can happen to a man. By it we are reconciled to God. The Lord Jesus Christ, the Savior and Master of our lives is our standard. We are called to follow His manner of life, uphold His ministry of love, listen to His message of life and light, copy His model of loyalty,follow His method of laboring in the kingdom, take Him and look unto Him as the author and the finisher of our faith, and worship Him in meekness and lowliness. But Jesus acknowledge our plight of living in a sinful, corrupt world with its contaminating and corrupting influence when He prayed for His followers in John 17:15-16. Nevertheless, we are to continue steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine till er are raptured to spend eternity with the Lord.The new life is entirely different from the old life because “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17).

In Christ, we no longer live in sin but are dead to and freed from it and live unto God in righteousness.Christ now lives in us and regulates our lives to please Him. Since He can only relate to and have communion with us when there is agreement of compatibility between Him and us (Amos 3:3), He commands us to put on His image (1 Peter 1:15-16). This has been His requirement from time immemorial (Leviticus 11:44). He commanded the children of Israel whom he had adopted as His own to sanctify themselves and be holy, because He is holy. He still maintains this standard and repeats the call today. Having been reconciled to Him, we should “continue in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship” (Acts 2:42) and become partakers of His holiness, putting on Christ. His attributes then begin to manifest in our lives (Galatians 5:22-23). We are to be doers of the word and remain unspotted from the world, we become yielded to Him, doing only His will, avoiding the corrupting influence of the world. If by God’s grace, we are able to live the Christ-like life, God will be well pleased with us.

Believers are to be like Christ in character, conduct and way of life. God gave the warning to all believers. In the book of 1 John 2:15-17, “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth forever”. The world refers to the world order, the characteristics and attitudes of the people of the world in contrast to the dictates of God. Life in this old world is ordered and directed by Satan and his demons (devils) who have blinded people from the light of Jesus. Worldly associations, worldly pleasures, worldly ceremonies worldly dressings (half naked dressings), worldly philosophies, politics and festivities are all initiated and ordained by Satan. These last days are replete with unprecedented pollution and corruption compared with any period in history. Evil has become the modernized, Man’s cup is getting filled to the brim and evil is being celebrated and glorified. The world is drunk with the wine being distributed and served by the prince of the air – the devil, who is the god of this world.

The love of money has sealed up the hearts of many from God’s word. Immorality has become so common that nakedness of some women is on display on the streets and internet. In the world system, men are driven by inordinate ambition, pride and self-exaltation and hunger for power, pleasure, and praise of men, material possession and popularity, although the result contradicts their expectation. Others have taken to alcoholism, polygamy, adultery, and all sorts of pursuits regardless of the stand of the word of God. The modern film industry and television have become the greatest perpetrators of sinful and criminal tendencies in children and older people. Worldly magazines, and books exert influence on the mind and believers are fast becoming receptive to the standard of the world as almost everyone seems to embrace it. But these are the deceptions of the devil and the wayfaring pilgrim must come out and stand clear of them.The only way to be totally free from the corruption and pollution of the world is: To be cleansed by Christ and become identified with Him. This is something real and practical. We need to be totally crucified with Him and to reign with Him without rival in our hearts. Also, we need to set our affections on things above and be heaven-focused at all times (Colossians 3:1-2).

Eschew evil practices and be bold for the Lord like the three Hebrew children and Daniel, and damn the consequences (Daniel 3:16-18). We should be in constant touch with heaven through meditative study of God’s word and prayer. Our prayer should always be “turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity, and quicken thou me in thy way” (Psalm 119:37). The grace of God is sufficient to make us “live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world”. If we conform to the world, how can the gate of heaven open to us when we die, or how can we be caught up with Christ on the day of rapture? We will be left to the antichrist of the great tribulation. This shall not be our portion in Jesus’ name. Who is on the Lord’s side?

CLEAN HANDS AND PURIFIED HEART

Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? Or who shall stand in his holy place? He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully” (Psalm 24:3-4). “Clean hands and purified heart simply imply holiness within and holiness without, that is, holiness in its entirety,and this is the climax of the call of God on all flesh. God will not compromise the demand for holiness under any condition. Holiness is preferred by the holy God above every other thing in the life of man. “For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness” (1 Thessalonians 4:7). The importance of clean hands and pure heart above other things cannot be overemphasized. To walk with God and work for Him creditably here on earth, to be in favor with Him at all times, and to live with Him in eternity all depend on holiness of heart and life. Holiness encompasses all other Christian virtues such as Humility, Obedience, Love, Integrity, Newness, Empathy, Separation and Submission.

There are some people who demonstrate clean hands, manifesting a kind of outward holiness in their public life, but whose hearts are full of bitterness,evil thoughts,hatred, envy, hatred,selfish motives, to mention a few. This is nothing but hypocrisy (Matthew 23:23). Whereas on the other hand, there are some who claim that their hearts are pure even when their visible lives are devoid of godly virtues of love,meekness, kindness, gentleness, longsuffering, temperance, peace, joy and faith. Whatever reason they may present, this is self-deception and delusion. Since the fall, no man is born with clean hands and purified hearts. The Bible says, “Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me…For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Psalm 51:5; Psalm 3:23).

No man can attain God’s divine nature by himself or confer it on another man. “Who can bring a clean thing out of an unclean? not one” (Job 14:4). God in His infinite mercy and love has given great and exceeding precious promises for the systematic accomplishment of this His nature in man,having made appropriate, adequate and perfect provision through the substitutionary suffering and death of His only begotten Son.Right from the beginning of God’s dealing with man, up to date and till eternity,cleanliness and purity of heart stands out preferred and pre-eminent among all others demands of God from men of all races. This is not to condemn or relegate other demands of god from man such as worship, offerings, service, and the likes; but it to say that cleanliness and purity of heart comes first before others before others can be acceptable to God. The absence of cleanliness and purity of heart led to the flooding away of the antediluvian age, despite the fact that men began to call upon the name of the Lord (Genesis 4:26). Only Noah and his household in whom this greatness virtue was found escape the flood. “And the Lord said unto Noah, Come thou and all thy house into the ark; for thee have I seen righteous before me in this generation” (Genesis 7:1).God also called out Abraham from the filthiness and idolatry (Genesis 12:1) and the higher calling unto perfection. “And when Abram was ninety years old and nine,the Lord appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect” (Genesis 17:1). All through God’s dealing with the descendants of Abraham – the Israelites,the paramount thing He was passionately seeking is cleanliness and purity as clearly depicted in the commandments He gave them through Moses their leader (Exodus 20:1-7), Cleanliness and purity of heart was the qualification and mandate of the prophets and kings (Isaiah 52:11; 2 Chronicles 25:2,14-15).Cleanliness and purity of heart formed the conclusion of every message in the New Testament, either those of Christ or of the Apostles (Matthew 5:48; 2 Corinthians 6:14-18; Revelation 21:27 etc.).The implication of the foregoing is that, you may be prayerful, pious, and generous; you may even be known in the Church and be involved in the service and work of God. You may be expert in worship and even be eloquent in preaching, among many other religious activities. If you lack cleanliness and purity of heart, you would be lost forever in the lake of fire (Matthew 7:21-23). What then shall it profit you? Do you want to waste this only one life? Obviously no!

The fallen man completely lost his bearing and was totally incapacitated by the tyrant of the sinful nature. The more he tries, the more increasingly difficult it is for him to fit into God’s expected image. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God” (Romans 8:7-8). As a matter of fact, man’s effort at its best is described as filthy rags (Isaiah 64:6). But God in His infinite love and mercy, not willing that any should perish has made adequate and full provision for the cleansing of man from the filth of sin, and for purging of the heart for purity.Then see what God has for you: “Wherefore Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered without the gate” (Hebrews 13:12; Read Hebrews 9:14, 22).

The Blood - of Jesus Christ which was shed at Calvary for our sins and purging, and the Bible that reveals man’s nature and the need to him with the promises of God. Whatever God has promised, He’s both able and faithful to do. Yet, man is not left without a role to play in the process of purification.A process is involved in turning sinners to saints, vanquished to victors, and carnal men to Christ-like models. It is spiritual process which God undertakes to renew, regenerate, and recondition the heart so as to eject and repel every sinful and carnal inclination, and become God-centered issuing out the fruits of righteousness. But this not every sinful and carnal inclinations, and become God-centered issuing out the fruits of righteousness. But this is not without such a heart coming to God in the due cooperation and submission to Him as the process Maker. When the heart has thus been purified, it manifests in clean hands – obvious holiness and righteousness in all life’s dealings and endeavors.

THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT IN LIFE AND MINISTRY

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith meekness, temperance: against such, there is no law” (Galatians 5:22-23). The fruit of the Spirit is the true nature of Christ, produced by the Spirit of Christ in the lives of Christ’s followers. It takes Christ to be totally established in the believer before Christ-like virtues can be produced in him. The difference between the works of the flesh and the fruit of the Spirit is quite obvious. The flesh produces works; Spirit produces fruit. The works of the flesh are dead the fruit of the Spirit is alive. The one in the flesh, the other is Spirit. Therefore, for anyone to possess and manifest the fruit of the Spirit, he must have left human effort for the indwelling of Christ.

The necessity of conversion in the life of every believer before he/she can be enlisted in the work of the ministry is not negotiable. It is fundamental to His ministry. In the book of Isaiah chapter fifty-two verse eleven, it stated; “ Depart ye, depart ye, go ye out from thence, touch no unclean thing; go ye out of the midst of her; be ye clean, that bear the vessels of the Lord”. Genuine salvation experience is mandatory for any minister of God in particular. Paul’s conversion (in Acts 9:1-9, 21) preceding his ministerial calling and engagement typifies God’s process of engaging anyone in the ministry. One cannot explicitly expound on the experience he does not have practical knowledge of. Penitence, humility, mournful, and sorrowful repentance that leads to genuine salvation, are required from every guilty sinner. Forgiveness is certain and sure from God to every sincere sinner who without delay prays with fervency for his soul’s redemption. “Fruit of the Spirit” will immediately emerge in clear replacement of the works of the flesh in the life of every genuinely saved soul. Any minister that fails to have this experience will fall short of God’s standard of calling and become unfit for ministry as his life will betray his ministration.

The fruit of the Spirit comprising the nine Christian virtues is the evidence of the minister’s experience of the new birth. These nine-fold virtues are bound together and manifested in love which is the central controlling quality required in Christian living and service. The redemptive work is conceived, delivered, and operated in love. Love, therefore, is the totality of the ministry. Every other virtue in the fruit of the spirit revolves around love. Joy is love exulting. Peace is love reposing. Long-suffering is love untiring. Gentleness is love enduring. Goodness is love in action. Faith is love believing. Meekness is love under discipline, while Temperance is love in training. Possessing the “fruit of the Spirit” is making heaven out of the ministry here on earth.

For every believer to keep the “fruit of the Spirit” however, he must abide in the Vine and be pruned (John 15:1-8) regularly. He must ensure the unbroken relationship with Christ the fountain of his fruitfulness; He should always allow the Lord to reproof and chasten him when necessary and ensure chastening as a true child of God (Hebrews 12:11). He should ensure unbroken prayer fellowship and devotion. The Bible should constantly and regularly be his companion and guide through constant meaningful study with a willingness to obey. He must distance himself from sin, every appearance of evil and the world, why keeping involved in the work of the Lord without delighting in the bread of idleness. Daily self-examination and prompt correction where necessary will make him reputable, waiting for the Lord.

POWER OF HOLY SPIRIT FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY

In the book of Acts 1:8, the Lord Jesus Christ declared that; “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”. This promise when it was fulfilled on the day Pentecost marked the beginning of wonders in the book of Acts. The advent of the Holy Ghost has always been amazing in all ages. From creation, God’s work has always been done and handled by the power of Holy Spirit. No one has ever been sent to represent God and proclaim His word except by the instrumentality of the Spirit of God. Who can handle the Scriptures effectively without the Spirit of truth who inspired it? Who can change the lives of sinful men, and edify the believers without the help of the Comforter? No wonder the Lord charged and instructed the disciples to wait until they were endued with power from on high. If we are going to live dynamic lives and do enduring pastoral work, we need to be endued with a power that comes from above. Before Christ went to heaven after having given the great commission to His disciples, He charged them not to depart from Jerusalem until they have been endued with power from heaven. “And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high” (Luke 24:49). From this charge, we discover the need and necessity of being baptized with the Holy Ghost before effective and enduring service can take place.

The baptism of the Holy Spirit is like having Christ present with you as he was with the disciples in the days of His flesh. “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you” (John 14:26). It makes a believer a consuming firebrand bringing revival to the lives of others (Matthew 3:11), and others a conserving tanker of the water of life refreshing the life of men (John 7:37-39). It is the anointing that breaks the yokes and brings signs and wonders to follow the ministration of the gospel ministers (Luke 4:18; Acts 10:38). The arrival of the Holy Ghost upon the believer is like having the peaceful dove of heaven resting upon one’s life-giving confidence, boldness, and courage in troubles and trials. It is an experience no Christian leaders and members can do without. “And when the day of Pentecost has fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance” (Acts 2:1-4).

The Holy Ghost came on the day of Pentecost as the Lord promised and baptized the hundred and twenty disciples in the upper room. It was a mighty outpouring of God’s power on human vessels. It was a wonderful experience in the lives of the early church and for all believers today, who desire to tarry in prayer to be baptized with God’s power from high. The Holy Ghost is already here, we are not waiting for Him. He is the one waiting for us to receive Him if we are ready now. To receive Him: Let the love of God be fully shed abroad in your heart exceedingly by the Holy Ghost (Romans 5:5).

Be sure of a genuine experience of salvation and a sanctified heart. Lay your life down on the altar consecrated to the Lord’s service exclusively. Long for the river of living water exceedingly and look for the Comforter expectantly. Labor in prayer and endure like Elijah until you receive Him. Lift your voice in the hope to be immersed exactly as in the day of Pentecost. When the Holy Spirit has come, the initial evidence is speaking in tongues. This will be followed by the manifestation of power in the believer’s life. He is given – powerful anointing to speak against sin like Micah the prophet. “But truly I am full of power by the spirit of the Lord, and of judgment, and of might, to declare unto Jacob his transgression, and to Israel his sin” (Micah 3:8). He also gives prevailing authority to do the miraculous with persuasive persistence, and energized faith to do the impossible (Acts 5:11-15; Acts 6:8). There is prayer ability beyond the ordinary “Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered” (Romans 8:26).

The Spirit of the living God gives perceptive insight into hidden things for the benefit of the Church. In addition, the Holy Ghost gives passion unquenchable for souls and zeal for the gospel work (Colossians 4:12-13).The arrival of the Holy Ghost gave birth to the New Testament Church in the Acts of the Apostles. The difference is very clear and the clearness is due to the anointing upon the Apostle who led the church. When church leaders are under the anointing of Holy Ghost, the following will be the event: Consistent conversion of souls into the kingdom (Acts 5:14); Constant conservation of converts and the newcomers (Acts 2:41); Correct Christian living in the church; Conforming church members (1 Thessalonians 1:5-7); Comforting counseling that strengthens members; Commissioned Christian witnessing by life and word (Acts 8:4). Above all, the church will be prepared and living in expectation of the Lord’s second coming.

THE BROAD WAY AND THE NARROW WAY

“Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction,and many there be which go in thereat:Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it” (Matthew 7:13-14). Our Lord Jesus Christ’s mission on earth was to give His life and shed His blood for our salvation. His desire and sacrifice was not only to make men religious but to possess the righteousness of God. He was then committed to show men the true way back to God and eternal life heaven. Before he came, many religious leaders were misleading men, professing to them the way to heaven but they were blind leaders of the blind, not knowing the way to the heavenly city; they made men twofold children of hell than themselves. The reason why Jesus said, “Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch” (Matthew 15:14).Just like the time of Christ, there are many religious leaders today that keep deceiving people, and they “called evil good and good evil; put darkness for light and light for darkness”. (Isaiah 5:20).Calling on all who desire entire life and heaven today, Christ now says, “Enter ye in at the strait (narrow) gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it” (Matthew 7:13-14).

The gate of the natural birth through which the whole humanity came into this world doesn’t lead to eternal life. Every one that desire eternal life must repent and believe in Christ through genuine salvation and get transformed, enter through the straight gate and walk in the narrow way of consistent obedience in order to be part of Christ’s kingdom. As in the days of Noah and Lot, few will escape judgement because only few go through the strait and walk consistently in the narrow way that seems unpopular to many people. Like the days of old, the Lord is still saying today, “Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able” (Luke 13:24).

A gate serves two purposes; it lets in and shuts out. This gate is only opening for admittance to that “way” which leads to life and all who do not enter by it are eternally locked out from the presence of God and the realm of eternal happiness. You and the sins enjoys from time to time must be parted in order to see God. All sins must be given up completely. You must forsake them all without reservation, hate them with perfect hatred and ask the Lord to give you power to overcome them. The way is very narrow; it’s by abandoning all idols of the heart and the pleasures of sin and the flesh before we can pass through the strait gate that leads to life eternal. Many are called but few are chosen. Only few find the way of life.Only the humble and lowly in hearts who find their way to strait gate were able to repent and mourn for their sins. Such few with meekness of heart could walk in the narrow way. And only those few find life at the end. The broad way is the path of self-will and self-gratification. It is “wide” because it is a downward road. It is popular but deceptive. For those who are working in it, it is “the way which seemeth right unto a man but the end thereof are the ways of death” (Proverbs 14:12).

In the broad way, liberty and freedom are the favorite words, pride and vanity, pleasure and ambition, independence and self-indulgence, covetousness, and love of money, revenge and retaliation,loose talk and indecent dressing, partiality and favoritism, sins of kinds are all indulged in without remorse or sorrow of heart. Those in the broad way justify themselves and paint their sins in bright colors calling them mistakes, faults, weakness, or harmless habits. What further deceives men and women walking in the broad way to destruction is that men of eminence and women of influence, wise men after the flesh, and honorable women, not a few are walking the same broad way with them. If the words of Jesus are true, “broad way is the way that leadeth to destruction” “For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven” Matthew 5:20). Again, “strive to enter in at the strait gate”. To strive means to be earnest, to urgently cut off whatever is tying you down to sin, to deliberately burn the bridge that links you with the world. “And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force” (Matthew 11:120).

Walking in the narrow way means a steady perseverance in faith and obedience to God through the grace of Christ. Walking in the narrow way means that our affection, mind, our will, all our actions and speech will be brought within the scope of God’s word. Those who are walking in the narrow way, have been called out of the world, cleansed by the blood and made new creatures in Christ, they are walking in the light and do not secretly have fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness; they keep themselves unspotted from the world and constantly crucify the flesh with the affections and lusts; they abstain from all appearance of evil, die to carnal desires daily and bury self-will at the foot of the cross; they are willing to suffer the loss of things which will  hinder them from getting to heaven at last. Strive now to enter in. “Arise, call upon thy God”. “It is time to seek the LORD, till He comes, and rain righteousness upon you”. Enter while you may.

JUSTIFICATION BY FAITH

Justification is the act of God’s grace through which one receives forgiveness and remission of sins and is counted righteous before God through faith in the atoning blood of Jesus Christ. Having thus been cleared of every guilt on sin, the regenerated stands before God as though he had never sinned. Now,he’s totally forgiven and the sins forgotten. God looks at the redeemed not on the basis of any personal merit but in the light of what Christ has accomplished for mankind by his substitutionary death on the cross of Calvary."Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law?of works? Nay: but by the law of faith.Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.Is he the God of the Jews only? is he not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also:Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith” (Romans 3:24-30; Please read Romans 4:6-16).

To actualize the benefits of salvation in Christ Jesus, the sinful man should acknowledge his helplessness and hopelessness in this life, and his desperate need of Savior. As he is incapable to provide solution to his problem of sinful nature or change his eternal destiny of damnation (Isaiah 59:8), the need for justification becomes crystal clear. To meet the price of divine justice, due price needed to be paid. Man lacked both the capacity and purity to afford this. It therefore required the sacrifice of the spotless Lamb of God, unstained and without blemish in Himself to pay the necessary ransom with His blood for the expiation of man’s sins. It’s instructive to note that the nature of sins is not such that man could handle on his own or by merit of his good works (Ephesians 2:8-9).

Just as water baptism cannot justify the Gentiles so also is circumcision cannot justify the Jew nor water baptism the Gentiles. And by the standards of God’s righteousness and holiness, full church membership or confirmation does not suffice to justify any one. The faith in the atoning work of Jesus Christ on the Cross of Calvary can assure a repentant soul the full justification through faith by the grace of Jesus.Before justification, sinner had works of the flesh of different category as stated in (Galatians 5:19-21) but as a new creature, he has divine ability to manifest the fruits of the spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Therefore, in the lifestyle, conduct, disposition and speech, the redeemed by Christ’s Blood are more like Him, having been quickened by the Spirit of the living God.

The misleading concept of justification by works, as an article’s of man’s religion, is opposed to justification by faith because it denied the grace of God and dishonors the blood of Jesus Christ. The reference in the General Epistle of (James 2:14-26) may the interpreted amiss by cursory reader of the Scriptures, where it asked. “But wilt thou know o vain man, that faith without work is dead? The basic point being stressed by the Epistle of James is that works as referred to in the scenario are a compliment of justification by faith. Whereas, Paul the Apostle in his Epistle to Romans, chapter four is essentially doctrinal, and the practical is based upon the doctrine, that of James is essential practical, the doctrinal element being purely incidental. Hence, a man is justified by faith without works, in another sense, we see “how by works a man is justified, and not by faith only”. This explained the justification by faith before God, and justification by works before men. Properly understood, none really is mutually exclusive.

OUR REDEMPTION BY CHRIST’S BLOOD

Adam and Eve though still physically in the Garden of Eden after eating the forbidden fruit,were consequently spiritual dead and become alienated from God and from the commonwealth of His kingdom. This verdict they could not set aside which emphasizes the insufficiency of man’s works and personal endeavor in gaining salvation,except he’s born again (John 3:3). It needed a Messiah one qualified, sure and a high integrity to meet the divine standard and thus satisfy God’s imperative judgement.

Christ, therefore become the sin bearer, based on the fact of God’s provision and what the scripture says, “Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood,to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God…And for this cause he is the mediator of the New Testament that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.For where a testament is,there must also of necessity be the death of the testator.For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth” (Romans 3:25; Hebrews 9:15-17). God’s covenant demanded that someone would die in our place. Christ surrendered His life and died for us so that we could ‘receive the promise of eternal inheritance’.

From the time of the fall of the fall of man in the Garden of Eden, it has been practiced repeatedly that an innocent one must bear our guilt of sin and punishment before we could be pardoned from sin and set free. Redemption alone never brought forgiveness;there must be atonement through the blood. The sacrifices with the blood of animals of the Old Covenant were in practiced until Christ came. Jesus came as the final “Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the whole world” His blood cleanses us from all sin. Remissions of sins and the provisions of the New Covenant are now ours through the Blood of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.He has certified the New Covenant with His own Blood, just as the Old Covenant was certified by Moses with the blood of animals. “And without shedding of blood is no remission” (Hebrews 9:22).Although Christ’s atonement on the cross guarantees universal provision of salvation for all mankind, but could be appropriated only on a personal basis, there is yet a needful element for it to vail one through faith in Christ Jesus.

The sinner who seeks salvation must take the necessary step of faith in the blood of Jesus Christ for atonement.We were to face the judgement of God for the sin we had committed. Through faith in Christ, our sins are forgiven and will never be remembered, our hearts are cleansed and we are made righteous. We have passed from judgement unto life. Christ, through His dead and blood has obtained redemption, remission of sins and righteousness for us. Believe in Christ and be made righteous today.

CONSECRATION AND SANCTIFICATION

God is a holy God. He requires that everyone called by His name to be holy. That means, a holy God with His holy children in a holy relationship. O yes, holiness of life is possible. Otherwise, God in His infinite knowledge and mercy would not require it from His children; He also made provisions for every Christian to live a holy life in our personal relationship with each other on the surface of earth. The book of Hebrews 12:14 declared, “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord”. Holiness of sanctification experience is clearly taught in the scriptures, even though many are confused about what Sanctification really means and would not want to bother themselves.

It is a very precious Christian experience, not only to be obtained, but to be kept and maintained for the glory of God. The sanctified life is a shining life here on earth made fit for the glorious abode in heaven. It is the essence and object of God’s calling for us all. “And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it (1Thessalonians 5:23-24).

Also, Our Lord Jesus Christ prayed for the sanctification of the disciples who were already saved and following him in John 17:14-17.

The disciples, though saved, manifested many times the unsanctified attitudes against one another and the people around them. Generally, the character of the saved but unsanctified included desire to have self-honor, enlarged sense of one’s importance, hypersensitivities to injuries, tendency to magnify the fault of others, inordinate affection of one’s desire, will and plans, sullenness and moodiness, instability, self-seeking, excuse making, suspicion etc.However, sanctification is commanded by God. “But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy (1 Peter 1:15-16; read Genesis 17:1; Matthew 4:48).We should be sanctified because God commanded it and Jesus died for it.“Wherefore Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered without the gate” (Hebrews 13:12). And without sanctification, we cannot see God.

To receive the experience, there must be; personal dissatisfaction with self’s unsanctified state, great desire for the sanctification experience, persistent in prayer till the experience is secured, confidence in God’s ability and Christ’s atoning blood to do it, and complete consecration unto God (Romans 12:1-).Sanctification is nothing more or less than perfect love for God and man in a clean heart. If we love God with all our hearts, we will gladly keep His commandments and do all His will as He makes it known unto us.

A sanctified person is is rooted and grounded in love and knit together in love with other believers. Nothing is too precious to offer to the Lord by the sanctified. The sanctified is humble (Philippians 2:3-10), Patient in misunderstanding (Romans 12:12), peaceful during trials, prayerful and meditative (Proverbs 15:8), pitiful to the enemies (Luke 23:34), always blessing people in all sorts of ways without at any time knowing it, does not seek great things for himself, not critical purposeful in mind (Daniel 1:8), perfect in motive does not murmur in adverse conditions, evaluates other people’s action positively (Genesis 45:1-8), share and care without ulterior motive, thinks purely (Philippians 4:8), and is selfless ( 2 Corinthians 12:15).Sanctification experience is like being very healthy. It’s possible to remain healthy despite situations around.

A sanctified believer should abstain from evil and corrupting environment in order to retain his sanctification experience. He should avoid unnecessary care and anxiety, Regular prayer and fasting, deep humility before the Lord, Constant reading and meditation on God’s word, There must e sobriety and watchfulness (Ephesians 4:1-3; Philippians 4:8), self-examination in the light of God’s word (Hebrews 2:1), and absolute trust in God.