RE-EXAMINING OUR PRACTICE OF CHRISTIANITY

SERMON THEME: RE-EXAMINING OUR PRACTICE OF CHRISTIANITY

Scripture Sentences

1^ST Bible Reading - Deuteronomy 4:1-2, 6-9

2^ND Bible Reading - James 1:17-27

3^RD Bible Reading  - Mark 7:9-16

 

Welcome the one sitting closer to you to church (Family of the Most High God) this morning.

 

Let’s  say a word of prayer...

 

INTRODUCTION

Good morning and the Peace of God be upon You, beloved brothers and sisters in Christ. Today, I invite you to take a journey with me, a journey of reflection and re-examination. As we navigate the complexities of the 21st century, it is essential to periodically pause and ask ourselves: Are we truly living out the Christian faith in a way that aligns with the teachings of Scripture? Are we practicing Christianity in spirit and truth, or have we allowed traditions, routines, and external influences to obscure the core of our faith?

 

Our scriptures today as has been read to us, Deuteronomy 4:1-2, 6-9; James 1:17-27; and Mark 7:9-16 all urge us to Re-Evaluate or better still Re-Examining our relationship with God and how we live out His commandments in our daily lives. These passages challenge us to return to the essence of our faith and to ensure that our actions, words, and thoughts reflect the true nature of being followers of Christ.

 

Deuteronomy 4:1-2, 6-9

KEEPING GOD’S COMMANDMENTS

 

In Deuteronomy 4:1-2, Moses speaks to the people of Israel, saying, "Now, O Israel, listen to the statutes and the rules that I am teaching you, and do them, that you may live, and go in and take possession of the land that the Lord, the God of your fathers, is giving you." Moses emphasizes the importance of obedience to God’s commandments and warns against adding to or taking away from His Word. He reminds the Israelites to keep God’s laws faithfully as a testimony to their wisdom and understanding in the sight of other nations.

 

This message is just as relevant for us today. In a world that is constantly changing, where cultural norms and societal values are ever-shifting, we are called to anchor ourselves in God’s unchanging Word. Yet, we must ask ourselves: Are we listening attentively to God’s instructions, or have we become selective in our obedience, picking and choosing the parts of Scripture that suit us while ignoring the rest?

Have we allowed human traditions and cultural trends to dilute the purity of God's Word in our lives?

 

To re-examine our practice of Christianity, we must begin with a renewed commitment to knowing, understanding, and obeying God’s Word. Let us remember that God’s commandments are not burdensome but are given for our good, to lead us into a life that glorifies Him and blesses others.

 

James 1:17-27

PRACTICING AUTHENTIC FAITH

 

The book of James provides us with a powerful and practical guide on what it means to live out our faith. In James 1:17-27, we are reminded that "every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights." James urges us to receive God’s Word with humility and to be "doers of the word, and not hearers only." He warns that those who merely listen to the Word without putting it into practice deceive themselves.

 

James provides a clear criterion for what true religion looks like: "Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world."

This passage challenges us to examine whether our faith is merely theoretical (something we profess with our lips) or whether it is practical and transformative, impacting the way we live, speak, and treat others.

 

In the 21st century, there is a temptation to reduce Christianity to a set of beliefs or rituals, a social identity, or a weekly gathering. But James calls us to a higher standard, a faith that moves beyond mere words into action, a faith that is marked by love, compassion, and a commitment to righteousness.

Are we truly caring for the marginalized and the needy in our communities? Are we living lives that are set apart from the corruption and compromise of the world?

 

Mark 7:9-16

THE DANGER OF EMPTY TRADITIONS

 

Lastly, in Mark 7:9-16, Jesus confronts the Pharisees and religious leaders about their hypocrisy. He says, "You have a fine way of rejecting the commandment of God in order to establish your tradition." The Pharisees had become so focused on their man-made traditions that they neglected the heart of God’s law, justice, mercy, and faithfulness. They honored God with their lips, but their hearts were far from Him.

 

This passage serves as a warning to us as well. Have we allowed traditions whether cultural, denominational, or personal preferences to take precedence over God’s Word?

Have we become so concerned with outward appearances, rituals, or the approval of others that we have forgotten what truly matters to God?

Jesus reminds us that it is not what is external that defiles us, but what is internal (the condition of our hearts). We must re-examine our practices to ensure that they align with the heart of God’s law, which is love.

 

PRACTICAL STEPS FOR RE-EXAMINING OUR FAITH

 

How can we re-examine our practice of Christianity in a practical and meaningful way in the 21st century?

 

1. Return to the Word of God: Make a renewed commitment to studying the Bible regularly, both individually and collectively. Let us approach the Scriptures with humility, seeking to understand God’s heart and His will for our lives. Let us not add to or take away from God’s Word but seek to obey it fully.

 

2. Practice What We Preach: Our faith must be more than words; it must be evident in our actions. Let us examine our lives to see if they reflect the teachings of Christ. Are we caring for those in need? Are we showing love, mercy, and justice in our daily interactions? Let us strive to be doers of the Word, living out our faith with integrity.

 

3. Evaluate Our Traditions and Practices: Take a critical look at the traditions and practices that have become part of our Christian experience. Are they helping us draw closer to God, or are they becoming barriers to true worship? Let us be willing to let go of anything that hinders our relationship with God and embrace practices that align with His Word.

 

4. Guard Against Worldliness: In a world that is increasingly hostile to Christian values, we must remain vigilant in guarding our hearts and minds. Let us be intentional about what we allow into our lives, whether through media, relationships, or other influences. Let us seek to be holy, set apart for God’s purposes.

 

5. Cultivate a Heart of Repentance: None of us are perfect, and there will be times when we fall short. But God is gracious and merciful, ready to forgive us when we turn to Him with sincere repentance. Let us cultivate a heart that is quick to repent and eager to grow in Christlikeness.

 

CONCLUSION

 

Beloved, as I conclude on this theme for today, let us take to heart the call to re-examine our practice of Christianity.

Let us return to the essence of our faith, grounded in God’s Word and reflected in our actions. Let us be doers of the Word, living out our faith in love, humility, and obedience.

 

May we resist the temptation to conform to the patterns of this world or to settle for empty traditions. Instead, let us pursue a vibrant, authentic, and life-transforming relationship with Jesus Christ.

 

Final Thought/Words

A CALL TO AUTHENTICITY

 

As we leave here today, let us remember that our faith is not just a matter of what we believe but of how we live. May our practice of Christianity be genuine, reflecting the heart of God to a watching world. May we be a people whose lives testify to the goodness, grace, and truth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Let’s take some few minutes to reflect on what we all have heard in silence

Let’s pray!

The Apostle Creed

 

LOYALTY

SERMON

25^TH AUGUST 2024

Theme: Loyalty

1^st Bible Reading: Joshua 24:1-2, 14-18 2^nd Bible Reading: Ephesians 6:10-20 3^rd Bible Reading: John 6:56-69

"Have you ever felt like the weight of the world is on your shoulders? Like the burdens of life are crushing you, and you can't seem to catch a breath? I remember a story of a single mother, who after a long day of work, would come home to take care of her two young children, only to lie awake at night worrying about how she would pay the bills, put food on the table, and give her children the life they deserved. She felt like she was drowning in a sea of responsibility, with no lifeline in sight. But one day, she realized that she couldn't control everything, and that sometimes, the best thing to do is to let go and trust that everything will work out. Today, we're going to talk about the power of releasing our worries and trusting in a higher power. Let's explore the freedom that comes from knowing that we have nothing to worry about." LOYALTY...

Let’s Pray

INTRODUCTION

Loyalty is a virtue that is deeply valued in every aspect of life. Whether in relationships, workplaces, or faith, loyalty is the glue that holds things together. In the Scriptures, loyalty is not just about allegiance to a cause but also about unwavering faithfulness to God. Today, we explore what it means to be loyal to God, drawing from the examples of Joshua, Paul's letter to the Ephesians, and the teachings of Jesus in the Gospel of John.

 

Joshua 24:1-2, 14-18: A Call to Serve the Lord Alone

 

Joshua gathered all the tribes of Israel at Shechem and reminded them of their history how God had delivered them from Egypt and given them the Promised Land. He then challenged them to choose whom they would serve: the gods of their ancestors or the Lord who had been faithful to them. This was not a one-time decision but a continuous commitment to serve God alone.

 

The very key point here is: Loyalty to God requires a conscious decision. Joshua made a bold statement: "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord" (Joshua 24:15). This declaration is a call for us today to reaffirm our commitment to God, rejecting any form of idolatry or competing allegiances.

 In our lives, loyalty to God means prioritizing Him above all else whether it be our careers, relationships, or personal desires. It’s about making a daily choice to serve and honor God in everything we do. We must examine our hearts and lives to ensure that we are not serving other gods, whether they be material possessions, personal ambitions, or harmful habits.

 

Ephesians 6:10-20: The Armor of God

In Ephesians, Paul urges believers to "be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power" (Ephesians 6:10). He then describes the armor of God, which equips us to stand firm against the schemes of the enemy. This armor includes truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, the Word of God, and prayer.

 

Also the very key point here is: Loyalty to God is also about spiritual resilience. It involves putting on the full armor of God, which enables us to remain steadfast in our faith, even in the face of challenges and temptations.

Listen, just as soldiers prepare for battle, we must prepare ourselves spiritually every day. This involves immersing ourselves in God’s Word, maintaining a prayerful attitude, and living righteously. Our loyalty is demonstrated by our readiness to stand firm against anything that would draw us away from God. We must be intentional about putting on the armor of God daily, so we can withstand the attacks of the enemy.

 

 John 6:56-69: The Words of Eternal Life

Lastly in John 6, after Jesus spoke about eating His flesh and drinking His blood, many of His disciples found the teaching difficult and chose to walk away. When Jesus asked the Twelve if they would also leave, Peter responded, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life" (John 6:68).

 

Again the very key point here is: Loyalty to Jesus means recognizing that He alone is the source of eternal life. Even when His teachings are hard to understand or follow, we must trust that He knows what is best for us. Peter’s response is a powerful declaration of faith and loyalty, acknowledging that there is no other place to turn but to Jesus.

Child of God, in moments of doubt or difficulty, we must hold on to Jesus, knowing that His words are life-giving. Loyalty means not turning away when the path is hard but staying committed to following Him, no matter the cost. We must remember that Jesus is the only one who can give us eternal life, and His words are the only ones that can truly satisfy our souls.

CONCLUSION

Loyalty to God is more than just a one time decision; it’s a continuous commitment to serve Him faithfully, stand firm in our spiritual battles, and trust in His Word even when it’s challenging. Like Joshua, Paul, and Peter, we are called to choose God daily, equip ourselves with His truth, and remain steadfast in our faith. May we echo Joshua's words: "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."

Let’s Pray

Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your faithfulness and love. Help us to be loyal to You in all aspects of our lives. Strengthen us with Your armor, guide us with Your Word, and keep us close to You. May we always choose to serve You and remain steadfast in our faith. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

 

IN WHOM DO YOU BELIEVE?

THE IMPORTANCE OF THE LORD'S SUPPER

THEME: THE IMPORTANCE OF THE LORD'S SUPPER

1st Reading: Exodus 12:1-13

2nd Reading: Ephesians 5:15-20

3rd Reading: John 6:15-58

INTRODUCTION 

The Lord's Supper, also known as Communion or the Eucharist, is one of the most profound acts of worship and remembrance in the Christian faith. It is a sacred ordinance instituted by Jesus Christ Himself, symbolizing His sacrifice for humanity. 

Beloved as we explore the significance of the Lord's Supper through our three key scriptures: Exodus 12:1-13, Ephesians 5:15-20, and John 6:15-58. It is my prayer that Jesus The Christ,  who is the Alpha and Omega will give to us understanding on this important theme.

Let’s Pray...

The Lord's Supper as a Continuation of the Passover (Exodus 12:1-13)

The first Lord's Supper was deeply rooted in the Jewish Passover. In Exodus 12, God commanded the Israelites to observe the Passover, a feast that commemorated their deliverance from slavery in Egypt. The blood of the Passover lamb, which was applied to the doorposts, saved the Israelites from the angel of death.

It's connection to the Lord's Supper

The Passover prefigured the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, whose blood would be shed for the forgiveness of sins. 

Just as the blood of the lamb saved the Israelites, so too does the blood of Christ save us from spiritual death. The Lord's Supper is a continuation of this Passover tradition, but with a new and deeper meaning.

Application

When we partake in the Lord's Supper, we are participating in a spiritual remembrance of our deliverance from sin and death through the sacrifice of Christ. It is a moment of reflection, gratitude, and recommitment to live as those who have been set free.

The Lord's Supper as a Call to Holiness with emphasis on Ephesians 5:15-20

The Passage Ephesians 5, notes, Paul calls the believers to walk wisely, making the most of every opportunity and living lives filled with the Spirit. He emphasizes the importance of holiness, thanksgiving, and worship.

Also it’s connection to the Lord's Supper, is that, the Lord's Supper is not just a ritual; it is a call to live holy and set-apart lives. As we gather to partake in the bread and the cup, we are reminded of our identity in Christ and our responsibility to live in a manner worthy of our calling. The Lord's Supper invites us to examine our hearts, confess our sins, and renew our commitment to walk in righteousness.

 As we approach the Lord's Table any time, let us do so with a heart of repentance and humility. Let us resolve to live lives that reflect the holiness and love of Christ, making every effort to be filled with the Spirit, singing psalms and hymns, and giving thanks to God in all things.

For the 3rd passage it addresses...

The Lord's Supper stands as Spiritual Nourishment (John 6:15-58)

In John 6, Jesus speaks of Himself as the Bread of Life. He explains that just as the Israelites ate manna in the wilderness, He is the true bread from heaven that gives life to the world. 

Jesus goes on to say that unless one eats His flesh and drinks His blood, they have no life in them.

Jesus’ words in John 6 find their fulfillment in the Lord’s Supper. The bread and the cup represent the body and blood of Christ, which nourish us, the believer spiritually. 

As we continue to partake in Communion, we are reminded that Christ is our sustenance, our life, and our source of strength. 

Just as we need physical food and drink to live, so too do we need Christ to sustain us spiritually.

People of God understand that, the Lord's Supper is a moment to be spiritually fed and renewed. It is a time to draw near to Christ, recognizing that apart from Him, we have no life. As we partake of the bread and the cup, let us do so with faith, knowing that Christ is present with us, nourishing our souls and empowering us to live for Him.

CONCLUSION 

The Lord's Supper is a profound and sacred act of worship that connects us to the past, calls us to holiness in the present, and nourishes us for the future. It is a reminder of Christ's sacrifice, a call to live holy lives, and a means of spiritual nourishment. 

As we partake in this Holy Communion (ordinance), may we do so with reverence, gratitude, and a renewed commitment to follow Christ. 

Let us remember that in the Lord's Supper, we proclaim the Lord's death until He comes again.

PRAYER 

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, and for the sacrifice He made for us on the cross. 

As we often and always  come to Your Table, help us to remember the significance of the Lord's Supper. 

May it remind us of our deliverance, call us to holiness, and nourish our souls. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Apostle Creed...

ELECTION SAYING

*"Our differences should be celebrated, not condemned. Let us promote tolerance in this year's election, building bridges instead of walls."**

_REV. IMMANUEL WIAFE_

Peace Saying

*"Let us reject violence and embrace peace, for a nation that is united in peace will stand strong and endure."*

_BY: IMMANUEL WIAFE_

THEME: JESUS CHRIST, THE ALPHA AND OMEGA: GLORIFYING GOD AS A STEWARD OF HIS CREATION - OUR ENVIRONMENTAL WITNESS

THEME: JESUS CHRIST, THE ALPHA AND OMEGA: GLORIFYING GOD AS A STEWARD OF HIS CREATION - OUR ENVIRONMENTAL WITNESS

 

Introduction

 

Good morning, brothers and sisters in Christ. It is with great joy that I stand before you today to explore a topic of profound significance in our Christian walk: our responsibility as stewards of God's creation. We live in a world that is intricately designed by the Creator, a world that speaks of His majesty, power, and divine wisdom. From the towering mountains to the vast oceans, from the intricate ecosystems to the diverse species that inhabit them, every part of creation reflects the glory of God.

 

Yet, as we enjoy the beauty of the earth, we must also recognize the role that God has entrusted to us. We are not merely inhabitants of this world but stewards, caretakers of a creation that ultimately belongs to Him. This morning, let us reflect on what it means to glorify God through our environmental witness and how our stewardship of the earth can be an act of worship to the Alpha and Omega, our Lord Jesus Christ.

 

Genesis 2:8-15 – A Call to Stewardship

 

"In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth" (Genesis 1:1). This opening line of the Bible sets the stage for the narrative of creation, where God, in His infinite wisdom, fashioned a world that was "very good" (Genesis 1:31). He then planted a garden in Eden and placed Adam there, charging him to "tend and keep it" (Genesis 2:15). This mandate was not just for Adam; it extends to all humanity.

 

This passage reminds us that our role on earth is divinely ordained. We are not the owners of creation but its caretakers. The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it (Psalm 24:1). Our task is to preserve its beauty, to nurture its life, and to maintain its balance. Just as God lovingly and meticulously created the world, we are called to lovingly and meticulously care for it. This responsibility is not a burden but a privilege, a way to participate in God's creative work.

 

In today’s world, where environmental degradation is a pressing issue, this call to stewardship is more relevant than ever. Deforestation, pollution, and climate change are just a few examples of how we have failed to fulfill our role. As Christians, we are called to stand apart, to be examples of what it means to care for God's creation. Our efforts to conserve and protect the environment are not merely acts of social responsibility; they are acts of worship.

 

Colossians 1:15-19 – Jesus Christ: The Sustainer of All Creation

 

The New Testament reveals that Jesus Christ, the Alpha and Omega, is not only our Savior but also the Creator and Sustainer of all things. Colossians 1:16-17 tells us, "For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible... And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist."

 

As followers of Christ, we are called to honor Him in all aspects of our lives, including how we care for His creation. When we think of Jesus as the Alpha and Omega, we are reminded that He is the beginning and the end, the one through whom all things were made and the one who will bring all things to their ultimate fulfillment. Our environmental witness, then, is not just about protecting the planet; it is about glorifying Christ, who sustains all things.

 

When we neglect our responsibility to care for the environment, we dishonor Christ. Conversely, when we take steps to preserve and protect the earth, we demonstrate our love and gratitude for the Creator. Our actions become a testimony of our faith, a reflection of the love of God that compels us to care for all that He has made. Every tree we plant, every resource we conserve, every effort we make to reduce waste, is a way of honoring Christ as the Lord of creation.

 

Luke 12:42-48 – The Parable of the Faithful Steward

 

Jesus often used parables to teach profound spiritual truths, and one such parable is the Parable of the Faithful Steward found in Luke 12:42-48. In this passage, Jesus emphasizes the importance of being faithful and wise stewards. He says, "Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his master will make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of food in due season? Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes."

 

This parable teaches us that we are accountable for how we manage the resources that God has entrusted to us, including the earth. The earth and its resources are a gift from God, and we are expected to use them wisely and efficiently. Our actions, or lack thereof, have consequences. Just as the faithful steward is rewarded for his diligence, so too will we be rewarded for our faithful stewardship of the environment.

 

Conversely, neglecting our responsibilities can lead to dire consequences. Jesus warns that the unfaithful steward who is careless and wasteful will face judgment. This serves as a sobering reminder that our environmental choices matter, not just for our own lives, but for the lives of others and for future generations. We must be wise in how we use resources, understanding that wastefulness and negligence are not just economic or social issues, but spiritual ones.

 

The Call to Stewardship

 

As Christians, our call to stewardship extends beyond the walls of the church. It is a call to action in our daily lives, in how we interact with the world around us. Our stewardship of the earth is a reflection of our relationship with God, a tangible expression of our faith in action. Here are some key aspects of this stewardship:

 

1. Caring for the Earth and Its Resources: God has given us a beautiful and bountiful earth, filled with resources that sustain life. We are called to care for these resources, ensuring that they are used in a way that honors God and benefits all of creation. This means being mindful of how we use water, energy, and other natural resources, ensuring that we do not waste or deplete them.

 

2. Conserving and Preserving Natural Beauty: The beauty of creation is a testimony to the glory of God. As stewards, we have a responsibility to preserve this beauty for future generations. This can involve supporting conservation efforts, protecting endangered species, and preserving natural habitats.

 

3. Using Resources Wisely and Efficiently: The parable of the faithful steward teaches us the importance of using resources wisely. This means being conscious of our consumption habits, reducing waste, and choosing sustainable options whenever possible. Whether it's reducing energy use, conserving water, or recycling, these actions demonstrate our commitment to stewardship.

 

4. Educating Ourselves and Others About Environmental Issues: Stewardship also involves being informed and educating others about the importance of caring for the environment. This includes raising awareness about environmental issues, advocating for sustainable practices, and encouraging others to take action. By spreading knowledge, we can inspire others to join us in the effort to protect God's creation.

 

Practical Applications

 

Our commitment to stewardship should be evident in our daily lives. Here are some practical steps we can take to honor God through our care for the environment:

 

1. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: One of the simplest and most effective ways to minimize waste and conserve resources is by adopting the principles of reducing, reusing, and recycling. By reducing our consumption, reusing items whenever possible, and recycling materials, we can significantly reduce our impact on the environment.

 

2. Conserve Energy and Water: Energy and water are precious resources that should be used wisely. Simple actions like turning off lights when not in use, using energy-efficient appliances, and fixing leaks can make a big difference. Additionally, we can conserve water by taking shorter showers, using water-saving fixtures, and being mindful of our water use in gardening and landscaping.

 

3. Support Sustainable Practices: As consumers, we have the power to support companies and products that prioritize sustainability. This includes choosing eco-friendly products, supporting businesses that use sustainable practices, and being conscious of the environmental impact of our purchases.

 

4. Educate Yourself and Others: Knowledge is power. By educating ourselves about environmental issues, we can make informed decisions and advocate for change. Additionally, we can share this knowledge with others, encouraging them to take action and become better stewards of the environment.

 

Conclusion

 

In conclusion, let us remember that our stewardship of the earth is not just a duty, but a privilege. It is an opportunity to glorify God through our actions, to show our love for Him by caring for the world He has created. Our environmental witness is a testimony to our faith, a reflection of the love of Christ that compels us to care for all that He has made.

 

As we leave here today, let us commit to being faithful stewards of God's creation. Let us honor the Alpha and Omega by preserving and protecting the earth, ensuring that it remains a testament to His glory for generations to come. May our love for God and His creation guide us in our daily lives, and may we be a witness to others of the power of faith and stewardship.

 

Final Thought

 

Brothers and sisters, the choices we make today will shape the world of tomorrow. Let us choose to be faithful stewards, glorifying God in all we do. May our love for Jesus Christ, the Alpha and Omega, inspire us to care for the earth and all that it contains. And may our environmental witness be a shining example.