'Shukurguzari ki Shaam' with Pastor Anil Kant by BMC

Dear All,

On the occasion of 10th Anniversary celebrations of Butler Methodist Church (BMC), Dwarka, New Delhi, you are cordially invited to us for 'Shukurguzari ki Shaam'.

This will be a time of great blessing for us all a we join in 'Satsang' led by Pastor Anil Kant offering praise and thanksgiving. Please feel free to extend this invite to those you feel may be interested.

Time & Date: 6 pm onward from Saturday, 12th March, 2016
Venue: St. Mary's School, Sector 19, Dwarka, New Delhi (Click here for location details)
Organized by: Butler Methodist Church (Contact: +919868614437), 

For more information, please mail to Butler Methodist Church, or visit us on Facebook. 

Download the formal invite here:


Location for the event Shukurguzari ki Shaam:

WSCS Team

 

Mother's Day Service - 2010

A special service on Mother's day, the singing was absolutely wonderful, led mostly by the mothers in our Church...

Easter service 2010 - Pictorial

CHANGE

THEME: CHANGE
Bible reading: Acts 3:1-11
INTRODUCTION:
We are in 3rd Sunday of Lent. Lenten season is the time of self examine, reflecting upon our lives, self seeking, a time of repentance, a time of dedication & rededication, fasting and praying, self denial, simplicity, a time to observe our relationship the Lord & work for the Lord and a time of CHANGE ( permanent change, not short term change; inwardly as well as outwardly change).
Friends, Theme for our meditation is CHANGE. Change must be permanent and it must be inside & outside change. This is our God requires from us.

BACKGROUND:
Acts 2:43 says “many wonders and miracles done by the Apostles, which are not recorded by the writer St. Luke in this book but only few.”
Dear Friends, this Acts 3:1-11 is true story of change. Introduction of the book of Acts “It was written so we would have the True Story of how the Christian church began and grew; and also 4:16 testifies “we can’t deny this miracle”
This true story begins with v.1
St. Peter and St. John were going to the Temple for Prayer at 3pm. They had custom to pray thrice in a day i.e. 9am, 12am, 3pm. (Dan. 6:10; Ps 55:17).
We would say it was the leading of Holy Spirit or Holy Spirit led them to temple. B’coz book of Acts also called “Acts of Holy Spirit”.
It was 3pm. They were near the ‘Beautiful Gate’. And there was poor cripple lying and begging. He was crippled or lame from the birth Acts 4:22 for 40 years. He never walked and jumped in his life. He wasn’t allowed to enter into Temple. B’coz Jewish thinks that foreigners, Gentiles, Samaritans, tax collectors, prostitutes, lepers & physically challenged people can’t enter into the Temple. They relate their deceases and sufferings are the reason of their own sins or their parent’s sins.
He used to beg at Beautiful Gate but nothing was beautiful, excited, and joyful and changed in his life. His friends leave him at Temple gate to beg. This was his daily routine for many years.
(This is the picture of spiritual cripple ness without Christ Jesus or Christ less person. He/S can’t enter into the relationship with God, Can’t enter into the Kingdom of God without Jesus Christ. There is no excitement, no reason to live, no joy, no hope, no change, no eternal life, no forgiveness and life is spiritually crippled without Lord Jesus Christ.)

BODY:
V.3- He saw Peter and John and asked them for money.
It seems he was professional beggar. He knew the place to sit (at Temple gate) and when to sit (during prayer hours).
V. 4 – Here is the guidance of Holy Spirit. Both looked at him. And Peter said, “Look at us.” (Strange b’coz we never say to any beggar “look at us” instead of giving money).
V.6 - But Peter said, “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk."
It was command or words of authority.
It wasn’t suggestion - would you pl rise up and walk in the Name of Jesus Christ.
It wasn’t trial – let us see how you rise up and walk in the Name of Jesus Christ.
It wasn’t request – will you pl rise up and walk in the Name of Jesus Christ.
He immediately walked and jumped and praised God. He went into Temple with Peter and John. Earlier he never walked and jumped and entered in the Temple.
He was unstoppable. He was Continuous praising God.
Friends, God has called us to bless people and made us people of Hope Col. 1:27, and call sinners to walk in the Lord’s way. Only Lord Jesus Christ can heal physical and spiritual cripple ness.
There were three Changes took place in his life.
(1) Place:
He changed his place. Earlier he used to sit at Temple’s gate and wasn’t allow to entered in the Temple but now he Immediately went in the Temple.

(2) Fellowship:
Earlier he had fellowship with beggars but now v.11 says he held or clung Peter and John. He changed his fellowship with God’s people.

(3) Life:
Now he wasn’t depended upon others, not begging, but walking, jumping and praising God. There was joy, excitement, beauty and Changed life.

Illustrations:
1) St. Peter, who healed this cripple person, There was Change in his life. Once he denied Lord Jesus Christ but now he was ready to die for Him.
He and other Disciples didn’t cast out demon and heal sick Mark 9:18. When they kept fast and prayed, Acts 2:43 says they did many miracles and wonders.
Fasting and prayer is very essential for believers and both are back bone of the believers.
Even people wondered when Peter preached before thousands of people.
Acts 4:13 says “When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus.” (Greatest qualification they had).
What a Change!
2) A rich honorable man, wise well educated, full of zeal. Act 9; Phil 3:4-6; 1 Corn 15:9. Who saw a great light and he used his wealth, wisdom, education, zeal, life for God’s service. He changed his mission.
What a Change!
3) A demons possessed man, ugly, dirty, violent & naked. When he had encounter with Lord Jesus Christ he totally became new being. People saw him well dressed, clean, calm and sitting at the feet of Lord Jesus Christ. Mk. 5.
What a Change!
These persons never shouted that we are Christians pl look at us. But other people saw them found total change in their lives. (Act 3:11 Came running to them)
This is the Change. This is what God requires from us.

CONCLUSION:
Dear Friends, Ask Holy Spirit to Change your lives.
So that other people may see you and glorify your Father in heaven (1 Pet. 2:12) and they may see you a new creation, new being and totally different person in the world full of hate, corruption, evil and temptations.
Gal. 2:20; 2 Corn. 5:17.

May God bless you.
Rev. Varinder Kumar

ASH WEDNESDAY

Ash Wednesday 17th February 2010

→ Ash Wednesday is the first day of Lent.
→ It occurs 40 days before EASTER (46 days with Sundays)
Jesus → 40 days of fasting
Nation of Israel’s wandering in the wilderness → 40 years
Moses’ fasting on two occasions → 40 days and nights
Elijah’s journey to Horeb → 40days and 40 nights

NAME -
Ash Wednesday gets its name from the practice of placing ashes on the foreheads of believers or believing Christians as a sign of repentance.
The ashes used in this are gathered after Palm Crosses from the previous years’ Palm Sunday are burned.

RITUAL – (a very old tradition)
This ritual of putting the ashes on the foreheads of the believing Christians in the shape of a cross is performed by a priest, or pastor, or I some cases officiating layperson. This act or the ritual echoes the ancient eastern tradition of throwing ashes over one’s head to show their repentance before God. We cam see this at many places in the Bible, particularly in Old Testament. This ritual is very prominent in Roman Catholic Church, they treat it as a sacramental, and not as a sacrament, and it can be given to any Christian because it is a mark of repentance. Most of the other Christian Denominations observe the Ash Wednesday but this ritual is not observed so strictly, and in some cases not observed at all.

As the first day of Lent, Ash Wednesday is observed by fasting, abstinence from meat, or alcoholic drinks, smoking etc.
This observance is a very old tradition probably started in 5th or 6th century AD. This is a very old tradition and it marks the beginning of Lent days. In NT times also there were many traditions but Jesus Christ condemned only those traditions which came directly in conflict with the commandments of the Word of God. Like Jesus condemns the tradition when he said in Mt 15:3 “why do you break the commandment of God for the sake of your tradition?” [Tradition was – what you would have gained from me is given to God (qurban). By this they brake God’s command – ‘Honor your father and your mother’ and Whoever reviles father or mother must surely die.’]
Eastern Orthodox Churches does not in general observe Ash Wednesday.
In Republic of Ireland, Ash Wednesday is National No Smoking Day.

BIBLICAL SIGNIFICANCE
Ash Wednesday is a day of repentance and it marks the beginning of Lent. According to the Bible ashes were used in ancient times to express mourning. Dusting oneself with ashes was the penitent’s way of expressing sorrow for their sins and faults.

EXAMPLES: Job – Job 42:3-6
For cleansing -- Numbers 19:9 & 17
The king of Nineveh -- Jonah 3:6
Jesus gives this as an example of repentance -- Mt. 11:21 Lk 10:13
Requirement of Law for cleansing -- Heb 9:13
Being a mark of repentance and the beginning of Lent . . .

Today we just concentrate on the subject of REPENTANCE.

Repentance is the only way with which we can re-establish our relationship with God through faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.
To redeem us from the bondage of sin, God did every thing in Jesus Christ, few of them are:

i) God gave us instructions through his prophets, through the Law of Moses etc

ii) God prepared a perfect sacrificial lamb to be sacrificed for our sins.

iii) God accepted that sacrifice for our sins because it was a perfect sacrifice.

iv) God has given his righteousness to us.

v) God has prepared a place for us in heaven.

vi) God has given the Holy Spirit to us, who dwells in us to teach us, to guide us, to strengthen us, and so on . . .

vii) God has opened the door for us to become God’s children & the citizens of heaven.

Why Repentance?
BUT ALL THESE THINGS ARE POSSIBLE ONLY because of ONE THING -- REPENTANCE.
John the Baptist and Jesus Christ both started their ministries by calling to “REPENT”.
John said, “Repent, for the kingdom is near.” (Mt.3:2)
Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.” (Mt 4:17)
And in Gospel of Mark states like this, “Repent and believe the good news!” (Mk 1:15)
Call to repent was the basic teaching in the message of salvation.

What is Repentance?
Repentance is not an achievement or success (if success is defined as an achievement of a goal.)
Rather it is a process which starts from the time of turning back.
The Greek word for repentance means turn around, or change of direction totally.
It is not a finished act but is a continuous process. As an explanation, consider this small illustration:
A healthy man → become sick → visit a doctor → starts following all his instructions regarding food and life style → may be a diabetic → after some time of good health started ignoring the instructions → got sick again very badly, on a death bed → recovers again but then takes a conscious decision to follow all the instructions of his Dr.
Because he experienced a death like situation, he took this conscious decision to follow the instructions, even after he faces trials and temptations to fall in the trap but again and again he over comes and consciously follow the instructions.
Analyzing our present situation → giving a serious thought to it → deciding to turn around → act accordingly → always be alert not to turn back again →

This is REPENTANCE.
→ Change one’s mind
→ Call for a change in a person’s attitude toward God that impacted one’s actions and life choices
→ It involve the idea of “turning” → from one way of thinking and living to a different way
→ Common external signs of repentance → prayers of remorse and confession and renouncing of sin

In the Bible we find a very good example of repentance:
The Parable of the Lost Son or the Prodigal Son. Luke 15:11-32

Analyze few facts of this Parable
Father divided his property → Indicates that the father responded to his younger son’s request and allowed him to make his own choice to go his own way.

When the son came to himself he realized that his sin was not only against his earthly father but in the deepest sense against heaven, that is, against God himself.
The prodigal repeats his prepared confession, but father cuts short before he finishes, showing that he has forgiven him, and shows his great love for him.
→ While the younger son represents tax collectors and sinners, the Older son represents the Pharisees. Both groups were listening to the parables, but the Pharisees were probably the primary intended audience of this parable (see verse 3).
→ The older brother protests that the welcome extended to the returning younger son in not fair, comparing the life with his father to years of servitude without celebration.
The picture offers a sharp contrast between → on one hand, the mercy and grace extended by the father (representing God the Father)
→ and, on the other hand self-righteous resentment (never disobeyed … yet you never gave me) of the older brother (exemplified by Pharisees)
Even after all these things older brother refuses to acknowledge the prodigal as his brother.
An affectionate appeal by the father, showing that he still loved the older son and wanted him to join in the celebration
By implication, Jesus is still inviting the Pharisees to repent and accept the good news.

Two → younger one is extrovert → loud → express his mind → own will → acts quickly sons → it’s easy to express his repentance → world will know
→ elder one is introvert → quite → don’t express his mind and will → slow to act
→ it’s difficult to express his repentance → difficult for the world to know it

Both the characters fond in each one of us → the areas in which we can speak, express, show → → it is easy to repent because every body know it can see.
But in the areas in which it is difficult for us to speak, express, show → it is difficult to repent because no body knows about so we can live in hypocrisy in those areas

This tradition of observing fast for 40 days is a good tradition, for new generation it may seem irrelevant but if you treat this, not as a religious practice, but as an opportunity to trained yourself in your spiritual life and battle. In any of the sports whether it is cricket, or foot-ball, badminton or athletics training camps used to be organized by the authorities.
So treat →
Lent → as a spiritual training camp,
Jesus → as a chief coach, master and Lord, and
Bible → as instruction manual

by Mr. Roneld V Kumar

Christmas Carols 2009

Pictures from last day of Caroling in 2009. Anand is missing here, who was there throughout carols but was not there on the last day...

Children's Christmas 2009

Images from the Sunday school Christmas programme - 2009. A modern presentation of nativity-- Baby Jesus in a first-aid box, shepherds replaced with cowboys, wise-men arriving in a automobile.. it was all lovely... and the little angels' voices resounding with joyful carols.. it was all a very creative and meaningful presentation by the Sunday school. Thanks to all the teachers who've put this together..

Follow-up Family seminar - images

These are the images from the Follow-up seminar on the theme 'Family' held on Dec 6, 09..

BMC - Family Seminar Album

Dear All,

Sharing the Family day workshop pictures with all of you. This was held on Nov 22, 09. We received very good feedback that this was a great blessing to all who attended.

Do attend the follow-up Workshop to this - on Dec 6, 09. God bless!

Living Epistles

You yourselves are our letter (Epistles), written on our hearts, known and read by everybody. You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts. 2Cor 3:2-3

Lord Jesus Christ is our saviour and master of our hearts. We received Him as our Lord and saviour of our hearts by faith and we become children of God. We must live a life of children of Holy God. In our daily walk, talk, life, work and all the times and everywhere we must reflect Lord Jesus Christ through our lives.

He is the author and dictator of our lives. He has written each and every word on our hearts not with ink Like the ten commandments but with His Holy Spirit (Eze. 11:19; 36:26). We are far more valuable, and precious, and permanent than any record which could be made by ink. Tablets of stone were frail, and easily broken. There was no life in them. But we are living epistles or living letters of Lord Jesus Christ so other people may read us, experience and see Lord Jesus Christ in and through our lives (Ephesians 2:10).

Lord Jesus Christ was crucified for our sins, transgression, weaknesses to make us holy and worthy before God. In the same manner we must also crucify our own fleshly desires or lust, pleasures of the eyes and pride of the heart (1 Jn. 2:16) and live a new life which is pleasing to Him.

God has given us His Holy Spirit as wonderful Counselor and Helper. Allow Holy Spirit to take control of your lives. So with the power of Holy Spirit we can deny our fleshly desires, pleasures of the eyes and pride of the heart and live a life of living Epistles. Lord Jesus Christ wants to speak through us. He wants to address other people through us.

May God bless you.
Rev. Varinder Kumar

According to your faith will it be done to you

Reading: Matthew 9:27- 31

Lord Jesus Christ is the Fountain of light as well as life (Jn 1:4; 8:121 Jn 1:7). He came to world to open the spiritual eyes as well as physical eyes and to give eternal life (Isaiah 35:5).

The scene of this miracle was near Capernaum (probably at the house of St. Peter). The two blind men probably followed Him with hope and patience till they made the cry of faith "Have mercy on us, Son of David - Messiah" on His leaving the house of Jairus. They were blind. They had not seen Him and His miracles, only heard Him and about Him. They didn’t know much scripture. They simply believed that He is Messiah (Christ – Saviour) and He can give us sight.

But the folly and sin of the chief priests, Pharisees and teachers or experts of the Law they denied and opposed Him. They could not see Him and His miracles (Ephesians 4:18), but faith comes by hearing Romans 10:17. Note, they who, by the providence of God, are deprived of bodily sight, may yet, by the grace of God, have the eyes of their understanding so enlightened, as to discern those great things of God, which are hid from the wise and prudent.

After hearing their cry of faith Lord Jesus Christ treated blind men with mercy, love and compassion (As the blind are to be treated Lev 19:14: Deut 27:18).

"Do you believe that I am able to do this?" Our Lord not only put this question to the further trial of their faith, but to deepen it, to raise their expectation of a cure, and so prepare them to receive it.

It teaches us always to pray, and not to faint: and, though the answer does not come presently, yet to wait for it.

To this question immediately and without hesitation they said, “Yes, Lord.”

“According to your faith will it be unto you.” Lord Jesus Christ touched their eyes. And immediately their sight was restored.

Note, Faith is the great condition of Christ's favors. They, who would receive the mercy of Christ, must firmly believe the power of Christ. What we would have Him do for us, we must be fully assured that He is able to do. “And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who seek Him.” Heb 11:6

So with the sinner or spiritual blind person. If he/she has faith in the Son of God; if he/she believes that Lord Jesus Christ is able and willing to save him/ her: and if he/she earnestly desires to be saved, the power of Jesus will be put forth to the full extent of his/ her faith.

This is simple lesson of faith in Lord Jesus Christ. “According to your faith will it be unto you.”

Rev. Varinder Kumar

Faithful, Fearless and Fighting Spirit

Reading: II Samuel 23:8 - 12

When we look at the account of the mighty men of David we see that Eleazar, son of Dodai the Ahohite was one of the three. This is mentioned in verse9. The three qualities of this mighty man of David were:

1. Eleazar was a Faithful man
2. Eleazar was a Fearless man
3. Eleazar was a man who was full of Fighting spirit

He remained with his master – David during his time of difficulty and crisis. He never left him according to verse10. When others retreated he stood his ground and struck down the Philistines with his sword. We see the quality of faithfulness in Eleazar here.

Secondly he was a Fearless man. He did not run at the time of battle but he fought fearlessly against the enemy – the Philistines. He fought till his hand grew tired. He did not fear the great army of the Philistines but persevered till they got victory.

Thirdly and lastly, Eleazar was a man with full of Fighting Spirit. He consistently fought and it is written in verse 10 that his hand froze to the sword. He kept on fighting till the LORD brought about a great victory that day.

Lesson to learn and implement:

What about us? As God’s children we ought to be faithful, fearless and of a Fighting spirit. People should testify about us that if they assign a task to us, then we will surely and faithfully complete it. They should also trust us to be fearless people, who will not grow weary and tired till we accomplish the given task. Lastly they should have that testimony about the children of God that we have a fighting spirit. That we will be people of victory and will fight till the battle is won.

By Steven Christian

Disorientation with God?

Read Psalm 73

Life situations take us through varied experiences - moderate to extreme. They even influence our beliefs, values, judgments and outlook on life. In our spiritual walk with Jesus, when it comes to trying times in life, a realtime crisis, there's no telling how that situation is going to influence our decisions and mold our future. The devil is always trying to create a gap, a disorientation between us and our Savior Jesus Christ. Psalm 73 beautifully illustrates how can we overcome such disorientation and keep our walk as close as ever with God.

In Psalm 73, Asaph expresses his 'state of mind' and how to one such phase of crisis in his life, which mirrors the very mental process we go through when we go through testing times.

Verse 1-2: The Psalmist fully aware, acknowledges the Kingship and sovereignty of Lord God. He also recounts the miracles God has performed for the deliverance of Israel and to him personally. But, he mentions a personal crisis, where he has slipped / backslided in his walk of faith.

Verse 3-12: Just like we turn around and get disheartened looking at how the godless people prosper / or not facing any crisis inspite of all their blasphemies and arrogance; here, Asaph goes on to compare his crisis situation against the others who do not hearken unto God's word.

Verse 13-14: Asaph is pronouncing conclusions from what he's observed around him. This is a perfect example of how we allow our circumstances to squeeze us into its mold, and starts to influence our attitudes, behavior and decisions eventually. Such situations even make us question God's faithfulness to us.

Verse 14-22: A lovely example is set here about what we need to do when faced with time of crisis. When the circumstances and people around us try to victimize us, we need to turn to our Lord, enter His sanctuary, count our blessings, take our decisions in the light of His word. When we compare our disappointment and the questioning 'state of mind' in the light of God's word and counsel, Asaph says, we are like 'brute beast'.

Verse 23-27: A song of praise gushes forth from all the bitter experiences. Perhaps, as Asaph sings out, his circumstances haven't improved. What exactly has brought the change was the reorientation with God, through His word, and by entering His sanctuary.

Verse 28: The final word - "it is good to be near God. I have made the Sovereign LORD my refuge; I will tell of all your deeds"

There's not a better antidote to any trying time for a believer. Though we slip time and again from our faith by comparing our situation with that of others and get disoriented from God, it's only through His word, that we can ever stay close to our God. There's no better refuge that we can turn to.

By Manohar Lazarus

Rend Your Heart

“Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love.” Joel 2:13

Rending garments was an outward expression of distress, of uncontrollable emotion, of grief, of sorrow, of terror, or of horror either in private or public. Gen. 37:34; Lev. 13:45; Job.1:20; Acts 14:14. In the Bible it was not mentioned as a part of ordinary mourning.

The holy garments of the priests were on no occasion to be rent Lev.10:6; Ex. 28:32. But in Jesus Christ's case the High Priest Caiaphas tore his garments which was the act of greater hypocrisy Matt 26:65; Mk.14:63. It might be done hypocritically. Where there is no true repentance.

Prophet Joel plainly didn’t forbid the use of such outward expression, by which person’s repentance might be expressed, but only requires that it be done not in outward expression only, but accompanied with the inward affections “rend or pierce your hearts rather than your garments, and turn to God with true repentance.” Conversion of heart is important than religious conversion.

It is God’s will that everyone must turn to Him with true repentance and not just outwardly. “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite, O God, you will not despise.” Ps.51:17

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 Jn 1:9

He says to all us “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.” Ezek 36:26

He forgives him/her sins and changes person into new creation. Anyone can approach Him with repented heart for the forgiveness of sins.

God says “Return, ye backsliding children, I will heal your backsliding.” Jer.3:22

He is slow to anger and kind God. He is gracious and merciful to forgive our sins. He delights not in the death of sinners, but desires that they may turn and have everlasting life. That is why Lord Jesus Christ offered His Life for the sins of whole world. “The Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost." Lk. 19:10.

A few examples are given below:

1. Ninevites repented and reformed and saved. Jonah 3:9; Lk.10: 9-10
2. Zacchaeus repentance and received the gift of the salvation; Lk. 15: 17-19
3. Prodigal’s repentance. But Judas and one thief didn’t repent and they perished. Mtt.27:5; Lk.23:36.

Rev. Varinder Kumar

God is with you..

"Have not I commanded you? Be strong and courageous: Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Josh 1:9

This was a scene where people standing at the bank of the over flowing River Jordan with hope and trust that they are going to be enter into Promised Land and there they are going to be settled. There will be no more slavery and no more wandering.

They were only waiting for a signal to enter into the Promised Land. This Promised Land was unknown and new for them. They didn’t know the way and anything about Promised Land and also they had new leadership of Joshua.

But unchanging and Almighty God was with them, His promise of Promised Land was with them. So as they take every step towards Promised Land God was moving ahead of them.

We must learn from their experience before Joshua could lead his people, he, too, had to put his faith into action. He had to be strong and not be afraid. God had to work by him, not just for him. He could not do anything and watch God do it all.

God has given to us all the good things that we need (Ephesians 1:3). We must take every step with faith towards Promises and claim these promises & blessings. The Israelites could not receive the blessings of God until they moved forward. We will not enjoy the blessings of God if we are lazy. We cannot simply do anything. We need to take step towards His Promises.

It does not matter how often we have failed or tried. Only believe that God is with you. God cannot fail, and will not forsake; be strong, and go forward!

The one thing that God asks of all of us is that we should obey Him. We must meditate upon the Scripture day and night; it must not depart from our heart or mouth.

We must be strong in our faith and take every step towards His Promises.

We, too, can know that the same God is with us (Matthew 28:20).

Rev. Varinder Kumar

Church

Reading - Colossians: 1: 24 -29

1. Definition
How can we define a church? It is very hard to define it. Several books have been written on the subject. Which one will determine the definition? - Its size, its teachings, its income. Now a day’s people call it with deferent name – house church, mega church and so on. However we can identify a church by its function. In this portion Paul uses the word “Body of Christ” v.24. If you want to know more about it read 1 Corinthians 12th chapter in the context of spiritual gifts.

2. Vision of Church
What could be the vision of a church? - “Present everyone perfect in Christ” there are people within Christendom who do not like the word perfection. According to this understanding we have possibility of committing sine till we die. We will not achieve perfection in our life at anytime. They normally quote 1 John 1:8.

Jesus talked about this perfection in Mathew 5:48. Perfection is not a life without sin. It is not an end in itself. It is a process. It is regeneration of life. It is transformation from one stage to another. Paul clearly explains it in Ephesians 4: 13.

3. Mission of church
What could be the mission of a church? - “present the word of God in its fullness”. A church should preach from the word of correctly.

The church that does not preach the word of God can not stand for long. In many occasions people use the word of God as foot notes. Every one should allow the word of God to speak to them. See how the church was depending on the word of God. Acts1: 42. 1Timothy 4: 13, 2Timothy 2:2. We need to watch our life and doctrine. 1Timothy 4: 16. Some times people think that doctrine is not important. Our way of life should reflect our doctrine and our doctrine should influence our life.

4. Activities of church
The activities of a church are determined by the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Read 1Corinthans 12th chapter for detail. If God gives a gift to know what gift a person has got, he should look for a chance to use it. If we are faithful in one gift God may give us more gifts. The activities of a church also will increase. Do not use God but allow God to use you.

5. Resources for church
Some times we think that money is the only resources that can run a church. We depend on foreign money. Now in India we can plant churches without foreign money. God’s energy and our struggle are the resources for church. We are go worker with God.

By Mr. Sweeharan

The Mind of Christ Jesus

Reading: Philippians 2:1-11

What attracted you to the Lord Jesus in your early encounter with him? When asked this question several people have told me that they were attracted to his love for mankind, humility and compassion for the poor and needy. These are all true and worth treasuring as we walk in our daily walk with the Lord. In following the example of our Lord Jesus Christ among many characteristics there are three to remember from the second chapter of Philippians.

• He knew who He was therefore we should know who we are in Christ: Although He existed in the form of God He did not consider it a thing to be grasped. He was inseparable from God yet for a moment he became a servant by giving up all His rights. Christ has chosen us, predestined us, he knew us even before we were formed in our mother’s womb, adopted us as sons and daughters, seated us in heavenly realms, forgiven us, redeemed us of the curse, dropped all charges against us and has give us the Holy Spirit. Nothing can detach us from our God given position. Fear may trouble us for a time, sickness will make us suffer, and people will treat us unkindly. In moments like these remember who you are in Christ Jesus and address the situation from your position of victory.

• He became a servant: Jesus humbled himself and became obedient like a servant of His time and to the point of death on the cross. He was unnerved by the consequence of His obedience as a servant. When insults were hurled at Him by prosecutors and public, He continued to serve by remaining silent. Paul exhorts Christians to consider others better than themselves in verse 3. Servant hood is a matter of choice for a Christian. We have to be intentional in our service and this includes everyone. Humanly speaking this is hardly possible but with Christ we chose to serve. Being a servant is not a one time act. It is ongoing outcome of a deeper growing relationship with Christ enabled by the Holy Spirit and propelled by the love of God. So when you choose to forgive and be kind to an arrogant boss, colleague, spouse or children do it as a servant. You can do it only this way and none other than His Spirit will help you.

• He did not judge: He came not to judge but to serve. The Lord Jesus could have spent His entire life time and more to judge the people of His time. None fitted the God given standard, His own disowned Him and left. He was bruised, despised, rejected, abused, harassed and finally crucified. He had all the reasons to judge but he deliberately chose to serve. In Luke 4:19, He purposely did not read the section that says (Isahia61:2) the day of the vengeance of our God because He came to declare God’s love. Too often we are quick in judging by what we see; bad behavior, clothes and other socially unacceptable practices. Judgment is God’s business not ours and knowingly we replace Him. So who are you judging right now? Who needs your forgiveness? How long will you judge and hold back forgiving friends, family and colleagues who have hurt you. Though none be worthy yet in following Christ we chose not to judge.

We are reminded in the book of Romans to be transformed by the renewing of our mind. Our supreme example of transformation is the Lord Jesus Himself. Paul invites people to imitate him but he persuades believers to follow the example of Jesus. We can change habits but it requires inner transformation of the mind to live like a servant, refrain from judging and to love others unconditionally.

Prince David

Ministers - Aroma of Christ sent from God

Ministers – Aroma of Christ sent from God. 2 Corinthians 2: V. 12-17.

A flower may not give two different smells. There are flowers that give good smell and there are some that give bad smell. Logically it is impossible. But in the human being it is possible only when we use perfumes of different kinds. Morning I can smell differently and evening I can differently by using different deodorant or perfume. Paul is not encouraging the ministers to lead a two different life style either. Paul is giving a different meaning altogether as to how a minister can be an aroma of Christ by resulting two different smells.

The context is his visit to Troas. When he visited it he saw a good response. However he could not see his brother Titus and he was not sure why. Instead of spending time in the absence of Titus he left the place. Probably he did not want to do things alone or he would have thought of giving the people to some responsible leader for nurture. We do not know the reason. Paul never wanted to leave his targeted areas of church multiplication without local leaders.

He was not discouraged. Many times we do get discouraged if things are not going well in our church multiplication. We may think that God is not doing any thing in my ministry. Don’t be disgusted. Paul says if you miss in one place it is not the end. God still works wonders in our ministry. After understanding the context now we come for the meaning of the words or the concepts Paul used.

MASTER – Leads us.

“God leads us”. Where ever we want to go we need to follow God rather than asking Him to come there or even ask for His presence. Remember how Moses behaved in the Golden calf incident as recorded in the book of Exodus 32 and 33 chapters. People of Israel were asking for a god to lead them in the absence of Moses. The people said to Aaron: “They said to me ‘Make us gods who will go before us. As for this fellow Moses who brought us up out of Egypt, we do not know what has happened to him” Exodus 32:23. In our ministry either God will lead us or Satan will lead us. God only told Moses, “Now go, lead the people to the place I spoke of and my angel will go before you” 32:34. Moses said to the Lord, “You have been telling me, “Lead these people, but you have not let me know whom you will send with me” 33: 12. The Lord replied, “My presence will go with you” 33:14. This is the way God leads us in our lives also. Isaiah also gives us a promise. “Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way walk in it” 30:31. When God leads us He sends His angel to guide us, His presence is with us and the Holy Spirit guides us. In our ministry the triumphal procession will be like this. If you want to experience this leading ask God to guide you.

Another important person in this aroma procession is Jesus Christ. The ministers do not have the aroma, it is a borrowed one. In our ministry we can not do anything of our own, we can reflect only Jesus. The aroma in our ministry belongs to Jesus. Why it is so? The same Paul gives the answer in Galatians 2:20 “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me”.

The fragrance is the knowledge of God, embodied in the word of God. Some ministers may think that heart is important in Christianity than mind. We can not make that statement. Mind is equally important. Even Jesus said---------. We need to spread the knowledge of God. This knowledge is very important according to the bible. John says, “This is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God” John 17:3. The knowledge of God is important for salvation and eternal life. As we spread the knowledge of God through the word and in Jesus Christ two things happen. Some people are going to die and some people are going to live. Jesus said, “I told you that you would die in your sin: if you do not believe that I am the one I claim to be you will die in your sins” John 8:24. Jesus said, “He/she who believes in me will live, even though he/she dies and whoever lives and believes in me will never die” John 11: 25, 26.

In the Roman Empire during Paul’s time after won a battle the soldiers held a procession to inform the subjects that they have won the battle and in the procession they used perfumes also. The procession was the mark of victory or life for the subjects but for the enemy the procession was death. In the same way when we spread the knowledge of God, some people will be saved and many will be destined for death.

MINISTRY

In our ministry the word of God is the tool for spreading the knowledge of God. Many a time the ministers tend to use the word of God for their own profit. We need remember the fact that all ministers are sent by God with the aroma of Jesus Christ. What ever we get out of our ministry the profit should go to Him who sent us. Jesus did that in His ministry. Even today all ministers should work for the profit of God. We need to loose every thing for God.

By,
Mr. Sweeharan

What is Christian Love?

Let me begin by saying explicitly that whatever definition I, you or anyone else has about love is absolutely irrelevant because only God’s definition has value. It will be his definition of love which will be the basis for his judging each one of us. Only God will decide whether we have loved him, our neighbor and ourselves and it will be based on his definition of love.

Love in the scriptures is the central and core element of all relationships whether vertical (man to God) or horizontal (women/man to women/man). One expert in the law came to Jesus and wanted to know the greatest commandment; Jesus replied, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.” And he went on to say, “The second is: ‘Love your neighbour as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these.” (Mark 12:30, 31). Paul goes on to tell us, love fulfills all the requirements of the law of God (Romans 13:8-10 & Gal 5:14)

Biblical love is not simply a sentiment, platitude, or indefinable emotion. Love is not a warm spot in one's chest. The excelling nature of biblical love is repeatedly taught in the scriptures. Love is the "first and great commandment" upon which all other laws and requirements depend (Matt. 22: 34-40). Love motivates required obedience (Heb. 5: 8, 9; John 14: 23, Gal. 5: 6). The expression "labour of love" is simply labour that love produces (I Thes. 1: 3). Christians are to serve one another by love (Gal. 5: 13). Love works no ill toward one's neighbour and produces confidence (Rom. 13: 10; I Jn. 4: 17, 18). Paul summed up the excellence of love when he wrote thus, "And above all these things put on charity (love, agape, phileo), which is the bond of perfectness" (Col. 3: 14).

In any articles or studies on love, three Greek terms for love are usually referred to, namely: Eros (sexual love), Phileo (verb) or Philos (noun) (Godly love, saved and unsaved mans love) and Agapao (Verb) or Agape (noun) commonly used for God’s love for Jesus, humanity, believers, attitude of believers towards each other, and in general terms.

Eros Love is never mentioned in the Bible. But we start here. Why? Because sexual love is what most people call love. In many cultures, eros is also romantic love, and according to a research done in the United States, is the main reason people get married and over half of both American men and women maintain that not being in love (eros) is grounds for divorce!

The Greeks in Corinth viewed eros as the ultimate religious expression. They thought the highest spiritual experience was the most powerful form of ecstasy. And, what could be more intense than sexual climax? That is why there existed in Corinth the temple to Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty. At one time, this fertility cult employed about one thousand priestess prostitutes available to provide the ultimate “religious experience.” Paul referred to this problem in 1 Corinthians 6:15-20.

Bible teaching about Christian love is quite contrary to the Greek notion of the highest form of love – or religion. For Christian love, the highest form is agape and Phileo.

Agapao & Agape:

There is a false teaching here by some that agapao/agape is Divine love. How can we then explain John 3:19 where reference is made to men loving (agapao) darkness? The word in both verb and noun form is expressed by God and men (saved and unsaved) 2 Cor 9:7; 1Jn 2:10; Jn 3:19; Mt. 5:26; 6:24; 24:12,14; Lk 6:32;7:42;7:47; Jn 12:43; 2Tim 4:10; 2Pet 2:15; 1Jn 2:15;3:18;Rom 5:8; Eph 5:2;Rev 2:4.

The verb form, agapao appears 150 times in the New Testament (NT). Actually, this NT word in both verb and noun form stands in sharp contrast to eros, and is rarely used outside the NT. The basic meaning of agapao is, “to value, or esteem, because of a perceived intrinsic worth”. It means to highly value, and unconditionally have at heart the genuine welfare and best interests of the object loved. The activities arising from agapao are primarily acts of the will-not emotions. Even if feelings do become present they never dominate the will. In other words, it includes a rational commitment and motivation to maintain a relationship even in the face of problems. It directs kindness, respect and loyalty toward the object loved.

God expresses Christian love toward us (John 3:16; cf. Romans 5:5, 8), and Jesus explained this self-sacrificial love, “This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:12, 13). This love is fully described by Paul in 1 Corinthians 13:4-8. This kind of love can be directed (wrongly) toward the things of this world, which might include cars, clothes, cameras, money, fame, and power (1 John 2:15-17).

The Biblical teaching about Christian love indicates it should form the foundation of believer’s relationships with one another (John 13:35). Agape/agapao love demonstrates our friendship with Jesus (John 15:14), and expresses our Christian love toward God (1 John 5:1-3).

But there is another word used in the New Testament that also defines Christian love and that is, Phileo (Verb) and Philos (Noun). Phileo is also expressed both by God and man (saved and unsaved). The primary meaning of phileo is “to cherish”. It is packed with emotion. It means to like, to be fond of, or to delight in. In some context it is translated “to Kiss”. It is a term for intense endearment. The noun philos means friend or a congenial associate. It is never brotherly love or human love (Mt. 5:43-44; 22:37;Mk 10:21;Lk 7:5, 47; Jn 3:16; Jn 3:35; Jn 13:1;14:23, 31;Rom 8:28;Rom 9:25). It originates from God. In John 5:20 we read that Jesus says, “For the Father loves (phileo) the Son and shows him everything he does… In this passage phileo is an activity of God towards his son Jesus. It is generated from within God himself and is as important as agapao.

In a marriage relationship, the dominant fire of eros gradually gives ground to the mature agapao/phileo of affection. Agapao/Phileo becomes the cement that bonds and holds families together over the long haul.

Jesus displayed this Christian love toward Lazarus, as observed, “Lord, behold, he whom You love (phileo) is sick” (John 11:3). In addition, John also wrote of this relationship, “Now Jesus loved (agape) Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus” (John 11:5). John also reveals that God displays friendship love (phileo) toward us, and believers toward Jesus (John 16:27).

So, what practical application can we draw from the Bible teaching about Christian love? Let’s look.

Practical Applications

• Christian love is important. It forms the relationship foundation between us, God, and other believers – and all people (cf. 1 Thessalonians 3:12).
• All three kinds of love are vital and important in a healthy marriage relationship. Phileo can be thought of as love from the heart, and agape from the head. Agape should be the foundation in a marriage. But, sex is important also. Successful love in a marriage incorporates all three.
• Agape love is the sign of the Holy Spirit in a Christian’s life (Galatians 5:22).
• Both agape and phileo should characterize the relationships among Christians (Romans 12:9, 10)

By Rev. Shamsher Bahadur Singh