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The Truth Seeker
Tony Stone Matthew
7:7-8 Ask
and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will
be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds;
and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. John
8:32 Then
you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. Apostacy: The great falling away
Five (5) signs of an Apostate Church
Why Communism and Christianity Can’t Coexist
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Chapter Five Apostacy, the great
falling away By now you have been given more than
enough evidence of God’s existence, and that his son Jesus Christ being real,
is alive. The simple fact that the probability of an ordinary human
performing the 37 miracles attributed to Jesus Christ in the Holy Bible, and
witnessed by many, is zero - proving His divinity and appointment as God’s
son. And, that this, emotion removed, has been determined using natural and
scientific reasoning. Only God’s son, as appointed, and those appointed by
Jesus Christ, could perform miracles. I too am a miracle. Twice surviving
cancer, returning from near death, I am a testimony to God’s grace. So, what
then is apostacy? It is often seen as a turning away from the salvation
offered through Jesus Christ. And, you turn away at your peril. In the Book
of 2 Timothy 3:1-7, it says, “This, know also, that in the last days perilous
times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous,
boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent,
fierce, despisers of those that are good, traitors, heady, high-minded,
lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but
denying the power thereof: from such turn away. For of this sort are they
which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led
away with divers lusts, ever learning, and never able to come to the
knowledge of the truth.” The morality of people today is multifaceted, reflecting a mix of
evolving values, ethical dilemmas, hypocrisy, populism and convenient
religion. It is shaped by the rapid changes in technology, globalization, and
societal norms, creating both progress and challenges in how morality is
understood and practiced. In the West and predominantly “Christian” world, many people embrace
more inclusive and egalitarian ideals, advocating for human rights, gender
equality, racial justice, and LGBTQ+ acceptance. There is a shift away from
rigid, traditional moral frameworks toward more subjective, situational
ethics. Increased awareness of global issues, such as climate change, poverty,
and inequality, has fostered a sense of moral responsibility for the planet
and future generations. Many individuals are actively working to address
systemic injustices, reflecting a collective push for fairness and
accountability. In an era of individualism, people often prioritize personal success
and happiness, sometimes at the expense of communal well-being. On the other
hand, many demonstrate remarkable altruism, participating in charitable work,
mutual aid, and community support. Issues like data privacy, AI ethics, and the impact of social media on
mental health raise questions about responsibility and morality in the
digital age. The internet has enabled both positive activism and harmful
behaviours like cyberbullying and misinformation, complicating moral
accountability. Political and ideological divides have created stark moral
disagreements, with some prioritizing individual freedoms and others
emphasizing collective welfare. Social media amplifies moral outrage, often
creating echo chambers where nuanced discussion is difficult. More people are considering the ethical implications of their choices,
such as reducing waste, supporting fair trade, and advocating for animal
rights. Many people view environmental stewardship as a moral obligation,
reflecting a shift toward long-term ethical thinking. Rapid social and technological change has created situations where
traditional moral guidelines don’t apply, leading to confusion and debate.
People often make compromises between idealism and practicality, navigating
complex ethical landscapes. While many evolved to embrace modern ethics, others cling to or
rediscover traditional moral values, sometimes in reaction to perceived moral
decline. Are they right? Convenient
Christianity As of 2024, there are approximately 45,000 different Christian
denominations, and roughly 10,000 different religions worldwide. While there
are so many distinct religions in the world, over three-quarters of the
global population adheres to one of these four – Christianity (31%), Islam
(24%), Hinduism (15%), and Buddhism (7%). Jeff Hilles, writing for the Biblical Christian Worldview, says that
one of the comments he gets most often from those who consider themselves
“Christians” is that they “follow Christ”, not “the Bible”. Quite a
contradiction. Their focus is to “love thy neighbour” as primary, if not
their singular, stated, but not always practiced, life goal. This desire does
not require much in the way of church attendance, nor does it need to include
the reading of God’s Word. It does not have to reconcile Scriptural discrepancies
and, perhaps most convenient, it allows the “Christian” to ignore all
passages which might conflict with their ability to meld with changing social
norms. This includes pesky issues like pro-life, gay lifestyles, multiple
paths to Heaven, Biblical inerrancy, etc. Further, one can choose when to
call themselves a Christian when “fellowshipping” with other “believers”.
But, can keep silent when it is more practical to hide that religious
designation in the interest of “loving the lost”. Their theology still encompasses all the
positive aspects of their faith, such as going to Heaven, God’s love is the
source of their love for others, and that the Holy Spirit is their guide to
life’s challenges. Hilles goes on to say that the God of the Bible is not in alignment
with the convenient Christianity of today. This is why so many “convenient Christians”
either have to reject, ignore, or reinterpret those selected Biblical
passages that conflict with societies’ views (sometimes referred to as
“deconstruction”). Otherwise, cognitive dissonance sets in, which is both
disconcerting and unacceptable. Too true. In the Book of John 17:17 it says God's word, the Holy Bible,
is the truth. In the Book of Matthew 4:4, and Jesus, quoting the Book
of Deuteronomy 8:3, said, “Know that man doth not live by bread
only, but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God. So does man
live.” To deny this, given the evidence of God and Jesus Christ’s existence,
presented so far, is pure foolishness. And, to add to the confusion, the existence of false prophets, who
sound so convincing, lead people to believing in false doctrines – in many
cases for their own financial gain. Examples of the top 10 richest pastors in
the world are: 1.
Bishop T. D Jakes, man of
God, has been endowed with a $150 million net worth and lives in a US$ 1,7
million mansion and
sports a diamond ring the size of a coin. 2.
Bishop David Oyedepo is a
Nigerian preacher and Christian author. He has a total net worth of $150
million, 4 private jets and homes in the United States and England. 3.
E A Adeboye is said,
by Newsweek magazine, to be the most powerful man in Africa and one of the
top 50 global power elites. Amongst his possessions are private jets. 4.
Benny Hinn, the
Israeli televangelist, has an estimated net worth of $42 million. He is best
known for his regular “Miracle Crusades” – revival meeting/faith healing
summits. 5.
Chris Oyakhilome has an
estimated net worth between $30 million and $50 million He was at the centre
of a $35 million money laundering case in which he was accused of siphoning
funds from his church to foreign banks. 6.
Creflo Dollar, the
American preacher, has an estimated net worth of $27 million. As his name
suggests, this preacher’s “manna” comes in form of the green buck. 7.
Kenneth Copeland is one
of several televangelists whose finances were investigated from 2007 to 2011
by Republican Sen. Charles Grassley of Iowa. He has an estimated net worth
said to be $300 million. 8.
Billy Graham, the
American evangelist, has a net worth of $25 million. He is world renowned and
rakes in millions of dollars. 9.
Matthew Ashimolowo gets an
annual income of $200,000. Today, his Kingsway International Christian Centre
is reportedly the largest Pentecostal church in the whole of the United
Kingdom. 10.
T.B. Joshua has an
estimated net worth of between $10 million – $15 million and is one of
Nigeria’s most controversial clergymen. His church accommodates over 15,000
worshippers on Sundays. The issue of course is how do you distinguish between a genuine
preacher and a false prophet? In Christianity, the Bible provides guidance on
how to discern between true and false preachers/prophets, offering criteria
that can be applied thoughtfully. Here’s a detailed exploration of this “thin
line”: Genuine prophets align their messages with the core principles and
moral teachings of the Holy Bible. In Christianity, a true preacher/prophet's
words and actions will be consistent with Scripture (Deuteronomy 13:1-4).
True prophets emphasize God’s will and glory, not their personal gain, power,
or status. As John the Baptist said, “He must become greater; I must
become less.” (John 3:30) A genuine preacher/prophet lives a life of humility, service, and
integrity, reflecting their devotion to God. Their personal conduct should
align with their teachings. In biblical contexts, the accuracy of a prophet’s
predictions was a key test (Deuteronomy 18:22). However, prophecy is
not only about predicting the future but also about delivering God’s message
for the present. True prophets guide people toward repentance, faith, and
righteous living, fostering a deeper relationship with God. Characteristics of False
Preachers/Prophets False preachers/prophets distort or contradict sacred teachings to
suit their agendas. In the Book of 2 Corinthians 11:14 it says, “Even
Satan disguises himself as an angel of light.” They seek fame, wealth, or
influence, often exploiting their followers. Sound familiar? Again, in the Book
of Matthew 7:15 it says, “Beware of false prophets, who come to
you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves”. False preachers/prophets may perform signs or miracles to deceive
people, but their fruits (actions and outcomes) reveal their true nature. In
the Book of Mark 13:22 it says, “For false messiahs and false
prophets will appear and perform signs and wonders to deceive, if possible,
even the elect.” Their lives are often marked by greed, corruption, and hypocrisy,
betraying their lack of true devotion. False prophets often lead people away
from faith and unity, causing division, fear, or confusion. Two primary examples are: Forty-six years ago, in 1978, the Rev Jim Jones, the charismatic
leader of an American cult in the Guyanese jungle, ordered his followers to
murder a US congressman and several journalists, then commit mass suicide by
drinking cyanide-laced fruit punch. The Jonestown massacre was, before 9/11,
the largest single incident of intentional civilian death in American
history. More than 900 people died, many children. It was also a devastating
cultural trauma, the end of 1960s idealism and 1970s radicalism. David Koresh, born Vernon Wayne Howell (August 17, 1959 – April 19,
1993) was an American cult leader who played a central role in the Waco,
Texas siege of 1993. As the head of the Branch Davidians, a religious sect,
Koresh claimed to be its final prophet. His apocalyptic Biblical teachings,
including interpretations of the Book of Revelation and the Seven Seals,
attracted various followers. Twenty people, including five children under the
age of 14 and a three-year-old died in the siege The thin line: Why it’s difficult to
discern Both true and false preachers/prophets can possess charisma and the
ability to inspire. This makes it challenging to discern their intentions
based solely on appearances. False prophets may mix truth with deception,
making their teachings seem credible while subtly leading people astray. Even
genuine prophets are human and may err or face opposition, leading some to
doubt their authenticity. What is considered prophetic or genuine can vary
based on cultural, historical, or denominational perspectives. Both true and
false preachers/prophets can evoke strong emotional responses, which might
cloud critical judgment. There is one sure fire way not to be misled and that is to keep your
eyes on Jesus Christ and not fall under the influence of the preacher/prophet
be a true or false preacher/prophet. Here are a few pointers to ensure you
are not misled. ·
Know your Bible, preferably the new or original
King James Version. Some more modern Bibles have incorrect interpretations. ·
In the Book of Matthew 7:16 it advises, “By
their fruit, you will recognize them.” Examine the content and outcomes of
their teachings and actions—do they promote love, peace, justice, and faith? ·
Measure their messages against scripture. Listen
to what is said, but if Jesus or His disciples did not say it, then it is
incorrect/not true. Be aware of misinterpretation or your own
misunderstanding. ·
Pray for wisdom and guidance through the Holy
Spirit. Discernment often requires spiritual maturity and patience. ·
Seek counsel from trusted spiritual leaders or
the broader faith community to evaluate claims. ·
Over time, the true character and intentions of a
preacher/prophet becomes evident. ·
Be cautious of individuals who demand
unquestioning loyalty or use fear tactics. ·
Avoid those who promise material gain or quick
fixes in exchange for faith. ·
Stay rooted in the Holy Bible’s teachings and
practice humility in your evaluations. The line between genuine and false preachers/prophets can be thin
because both may possess charisma, confidence, and influence. However,
careful discernment—rooted in scripture, prayer, and observation of their
fruits—will reveal the truth. Genuine preachers/prophets will always point to
God and encourage righteousness, while false prophets ultimately serve their
own interests. The
evils of Catholicism Power
corrupts, absolutely. The entire behaviour of the early Catholic Church was
antichrist – against Jesus Christ’s teachings. Its inquisition was a powerful
office set up within the Catholic Church to root out and punish heresy
throughout Europe and the Americas. Beginning in the 12th century and
continuing for hundreds of years, the Inquisition is infamous for the
severity of its tortures and its persecution of non-Catholic Christians, Jews
and Muslims. Its worst manifestation was in Spain, where the Spanish
Inquisition was a dominant force for more than 200 years, resulting in some
32,000 executions. An unfortunate example of their inquisitions was the
Galileo affair that began around 1610, and culminated with the trial and
condemnation of Galileo Galilei by the Catholic
Inquisition, and murdered in 1633. Galileo, an astronomer, physicist and
engineer was the inventor of the telescope. Today,
the Catholic Church, no matter what justifications it gives, breaks the laws
of God in two key areas: 1.
In every Catholic Church you will find images,
statues, and other forms of visual art that often raises questions about the
biblical prohibition of "graven images." In the Book of Exodus
20:4-5, the Ten Commandments as given to Moses, it states
clearly, “Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness
of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that
is in the water under the earth: Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor
serve them.” 2.
Catholics pray to the Mother Mary as an
intercessor between them and God. However, Jesus Christ said in the Book
of John 14:6, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes
to the Father except through me.” You do not get
any clearer than that. In July 2014, Pope Francis admitted that about 2%' of Catholic clergy
are paedophiles. That’s just over 8,000 priests. The Catholic Church is also one of the wealthiest in the world. The church
has vast assets, including billions in real estate and some priceless art,
not to mention the Vatican Bank. But its finances are largely secret.
Tallying that immense wealth is pretty much impossible, according to experts.
Pornography The
first of the “seven deadly sins” is lust, a strong passion or longing,
especially for sexual desires. The Bible speaks about lust in 2 Timothy 2:22
saying, “Flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and
peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.” The Bible also condemns lust in six
more of the seven verses condemning lust: Job 31:1, Matthew 5:28, Philippians
4:8, James 1:14-15, 1 Peter 2:11 and 1 John 2:16. Chastity or self-control
cures lust by controlling passion and leveraging that energy for the good of
others Sadly,
in our modern times, and in the early days of the Internet, free websites
such as “alt.sex” or “alt.lesbian” provided users with access to a
massive amount of pornographic images. Around 2007,
the most popular porn website launched under the name “Pornhub.” Today,
Pornhub has an estimated 50 million registered users and over a billion
pornographic videos uploaded for immediate viewing. ·
Porn
is available on 12% of all websites. ·
If
a person visited one porn site per day, it would take 84 years for them to
view all the porn websites on the internet. ·
An
estimated 91.5% of men and 60.2% of women consume porn in one form or another ·
Fortunately,
if one can say so, 84% of Americans believe watching child pornography should
be illegal ·
The
porn industry in the United States generated $1.15 billion in 2023, which is
the same as the revenue of the National Collegiate Athletic Association ·
PornHub reported more than 100
million visits per day in 2023. ·
The
same website reported 2.14 billion visits during a single month, which is
more than the combined visits to Netflix, TikTok, Pinterest, and Instagram. ·
PornHub is the fourth most-visited
site, surpassed only by Google, Facebook and YouTube. The
most commonly observed effect of porn addiction is increased psychological
anxiety or distress, which often leads to issues of overall sexual
disfunction. It also promotes criminal behaviour. ·
It
turns human bodies into objects for lust ·
Porn
can negatively impact relationships in as much as the lies, deception and
even affairs that can spring from someone caught in this trap ·
Porn
can become habit-forming ·
Dark
porn can fuel violence and abuse ·
Porn
perpetuates racism and toxic stereotypes ·
Porn
negatively affects sexual function and makes people more sexually illiterate ·
Porn
can change a consumer’s brain ·
Porn
can normalize abuse ·
Porn
can fuel mental health issues ·
Porn
companies profit from nonconsensual (rape) content ·
Porn
fuels sex trafficking ·
But
what if the most dangerous impact of porn is more subtle than all of the
above? The greatest danger of watching porn is being lead away from God and
his heart for us? If
addicted, you can pray to God and seek his help. The Book of 1 Corinthians
6:18 says, “Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a
person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins
against his own body.” For
those reading this who feel they are struggling with pornography, you are not
alone. You can visit https://auth.joinfortify.com, a science-based recovery
platform dedicated to helping you find lasting freedom from pornography.
Fortify now offers a free experience for both teens and adults. Connect with
others, learn about your unwanted porn habit, and track your recovery
journey. There is hope. Homosexuality
1.
Had
they found the gene that makes people homosexual? 2. What were the findings of
their empirical research that caused homosexuality? The answer
to the first was “no”, they had not identified the gene. While sexuality is
complex, as their research confirms, there is no single gene responsible for
a person being gay or a lesbian.” The
answer to the second question was frightening. The most prolific reason was
homosexual paedophiles being the main groomers of children and adolescents in
becoming homosexual. Overly domineering mothers with weak husbands in a
family unit was another cause. These
results were published the Church’s newspaper and invoked a storm. I was
charged with homophobia and had a motion of censure levelled against me. Had
I been found guilty I would have been excommunicated from the Church. My
defence at my hearing was that when the panel, all bishops, became ministers,
they took an oath to uphold the Bible as the word of God. I asked them
whether I should tear out the 18 pages of the Bible that condemn
homosexuality. Naturally I was found not guilty. God
says love (agape) homosexuals but don’t condone their sin. This
highlights the Pew Research Centre’s findings that, despite major changes in laws and norms surrounding the
issue of same-sex marriage and the rights of LGBTQ+ people around the world,
public opinion on the acceptance of homosexuality in society remains sharply
divided by country, region and economic development. Those in Western Europe
and the Americas are generally more accepting of homosexuality than are those
in Eastern Europe, Russia, Ukraine, the Middle East and sub-Saharan Africa.
And publics in the Asia-Pacific region generally are split. Many of the countries
surveyed in 2002 and 2019 have seen a double-digit increase in acceptance of
homosexuality. This includes a 21-point increase since 2002 in South Africa
and a 19-point increase in South Korea over the same time period. India also
saw a 22-point increase since 2014, the first time the question was asked of
a nationally representative sample there. There also have been
fairly large shifts in acceptance of homosexuality over the past 17 years in
two very different places: Mexico and Japan. In both countries, just over
half said they accepted homosexuality in 2002, but now closer to seven-in-ten
say this. In Kenya, only 1 in 100 said homosexuality should be accepted in 2002, compared
with 14% who say this now. Top 10
Bible Verses about Homosexuality Leviticus
18:22:
You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; it is an abomination. Leviticus
20:13:
If a man lies with a male as with a woman, both of them have committed an
abomination; they shall surely be put to death; their blood is upon them. Jude
1:7:
Just as Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding cities, which likewise
indulged in sexual immorality and pursued unnatural desire, serve as an
example by undergoing a punishment of eternal fire. Romans
1:26-28:
25 They exchanged the truth about God for a lie, and worshiped and served
created things rather than the Creator—who is forever praised. For this
reason, God gave them up to dishonourable passions. For their women exchanged
natural relations for those that are contrary to nature; and the men likewise
gave up natural relations with women and were consumed with passion for one
another, men committing shameless acts with men and receiving in themselves
the due penalty for their error. And since they did not see fit to
acknowledge God, God gave them up to a debased mind to do what ought not to
be done. Genesis
2:24:
Therefore, a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his
wife, and they shall become one flesh. Mark
10:6-9:
But from the beginning of creation, ‘God made them male and female.’
‘Therefore, a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his
wife, and the two shall become one flesh.’ So they
are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let
not man separate.” 1
Corinthians 6:9-10: Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not
inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral,
nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor
thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revellers, nor swindlers will
inherit the kingdom of God. 1
Timothy 1:8-11: Now we know that the law is good, if one uses it
lawfully, understanding this, that the law is not laid down for the just but
for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy
and profane, for those who strike their fathers and mothers, for murderers,
the sexually immoral, men who practice homosexuality, enslavers, liars,
perjurers, and whatever else is contrary to sound doctrine, in accordance
with the gospel of the glory of the blessed God with which I have been
entrusted. 1
Corinthians 7:2: But because of the temptation to sexual
immorality, each man should have his own wife and each woman her own husband. 2
Corinthians 5:17: Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new
creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. Being
crafty, the devil often approaches us with truth intertwined with a lie. He
uses just enough truth to make us doubt. The question is, what are we to
become? A new person in Jesus Christ or a son/daughter of Satan? Alcohol use disorder: A growing public
health crisis The
Holy Bible does not condemn drinking alcohol. In fact, Jesus Christ’s first
miracle was turning water into wine. So, it’s not a sin to consume alcohol.
However, to abuse alcohol, so much so that it makes you a habitual drinker
and/or alcoholic, where you lose control of your behaviour, that is a sin
because it makes you sin by doing immoral things. The WHO
reported over 3 million annual deaths due to alcohol and drug use, majority
among men, in 2023/2024. Alcohol or
alcoholic beverages contain ethanol, a psychoactive and toxic substance that
can cause dependence. The alcohol-attributable mortality was heaviest among
men, accounting for 2.3 million deaths compared to 700,000 deaths among
women, in 2023/2024. An estimated 400 million people, or 7% of the world’s
population aged 15 years and older, lived with alcohol use disorders. Of
this, 209 million people (3.7% of the adult world population) lived with
alcohol dependence. Alcohol consumption, even at low levels can bring health
risks, but most alcohol related harms come from heavy episodic or heavy
continuous alcohol consumption. Effective alcohol control interventions exist
and should be utilized more, at the same time it is important for people to
know risks associated with alcohol consumption and take individual actions to
protect from its harmful effects. Alcohol
is an established carcinogen and alcohol consumption increases the risk of
several cancers, including breast, liver, head and neck, oesophageal and
colorectal cancers. In 2023/2024, 4.4% of cancers diagnosed globally and 427
000 cancer deaths were attributed to alcohol consumption. Consistent with
global findings, alcohol use is taking on a youthful face, as indicated by an
increasing trend in lifetime prevalence of alcohol use with one in 100
adolescents ages 12 to 13 reported drinking alcohol. Drug
addiction Numerous
scriptures refer to drunkenness, sobriety and making healthy decisions. The
interpretations of each verse is up for debate. But
the overall message seems to be clear. God doesn't want us to misuse alcohol
or drugs because they distort our thinking. Drug
production, trafficking, and use continue to exacerbate instability and
inequality, while causing untold harm to people's health, safety and
well-being. In the decade to 2024, the number of people using illicit drugs
increased to 292 million, reflecting a 20% rise over the past decade, the
UNODC report says. Cannabis
remains the most widely used drug worldwide (228 million users), followed by
opioids (60 million users), amphetamines (30 million users), cocaine (23
million users), and ecstasy (20 million users). Nitazenes
– a group of synthetic opioids which can be even more potent than fentanyl –
have recently emerged in several high-income countries, resulting in an
increase in overdose deaths. Though an estimated 64 million people worldwide
suffer from drug use disorders, only one in 11 is in treatment. Women receive
less access to treatment than men, with only one in 18 women with drug use
disorders in treatment versus one in seven men. Early pregnancy (UNICEF) Globally
in 2023, an estimated 13 per cent of adolescent girls and young women give
birth before age 18. Early childbearing, or pregnancy and delivery during
adolescence, can derail girls’ otherwise healthy development into adulthood
and have negative impacts on their education, livelihoods and health. Many
girls who are pregnant are pressured or forced to drop out of school, which
can impact their educational and employment prospects and opportunities.
Early pregnancy and childbearing can also have social consequences for girls,
including stigmatization and reduced status in the home and community. They
can also lead to rejection and violence by family members, peers and partners
as well as early and forced marriage. In South Africa, there has been a significant
increase in the number of adolescent and young girls falling pregnant –
ultimately girls who are giving birth from as young as 10 years old. This is
a major cause for concern. The state is playing a role in the increase in
early pregnancy with their child support grant, which is currently R530 per
month per child. Naïve young girls and women succumb to 'sugar daddies' and
'blessers’ with their fancy cars and sweet talk in the hope of breaking free
out of poverty. Sad, but true. Alcohol
and drug abuse unfortunately affect girls and young women and they are
sexually taken advantage of, resulting in unwanted pregnancies and leading to
increased abortions. Abortions Any fulfilment
of sexual desire outside of the marriage union between a man in a woman is
sexual immorality. God is the creator of sex, and he has defined the proper
fulfilment and boundaries of those desires. Before a person gets married,
they are to keep those desires asleep. Around
73 million induced abortions take place worldwide each year. Six out of 10
(61%) of all unintended pregnancies, and 3 out of 10 (29%) of all pregnancies,
end in induced abortion. Comprehensive abortion care is included in the list
of essential health care services published by WHO in 2020.17 May 2024: ·
Six
out of 10 unintended pregnancies end in induced abortion. ·
Abortion
is a common health intervention. It is very safe when carried out using a
method recommended by WHO, appropriate to the pregnancy duration and by
someone with the necessary skills. ·
However,
around 45% of abortions are unsafe. ·
Unsafe
abortion is an important preventable cause of maternal deaths and
morbidities. It can lead to physical and mental health complications and
social and financial burdens for women, communities and health systems. ·
Lack
of access to safe, timely, affordable and respectful abortion care is a
critical public health and human rights issue. Modern
“Woke” culture "Woke culture" refers to a broad set of
social attitudes and movements that emphasize awareness and activism
regarding social injustices, especially those related to race, gender, and
other forms of systemic oppression. It originated from African American
Vernacular English (AAVE) with the term "woke" meaning to be awake
or aware of social inequalities, particularly regarding racism. Wokeness is also associated with left-wing politics and has become the
nomenclature for the ideology or mentality of radical leftist activists on
college campuses, at protests, and on social media. Over time, the concept has expanded to include a heightened awareness
of issues such as: ·
Racial Inequality:
Focusing on systemic racism and the need for racial justice, including issues
like police brutality, racial profiling, and unequal treatment in the
criminal justice system. ·
Gender Equality:
Advocating for the rights and recognition of women, transgender, and
non-binary individuals, as well as addressing issues like the gender pay gap,
harassment, and discrimination. ·
LGBTQ+ Rights:
Promoting acceptance and equality for individuals of various sexual
orientations and gender identities, addressing homophobia, transphobia, and
discrimination. ·
Economic Justice:
Acknowledging the unequal distribution of wealth and opportunities, and
pushing for economic policies that address poverty, workers' rights, and
systemic inequalities. ·
Environmental Justice: Advocating
for sustainable environmental practices, particularly in marginalized
communities that are disproportionately affected by pollution and climate
change. ·
Colonialism and Indigenous Rights:
Addressing historical injustices like colonization and advocating for the
rights and sovereignty of indigenous peoples. The term "woke" has been co-opted in recent years, sometimes
with a pejorative connotation. Critics argue that woke culture has led to: ·
Excessive Political Correctness: A
tendency to over-sensitize language and behaviour to avoid offending
individuals or groups, leading to cancel culture, where people or entities
face public backlash for perceived missteps. ·
Virtue Signalling: Some
argue that aspects of woke culture can become performative, with individuals
or companies adopting progressive stances more for social validation than for
real commitment to change. ·
Intolerance for Dissent: Critics
claim that woke culture can sometimes become overly dogmatic, shutting down
debate or differing opinions rather than fostering open discussion. Proponents argue that woke culture is an essential force for social
change, advocating for awareness, empathy, and accountability in confronting
entrenched social issues. But wokeness has not been limited to just a handful of activists. It’s
becoming a dominant mindset in the international workplace, in both the
public and private sectors, as a method to promote the woke ideology.
Wokeness’ pervasive trends, under the guise of equality, makes diversity
training in government, and corporate UK and America, and in schools,
destructive, divisive, and harmful.” Wokeness is a fusion of the critical theory school of neo-Marxism,
which is a form of identity politics, and radical activism that has a very
particular worldview that separates the world into liberationists versus
oppressors or oppressed versus oppressors. All applications of truth are
actually applications of politics by other means. In other words, truth is malleable, based
on power and who drives the narrative of what truth really is. In effect, the
truth is replaced by my truth. Combining traditional Marxism with Freudian psychology and other social
theories changes the way people think. It is essential to inform people of
the transformation taking place and warn them of the radical changes to come
if these ideas are not stopped. Six reasons Christianity is not like wokeism These six differences, between Biblical doctrine and woke ideologies,
will awaken us to the deception of wokeism and allow Christ’s truth to renew
our minds. 1.
God emphasizes grace: Being
“woke” or W-O-K-E is essentially wilfully overlooking known evil. Dr Ben
Carson, a retired neurosurgeon, academic, author and USA government official,
speaks of this, saying, “You can’t deny that there were some terrible things
that happened [in our country]. But [critical race theory] utilizes that to
create a platform to build upon. As a nation, do we want to build upon our
greatest mistakes, or do we want to build on our tremendous successes? The
two lead to very different places. Critical race theory would have our
children dividing themselves: making white kids feel guilty because they and
all their relatives are oppressors and making Black kids and minorities feel
like they’re victims. This is probably the worst thing you can do to a person
because if you think you are a victim, you are.” This mindset
is the opposite of grace. Grace tells us we can be forgiven of all
wrongdoing, and there is immeasurable freedom in this. G-R-A-C-E stands for God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. It takes courage to accept and
receive this grace rather than burying yourself in shame and powerlessness.
The Bible teaches that there is hope for everyone, but wokeism does not. Wokeists want eternal punishment for those they consider
oppressors and eternal victimhood for those they consider victims. There is
no grace or hope in that future. 1.
Jesus
offers forgiveness: Because of His outrageous, contagious love,
Jesus Christ came to die on the cross for our sins and rise again. He
reconciled man to God through Christ and offered forgiveness. Forgiveness is
the core of the gospel. He doesn’t dredge up the past. God is in the
recycling business. He repurposes us, our pain, our sin, and our grief.
That’s what the gospel is all about. Wokeism,
though, says many things are unforgivable. Forgiveness is not a factor. Even
when you recognize a wrong you’d like to make right,
the path forward includes a never-ending cycle of striving to prove yourself
good again. This is essentially a works-based way to save yourself from your
sin, which is the opposite of the salvation God offers. 2.
Christianity
celebrates uniqueness: The Bible says that we’re made in the unique
image of God. We can celebrate the unique way we were created rather than
compare ourselves to each other. Wokeism tends to pit different people
against each other and group people together in categories. According to the
Bible, there is only one race. We all descended from Adam and Eve. There’s
great diversity within humanity which shows off the creativity of God.
Anytime we stereotype someone or an entire group of people based on the
behaviour of just a few, we mock the majesty of our Maker. The Bible says we
are made in God’s image, but wokeism says our race or gender are the things
that most define us. Wokeism perpetuates a narrative of victimhood, but the
Bible preaches a narrative of victory.
3.
God is
love: God is love. The entire gospel only happened because He loved us.
Wokeism preaches a message of tolerance, but it’s not about love at all.
Wokeism is about hatred, division, and separation. Its tenets simplify people
down to their skin colour, body parts, or how they use those parts. Advocates
of wokeism want to silence Christians and show hatred toward us because we
don’t adhere to their ideas. This is the classic battle of neo-paganism
between the enemy and God. The gospel emphasizes unification, but workers
focus on separation. The gospel elevates the love of God, but wokeism centres
itself around hatred. The gospel offers acceptance, but wokeists
only offer cancellation. 4.
God’s
Word is the absolute truth: In
Biblical Christian doctrine, absolute truth trumps our feelings. Emotions
change daily and hourly, but the truth of God’s Word never changes. The Bible
says those who don’t know the Lord are blinded to the truth. They want to
identify and place their entire value on how they feel that day. Wokeism says
your emotions are the truth, and no one can tell you otherwise. The enemy
uses extreme deception to keep people from the truth. Our source of truth,
however, comes from Scripture, not our emotions. 5.
Christianity
values responsibility: Though Jesus emphasized love and grace, He also
put great value on responsibility and personal accountability. Everything He
talked about in the parables had to do with responsibility. Even the judgment
seat of Christ is about a reckoning for our actions. Wokeism constantly
shifts the blame to someone else, so there’s always a proverbial victim. The
truth is that you’ll never have victory if you don’t take responsibility. Not
everyone will go to Heaven Are you
one of the seven Christians destined for Hell? YouTube’s @FindthePower
provides an excellent, detailed video of the seven. Below is an edited and
abridged transcription of the video: In the Book
of Matthew 7:21-23, it says, "Not everyone who says to me 'Lord,
Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven..." "Not everyone who says
to me 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who
does the will of my Father in heaven.” What if everything you thought about your faith wasn't enough. Imagine
standing before God confident in your salvation only to hear the words,
“depart from me I never knew you (Matthew 7:23). These aren't just words they
are the most chilling verdict anyone could ever face and the truth is not
everyone who claims to follow Christ will enter the kingdom of heaven. Now let's ask a hard question. Could you be on that list? Could your
faith, your devotion and your life be leading you down a path you never
expected? This is not about scaring you. It's about awakening you. God's love
is perfect, but his Justice is also unshakable. The Bible reveals the
characteristics of those who will not inherit the kingdom of God even though
they believe they are safe. Here's the Good News! By knowing the truth, you
can change your destiny. This Journey isn't about judgment. It's about
clarity, renewal and ultimately salvation. Here we'll uncover the seven types of Christians destined for hell
according to scripture. You'll see the unmistakable traits described in God's
word, and by the end you'll be equipped with the knowledge to transform your
walk with him. But before we start, let me ask you something important. Are
you ready to face the truth? The hypocritical Christian Let's begin open your heart and allow the spirit to guide you as we
explore this eye-opening message. The hypocritical Christian is one of the
most condemned figures in scripture. In the Book of Matthew 23 27-28,
Jesus describes them as whitewashed tombs. Beautiful on the outside but
filled with death and decay. On the inside this isn't just a poetic metaphor.
It's a severe warning! Hypocrisy is more than inconsistency. It's a
deliberate Act of living a double life. Imagine someone who speaks endlessly
about God's love but harbors resentment and
judgment in their heart. They might attend church every Sunday, quote
scripture and even lead others in prayer. Outwardly they seem devoted, but
inwardly their motives are self-serving. They pursue the admiration of others
rather than a true relationship with God. Jesus made it clear these
individuals may fool people but they cannot deceive him. But why is hypocrisy so dangerous? It not only damages the
individual's soul but also misleads others. A hypocritical Christian creates
stumbling blocks for those seeking genuine faith. Their actions can make
others question God's integrity and love. Hypocrisy turns faith into a
performance, reducing God's word to a set of rules rather than a
transformative truth. Think of Judas es Scariot. He
followed Jesus closely. Performed miracles and managed the group's finances.
Yet his heart was far from God. His betrayal was not a sudden decision but
the result of a life lived in duplicity. Judas's story serves as a sobering
reminder. Proximity to Christ does not guarantee intimacy with him. You might
ask how do I know if I'm a hypocrite? The answer lies in self-reflection. Do your actions align with your words? For example, if you talk about
generosity but cling tightly to your money and possessions, are you truly
living out God's command to love others. Hypocrisy often hides in the small
moments of life when no one is watching. It's when you choose personal
comfort over obedience or when you pursue worldly luxuries while neglecting
eternal treasures. Here's an exercise. Examine your week. Write down moments
when your actions didn't align with your beliefs. Did you speak harshly to
someone but preach forgiveness? Did you prioritize money, status or luxury
over God's calling? These instances reveal the gap between your faith and
your practice. The antidote to hypocrisy is authenticity. God doesn't expect
perfection but he desires sincerity. The Book of Psalm 51:6
says, “Behold, you desire truth in the inward parts, and in the hidden parts,
wisdom.” The cause of people to live authentically means to allow God's love to
transform every corner of your life, not just the parts you show to others.
As you reflect on this, consider if there’s any area in your life where
you've been living a double standard? Is there a secret sin a hidden agenda
or a pattern of behaviour that doesn't align with your professed faith. God's
love is great enough to cover all sins, but it requires repentance and a
willingness to change. The lukewarm Christian The next type of “Christian” is the lukewarm Christian. Imagine
standing in a room divided by two forces. One side radiates the fiery passion
of God's love and purpose while the other is as cold and lifeless as an empty
grave. Somewhere in the middle there's a grey area. Comfortable, familiar and
lukewarm. This is where many Christians unknowingly dwell. They live in a
state of spiritual indifference, neither fully committed to God nor entirely
separated from him. It's here in this dangerous in between that souls are
lost. The Book of Revelation 3:15-16 speaks directly to the lukewarm
Christian. It says, “I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot.
I wish you were either one or the other. So because
you are lukewarm, neither hot nor cold I am about to spit you out of my
mouth.” These are not gentle words. They are a direct and jarring rebuke
meant to wake us from spiritual complacency. The lukewarm Christian might go
to church on Sunday but live for the world the rest of the week. They might
say they love God but refuse to make sacrifices for him. Their faith is not a
roaring fire but a dim ember barely glowing. They claim to follow Christ but
blend seamlessly with the culture around them. Their life is marked by
comfort, luxury and a pursuit of worldly riches rather than an unrelenting
hunger for God. Let's bring this to life with an example. Picture a man named Ethan.
He's successful by all worldly standards. His finances are thriving. His
house is a picture of modern luxury and his life seems perfect. Ethan
considers himself a Christian. He prays occasionally, keeps a Bible on his
coffee table and sometimes listens to worship music during his morning
commute. But when faced with a choice to serve God or his own desires Ethan
always chooses what's easiest he avoids challenges that require him to sacrifice
his comfort or wealth. Ethan's faith is lukewarm tepid and uninspired he
doesn't realize that he's drifting further from God. With every passive
decision, the danger of being lukewarm lies in its deceit. You may feel
secure thinking that a little bit of faith is enough, but God demands all of
you. Not just a convenient portion. Jesus himself said in the Book of
Matthew 22:37, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with
all your soul and with all your mind.” Anything less falls short. So, how
does someone become lukewarm? It often begins with distractions. The pursuit
of monetary success and luxury becomes a subtle Idol. These things aren't
inherently evil, but when they take precedence over your relationship with
God, they become a snare. It's the gradual drift toward comfort and away from
conviction. A lukewarm Christian prioritizes their career, their social
status or their financial security over God's mission. They live as though
their treasures are here on Earth, forgetting Jesus' warning in the Book
of Matthew 6 21, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be
also.” But, how can this be changed? The answer is simple, yet profound.
Reignite the fire. Take inventory of your life and ask yourself, where am I
prioritizing comfort over calling? Where have I traded God's eternal riches
for temporary pleasures? The solution is not found in guilt, but in a renewed
commitment to love God fully. Remember the words in the Book of Jeremiah
29:13, “You will seek me and find me. When you seek me with all your
heart.” Here's a practical step to
consider. Set aside time every morning and evening to connect with God, even
if it's just 15 minutes. Use that time to pray, read scripture and reflect on
his purpose for your life. If your heart feels distant, ask Him to rekindle
your passion. God doesn't reject those who come to him with sincerity, no
matter how far they've drifted. The lukewarm Christian faces a crossroads.
Continue in comfortable mediocrity or embrace the refining fire of God's
love. One path leads to transformation, the other to spiritual stagnation.
The choice is clear, but it requires courage and action, and you to reflect
on this. Consider the gravity of Jesus words, “I am about to spit you out
of my mouth.” This is not just a warning. It's a call to wake up. To
reignite your faith, and to leave behind the grey area of spiritual
indifference. What steps will you take today to move from being lukewarm to
being fervent in your faith? The proud Christian Pride is one of the most subtle yet destructive sins in the life of a
believer. It masquerades as confidence, ambition or even spiritual maturity.
But, at its core, it's a rebellion against God. The Book of James 4:6
reminds us, God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. This isn't
just a gentle nudge. It's a Divine principle that shapes eternity. Pride not
only alienates us from God, but blinds us to our need for him. The proud
Christian is someone who elevates their own accomplishments, knowledge or
righteousness above God's grace. They may feel spiritually superior because
of their good deeds, deep theological understanding or leadership roles in
the church. But, no amount of outward success can cover the inner rot of a
prideful heart. in the eyes of God pride is a spiritual toxin that corrodes
the soul. Consider the story of the Pharisee, and the tax collector in the Book
of Luke 18:9-14. They went to the temple to pray. The Pharisees
stood tall, thanking God that he wasn't like other sinners. He boasted about
his fasting, tithing and religious piety. Meanwhile the tax collector,
overwhelmed by his sin simply prayed God have mercy on me, a sinner. Jesus
declared that it was the humble tax collector, not the proud Pharisee who
went home justified before God. This story isn't just a parable, it's a
piercing reminder that God values humility over outward displays of
righteousness. The proud Christian often measures their worth by their
achievements, whether it's their wealth, their knowledge or their reputation.
They might look down on others who seem less spiritual or less successful.
Pride subtly shifts the focus from God's greatness to our own. It convinces
us that we don't need God as much as others do. That we've already earned his
favour, but the Bible is clear, Pride goes before the fall. In the Book of Proverbs 16:18, Sarah a church leader, admired
for her eloquent teaching and charitable giving,.
brings us closer to reality of what is being described here. Over time Sarah
began to believe that her work for God made her more righteous than others.
She became impatient with those who struggled in their faith and dismissed
their efforts as ‘not enough’. Her pride blinded her to her own spiritual
shortcomings, and distanced her from the very people God called her to serve.
Sarah's Story shows how pride even in the midst of good Intentions can
corrupt the heart. How can we combat pride? The answer lies in embracing
humility. True humility doesn't mean thinking less of yourself. It means
thinking of yourself less. It's about recognizing that every good thing in
your life, your talents, your resources, your achievements, comes from God.
Paul reminds us in the Book of 1 Corinthians 4:7, what do you have
that you did not receive, and if you did receive it, why do you boast as
though you did not. A practical way to cultivate humility is to practice gratitude daily.
Take a moment to thank God for the blessings in your life, your health, your
family and your finances. Your ability to observe gratitude shifts the focus
from yourself to God, reminding you of His sovereignty and grace. Another
step is to serve others in ways that go unnoticed. When you serve without
seeking recognition, you reflect the heart of Christ who humbled himself to
the point of death on a cross. The Book of Philippians 2:8 says pride
also feeds on comparison. So, stop measuring your worth against others.
Instead align your life with God's word and his standards. Ask yourself, am I
living to glorify God or am I seeking my own glory? Is my confidence rooted
in Christ or in my possessions, titles and abilities? The proud Christian
stands on a fragile foundation. One that crumbles under the weight of divine
truth. God's grace is abundant, but it requires a posture of humility. To
receive it, as you examine your own heart, ask, are there areas where pride
has taken root. Is your faith marked by dependence on God or by
self-reliance? The materialistic Christian In a world driven by consumerism, the allure of wealth and possessions
can often overshadow the eternal treasures of God's Kingdom. The
materialistic Christian is one who prioritizes money luxury and comfort over
their relationship with God. While they may outwardly profess faith, their
hearts are captivated by the fleeting riches of this world. Jesus speaks
directly to this in the Book of Matthew 6:24. He said, “No one can
serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you
will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God
and money.” the materialistic Christian doesn't always realize the extent
of their misplaced devotion. They might justify their pursuit of wealth as a
means to bless others or support the church, but deep down their identity and
sense of security are tied to their bank accounts, possessions and status.
This misplaced trust, absent of gratitude, leads them away from God's purpose
and into spiritual poverty. Think of the rich young ruler in the Book of Matthew 19 16-22. He
approached Jesus, eager to inherit eternal life. He had followed the
Commandments and lived a morally upright life, but when Jesus asked him to
sell his possessions and give to the poor, the man walked away sorrowful.
Why? Because his wealth had become his God. He couldn't let go of the
material comforts that defined his life. You can be wealthy so long as you
express your gratitude to God and remain humble. However, this story isn't
just about the dangers of wealth it's about misplaced priorities. The rich
young ruler was unwilling to trade temporary riches for eternal rewards and
yet Jesus lovingly pointed him toward the truth, as in the Book of Matthew
6:21 where He said, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will
be also.” Let's bring this into today's context. Picture a woman named Amanda.
She's a devout Christian. Faithfully attending church and even leading a
Bible study group. But her life revolves around building her financial
empire. Amanda spends hours strategizing her investments, shopping for the
latest trends and upgrading her luxurious lifestyle. She tells herself, it's
all for her family's future. But the truth is, her passion for accumulating
wealth far outweighs her desire to serve God. Amanda's story reflects the
subtle danger of materialism. It can coexist with outward spirituality while
silently corroding the soul. Materialism is particularly deceptive because
it's often celebrated in our culture success. It is measured by the size of
your house, the brand of your car and the numbers in your bank account. But
Jesus turns this mindset upside down. In the Book of Luke 12:15 He
says, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does
not consist in an abundance of possessions.” How can you guard your heart against materialism? Start by assessing
where your time energy and finances are going. Are you investing in things
that glorify God, and build his kingdom, or are you chasing after temporary
comforts. A practical step is to adopt a mindset of stewardship. Recognize
that everything you have, your money your skills, and your resources, belongs
to God. Instead of asking what can I gain, ask how can I use what I have to
serve God, and others? Another antidote to materialism is generosity. When
you give freely you break the grip of greed and align your heart with Gods.
The Book of Proverbs 11:25 says a generous person will prosper.
Whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. Consider setting aside a portion
of your income for charitable giving or supporting Ministries that Advance
the gospel. The danger of materialism isn't just in the pursuit of wealth,
but in the false security it provides. Money can't buy peace, purpose or
salvation. It's fleeting like a vapor and yet it often takes precedence over
eternal treasures. Jesus warns in the Book of Mark 8:36, “What good
is it for someone to gain the whole world yet forfeit their soul.” As you
reflect on this, ask yourself what role does money and luxury play in my
life? Am I seeking first God's kingdom or am I consumed by earthly pursuits?
The answers to these questions reveal not just your priorities but the
condition of your heart. The disobedient Christian Imagine calling Jesus your lord and saviour but refuse to follow his
commands. It's a contradiction that many live out without even realizing it.
In the Book of Luke 6: 46 Jesus poses a piercing question, “Why do you
call me Lord, but do not do what I say?” Obedience is the cornerstone of a
genuine relationship with God. Without it faith
becomes hollow, a mere shell of what it's meant to be. The disobedient
Christian knows the word of God but chooses to ignore it. They may agree with
Biblical principles in theory, but fail to apply them in practice their lives
are marked by compromise excuses and a resistance to surrender fully to God's
will. This kind of disobedience isn't always loud or obvious. Sometimes it's
the quiet neglect of God's commands in favour of personal desires. Let's look at a Biblical example King Saul. In the Book of 1 Samuel
15 Saul was commanded by God to destroy the Amalekites completely sparing
no one and nothing. Yet Saul chose to keep the best of the livestock and
spare the Amalekite king. When confronted by the prophet Samuel, Saul
justified his actions claiming the livestock was for sacrifices to God. But
Samuel delivered a sobering truth. To obey is better than sacrifice and to
heed is better than the fat of rams. In the Book of 1 Samuel 15:22, Saul's partial
obedience was in reality disobedience, and it cost him his throne. The
disobedient Christian often falls into the trap of selective obedience. They
obey God in areas that are convenient or align with their preferences, but
resist him in areas that require sacrifice. They might serve in church but
refuse to forgive someone who wronged them. They might tithe faithfully, but
neglect God's call to share his love with others. Their faith becomes
compartmentalized, limited by their unwillingness to yield fully to God. Now think about this in a modern context. Imagine a man named David
who feels called to missions. He's prayed about it, and even received
confirmation from others, yet he chooses to ignore that calling because it
would mean leaving his stable job and comfortable lifestyle. Instead of
stepping out in faith, David settles for a life of spiritual mediocrity. His
disobedience isn't blatant rebellion, it's simply the unwillingness to trust
God fully. But why is obedience so crucial? Because it reflects the condition
of your heart. Jesus said in the Book of John 14:15, “if you love
me, keep my commands.” Obedience isn't about legalism, or earning God's
favour. It's a response to his love. When you obey God, you demonstrate trust
in his plan and surrender to his authority. Disobedience on the other hand
reveals a lack of faith and an attempt to maintain control over your own
life. How can we overcome disobedience? The first step is repentance.
Acknowledge where you've fallen short, and ask God for forgiveness. The
beauty of his grace is that it's always available to those who turn back to
him. Next seek clarity through scripture. The more you understand God's
commands, the easier it becomes to follow them. In the Book of Psalms 119:
105 it says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet, and a light for my path.”
Allow his word to guide your decisions. Practical obedience starts with small
daily acts of faithfulness. Maybe it's forgiving someone who hurt you,
stepping out to serve in a Ministry or giving generously. Even when it feels
uncomfortable, obedience often requires sacrifice but it's through these
sacrifices that your faith grows and God's will is
fulfilled in your life. Ask yourself, where am I resisting God's commands? Is
it in your relationships, your finances or your priorities? The answer might
be uncomfortable, but it's necessary for growth. Remember God's commands are
not burdensome. They are designed to bring you closer to him and lead you
Into His blessings. Disobedience creates a barrier between you and God, but
obedience builds intimacy. As you reflect on this, consider the cost of
ignoring his voice versus the joy of walking in his will. The choice is
yours, and the path ahead holds even deeper truths about our faith Journey. The ‘unfruitful Christian Picture a lush vineyard. Its branches heavy with ripe, abundant fruit.
Now imagine a single vine. Barren and withered, standing in stark contrast to
the life surrounding it. This is the imagery Jesus uses to describe the
unfruitful Christian. In the Book of John 15:2 it says, “Every
branch in me that bears no fruit, he cuts it away: and every branch that
bears fruit, he prunes it clean, that it may bring forth more fruit.” A
life without spiritual fruit is not only unfulfilled but dangerously close to
being cut off from the source of all life - Jesus Christ himself. The
unfruitful Christian may believe they are connected to Jesus, but their life
shows no evidence of His presence. They may attend church regularly, read the
Bible occasionally, and even participate in Christian activities, but their
actions lack the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. Their faith is
stagnant producing no love, no joy, no peace, none of the fruits described in
Galatians 5:22-23 where it says, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love,
joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and
self-control. Against such things there is no law.” In the parable of the Fig Tree, in the Book of Luke 13:6-9, it relates
the story of a man who had a fig tree growing in his Vineyard and came
looking for fruit but found none. Frustrated he told the gardener to cut it
down but the gardener pleaded for more time to cultivate it, and see if it
would bear fruit. This story illustrates God's patience with his children but
it also serves as a warning. Time is limited. God desires fruitfulness, and a
life devoid of it will eventually face judgment. But what does it mean to
bear fruit? Spiritual fruit is not about outward success or business it's
about inward transformation and outward impact. It's the evidence of a heart
surrendered to God. Love, kindness, self-control and generosity are just some
of the fruits that reflect a thriving relationship with him. Without these a Christian's
life becomes like the baron fig tree taking up space but contributing nothing
of eternal value. Picture a man named Greg. He's been a church member for years, knows
the Bible well and even serves on a few committees. Yet his life outside of
church is marked by impatience, selfishness and indifference to others needs.
Greg's faith hasn't translated into action. He's unfruitful, not because he's
intentionally rebellious but because he's content with a surface level
connection to God. His story serves as a mirror for many. Faith without fruit
is faith without power. So, how does one move from unfruitfulness to
abundance. The answer lies in staying connected to the true vine Jesus
Christ. In the Book of John 15:5 Jesus declares, “I am the vine you
are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit.
Apart from me you can do nothing.” The key is not striving harder, but
abiding deeply to God’s word and following the teachings of Jesus Christ.
It's about making God the centre of your daily life, letting his word shape
your thoughts, actions and decisions. Practical steps to bear fruit include a commitment to regular prayer,
immersing yourself in scripture and seeking opportunities to serve others.
Think about how you spend your time. Aare you nurturing your spiritual life
or are you distracted by things that drain your energy? Without producing
lasting impact, consider starting small. Show kindness to a neighbour, extend
forgiveness to someone who's wronged you or use your resources to bless
someone in need. These seemingly simple acts are the seeds of fruitfulness.
Another crucial aspect is surrender. Bearing fruit requires pruning and
pruning is often uncomfortable. God may remove things from your life
relationships, habits or pursuits that hinder your growth. This process is
not punishment. It's preparation for greater fruitfulness. The Book of
Hebrews 12:11 reminds us that no discipline seems pleasant at the time,
but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and
peace. For those who have been pruned by God, take a moment to reflect. Is
your life bearing fruit that glorifies God? Are there areas where you've
become stagnant or resistant to spiritual growth? The unfruitful Christian is
not beyond hope, but transformation requires a willingness to abide in Christ
and allow him to work through you. The deceived Christian Imagine that moment when you stand before God, confident that your
faith has secured your eternal place in heaven, and then only to hear those
devastating words, “I never knew you. Depart from me you worker of
iniquity.” The deceived Christian is perhaps the most tragic of all. They
believe they are walking in truth but their faith is built on a foundation of
Illusion. It is not the lack of knowledge but misplaced assurance that seals
their fate. Deception is a powerful tool of the enemy. It doesn't come dressed
as obvious rebellion, but as subtle distortions of the truth. The deceived
Christian might appear devout attend church and even attend Bible study
groups, yet their heart is far from God. Jesus warns about this. In the Book of I
Corinthians 15:33it says, “Do not be deceived. Bad company
corrupts good morals." In the Book of Galatians 6:7 it says, “Do
not be deceived, God is not mocked. For whatever a man sows, this he will
also reap.” In the Book of James 1:16, It says, “Do not be deceived
(or deceive yourself), my beloved brethren.” False prophets and preachers
deceive Christians with their false doctrines. You may also just be a
deceitful person. Even so, if it is not written in the Bible, it is false.
And again, you are warned about interpretation. Only people who do the will
of God and faithfully follow Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour will
enter into Heaven. One biblical example of deception is found in the story of Ananias and
his wife Sapphira. In the Book of Acts 5:1-11. They sold a piece of property
and presented part of the proceeds to the apostles claiming it was the full
amount. Their lie wasn't just to people, but to the Holy Spirit also. They
wanted the appearance of generosity without the sacrifice it required. Their
deception led to immediate judgment, illustrating how God cannot be mocked.
The deceived Christian often lives in self-made delusion. They might equate
Church attendance or good deeds with salvation, forgetting that faith without
transformation is empty. Some rely on their emotions, feeling spiritual
during worship or moved by a sermon, but fail to examine their lives against
God's word. Others may trust in traditions or rituals thinking they guarantee
God's favour, while ignoring the relationship he desires. Now let's make this personal, Think of Emma. A kind and active member of
her church. She volunteers tirelessly, gives generously and is admired by her
community. But Emma's faith is shallow she believes her good works will
outweigh her sins and she rarely spends time in prayer or scripture. Her
trust is not in Christ’s sacrifice but in her own efforts. Emma's story
highlights a critical truth. Being good is not the same as being redeemed. How does someone avoid being deceived? The answer lies in genuine
self-examination and alignment with God's word. Paul exhorts us in the Book
of 2 Corinthians 13:5 saying, “Examine yourselves to see whether you are
in the faith. Test yourselves.” This isn't about self-doubt but about
ensuring your faith is rooted in Christ alone. Salvation is not earned. It is
a gift of grace, through faith. In the Book of Ephesians 28-9 it
provides practical steps to avoid deception. This includes immersing yourself
in Scripture daily. The Bible is the ultimate standard of Truth, and without
it you are vulnerable to false teachings and misconceptions. Engage with
God's word not just to gain knowledge but to allow it to transform your
heart. Pray for discernment, asking the Holy Spirit to reveal any areas of
your life that are out of alignment with God's will. Another way to guard
against deception is to surround yourself with accountability. Seek
relationships with mature believers who can speak truth into your life. Challenge
your assumptions, and encourage yourself to grow. Deception thrives in
isolation, but community fosters clarity, and growth. Finally, remember the heart of the Gospel. Salvation is not about what
you do but about what Christ has done. Trusting in his finished work on the
cross is the foundation of true faith. Anything that shifts the focus from
his grace to your efforts is a step toward deception. As you reflect on this,
ask yourself, “is my faith built on the solid rock of Christ or have I
unknowingly placed my trust in something else? Have I mistaken outward
appearances for inward transformation?” The deceived Christian is not beyond
hope, but it requires humility to recognize the truth and turn back to God. In concluding, let this be a time of reflection and renewal. Embrace
the truth of God's word and let it guide you into a deeper more authentic
relationship with him. We have embarked on a sobering journey through
scripture uncovering the seven types of Christians who are at risk of missing
the kingdom of God. Each category, hypocritical, lukewarm, proud,
materialistic, disobedient, unfruitful, and deceived, reveals a spiritual
danger that we must confront with humility and courage. This is not a message
of despair. It is a call to transformation. A chance to realign our hearts
with God's eternal truth. The Bible warns us, because God loves us. He
doesn't desire for anyone to perish, but for everyone to come to repentance.
In the Book of 2 Peter 3:9 his warnings are like a father to a wayward
child, filled with love, longing and a desire for restoration. Every
characteristic we've explored serves as a mirror showing us not only what to
avoid but also how to grow closer to him. Think about the nature of God's love.
It's not based on your performance, wealth or accomplishments. It's rooted in
his grace, freely given through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. This truth
changes everything, no matter where you find yourself today. Whether you
identify with one or several of these categories, God's arms remain open. His
forgiveness, mercy and love are inexhaustible. Now is the time to act. Don't let this message fade into the
background of your busy life. Instead, let it challenge you to examine your
heart, your priorities and your relationship with God. As Paul writes in the
Book of 2 Corinthians 6:2, “Now is the time of God's favour. Now is
the day of salvation. There's no better moment than this (now) to seek God
with all your heart.” It’s your choice! |
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© Copyright 2025 Tony Stone, South Africa |
