And that is the beauty of a New Year. It offers an opportunity for reflection and introspection and a platform for redemption, especially in areas where we believe we could have done better. And even in areas where we think we have done well, a New Year offers an opportunity to consolidate further and excel.

However, this reflection does not happen in a vacuum; there must be a standard or a benchmark against which we measure our lives to evaluate our success. God has not left us to figure out the benchmark by ourselves; he has given us a perfect standard in the Bible.

It is important to emphasise that even though we enter a new year, the benchmark is timeless. The Bible’s definition and measure of success have not changed since the days of Adam and Eve. Whether you were living in 1 BC or 1 AD or 2025, the Apostle Paul in Ephesians 5:1-21 captures the threefold timeless standard every follower of Christ is measured against. It is first, a walk in love (1-2), second, a walk in the light (3-14) and third, a walk in wisdom (15-21).

A Walk in Love

“1 Therefore, be imitators of God, as beloved children. 2 And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.”

In these two verses, Paul calls his readers to imitate God in his essential attribute of love. In 1 John 4:7, the Apostle tells his readers, “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God.”

There is a Ghanaian proverb that literally means, “a crab does not beget a bird.” The surest way to know if someone is a Christian is to look at their love life. According to Paul, a beloved child of God will imitate him in his attribute of love.

Usually, when we talk about love, the world understands it to mean different things. But Paul does not leave the definition of love to us. In verse 2, he writes, “And Walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us.”

There is a specific way God loved us, which is the standard of love Paul calls the Ephesians and us to imitate. Four elements come to mind when considering the love God displayed toward us in Christ.

1. First, the recipients of God’s love are undeserving: The Ephesians were not some holy and lovely people who deserved God’s love, and neither are we. In chapter 2:1, Paul describes them as a people who were dead in their trespasses and sins and destined for destruction.
2. Secondly, the love God showed us was costly: God did not give us some leftover love. He could have sent one of the archangels to come and make things right after Adam and Eve messed up. But that wouldn’t have been sufficient, so “he gave his only begotten Son.” Our redemption cost God his only Son; it wasn’t cheap.
3. Third, God’s love was selfless: It was not as though there was a hidden profit or benefit to be gained by God when he sent his only Son to die for us. The Bible makes it clear that He needed nothing from us; His gift of salvation was purely for our benefit.
4. Finally, God’s love in Christ was a willing Sacrifice: Jesus was not compelled to go to the cross. In verse 2, we read that his sacrifice was a fragrant offering. It was the willing nature of the sacrifice that made it fragrant.

This is the sort of love Paul calls us to imitate, not some warm, fuzzy, emotional feeling. The question is, does this describe your love for other brothers and sisters in Christ?

A Walk in the Light

“3 But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints. 4 Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving.” “7 Therefore, do not become partners with them; for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light.”

Paul has two aspects of the Christian’s life in mind in these verses—their conduct and speech. According to Paul, a Christian’s actions should be free from sexual immorality, impurities and covetousness, and their speech should be free from filthiness, foolish talk and crude joking.

You cannot claim to be a Christian if you hold on to your sin because a child of God does not make a practice of sin. You cannot claim to be a Christian if you’re sexually involved with someone who is not your spouse. You cannot claim to be a Christian if pornography is your pastime. How would you witness to your colleagues or neighbours if you’re part of the filthiness, swearing, and profane talk around you?

This is not me preaching dos and don’ts. Christianity is indeed a matter of the heart, which is why Jesus says out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks (Matthew 12:34). Therefore, an immoral life and filthy speech are only reflections of what is in your heart.

In verse 5, Paul says, “For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God.” It is a lie from the pit of hell that makes someone think that they can claim to be Christian and continue to live in sin. In verse 6 he says, “Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience.” The way you live and speak as a Christian has eternal consequences.

On the positive side, we see what walking in the light means in verses 8-10. “8 For at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light 9 (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true) 10 and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord.”

You can tell if someone is walking in the light by looking at the fruit their life produces. Jesus said, by their fruit you shall know them; and here Paul says, “the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true.”

We also see in the passage that walking in the light is not only about what we do in conduct and speech but also who we are in Christ. He writes, “11 take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. 12 For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret. 13 But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible, 14 for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore, it says, “Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.”

Our presence in any place should produce a light so powerful that it becomes uncomfortable for evildoers to continue in their evil ways. If your non-Christian colleagues or friends do not feel any discomfort or inhibition to do evil in your presence, it is possible your light is not shining enough.

A Walk in Wisdom

“15 Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore, do not be foolish but understand what the will of the Lord is.”

In these verses, Paul warns his readers to be very careful how they live, and he gives them the reason in verse 16^b, “because the days are evil.” The days we live in are no different from those in which the Ephesians lived; therefore, his warning applies equally to us. He further tells them in verse 17, “not to be foolish but understand what the will of the Lord is.”

The question is, how does one come to know or understand the will of the Lord? We see the answer in 2 Timothy 3:16-17, where Paul says, “all Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”

We come to know the will of the Lord by giving ourselves to study his word and prayer. The reverse is also true; if you are not reading your Bible and praying regularly, you will not know the will of the Lord, and you will live unwise in an evil world.

We also see in verse 18 that a walk in wisdom is a life filled with the Holy Spirit, “and do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit.”

In verses 19-21, we see three results of the Spirit-filled life,

1. It is God-Centered and Others-Oriented: “addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, and we singing and make melody to the Lord with our heart. Christians teach, admonish and encourage one another through the word of God in psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Our discipleship of each other is not based on our own opinions and worldly wisdom; instead, they are based on Spirit-filled illumination received from the word of God. We also see that our address is not only toward one another but also to the Lord. The Spirit-filled life is a life of praise, both horizontally and vertically
2. A Spirit-filled Life is a thankful Life: “giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” The Bible knows nothing of an ungrateful Christian. Everything we have and all that we are is by grace. And it is not only for the good stuff; we give thanks in all situations. We are often tempted to believe we can only praise God in good times. Only a Spirit-filled Christian can always give thanks always and for everything.
3. A Spirit-filled Life is a Life lived in Submission: In verse 21, it says, “submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.” It doesn’t say submitting to others because they are superior or deserving; instead, it says we submit out of reverence for Christ.

J. C. Ryle, the English Evangelical Anglican Bishop, in his book on Holiness, said, “Simply put, the lack of sanctification is a sign of non-regeneration. Where there is no holy life, there has been no holy birth. This is a hard saying, but a Biblical truth; whomever is born of God, it is written, “cannot sin, because he is born of God.”

Our life as followers of Christ in 2025 is not to be business as usual. It should be a new life marked by a walk in love, a walk in the light and wisdom. There has to be a clear distinction between you and the world.

The post A New Year, A New Walk appeared first on TGN.

In this article, I invite you to delve with me into the biblical account recorded in Matthew 2:1-18, which provides profound insights into the birth of Jesus and its implications for us today.

The Birth of Jesus in Time and History

Matthew opens his account with these words:
“Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king…”

This is not a “once upon a time” fairy tale but a historical event rooted in time and space. Matthew is so confident about the story’s veracity that he cites it alongside other historical events that can be independently verified. If Herod was a historical figure and his reign took place in history, then the story of Jesus’ birth and the wise men’s visit can be corroborated.

While we may not know the exact date of Jesus’ birth, the historical fact of His arrival is undisputed. For Christians, Christmas is the day we commemorate this miraculous event. But beyond the celebration, we must ask: Why was Jesus born?

Matthew answers this in Matthew 1:18-21, where an angel reveals to Joseph:
“She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.”

The Purpose of Jesus’ Birth

Who are these people for whom Jesus was born to save? To answer this question, we must go to the beginning of creation. In Genesis 1, we read that man was created in the image and likeness of God to reflect his glory and character. Just as a statue is supposed to project the glory of the person it represents, man was created in the image of God to reflect his glory. When people see you, they are supposed to see the glory and character of God. But, when you consider your life, can you say for certain that you have accurately reflected God’s character to others in his love, joy, peace, goodness, kindness, patience, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control? I certainly cannot say I have, at least not consistently. Our lives are often marked by pride, selfishness, indulgence, lust, anger, pride, envy, jealousy, and hate. That is not how God looks like. And so, Romans 3:23 tells us, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”

This means we are all below the mark in our duty to reflect God’s glory to the watching world perfectly. That is the definition of sin, falling short of God’s perfect standard, and for that, we have all justly incurred his condemnation because “the wages of sin is death.”  We need to be saved from the impending judgement of God.

That was the good news the angel announced to Joseph, “She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.”

How does Jesus save people from their sins? He did so by living the perfect life we could not live and dying the death we deserve. Jesus is the only person who ever lived a perfect life. Throughout his life on earth, he never sinned; he perfectly reflected the glory and character of God. Not only that, at the age of 33 years, he was crucified on a Roman cross. The Bible says when that happened, he was taking on the punishment you and I have incurred and deserved for living below God’s perfect standard.

That sacrifice was accepted by God when he raised him from the dead 3 days after his crucifixion. God has declared that anyone who recognises their sin and comes to Jesus will be saved from God’s judgement. There will be a sweet exchange where Jesus’ perfect life will be credited to you, and all your sins will be debited to his account, which is already paid for on the cross.

We see from these verses that the birth of Jesus is not a legend or a myth. We also know that the purpose of his birth was to save his people from God’s judgement. These truths demand a response.

Responses to Jesus’ Birth

In the Christmas narrative, three groups of people encounter the news of Jesus’ birth, and their responses provide a mirror for us to reflect on our own. 

The Response of the Wise Men

“Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.”

A few questions come to mind when you read these verses. Who these men are? Why are they called wise? The term “Magi” comes from the Greek word for wise men, likely referring to astrologers or scholars from Persia (modern-day Iran). How did they hear about the birth of Jesus far away in the East? How did they come to the knowledge and understanding that this King deserves to be worshipped?

As enlightening as answers to these questions might be, the Bible does not provide them – Which implies those are not the lessons God wants us to learn from their visit.

Lessons from the Wise Men

The Universal Scope of the Gospel

Is it not interesting that one of the first people to visit the Messiah after his birth were non-Jewish people? The Magi were Gentiles, yet they were among the first to worship Jesus. This is significant because, throughout the Old Testament, the Messiah was understood as the Savior of the Jewish people. We see here that the birth of Jesus is good news not only for the Jews but for all humanity, even for you, my non-Christian friend reading this.

A Hunger to Seek Jesus

Another striking lesson we learn from the Magi is their spiritual hunger. They didn’t have detailed directions—no town name, street address, or GPS. All they knew was that the King of the Jews had been born, and they were determined to find Him. Their journey of over 2,000 km would have been gruelling, especially in an era without modern transportation. How far are you willing to go, or what cost are you willing to pay to seek Jesus?

After such a long and arduous journey, I would have expected them to be grumpy, but that is not what we see. Instead, we read in verse 9 that “they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy” because they found Jesus.

As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, are you exceedingly joyful? If you are, what is it that makes you excited about Christmas? For these men, their joy was because they found Jesus. May that be the reason for our joy as well! 

Faith that Worships

Upon finding Jesus, the Magi’s response was immediate and profound. “And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh” (Matthew 2:11).

We know from the other gospel accounts that Joseph and Mary were poor people. The humble circumstances in which Jesus was born is well documented. The question is, what did the wise men see that made them fall and worship this unremarkable baby?

In commenting on the wise men’s faith, J. C. Ryle, a 19^th Century Pastor and theologian, wrote,

“They believed in Him when they saw Him as a little infant on Mary’s knee and worshiped Him as a king. This was the crowning point of their faith. They saw no miracles to convince them. They heard no teaching to persuade them. They beheld no signs of divinity and greatness to overawe them. They saw nothing but a newborn infant, helpless and weak, and needing a mother’s care like any one of us. And yet when they saw that infant, they believed that they saw the divine Savior of the world. They fell to the ground and worshiped Him.”

Perhaps you are waiting for a convincing proof to consider the claims of Christianity. There is no better proof than the one provided by these wise men. They were not Christian, not even Jewish. Yet, God opened their eyes to see that this baby was not an ordinary child but the Saviour of the world. Not that God needed validation from these men to prove the truths of the Christian faith, “but this is written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.”

The Response of the Priests and Scribes

Next, we consider the response of the chief priests and scribes to the news of Jesus’ birth. Their role appears in Matthew 2:4-6:

“When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. They told him, ‘In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet: “And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.”’”

At first glance, their response might seem helpful. They provided Herod with the exact location of the Messiah’s birth, citing prophecy. However, their actions—or lack thereof—reveal a deeper issue: indifference.

As the custodians of God’s Word, the chief priests and scribes were intimately familiar with the Messianic prophecies. For centuries, Israel’s prophets had foretold the coming of a King who would deliver the people. Yet, when this long-awaited event occurred, they did nothing.

How could they, the ones most knowledgeable about the Scriptures, miss the significance of this moment? The Gentile Magi travelled thousands of kilometres to worship Jesus, yet these religious leaders, who were a short distance from Bethlehem, made no effort to seek Him.

The Danger of Familiarity

It is possible to become so accustomed to the Christmas story—or the gospel itself—that its wonder and significance no longer move us. The priests and scribes knew the Scriptures but did not allow that knowledge to lead them to worship.

As followers of Christ, we must ask ourselves:

• Have we heard the Christmas story so often that it no longer fills us with awe and joy?
• Do we, like the priests and scribes, possess knowledge without action?

A Missed Opportunity

The apostle John describes this tragic response in John 1:11-12:

“He came to His own, and His own people did not receive Him. But to all who did receive Him, who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God.”

The priests and scribes had every opportunity to receive their King, but they did not. In this story, they functioned more like signposts. They pointed the wise men in the right direction but had no intention of going there themselves.

Their brief and unremarkable role in the nativity narrative foreshadows their later opposition to Jesus’ ministry. Their hearts remained hardened despite their knowledge, leaving them blind to the significance of the Messiah’s birth.

A Call to Rediscover Awe

The indifference of the priests and scribes challenges us to examine our own hearts. Are we signposts pointing others to Christ while failing to seek Him ourselves?

This Christmas, let us not miss the opportunity to rediscover the awe and wonder of Jesus’ birth. May the good news of His coming fill us with the same joy and worship that inspired the wise men.

“But to all who did receive Him, who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God.” Let us be among those who receive and worship Him with all our hearts.

The Response of Herod

Having considered the responses of the Wise Men and the religious leaders, let’s now turn to Herod’s response. In Matthew 2:3, we read:
“When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.”

This verse reveals the true state of the human heart before salvation. Like Herod, humanity does not naturally want God to be King. Acknowledging God’s kingship means surrendering control of our own lives and submitting to His will.

That was what led our first parents, Adam and Eve, to rebel against God. They rebelled because they could not accept that God would forbid them from eating the fruit of the tree in the middle of the Garden. True to form, Herod was just being human with the DNA of his first parent, which is to rebel against God. 

Herod’s fear of losing power drove him to take extreme measures. First, he employed deception to gather information about Jesus. After consulting the chief priests and scribes to determine where the Messiah was to be born, he summoned the Wise Men secretly, saying:

“Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him” (Matthew 2:8).

However, God, who sees the heart and knows all things, intervened. In a dream, the Wise Men were warned not to return to Herod, and they departed by another route.

When his plan of deception failed, Herod resorted to brutality: “Then Herod, when he saw that he had been tricked by the wise men, became furious, and he sent and killed all the male children in Bethlehem and in all that region who were two years old or under” (Matthew 2:16).

It is difficult to read this account without feeling appalled. How could anyone justify the killing of innocent children simply to preserve their grip on power? Yet, Herod’s actions reveal the extreme lengths to which human rebellion against God can go.

A Heart Posture of Rebellion

While Herod’s cruelty may seem extreme, his heart posture is not unique. The same resistance to God’s rule exists in everyone who has not surrendered to Jesus as Lord and Savior.

Some may object: “I’m not against Christianity; I’m just not religious.” Others may say: “I haven’t done anything wrong that requires me to be saved.”

But consider this: Why do you resist when someone shares the gospel with you? Why do you feel uncomfortable when friends or family urge you to repent and believe in Jesus? Could it be that, deep down, you do not want to acknowledge God as King because it means surrendering control?

Jesus Himself said:
“Whoever is not with me is against me” (Matthew 12:30).
There is no neutral ground. Each of us must decide where we stand in relation to Jesus. Are you with Him or against Him?

A Reminder of God’s Sovereignty

In closing, let’s reflect on two important observations from this passage:

1. God’s Plan is Unstoppable

Three times in this chapter, Matthew emphasises that the events surrounding Jesus’ birth occurred to fulfil what the prophets had foretold. This reminds us that history unfolds according to God’s sovereign plan.

Just as the birth of Christ was prophesied and fulfilled, so too is His promised return. This time, Jesus will come not as a Savior but as a Judge. God’s track record of prophecy and fulfilment is perfect, and we would be wise to take the predictions of Scripture seriously.

2. Kingdoms Rise and Fall, But Jesus Reigns Forever

The chapter begins with the reign of Herod, a king determined to destroy Jesus. It ends with Herod’s death and Jesus’ return to Israel as the true King of the Jews. Herod sought to preserve his kingdom by opposing Jesus, but his efforts were in vain. Two thousand years later, we continue to proclaim Jesus as the Savior of the world, while Herod’s name is mentioned only as a footnote in history.

No matter what kingdom or personal empire you build for yourself, remember this: Kingdoms rise, and kingdoms fall, but only one King reigns over all.

What is Your Response?

We have considered three responses to the birth of Jesus:

• The Wise Men sought Him and worshipped Him.
• The priests and scribes ignored Him.
• Herod rebelled against Him.

What is your response? None of us can remain neutral. We either accept Christ through repentance and faith or reject Him by continuing in rebellion.

Whatever choice you make, remember this: You will one day give an account for it. I pray that, like the Wise Men, you will seek and adore Jesus, for He is the Messiah and the world’s Saviour.

Merry Christmas!

The post The Real Nativity Scene: What Is Your Response? appeared first on TGN.

However, the first question that came to mind as I prepared my exhortation was, why are birthdays so special, and why do we celebrate them anyway? Does this 70-year-old woman have a valid ground to celebrate her birthday? The verse that came to mind was Psalm 139:14, where David says, “I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.”

The fact that we are fearfully and wonderfully made means our lives are of titanic significance. God is too purposeful to create any human beings that have no value. According to the Bible, God created each of us in his own image and likeness for a purpose (Genesis 1:26-27). Each of us is a masterful workmanship of God created for something bigger than we can ever imagine. But the question is, what is this magnificent purpose for which we are created? We find the answer in 1 Corinthians 10:31, where Paul admonished his readers, “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”

For the Christian, the stakes are even higher because the Apostle Paul, picking up on the same theme in his letter to the saints in Ephesus, wrote, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10).

The chief end of our lives, whether Christian or non-Christian, is so that God might be glorified. When people see us, they are supposed to see the good, kind, gracious and merciful God so that they will give praise and glory to him. When that happens, we can conclude that a person’s life has achieved its purpose. And that’s when celebration kicks in.

As I thought about celebrations, the picture that came to mind was the NASA scientists, and I’m sure most of us have seen those scenes on TV. For years these scientists work to build a rocket. Then, on the D-day of the launch, they gather in the command centre with nail-biting anticipation to see what would happen as they release the launch codes. Their years of work can only be considered successful if the rocket breaks through the Earth’s stratosphere and makes it into space. Whenever that happens, you see them clapping, jumping and hugging one another with a huge sense of satisfaction and excitement.

Why do these scientists celebrate the way they do? It’s because the rocket has achieved its purpose of launching into space. These scientists would not celebrate if the launch had failed and the rocket exploded into flames.

It is the same with us as humans.  If we succeed in bringing glory to God, we have every reason to celebrate, just like the NASA scientists, but if our lives have not achieved that purpose, on what grounds do we throw a birthday party?

Maybe you will soon turn 20 or 30 or 40 or 50 or 60 or even 70. My question to you is, do you think you have a reason to celebrate that milestone birthday when it comes? It’s not about what you’ve achieved professionally or the mere fact that you’ve lived to be 30 or 50, or 70. Instead, it is about whether your life has achieved the purpose for which God created you, to bring him glory?

If not, do not worry; you can do something about it before your next birthday. As we read in Ephesians 2:10, “We are the workmanship of God created in Christ Jesus for good works.” This means your life finds its true meaning and purpose only when it is connected to Christ. You may have lived all these years for yourself and not God, but you have a golden opportunity to change that by returning to living true to the purpose you were created by repenting and putting your trust in Christ.

Coming to Christ doesn’t guarantee that you will have a smooth sailing in life. There will be many hard days and disappointments since we still live in a fallen world; however, through the twists and turns, the highs and lows, the ups and downs, God has promised to equip you with his Spirit to help you through your journey, until he finally brings you home to himself, before the presence of his glory with great joy (John 16:33; Jude 1:24-25).

As I prepared to speak at the birthday party, I quickly sent a message to this brother to be double sure if his mother is a faithful Christian. He responded with a lengthy message of twists and turns, joys and sorrows, and his mother’s mountain top and valley experiences. He ended on this note: “She still holds that Christ is her Saviour and believes in repentance and faith alone for salvation. She has been baptised as an adult through immersion. She longs to disciple young women and encourage them in their walk.”

There and then, I knew that this woman had every reason to celebrate this milestone birthday. At 70, her life is like a diamond with a beauty that can be seen from different angles. The grandchildren see a different beauty, her sons and daughters-in-law see a different side of that same beauty, and many of us who were there as friends of her children also see a distinct beauty. All to the glory of God!

As you approach your own milestone birthday, I invite you to examine yourself to see if you truly have a genuine reason for wanting to celebrate. If you do, my prayer for you is, “The LORD bless and keep you; the LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.”

May the years ahead be more purposeful than the years gone by, and may the Lord satisfy you with his goodness for the rest of your days.

Happy birthday!

The post Are You Sure You Have a Genuine Reason for Celebrating Your Birthday? appeared first on TGN.

“And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.”” (Luke 23:43)

Crucifixion is one of the cruellest forms of execution ever invented by man. Unlike other forms of capital punishment, where the convicts could expect a quick dispatch, with crucifixion the condemned person is tied or nailed to a large wooden cross, beam or stake and left to hang until eventual death. In the Roman Empire, this punishment was reserved for the most hardened of criminals. Jesus, the eternal Son of God, had to endure this form of punishment, not because of his own sin but for the sins of those who the Father gave to the Son.

In his commentary on the future death of Christ, Isaiah, the prophet who lived 700 years before Christ, prophesied in Isaiah 53:4-5, “Surely, he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed.”

The day before, Jesus had been betrayed by one of his disciples (Matthew 26:47-56), which was also foretold centuries prior in Psalm 41:9. The events leading up to his crucifixion did not take place in a corner; it was a front-page news. He was summarily arrested while praying with his disciples and initially arraigned before the Jewish Council (Matthew 26:57-68). However, lacking the authority to condemn someone to death, the Council took him to Pilate, the Governor overseeing Jerusalem at the time. After much back and forth, Pilate eventually cowered to the demands of the Jewish crowd and handed Jesus over to be crucified.

The date and time for the crucifixion was finally set. It was the most anticipated event at the time. It was a frenzied atmosphere as the young and old, rich and poor, men and women, the powerful and the lowly all made their way outside the city gates to witness what was the most consequential event in the history of the universe, as the Author of Life succumbed to death.

The fact that Jesus was going to be crucified on the day was no secret; for those who had gathered at the “Place of a Skull”, it was the reason they were there. However, as you read the account of the crucifixion, it is not immediately clear if the crowd had any idea there would be two criminals who would be crucified alongside Jesus.

As I peer in two thousand years later, it is the conversation between Jesus and the two criminals that piques my interest as I re-read Luke’s account of the crucifixion recently.

The Three-Way Conversation

St. Luke reveals the three-way conversation that transpired between Jesus and the two criminals who were crucified along with him. Interestingly, only Luke records this conversation in detail.

“One of the criminals who were hanged railed at him, saying, “Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us!” But the other rebuked him, saying, “Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong.” And he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.”

The fact that these three men still had the energy to have a conversation on the cross is still a mystery to me, but that is precisely what happened. The accounts of Matthew and Mark seem to suggest that both criminals reviled Jesus (Matthew 27:44; Mark 15:32). It is unclear at what point the criminal on the right hand (according to tradition) had a change of heart, but in Luke’s account, only one criminal is mentioned to have reviled Jesus. Without remorse for his evil actions, he “railed at him [Jesus], saying, “Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us!”

Is this not how the world often reacts toward God? Through our rebellious actions, we have brought the beautiful world He created into ashes. Yet, our heart frequently rages against him for the evil we see around us (Proverbs 19:3). Even when he has provided a way to restore his good creation, we spurn his grace and instead continue to dictate how we want him to save us. The posture of the first criminal perfectly describes our fallen world—a rebellious people who refuse to repent even when we are faced with the consequences of our actions.

But the criminal on Jesus’ right hand provides a picture of God’s grace and what repentance can accomplish in our lives. Luke tells us, “But the other rebuked him, saying, “Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong.”

A Right View of Self and God Leads to Repentance

The fact that he was suffering was unquestionable, yet he acknowledged the holiness and justice of God to judge him for his sin. He knew that his actions deserved the just condemnation of God. King David hinted at this in his model repentance prayer in Psalm 51:3-4: “I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me. Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight, so that you may be justified in your words and blameless in your judgment.”

This criminal did not only acknowledge his sinfulness and the justness of God’s punishment, but he also understood the sinlessness of Christ and somehow perceived through the eyes of faith that Jesus had the power to change his situation. The fact that he was a condemned criminal deserving of death was not lost on him, but like that contemporary hymn, he knew, “What love could remember no wrongs we have done; Omniscient, all knowing, He counts not their sum; Thrown into a sea without bottom or shore; Our sins they are many, His mercy is more.”

It was this divinely given revelation that inspired his request to Jesus in verse 42, “And he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” How did this hardened criminal, condemned to the highest form of punishment within the Roman Empire, come to the realization that there was a paradise of which he could be part? I don’t believe he had woken up that morning rehearsing what he would ask Jesus when they hangout on the cross together. However, through a divine act of grace that enabled him to see Jesus as the Christ and himself as a condemned criminal, he received pardon for all the crimes he had committed from his birth until the moment of his crucifixion.

Oh, that we might receive this divine eye-opening grace that would enable us to see Jesus for who he is and who we truly are: criminals who rightly deserve our condemnation!

It is important to remember that this is true not only for those who are yet to be saved but even for those who are already saved. Apostle John, in his appeal to the saints in Asia Minor, wrote,

“If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:8-9).

A Promise of Paradise

After acknowledging his sin and the justness of God’s judgment, the criminal on the right hand of Jesus threw himself at the mercy of the God who has revealed himself as “The LORD, the LORD, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness, keeping steadfast love for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin…” (Exodus 34:6-7).

No one would ever receive a greater promise than what was received by this criminal on the day of his crucifixion. In verse 43, we read Jesus’ response, “And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.” What a grace and what a mercy! This criminal brought nothing to the table except his sin, yet even he was not beyond the reach of God’s loving arm. He woke up in prison but reclined in the evening in paradise. The good news is that this promise is not only for him; it is for all who would repent and put their trust in the risen Saviour.

If you are not yet a follower of Christ, just like this criminal, no sin is too great, and no distance is too far. “Jesus ready, stands to save you, full of pity, love and power.” So, “Arise and come to Jesus; He will embrace you in his arms.” For, “In the arms of your dear Saviour, O, there are ten thousand charms.”

And if you are already a blood-bought follower of Christ, what a joy to know that if you died today, you will be with Jesus in paradise. Hallelujah!

The post We Are All Criminals: But Which Kind Are You? appeared first on TGN.

With this context in mind, the obvious question is, what is faith? The amazing news is that God does not leave us to grope our way to the answer. Instead, right at the beginning of the chapter, he provides the definition, which reads, “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.”

Not only does God define faith, but he also provides real-life examples to drive home the point. The world often characterises faith as irrational or a leap into the dark, while some Christians make it so subjective that it often appears as a mystery. But that is not how the writer of Hebrews approaches the topic. Faith can be examined independently and objectively to determine if it is biblical.

Against this backdrop, I now focus on examining what is characterised as faith in many Christian circles in Ghana today. As a people, Ghanaians are very religious. According to government statistics, nearly 70% of the population identify as Christians. It is not an exaggeration to say that there is a church within 500 meters in all the major cities of Ghana, and most are packed on any given Sunday. As I survey the Ghanaian Christian landscape, a question that continues to linger in my mind is, how does the faith of the average Ghanaian Christian compare with the biblical faith described by the author of Hebrew?

The Nature of Biblical Faith

In Hebrews 11:1, we read, “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” Two things stand out in this definition. First, there is an assurance of things hoped for, and second, a conviction of things not seen. Christians have certainty and assurance of what they hope for, but the verse also emphasises that the conviction of these things is not seen. There is a ‘futureness’ about what Christians look forward to.

This is even made more apparent when we consider the writer’s commentary on these heroes of faith. In verse 13, he writes,

“These all died in faith, not having received the things promised, but having seen them and greeted them from afar, and having acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth.”

Again, in 39-40, he notes, “And all these, though commended through their faith, did not receive what was promised, since God had provided something better for us, that apart from us they should not be made perfect.”

How come all these great men and women of faith did not receive what was promised? Is it that God lied about his promises, or did they not have enough faith to obtain them? At least, that is what we are made to believe by some so-called “Men of God.” If you have faith, you should receive everything you want from God, thus turning ‘faith’ into a magical currency that might sway God’s hand. Neither position is tenable because it is not for nothing that Hebrews 11 has been described throughout the ages as the Hall of Faith – the men and women spoken about were real heroes of faith. And we also know that God can never lie. Therefore, the only position we are left to amend is our own understanding of what it means to have faith.

In verse 6, the writer states, “whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists.” This statement is quite profound because it teaches us that the starting point of biblical faith is not man but God. It is a belief in a sovereign God who accomplishes everything in accordance with his own purposes and timelines. Unfortunately, for many within the Ghanaian Christian community, the starting point of faith is not God, but their individual felt needs. God only happens to be the divine genie who exists to grant their wishes.

This is a far cry from the examples we see in Hebrews 11. Whether it was Noah, Abraham, Moses or Rahab, their faith was undergirded by a belief in the sovereignty of God. Each example paints a picture of submission to God’s agenda, not their own. They had a deep sense of assurance that God would do what was right for them. There was no doubt, but there was equally no presumption on their part that God must do what they want at all costs. Unfortunately, in many Christian circles in Ghana today, faith is seen as an end in itself. The way it is exercised is more akin to magic than biblical faith.

The Nature of Magic

The etymology dictionary defines magic as the “art of influencing or predicting events and producing marvels using hidden natural forces,” also “supernatural art,” especially the art of controlling the actions of spiritual or superhuman beings.” Unlike biblical faith, which has God as the starting point, in the case of magic, the starting point is the individual who wields power or control over the actions of the supernatural being.

As I observe and listen to many Christians in Ghana, it’s sad to say this is the understanding many people have about faith. Some go to the extent of claiming that God has no control over things that happen on the earth, because he has given that control to man. In some Christian circles, the Bible functions as a book of spells. Once a person can locate the right verse and repeat it multiple times, God is bound to grant whatever wish the individual has because he [God] has promised. The power lies with the individual, not with God.

But that is very different from the examples we see in Hebrews 11. In the case of Abraham, the writer tells us,

“By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place that he was to receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going. By faith he went to live in the land of promise, as in a foreign land, living in tents with Isaac and Jacob, heirs with him of the same promise. For he was looking forward to the city that has foundations, whose designer and builder is God” (Hebrews 11:8-10)

We see in these verses that the power did not lie with Abraham, instead, he submitted himself to the will of God to the extent that he left his country and kindred – a very comfortable life, to go and live in tents in the wilderness. Again, this is very different from the popular teaching that if we have faith in God, we will receive whatever we wish for.

The truth is that sometimes, the exercise of biblical faith is rather an embrace of hardship, as we see in the case of Moses. The author tells us, “By faith Moses, when he was grown up, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, choosing rather to be mistreated with the people of God than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin. He considered the reproach of Christ greater wealth than the treasures of Egypt, for he was looking to the reward” (Hebrews 11:24-26).

In both the case of Abraham and Moses, faith was not like magic. They did not call the shots, and they did not presume to control the outcomes. Instead, they entrusted themselves to the providence of the sovereign God, who does whatever he pleases (Psalm 115:3). This is why the “name and claim” mantra cannot be described as exercise of biblical faith but an attempted magic, because within that framework the sovereignty lies with the individual rather than God.

This also accounts for the reason why there are so many unconverted people within our Ghanaian churches. These folks come to church not because they believed the gospel – God sending his Son to save mankind from their sin – instead, they come because they have a wish that needs granting. They have tried various options, but none have worked. And someone has told them to try Jesus. They would not necessarily describe themselves as Christians, but if they must, to have their wishes granted, so be it. Christianity is just another option they are trying out. This kind of approach is magic, not Christian faith. Therefore, you may want to examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith (2 Corinthians 13:5). 

Right Approach to God’s Promises

At this point, I am sure many well-meaning Christians will be going gung-ho, ready to fire a barrage of verses which clearly promise that if we have faith, we will receive whatever we ask for in prayer (Matthew 7:7; 21:22, Mark 11:24; 1 John 5:14). But before you fire, I beg of you to hold for a second, and grant me a last request. Would you please attempt to reconcile the above verses with Hebrews 11:13 and Hebrews 11:39-40? Perhaps, you may also wish to consider the cases of Jesus in Mark 14:35-36 or Paul in 2 Corinthians 12:7-9.

The point is this: there is a right way to approach the promises of God. There are three considerations I believe we should keep in mind when we approach the promises of God. I have already touched on one of these earlier: the fact that the starting point of our faith should be God, not our felt needs. Like Jesus, when we entrust ourselves entirely to the sovereign will of God, our uttermost desire and prayer will be for his will to be done on earth as it is in heaven (Matthew 6:10). If the desire for your wish to be granted is greater than your concern for God’s will, there is a great chance your approach to God’s promises is wrong.

The second consideration is closely related to the first one. Everything God does, he does for the glory of his name, including the fulfilment of his promises to us. Therefore, you must always ask yourself, if God were to grant my heart’s desire, would it lead to the furtherance of his glory or the advance of my own pride and reputation? It doesn’t matter what verse you are quoting; if the motive of your prayer is to advance your own glory, God is not bound to grant that request. In James 4:1-4, the author tells his readers that God does not grant wishes with wrong motives regardless of what Scripture verse you back them with.

This is why biblical faith is utterly distinct from magic. With magic, it doesn’t matter who wields the wand; as long as they recite the correct incantation and have the right ingredients in the potion, an individual will get their wish, but not so with Christianity. I know there are those who would point to examples of people who supposedly have “named and claimed” God’s promises. I do not presume to offer an explanation to every such instance but suffice to say, God, in his common grace, causes his sun to shine even on those who do not believe (Matthew 5:45); therefore, receiving a good gift from God doesn’t necessarily mean an individual was exercising biblical faith.

The third and final consideration we should keep in mind is that true and ultimate fulfilment of God’s promises will not be in this broken world. This is the truth the author of Hebrews wanted his readers to keep in mind when he wrote, “And all these, though commended through their faith, did not receive what was promised, since God had provided something better for us, that apart from us they should not be made perfect.” (Hebrews 11:39-40).

That is the conclusion of the matter. The men and women who exercised the greatest level of faith in the history of Christianity did not receive what was promised because all of them, like Abraham, were “looking forward to the city that has foundations, whose designer and builder is God.” So, I encourage you to “look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.”

The post The State of Christianity in Ghana: Is This Faith or Attempted Magic? appeared first on TGN.

I am sure some new believers grapple with the brokenness of this world and perhaps, in their quiet moments, wonder why there is so much pain and suffering in the world when the Bible speaks so much of a powerful and omnipotent God. Can’t he stop all the carnage and make everything right? I’m sure there are well-meaning people with such a genuine question. However, in my experience, this question doesn’t often come from a place of faith, seeking understanding. Instead, it often comes from those who have scores to settle with the idea of God and are looking for evidence to reinforce their viewpoint. It is because of this that I find Proverbs 19:3 so apt.

“When a man’s folly brings his way to ruin, his heart rages against the LORD.”

At the core of our depravity as human beings is the tendency to blame someone else for all our problems. I don’t need to prove the validity of this statement because each of us is a walking proof. We blame our friends, parents, teachers, siblings, or neighbours for all the mishaps in our lives. When something goes wrong in our lives, the first thought that runs through our mind is, “whose fault was it?” It is the same logic behind the question, “if there is God, why is there so much evil and injustice in the world?”

The Legitimacy of the Question

From the face of it, it sounds like a legitimate question. At least there is an acknowledgement that there is evil in the world, and someone should be doing something or should have done something about it. In this case, that someone is presumed to be the God of Christianity; otherwise, he is not God or powerful enough. As legitimate as that question may sound to some people, I do not believe it is. The right question should be, why is there so much evil and injustice in a world that looks so beautiful? That is the real question that needs to be answered because the existence of evil in the world is not proof against the existence of God; instead, it only proves his existence.

This is because even for those who seek to deny the existence of God, there is a deep acknowledgement that this is not how the world is supposed to be. But even so, a more fundamental question is, why would a non-believer feel so strongly about good and evil anyway? After all, if everything is random and there is no divine Creator, why do they care? It’s all a matter of the survival of the fittest; “eat or be eaten” is the name of the game. But that is not how even the average atheist views life. Despite their godless worldview, they somehow acknowledge that there is good and evil; the standard by which they arrive at those categories is still a mystery to me.

Why is There Evil in the World?

But for the Christian, the present state of the world is not at all a mystery. Scripture is very clear on where we came from as humans, why we are where we are, and the solution available to those genuinely looking for answers. When one considers the current state of the world, it is tough to conceive that there was a time in history when God saw everything that he had made and exclaimed, “it was very good” (Genesis 1:31). But, yes, there was such a time when man flourished because he lived under God’s rightful rule and authority. That is why the right question is not, “if there is God, why is there so much evil and injustice in the world?” But instead, “how did such a once very good world become so evil?”

Genesis 3:1-15 explains in detail how we got to where we are today. Yes, God did create a very good world; however, when man used his freewill to reject God’s rightful rule and authority, the world was plunged into its present chaos and predicament. From Ukraine to Gaza, Somalia to Myanmar, Libya to Haiti, and Nigeria to Venezuela, what we see in our world today is because God has withdrawn his presence. In simple terms, evil could be described as the absence of good. That is precisely where the world is today. When God withdraws his presence or hides his face, the result is evil. We see this teaching in countless places in the Scriptures (Deuteronomy 31:17; Ps. 30:7; Isaiah 59:1-2; 64:7)

This is why Proverbs 19:3 is instructive: “When a man’s folly brings his way to ruin, his heart rages against the LORD.” In our folly, we have abandoned God’s design for marriage and wonder why divorce and domestic abuse are increasing. We have thrown God’s blueprint for parenting out of the window and replaced it with our own clever ways of rearing children, and yet wonder why depression among teenagers is on the rise. We have replaced God’s idea of community with a self-centred individualistic approach to life and yet wonder why loneliness and suicide are so rampant. We fill our minds with violence and sexual images through our inordinate consumption of mindless entertainment and wonder why war and sexual abuse are ravaging our world.

But we should make no mistake: the fact that God has hidden his face does not in any way suggest he is no longer in control over what happens in the world. He will forever remain the sovereign Creator and Ruler of the world.  Instead, hiding his face is a sign of judgment, the full outpouring of which would be at the end of the age against the world and its system that continues to reject his authority. The chaos and upheavals we see in our present world are only a faint echo of the full judgment that is yet to come (2 Peter 3:9-13).

God Indeed Has a Solution

Behind the question, “if there is God, why is there so much evil?” is the posture that sees God as a divine maid with a mop in hand who goes about cleaning up the mess we create as humans. On the one hand, we have rejected his design and blueprint for life, yet, on the other hand, we have the guts to ask why he is not cleaning up after us. And we get mad and vindictive if he doesn’t clean up after us. We have removed all the guardrails but still looking to be kept safe. This is precisely what the wise man was talking about: “When a man’s folly brings his way to ruin, his heart rages against the LORD.”

But the good news is that God is a good God. In his mercy and kindness, he has not left us to our own evil devices. He is making a new world, one that is far better than this one. In Revelations 21:1-4 we read,

“then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”

This present broken world is not all that there is. A new one is coming where the question will no longer be asked, “if there is God, why is there so much evil?” Because God will not withdraw his presence; in fact, he will be in the midst of the city, and anyone who makes it into that world will gladly and joyfully submit to his rightful rule and authority. “God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”

You, too, can be part of this new world. You can find out how in this article.

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We’re in the Company of the Apostles

If what I have said so far describes you in anyway, you should not feel strange, you are not alone. It was the story of Jesus’ Apostles too. In chapter 20 of his gospel, John documents the resurrection account and how Jesus revealed himself in different settings to his followers after his crucifixion. The sorrow and sadness had now been turned into joy and excitement. The tomb is empty! Jesus is alive again, praise God! But the question was, now that Jesus is alive, what next?

In chapter 21:1-3, we read, “after this Jesus revealed himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias, and he revealed himself in this way. Simon Peter, Thomas (called the Twin), Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples were together. Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We will go with you.””

Like most people, after celebrating the resurrection, Peter and his co-apostles went back to their life as usual, back to fishing. A lot of things had become clear, they now understood that Jesus was the long-awaited Messiah, and this had been proven by his death and resurrection. It was now time to get on with life. However, John records that, “they went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing.”

Jesus then appears and performs a miracle that enables them to have a bumper catch. He also set-up a fire and they barbecued some of the fish and enjoy a delicious breakfast (John 21:4-13). John adds a little footnote in verse 14 which says, “this was now the third time that Jesus was revealed to the disciples after he was raised from the dead.” Jesus had walked with his disciples for three years before his death; and within that time, he told them of the reason for his coming and gave them tasks to accomplish. It is therefore interesting that the disciples seemed to have moved on with their lives after Easter. Had they forgotten so soon about all the ambitious plans they and Jesus had together?

Love for Jesus Must Reflect in Everyday Acts of Service to Him

It is for this reason that Jesus’ short interaction with Peter in John 21:15-17 is instructive for all Christians, especially after Easter. This passage is primarily about the restoration of Peter and its implications for his future ministry as the lead apostle. But it is also a reminder that our relationship with Jesus must not end with Easter. He calls us to renew our love for him. An all-consuming love that will cause us to sacrifice our very lives as Peter ultimately did, knowing that the reward will be far more than worth it. In that passage we read:

“When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.” He said to him a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.” He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” and he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep.”

Three times in this passage, Jesus asks Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Some commentators have opined that Jesus asks the question three times to correspond to the number of times Peter denied him. Regardless of the connection, a repetition is always meant to signify emphasis. Peter, on the other hand felt offended that Jesus would ask him three times if he truly loved him.

I guess you can’t blame Jesus, can you? After all, this is Peter we are talking about. Just before his betrayal and crucifixion, he vowed, “though they all fall away because of you, I will never fall away…even if I must die with you, I will not deny you!” Yet his 3-time denial of Jesus prior to his crucifixion is forever a part of the gospel account.

In this encounter with Peter in John 21, Jesus teaches us that a love for him must reflect in daily acts of service for him. Three times he asked him, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” And three times, he tells him, “Feed my sheep.” Peter had just celebrated the first Easter and he was ready to move on with his life, but Jesus draws his attention to what it means to say you love him.

The reason why Jesus came was to gather together all his wandering sheep into his kingdom (John 10:1-18). His death and resurrection had accomplished this goal; his charge to Peter as the lead Apostle was to take care of the sheep whom he had purchased with his precious blood. This was Peter’s charge. But the call to serve Jesus and his cause has not only gone out to Peter. All of us who have tasted of the goodness of God through the death and resurrection of Christ are called to lay down our lives for him (2 Corinthians 5:14-15).

My prayer is that you would not be so quick to move on with your life after Easter, but the gratitude and affection you feel for the sacrifice and atonement of Christ will reflect itself in daily acts of devotion and sacrifice to him. That we will be committed to sharing the good news with those of his sheep that are still outside the fold, to call them to repentance and obedience. That we will be committed to his bride, the church, for which he died.

The post What Next After Easter? appeared first on TGN.

“Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?” John 11:25-26

Nothing strikes fear into the hearts of men more than death. The Bible refers to it as the last enemy, and rightly so. Throughout the history of human existence, men have tried to find ways to prevent death yet with all the technological and medical advancements, the cure for death continues to elude the wisdom of men. The reason why death conjures such an emotional and opposing response is that it is not natural. Even though it is the only constant among men, it is the most unnatural phenomenon. There is only one place in the Gospels where Jesus is recorded to have wept, and it was at the tomb of one of his closest friends. As Jesus stood at the tomb of Lazarus, he was overcome with emotions as he witnessed the heinousness of death (John 11:28-35). He knew it was not meant to be this way.

Why is Death Unnatural?

Death is not natural because man was meant to live forever. We are first introduced to the idea of humans back in Genesis 1:26-27, where God the Father, in a heavenly council consisting of the three persons of the Trinity (Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit) verbalized the idea. Contrary to the claims of evolutionary science, Scripture is very clear that man was created by someone. Humans did not just evolve; they were created by God for a specific purpose.

Man is too purposeful to have just evolved by mere chance. In Genesis we read, “Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.”

Later on in Genesis 2:5-7, Moses under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit provides more details of how the creation of man took place. He writes, “5 When no bush of the field was yet in the land and no small plant of the field had yet sprung up – for the LORD God had not caused it to rain on the land, and there was no man to work the ground, 6 and a mist was going up from the land and was watering the whole face of the ground, 7 then the LORD God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature.’

It is verse 7 that establishes that man was never meant to die. Even though we are told earlier in chapter 1 that man was created in the image and likeness of God, it is here that we come to appreciate what that statement means. After forming the man from the dust, God breathed into his nostrils, then man became a living creature. That breath from God, is not just a wind or air, no, it was ‘zoe’, life itself. The eternal God who had existed from eternity past, who has no end, breathed into man and he become a living creature. If our source is God, then we were never meant to die because whatever has its source in God cannot die (Ecclesiastes 3:11).

Why then do we die if our Source is the Eternal God?

Just as life as a concept originated with God, death as a concept was first introduced to us by God. We are first introduced to the idea of death in Genesis 2:13-14, as a consequence of disobeying God. As he gave man the terms of reference for his existence, he also spelt out the consequences of disobedience. We read in verse 16 “And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, “You may surely eat of every tree of the garden, v.17 but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.’

This would not just be a physical death, but most tragically, a spiritual death. Death is primarily a life that is disconnected from its source. When a flower is cut from its tree and arranged into a bouquet, it looks nice for a few days, but because it is severed from the root that supplies it life, it is only a matter of time before it physically dies off. Therefore, when God told Adam that he “shall surely die” if he disobeyed, it was spiritual death of being disconnected from the source that he had in mind. The physical death was only a matter of sequence.

That is why when Adam and Eve disobeyed God and were driven away from the Garden (Genesis 3:1-19), they did not immediately experience physical death, but once they were disconnected from the source of life, it was only a matter of time before death as we know it physically became a part of the human experience. The first death is recorded in Genesis 4, when Cain killed his brother Abel, which was the first evidence of a life disconnected from its source.

However, unlike the flower bouquet which dies off and is gone forever, the soul of man lives on forever because he was created by the breath of God. Man was supposed to have an eternal life – a life lived in constant union with God. What we now have after the fall of Adam and Eve is a perpetual life, a life that goes on forever but lived outside of union with God. Such a life is a miserable life! At the time of physical death, it is only the dust part (Genesis 2:7) which disappears but the real person of the soul lives on.Despite attempts by science and technology to make our present world a better place and also to extend our physical lives, our greatest problem which is a severed relationship with the source of life continues and does even after death. What we need as humans is more than just a few more years or even decades in the world in its present form – infested with wickedness and evil of every kind. Our true need is a restoration of our union with God, to have our eternal life back.

Jesus, the Hope for Dead People

It is for this reason that our opening text is such a comfort to all of us dead people. As a matter of fact, that is how the Bible describes all of us in Ephesians 2:1-2, we are dead people! But there is hope even for dead people. In John 11:25-26, as Lazarus’ two sisters, Martha and Mary were overcome with grief and sadness that Jesus wasn’t there to prevent their brother from dying, Jesus once and all held out the solution to our greatest need as humans. He told them, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die.”

The sisters of Lazarus were at this point only thinking about the physical death of their brother, but Jesus in his response to them helps us to understand that true life is more than the physical one we have now, it is beyond the grave. “Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live.” Is it possible for someone to live even though he dies? And is it really true that “everyone who lives and believes in me [Jesus] shall never die?”

How do we reconcile these statements with the many faithful and God-fearing people we know who have died? What Jesus is teaching his followers in these verses is that true life is more than staying physically alive, it is rather a life fully restored in union with God and does not matter whether we are physically in this world or the next. What we call eternal life. On that faithful day, Lazarus was physically brought back to life, but we also know that he physically died again. But, once a person believes in Jesus, the power of death is forever broken. So, we can say together with Apostle Paul, “Death is swallowed up in victory.” “O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?” (1 Corinthians 15:54-55).

How Does One Obtain this Hope?

“Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?”

Three times in this short text, Jesus uses the word “believe.” However, he was not just calling them to believe in something or an idea, rather he was calling for a belief in him as a person. No leading figure of any religion has ever claimed this or called their followers to put belief in them as individuals. All of them spoke of themselves as showing others the way to life, but here Jesus says of himself, “I am the resurrection and the life.” Belief in him is the key to overcoming death. Elsewhere in the book of John, he referred to himself as “the way, and the truth, and the life.”

What is it about Jesus that makes him unique and gives him the audacity to make these astonishingly outlandish claims about himself? And how does he cure those who believe in him from death anyway? It is because Jesus is God himself. As we saw back in Genesis 1:26-27, the decision to create man was made in a divine council consisting of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. This is what Christians refer to as Trinity. The God of the Christian is one God consisting of tree persons. They worked together to create the world, and they worked together in bringing about the redemption of man after the fall. The Father planned our salvation, the Son accomplished it, and the Holy Spirit applies it to the individual.

In his role as the Accomplisher of salvation, the eternal Son of God took on the nature of man, what theologians refer to us the incarnation. The writer of Hebrews in chapter 2:17, says, “Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people.” The only way Jesus could qualify as an acceptable substitute for the sins of men was if he is like them.

But unlike Adam and Eve, Jesus was tempted in every way, yet did not sin (Hebrews 4:15). He is the only man who obeyed the Father perfectly and this qualified him to receive all the promises of God. Even though he is the sinless one, he chose to take on himself the punishment that all humanity had incurred through our willful disobedience of God. This punishment was what he bore when he was crucified on that Good Friday some two thousand years ago. What an irony, the only one who obeyed perfectly is also the one who suffered the most gruesome death.

But praise God, Jesus did not remain dead. On the third day, he was raised from the dead and God has declared his substitutionary atonement – his payment for the sin of mankind acceptable. And has declared that “if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved” (Romans 10:9). This is what it means to believe in Jesus. A turning from self-reliance to complete reliance on the finished work of Christ for your right-standing before God. This is how one moves from death to life. This is the only hope for dead people like us.

The reason why politicians and diplomats are crisscrossing the globe and scientists are doubling efforts in search of cue to some of the deadliest diseases is because we all acknowledge that something is quite not right with our world today. But the brokenness we see today is only but a faint echo of what is in store for this world and anyone who who doer not believe in Jesus. Luke, in Acts 17:30-31 writes, “The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent, because he has fixed a day on which he will judge the world in righteousness by a man whom he has appointed; and of this he has given assurance to all by raising him from the dead.”

Even if humans were allowed to live a million years on this earth, no amount of scientific and technological advancement will help us overcome death. Our only hope is in Christ and that is why Easter is such a joyous occasion for Christians. Because on this day two thousand years ago, our sins not in part but the whole was nailed to the cross. God the Son came down that we may be raised heavenward. Christ is Risen Indeed!

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It is an encouragement and a source of great pride whenever I hear about the growth and advance of the gospel across the continent. All over the world, Africa is touted as the continent with the fastest-growing number of Christian converts. I praythat this growth will be accompanied by growth in personal holiness and depth of understanding of God’s Word.

I address this letter to you, saints, for two reasons. First, it is the pattern we see in Scripture. The apostle Paul, in almost all his letters, did not address the pastors or overseers in the churches, but the members of the church. He believed that the members were the true guardians of the truth and purity of the church.That is why in Galatians 1:6-9, his frustration was not with the false teachers but the members of the church:

“I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel — not that there is another one, but there are some who trouble you and want to distort the gospel of Christ. But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed. As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed.”

The second reason why I have addressed this letter to you, saints of the church in Ghana and across Africa, is because false teachers have crept into the church. In the early days of the rise of ‘one-man’ churches—independent churches planted by individuals—around the 1970s, there was much speculation about whether these teachers were intentionally spreading false teachings or if their errors were simply a result of ignorance.Over the years, it has become increasingly evident that these false teachers are not ignorant of the truth but willfully deceiving others for their own gain. Paul spoke of such people in Romans 16:18, “For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive.” It is futile to address them since they have no desire to change their ways. It is incumbent on us to grow in our discernment as believers, to recognise and avoid these harmful teachings that undermine our faith and bring disrepute to the name of Christ.

The Bible teaches that on the last day, everyone will give an account of themselves to God (Romans 14:12). This will be an individual affair, which means each of us must work out our own salvation with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12). The more reason why we cannot leave our faith in the hands of others, especially pastors who care more about the “seed” we sow into their ministries and the size of their congregations than where we will spend eternity.

As we work out our salvation, we must bear three key principlesin mind. 

Don’t Assume Your Faith

According to Paul, “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart, one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved” (Romans 10:9-10). It is very clear from these verses that no one is born a Christian, and neither can the faith be inherited. Christianity is not like Islam, where one is born into the faith. Each of us must individually repent and put our faith in Christ Jesus.

As a people, we are so religious that there is a tendency and temptation to assume the Christian faith. Unfortunately, many of our pastors contribute to this confusion. I was once part of a church for two years, and throughout my time there, no pastor spoke to me about how I came to faith and the fruit I had borne after that. I remember one Sunday after the church service, all visitors who wanted to join the church were invited to remain behind. One of the ministry leaders spoke briefly about the process of becoming a member. Our photos were taken, and ID cards were issued. That is how I became a member of that church. No questions asked if I knew the gospel, believed it or was baptised as a believer. It didn’t matter which church I had attended and why I had left it. Perhaps, it may have been because I was disciplined. But none of that mattered.

This starkly contrasts what we read about Jesus in John 10:14, where he said, “I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me.” The Greek word, poimen, translated as pastor,can also mean shepherd. Therefore, every pastor is an under-shepherd of Christ (1 Peter 5:2). They are representatives of Christ in their shepherding responsibilities. This means Pastors must know their members, and their members must likewise know them. Sadly, in most mega churches today, the shepherds do not know who the sheep are; the sheep have never interacted with the shepherds. Therefore, it is unclear how these shepherds intend to give account for the sheep they don’t even know (Acts 20:28; Hebrews 13:17).

Moreover, the New Testament makes it clear the church comprises people who have repented of their sins and put their trust in Christ (Jeremiah 31:31-37). To that end, it is the duty of the pastors or elders of a church to act as the doorkeepers and lead the congregation in ensuring that whoever enters the local church has a credible profession of faith. Unfortunately, not many churches exercise this watchfulness. As a result, many churches in Africa are filled with people who are not saved. It is no wonder there are so many people in the church, yet the continent is known for corruption and all kinds of ungodliness. Some of our churches are more anti-gospel outposts than the pillar and buttress of truth they are meant to be (1 Timothy 3:15).

If you are part of a church where no pastor has ever spoken to you about your faith or how you came to know Jesus Christ; and the fruit you have borne subsequently, you are likely not in a healthy church. And in the case throughout your Christian life, your profession of faith has never been examined by any church, you should approach the pastors of your current church and ask them why no one has ever asked you about your faith. In any case, Paul’s advice to you would be to “Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourself” (2 Corinthians 13:5). I strongly recommend you read this article on God’s love; it will help you in your examining process.

Your Allegiance Should Not be to Your Pastor or His Churchbut to Christ.

When Jesus declared in Matthew 16:18, “I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” He meant it, and he is doing that all across the world. From Asia to Europe, Americas to Africa, wherever the gospel has been preached, it has borne fruit and the church of Christ is being built. This universal church, the Bible teaches, is the body of Christ.

Sadly, in Ghana and across Africa, churches have become personal properties of Pastors. It is their pictures that are on the signboards. In many places, the personal brand of the pastor is more popular than the name of Christ. If you are in a church where the preacher’s name is more known than the name of Christ, you should know you are in an unhealthy church; and leave as quickly as you can.

Over the years, many Christians in Africa have become more discerning and are beginning to ask questions. However, I continue to hear stories where members feel they have no alternatives, so they stick it out in these unhealthy churches. In other cases, members feel so loyal to the “Man of God” that even though they know something is not right, they feel they cannot leave because they would be branded as disloyal.

One truth we should firmly hold on to as Christians is that the church belongs to Christ; therefore, our loyalty must be to himand not to any particular individual. If you discover that your church is unhealthy and you cannot effect any change, you should strongly consider leaving. By God’s grace, there are many relatively healthy churches springing up. We should fervently pray that God, in his kindness, will raise more of such churches. However, even in cases where there are no viable options, you should pray for the courage to start a gospel-centred Bible fellowship which could eventually covenant as a church,

In Ephesians 3:10, Paul said, “Through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places.” This means inasmuch as a true and healthy church is a powerful gospel witness, a bad church has a powerful destructive effect on the advance of the kingdom of God. As a matter of truth, some churches in Ghana and across Africa must close for the advance of God’s kingdom and his glory. Therefore, being part of a bad, unhealthy, anti-gospel church may display loyalty to a human being, but in the long run, you are doing damage to the advance of God’s kingdom. (2 Timothy 4:3-4)

Examine Yourself to See If You’re Bearing Fruit

In John 15:16, Jesus told his disciples and, by extension, all his followers, “I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide.” As Christians, we are in the fruit-bearing business. According to Jesus, “Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus, you will recognize them by their fruits” (Matthew 7:19-20).

As Christians in Ghana and across Africa, we must constantly examine ourselves to see if we are bearing fruit and what kind.Each of us – not the usual pointing at the other person, must look ourselves in the eye and ask whether we are bearing abiding fruits; because it is illogical that the continent with the highest rate of Christian numerical growth would also have the highest level of corruption. In Ghana, for example, more than 70% of the population professes to be Christian, with the majority of this number in church every Sunday, yet the country is plagued with thick darkness.

In Galatians 5:22-23, apostle Paul lists “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control” as the nine-part character traits produced by the Holy Spirit in every Christian. The effects of these fruit are not confined to the four walls of a church building. As we live our lives in the public square, evidence of these fruits would be seen in how we work, study, lead our families and raise our children as Christians (James 2:14-17).

It is not loving or faithful for a Christian politician entrusted with a public office to take for themselves resources belongingto the state. It is not kind, good, or faithful for a civil servant to take bribes irrespective of whether their pay is adequate. It is not a display of love that, as a trader, your goods are priced to take advantage of unsuspecting customers. The sad irony is that many corrupt officials and business people profess to be Christians and regularly attend church.

The state of Christianity on our continent is a colossal anti-gospel witness. One of the most striking truths in physics is that regardless of the thickness of the darkness, a single matchstick can dispel it. Therefore, if Christians are the light of the world as described by Jesus in Matthew 5:14, how is it that our continent is languishing in so much darkness when the majority of us claim to be Christian, unless it is the case that many of us hold an appearance of godliness, but deny its power (2 Timothy 3:5)?Even though Africa is touted as the continent with the fastest Christian growth rate, sadly, the growth is cancerous. As Jesus rightly said, “You will recognize them by their fruits.” The fruits many of us are bearing indicate we do not belong to Christ, andthe warnings of Jesus in Revelation 3:1-2 is timely for all of us, “I know your works. You have the reputation of being alive, but you are dead. Wake up, and strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have not found your works complete in the sight of my God.”

Having said all this, I am also convinced there are many faithful saints on the continent because God always leaves himself a remnant (Romans 11:4-5). It is because of them the continent is not consumed. It is my prayer that “our God may make you [the remnant] worthy of his calling and may fulfill every resolve for good and every work of faith by his power, so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in him” (2 Thessalonians 1:11-12).

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A home offers both security and comfort, which are two of the most essential and highly coveted necessities of life. It doesn’t matter how a person’s day has been, if they could come back to their own house, that would mean security and comfort. At least for a short period of time they would be protected from the storms and winds of life. I’m confident Jesus understood this and I firmly believe it is within that context he spoke to his disciples, in John 14:1–3, “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.”

You Can’t Out-give God

Obviously, Jesus was not talking about brick and mortar here, instead, he was speaking about what a house truly signifies; security, protection and comfort. As his time on earth drew to a close, he was preparing to leave behind his beloved disciples whom he cherished deeply. But he didn’t want to leave them without hope, and so he assures them that he is not hanging them out to dry; he will definitely come back for them after he has prepared rooms for them in his Father’s house. 

At one point, Peter asked him, “See, we have left our homes and followed you.” Indirectly implying the question, “what would we get for leaving everything to follow you?” To which Jesus replied, “Truly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or wife or brothers or parents or children, for the sake of the kingdom of God, who will not receive many times more in this time, and in the age to come eternal life” (Luke 18:29-30). I am sure, many of us have sacrificed a lot to follow Jesus. Some have literally let go of family, property, career and reputation to follow him. His promise is that, he will repay you in folds of hundred in the world to come, because no one has the ability to out-give God. Jesus is gone to prepare a place for you in his Father’s house; when he is done, he will come and take you to himself.

Don’t Fall for a Counterfeit Promise

As we wait for his return, Jesus reminds us not to be deceived because, “[He] is the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through [him].” We often use this verse in our apologetic and evangelistic discussions with people of other faiths to let them know that Christianity is the only path to God. While there is nothing inherently incorrect with using it that way, it’s worth noting that upon closer examination of the context, it becomes evident that Jesus was not primarily delivering an apologetics response.

He had just told the disciples that he was going to the Father to prepare a place for them, to which Thomas, one of the twelve said, “Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?” Thomas wanted to know the way to that promised house, to which Jesus replied, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life.” There is something profound and complete about Jesus’ response. He is the way, the content and the telos or end of all that we seek in this life. For the Christian, Jesus is the journey, the destination and the prize. Later on in the chapter, Philip, another disciple said to him, “show us the Father, and it is enough for us.” To which Jesus replied, “Have I been with you so long, and you still do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father.”

Philip obviously thought there is something else, but Jesus reminded him, I am everything you’re looking for. If you’re looking for something else other than Jesus, it means you don’t know what true value is. It is like the man Jesus describes in the Matthew 13:44 parable, “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.” Stated differently, if you’re looking forward to something else in heaven more than Jesus; then heaven will not excite you. Because if you have Jesus, you already have heaven’s greatest gift.

The point is this, as we eagerly anticipate the return of Christ and his promise, many false prophets would come who would try to show us alternative routes (some of them shortcuts) to obtaining what has been promised. Some would even try to sell us a different promise all together and others would offer an alternative version of life itself. But Jesus reminds us that he is the “way, the truth and the life.” We must not settle for anything less than Jesus.

Unfortunately, the materialistic outlook of our society provides breeding ground for these false prophets and apostles. Our inordinate desire for the seemingly good things of life, such as owning your own house could become an altar of worship. Take heart and find comfort, even if you don’t possess a house, a car, or any of the material possessions society deems valuable. Jesus has promised that he is gone to prepare a place for us in his Father’s house, and when the time comes, he will return to take us with him, so that we can be where he is.

Until then, let’s proclaim together with Moses, the great leader of the Israelites, who didn’t even enter the Promised Land let alone own a house, that, “Lord, you have been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.” (Psalm 90:1-2)

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