[engremejnr]

Yeodi I must confess this your post is indeed compelling and speaks deep truths about the power of giving, using the story of Elisha and the Shunamite woman from 2 Kings 4:8-37 to illustrate key principles. One of the key takeaways from the passage is the importance of revelation, obedience, sacrifice, and faith in the act of giving.

Revelation is the starting point of giving, where we become aware of a need. The Shunamite woman recognized that Elisha was a man of God, and this recognition pushed her to support him. Similarly, we are constantly surrounded by opportunities to give. Some of these needs are visible, but many times, we must discern them through careful observation and sensitivity to God’s leading. This sensitivity, or the “nudge” we feel, is an invitation to engage in the act of giving.

Obedience comes next. Once we receive the nudge or revelation, the choice to respond positively or negatively is entirely ours. The Shunamite woman did not let the size of the need deter her. Instead, she acted immediately, even involving her husband to make sure Elisha had a place to stay. This teaches us that when God prompts us to give, we must not be hindered by our perceived limitations. God can provide the resources, partners, and opportunities necessary to meet any need.

Sacrifice is another principle that highlights the cost of giving. It often requires us to let go of something valuable, but this act of creating room for new opportunities is part of God’s design. Just like the Shunamite woman and her husband had to build a space for Elisha, we may need to stretch ourselves to fulfill God’s vision. Sacrifice is proof of our obedience and trust in God.

Finally, faith ensures that we continue to trust God, even when the results of our giving seem uncertain. The Shunamite woman was eventually rewarded with the gift of a child, demonstrating that God honors obedience and sacrifice. Her faith in God’s provision remained strong, even when her son died, and her persistence was rewarded with his resurrection.

In summary, giving is not just about responding to needs. It is a spiritual discipline rooted in revelation, obedience, sacrifice, and faith. By embracing these principles, we align ourselves with God’s will, and He, in turn, rewards our faithfulness, ensuring that our seed is never lost but rather multiplies for a greater purpose.

[engremejnr]

COURSE CODE: CW – 304 – L
COURSE TITLE: COVENANT OF WEALTH.

QUESTION
Using a case study from the Bible, identify and explain in detail four principles on the power of gving.

ANSWER
PRINCIPLES ON THE POWER OF GIVING

1. Giving Requires Faith and Trust in God’s Provision

The first principle of giving demonstrated by the widow is that true giving requires faith and trust in God’s provision. In 1 Kings 17:12, the widow explains to Elijah that she has only a handful of flour and a little oil left, just enough to prepare a final meal for herself and her son before they die. Despite her desperate situation, Elijah asks her to make a small cake for him first, promising that God will ensure her supply will not run out.

The widow’s act of giving her last bit of food to Elijah was an extraordinary display of faith. She believed in the prophet’s word, trusting that God would provide for her needs. This principle is echoed throughout the Bible—giving often requires us to act in faith, trusting that God will replenish what we give. In 2 Corinthians 9:6-8, Paul teaches that whoever sows sparingly will reap sparingly, but whoever sows generously will reap generously, emphasizing that God is able to provide abundantly so that we may continue to give.

2. Giving Opens the Door to Divine Provision

The second principle is that giving opens the door to God’s provision. After the widow obeyed Elijah’s instruction to give her last resources, a miracle occurred: her jar of flour and jug of oil never ran dry throughout the entire famine (1 Kings 17:15-16). God supernaturally provided for her and her son, ensuring they had enough to survive the drought.

This principle teaches us that when we give, especially in difficult circumstances, it creates an opportunity for God to intervene and provide for our needs. God often uses our giving as a channel through which His blessings flow. In Luke 6:38, Jesus says, “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap.” This scripture illustrates that God’s provision is often triggered by our willingness to give.

3. Giving Benefits the Giver and the Receiver

The third principle is that giving not only benefits the person receiving the gift but also the giver. In the case of the widow, her giving allowed her to receive both physical sustenance and spiritual growth. By choosing to share her limited resources, she experienced God’s provision in a personal and powerful way, which likely strengthened her faith.

This principle is evident in the broader biblical teaching that giving is a form of worship and obedience to God. Proverbs 11:25 says, “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” This reflects the reciprocal nature of giving. When we give generously, not only do we meet the needs of others, but we also open ourselves up to receive blessings in return, whether those blessings are material or spiritual.

4. Giving Demonstrates Selflessness and Compassion

Finally, the story of the widow of Zarephath teaches that giving is an expression of selflessness and compassion. Despite her own dire circumstances, the widow showed compassion to Elijah by giving him her last meal. Her willingness to help someone else, even at great personal cost, demonstrates the selflessness that true giving requires.

Giving, especially in times of personal difficulty, is one of the purest forms of selflessness. It requires us to think beyond our own needs and to care for the needs of others. The Bible frequently encourages believers to give to those in need. In James 1:27, true religion is described as caring for orphans and widows in distress. This type of giving reflects God’s heart for the vulnerable and marginalized.

When we give out of compassion, we reflect God’s character and participate in His mission to care for the world. As seen in the widow’s story, God honors this kind of giving by ensuring that the giver is not left in need. Jesus highlighted the importance of selfless giving in Matthew 25:35-40 when He taught that whatever we do for the least of our brothers and sisters, we do for Him.

CONCLUSION

The story of the widow of Zarephath teaches profound lessons about the power of giving. It shows that giving requires faith in God’s provision, opens the door to His blessings, benefits both the giver and the receiver, and demonstrates selflessness and compassion. These principles are as relevant today as they were in ancient times, reminding us that when we give, we are participating in a divine exchange where God uses our generosity to bless others and, in turn, blesses us in ways we may not expect.

[engremejnr]

@prettyruth Your post beautifully encapsulates the essence of faith and the power of praise. Here’s a reaction to your message:

Your affirmation that praising God is an act of faith in His promises and Word is profoundly insightful. By declaring that God’s promises are “yes and Amen,” you acknowledge the certainty and faithfulness of His Word. Believing that God has answered your prayers because they align with His will is a testament to your understanding of the scriptural assurance that God hears and responds to prayers made according to His will (1 John 5:14-15).

The idea of praising God even before seeing physical manifestations of answered prayers highlights a deep trust in God’s timing and methods. This perspective aligns with biblical teachings, such as those found in Hebrews 11:1, where faith is described as confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. Your commitment to praise God hilariously, regardless of immediate circumstances, embodies a joyful and resilient faith that does not waver with external situations.

You emphasize the importance of praising God at all times, a principle rooted in scriptures like Psalm 34:1, which calls believers to bless the Lord at all times. This constant praise, irrespective of our moods or situations, cultivates a heart of worship and thanksgiving. Moreover, your view that praise is a form of ministering to the Lord underscores the relational aspect of worship, where praise is not just about receiving from God but also about giving Him the honor and glory He deserves.

Maintaining an attitude of praise while waiting for physical manifestations is a powerful way to remain joyful and strong. The joy of the Lord indeed becomes our strength (Nehemiah 8:10), and this joy is nurtured through continuous praise. By focusing on God’s goodness and faithfulness, praise helps keep us in remembrance of His unchanging nature and the certainty that His Word will never return void (Isaiah 55:11).

In conclusion, your post eloquently asserts that praising God before seeing answers is a profound expression of faith. It signifies trust in God’s promises and His faithfulness to His Word. This act of praise not only honors God but also strengthens and uplifts the believer, keeping them grounded in the assurance of God’s goodness and sovereignty. Your message serves as a powerful reminder that our praise is indeed an affirmation of our faith and the knowledge of God’s Word. Glory be to God for His faithfulness and the joy that comes from trusting in Him. Halleluyah!

[engremejnr]

COURSE CODE: NC-102-LC
COURSE TITLE: UNDERSTANDING OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS

QUESTION: The Fall of man came with several effects. Discuss in detail three effects of the Fall of man.

ANSWER
“The Fall of Man” began with Adam and Eve disobeying God in the Garden of Eden, which lead to their expulsion. It’s a symbolic story about the origin of sin and our separation from divine grace.

When man sinned, he died spiritually hence Adam and Eve’s actions, is a pivotal event with profound consequences. Three significant effects of the Fall include the separation from God, the introduction of sin and death, and the broken relationship with creation.

Firstly, the separation from God is a fundamental consequence of the Fall. Before Adam and Eve’s disobedience, they enjoyed a harmonious relationship with God, residing in the Garden of Eden. However, their choice to eat the forbidden fruit severed this close connection. The narrative symbolically describes God walking in the garden, but after the Fall, Adam and Eve hide from His presence, illustrating the newfound distance between humanity and its divine origin.

This separation has profound implications for human spirituality and the quest for meaning. The Fall introduced a sense of spiritual alienation, prompting the search for reconciliation and restoration of the lost communion with God. In many religious traditions, the narrative of the Fall sets the stage for the need for redemption and salvation. (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV) Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

Secondly, the introduction of sin and death stands as a significant effect of the Fall. The disobedient act of consuming the forbidden fruit symbolizes the first instance of sin in human history. The consequences of this transgression extend beyond the immediate act itself, permeating the entire human experience. Sin, in this context, represents a departure from the divine moral order, leading to moral and ethical complexities that define the human condition.

The concept of sin carries theological weight, influencing moral frameworks and ethical considerations in various religious traditions. It introduces the idea of moral accountability and the need for repentance or atonement to restore a harmonious relationship with the divine. Additionally, the Fall introduces death as a consequence of sin – a stark departure from the original state of immortality in the Garden of Eden. Death becomes an integral part of the human experience, shaping existential questions and prompting reflections on mortality and eternity.

Thirdly, the broken relationship with creation is another notable effect of the Fall. The narrative suggests that Adam and Eve’s disobedience had repercussions not only on their spiritual connection with God but also on their relationship with the natural world. The harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature was disrupted, leading to struggles in agriculture, labor, and the overall human-environment dynamic.

The broken relationship with creation introduces themes of environmental hardship and human responsibility for the stewardship of the earth. In various interpretations, the Fall is associated with the toil and labor that characterize human existence. This broken relationship serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of humanity with the broader ecosystem and underscores the ethical imperative to care for the environment.

In conclusion, the Fall of man has far-reaching effects that shaped our experience; The separation from God, introduction of sin and death, and the broken relationship with creation are central themes that have moral, and existential implications. Understanding these effects provides insights into the complexities of the human condition and the ongoing quest for spiritual, moral, and environmental restoration.

[engremejnr]

COURSE CODE: SV – 103 – LC
COURSE TITLE: SERVANTHOOD

QUESTION: True service is unrelated to your state of birth it is rather a deliberate choice you make to serve. From what you have learnt in this lesson, compare, and contrast the service rendered by Rebekah to Abraham’s servant and Joseph to Potiphar in Egypt?
OR
Can a person outgrow service? How can a leader who has grown in the ranks in church or in an organization still be able to serve?

ANSWER:
Service is indeed a conscious decision that transcends one’s place of birth. Regardless of origin, individuals can choose to serve others through acts of kindness, generosity, and compassion.

comparing the service rendered by Rebekah to Abraham’s servant and Joseph to Potiphar in Egypt, we can say with certainty that Rebekah and Joseph served different roles in the Bible, assisting individuals in distinct situations.

Rebekah played a crucial role in Genesis, helping Abraham’s servant find a suitable wife for Isaac. She demonstrated kindness and hospitality by offering water to the servant and his camels. Rebekah’s willingness to assist a stranger showcased her generosity and a sense of responsibility.

On the other hand, Joseph served Potiphar in Egypt, initially as a slave and later as a trusted servant. Joseph’s integrity and work ethic were evident as he managed Potiphar’s household efficiently. However, Joseph faced challenges when falsely accused, highlighting the hardships he endured despite his commitment to duty.

In summary, while Rebekah’s service involved hospitality and matchmaking, Joseph’s service to Potiphar showcased resilience and loyalty in the face of adversity.

Can a person outgrow service?
My answer is no but While personal priorities and circumstances may shift over time, the core inclination towards service often remains a part of a person’s character. While someone may change the way they engage in service or the causes they prioritize, the fundamental desire to contribute and help others can persist and even evolve. It’s less about outgrowing service and more about how one’s understanding and expression of service may adapt with personal growth and changing life circumstances.

A leader who has climbed the ranks in a church or organization can continue to serve effectively through several approaches:

1. Maintaining Humility: Regardless of their position, a leader can exhibit humility by acknowledging that leadership is a service-oriented role. Embracing a humble attitude fosters a collaborative environment and encourages others to contribute their best.

2. Engaging in Servant Leadership: Practicing servant leadership involves prioritizing the well-being of others and actively seeking opportunities to support and empower team members. By focusing on the needs of the community or organization, a leader can ensure that their actions align with a service-oriented mindset.

3. Mentoring and Developing Others: A leader can serve by investing time and effort in mentoring and developing the potential of those around them. This includes providing guidance, sharing experiences, and creating opportunities for growth. This not only benefits individuals within the organization but also contributes to its long-term success.

4. Remaining Accessible and Approachable: A leader should maintain accessibility and approachability. This involves being open to feedback, listening to concerns, and being responsive to the needs of the community or team. An approachable leader is more likely to connect with others and effectively address challenges.

By incorporating these principles, a leader can ensure that their ascent through the ranks doesn’t distance them from the fundamental aspect of serving others within the church.

[engremejnr]

Good evening mam I don’t really agree to this school of thought that a believer is entirely a spirit. But am sure we are supernatural beings (spirit beings) living in a body and posses a soul.

Firstly a believer is not inherently a spirit, but the term is often used metaphorically to convey a sense of dedication, conviction, and faith. In a spiritual context, a believer is someone who adheres to a particular set of doctrines, principles, or faith traditions. The essence of belief lies in the realm of consciousness, shaped by personal convictions and values.

While a believer may not be a spirit in the supernatural sense, the term often alludes to a connection between the individual and something beyond the material world. This could be a higher power, a divine force, or a set of guiding principles that transcend the physical realm. In this metaphorical sense, the believer’s commitment and adherence to their beliefs can be seen as a spiritual aspect of their identity.

Belief systems often provide a framework for understanding the intangible aspects of existence, such as morality, purpose, and the nature of reality. Thus, while a believer is not a spirit in the literal sense, the term encapsulates the spiritual dimension of one’s convictions and the profound impact these beliefs can have on one’s thoughts, actions, and worldview.

[engremejnr]

COURSE CODE: CC – 105 – LC
COURSE TITLE: CHRISTIAN CHARACTER AGAPE LOVE

QUESTION: The renewal of the mind is central to the development of your character as a believer. Write a post on 5 ways renewing your mind can help develop your character as a Christian.

Your post should be a minimum 400 words while

ANSWER:
Renewing your mind is a transformative process that plays a pivotal role in the development of Christian character. Below are five ways in which this renewal can significantly contribute to my growth as a believer:

1. ALIGNMENT WITH BIBLICAL TRUTHS
Engaging in the renewal of my mind involves immersing oneself in the teachings of the Bible. By aligning my thoughts and beliefs with biblical truths, creates a solid foundation for my character development. This alignment provides a moral compass, guiding my decisions and actions in accordance with Christian principles.

2. CULTIVATING A POSITIVE PERSPECTIVE:
Renewing your mind encourages a shift in perspective towards positivity. Instead of dwelling on negative thoughts or worldly concerns, focusing on the goodness of God and His promises helps cultivate a more optimistic outlook. This positive mindset not only influences your character but also impacts your interactions with others, fostering a spirit of kindness and encouragement.

3. DEVELOPING PATIENCE AND RESILIENCE:
The process of renewing your mind often involves patience and perseverance. As you grapple with life’s challenges, relying on biblical teachings can instill a sense of resilience. Understanding that trials are opportunities for growth and learning helps you develop patience, endurance, and a steadfast character that withstands the tests of time.

4. ENHANCING EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE:
Renewing your mind involves self-reflection and an awareness of your thoughts and emotions. This self-awareness contributes to the development of emotional intelligence, a crucial aspect of Christian character. By understanding and managing your emotions in line with biblical principles, you become better equipped to navigate relationships, respond to adversity, and demonstrate empathy towards others.

5. EMPOWERING A SPIRIT OF LOVE AND FORGIVENESS:
Central to Christian character is the embodiment of love and forgiveness. Renewing your mind emphasizes these virtues, encouraging you to reflect the love and forgiveness exemplified by Jesus Christ. As your mind is transformed, you become more capable of extending grace to others, fostering a compassionate and forgiving heart that mirrors the unconditional love of God.

In conclusion, the renewal of the mind is a dynamic process that goes beyond mere intellectual understanding. It involves a holistic transformation that impacts your beliefs, emotions, and actions, shaping a character that aligns with the principles of Christianity. By actively engaging in this renewal, you lay the groundwork for a more Christ-like character, allowing the virtues of love, patience, and resilience to permeate every aspect of your life.

[engremejnr]

The teachings of Jesus as found in the New Testament, where he emphasizes the transformative impact of faith on one’s actions. In Matthew 5:16, Jesus instructs his followers to let their light shine through good deeds so that others may see and glorify God.

When individuals have a genuine relationship with Christ, marked by faith and discipleship, their lives are expected to reflect the love, compassion, and righteousness taught by Jesus. Good works, emerging from this relationship, serve as tangible expressions of Christian values and bear witness to the transformative power of faith. They become a living testimony, showcasing the impact of a Christ-centered life on attitudes, behaviors, and interactions with others.

This concept is reinforced by the apostle James, who, in James 2:18, asserts that faith without works is dead. In essence, good works become a natural outgrowth of a vibrant relationship with Christ, affirming the authenticity of one’s faith and providing a compelling witness to those who observe these actions. In this way, the statement captures a fundamental aspect of Christian discipleship, emphasizing that actions inspired by Christ-centered love serve as powerful testimonies to the world.

[engremejnr]

MY RECENT EXPERIENCE IN SHARING THE GOSPEL IN SEPTEMBER By EME VICTOR NNAMDI

My name is Victor I stumbled into an argument about if it’s right to take alcohol or not amongst some good number of supposed believers and just two young men trying to clear their heads with a bottle of there favorite brand of beer.

I felt a calling to share the gospel with these young men but not under such circumstances in other to win their trust I took over the argument to support them with just one scripture (Deuteronomy 14:26 KJV) And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household,

With this, these unsuspecting supposed believers were thrown off there feet for a while then I said one word to them, “You claim to be christians and your core responsibility is to bring the message of reconciliation, hope and redemption and not condemnation. Please be guided”. I paid for these young men beer asked them where they were headed and offered them a ride offcourse with this action we were already friends and introduced ourselves to each other. Good luck and Hope were there names. one makes sharwama and the other Grill.

As our conversation unfolded, a warmth filled my car then I dropped a bomb shell saying I would have loved to have a taste of this your beer one day because I’ve not seen anywhere in the bible where it’s written that beer is bad but I’ve seen several places where it’s written that being drunk is bad and also various places that states taking or doing things in excess is wrong. Do you get drunk at anytime or do you take beer in excess at any time I asked? The silence was so grave and immediately I knew that was the moment I was waiting for. I gave them my story of redemption and few others. The stories of redemption resonated with their own desire for a renewed purpose and inner peace.

In that moment, I offered a simple prayer, Goodluck hesitated but Hope felt a stirring in his heart. The weight of doubt began to lift, making room for a newfound hope. With tears in his eyes, he embraced the transformative message of the gospel and chose to accept Christ into his life.

Seeds of belief were planted, and a journey of spiritual discovery had begun for both Hope and Goodluck, guided by the gentle compassion of a stranger turned friend who cared enough to share the transformative power of the gospel. Hope requested for my contact and promised to come visit my church that he’s pleased with his encounter with me today.

Firstly the important aspects of this conversation was from the lounge how I had to stand up for them not condemning them, showed them practical love and care trying to put myself in there shoes which resulted in gaining there trust and wining there friendship.

Finally I give glory to God they were able to make a decision and we’re responsive to the gospel. I believe if we show more love and less condemnation we would make more impact.

[Author]

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