“Pray at all times in the Spirit with every prayer and request, and stay alert with all perseverance and intercession for all the saints. Pray also for me, that the message may be given to me when I open my mouth to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel. For this I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I might be bold enough to speak about it as I should.” (Ephesians 6:18-20 CSB)

God’s word clearly shows that both faith and prayer are essential for a sound Christian walk with Christ. First, Paul the apostle said: “For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness.” (Romans 4:3 KJV) Also, James said: “But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But he must ask in faith, doubting nothing, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind. For that man ought not to expect that he will receive anything from the Lord, being a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.” (James 1:5-8 LSB)

And most importantly, let us remember what our Lord Jesus Christ said: “If ye had faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye might say unto this sycamine tree, be thou plucked up by the root, and be thou planted in the sea; and it should obey you.” (Luke 17:6 KJV) Then Jesus later adds: “Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?” (Luke 18:8 KJV) Well, let’s hope and pray that he does brothers and sisters in Christ. For without fait we cannot please God.

“And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart." (Luke 18:1 ESV)

Now first and foremost, our gathering together (whether it’s in a Cathedral, a field or anything in between) should always include a time of prayer. In fact, I do believe that this should take up a good portion of our meeting. For we read above that we should always pray and not lose heart. Paul the apostle said the same thing by saying: “Pray without ceasing.” (1Thessalonians 5:17 KJV). Jude as well said: “But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting anxiously for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to eternal life.” (Jude 1:20-21 NASB95) And finally we have James saying: “Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you may be healed. The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much.” (James 5:16 NASB95)

So, through faith and prayer we can partner with God and change not only our own lives, but the lives of others as well. But as mentioned earlier, our lacking in this can have a negative effect. We can see this to be true when the disciples asked Jesus why they couldn’t cast the devil out of a man’s son. For Jesus said: “Because of the littleness of your faith; for truly I say to you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move; and nothing will be impossible to you.” (Matthew 17:20 NASB95) However, Jesus also said: “This kind can come out by nothing but prayer and fasting.” (Mark 9:29 NKJV) Therefore, the disciples could not cast the devil out because of their lacking in both prayer and faith. Thankfully, Jesus came to their rescue and delivered the man’s son.

“And he said to them, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest’.” (Luke 10:2 ESV)

Here above, Jesus is telling us to ask God to send out fellow Christians to share the Gospel. For the world is full of lost souls who are in desperate need of God’s saving grace. Therefore, we need to bring the message of hope to them so that they may have eternal life as well. And let us remember that Jesus himself prayed not only for his disciples, but for those who will believe their report. For he said: “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” (John 17:20-21 KJV) So again, this is a call for action on our part today as well.

Paul said to Timothy: “First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, for kings and all those who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. This is good, and it pleases God our Savior” (1 Timothy 2:1-3 CSB) So, first and foremost, we are to pray for everyone. This would not only be for loved ones and friends, but for government officials and for those who hate us and mistreat us as well. For Jesus said: “But I say unto you, love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; that ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.” (Matthew 5:44-45 KJV)

For it is true that our God is a miracle working God who can open the eyes of the most stubborn heart. Therefore, let us take the time to always be in an attitude of prayer, asking God to work and intervene not only in our own lives, but the lives of others as well. Amen.

(Below is an excerpt from: Torrey, R.A. “The Power of Prayer.”)

“You will find these seven words in James 4:2, the seven closing words of the verse, ‘Ye have not, because ye ask not.’ These seven words contain the secret of the poverty and powerlessness of the average Christian, of the average minister, and of the average church.”

“Why is it, many a Christian is asking, ‘that I make such poor progress in my Christian life? Why do I have so little victory over sin? Why do I win so few souls to Christ? Why do I grow so slowly into the likeness of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ?’ And God answers in the words of the text: ‘Neglect of prayer. You have not, because you ask not.’”

“Why is it, many a minister is asking, ‘that I see so little fruit from my ministry? Why are there so few conversions? Why does my church grow so slowly? Why are the members of my church so little helped by my ministry, and built up so little in Christian knowledge and life?’ And again, God replies: ‘Neglect of prayer. You have not, because you ask not.’”

“Why is it, both ministers and churches are asking, ‘that the church of Jesus Christ is making such slow progress in the world today? Why does it make so little headway against sin, against unbelief, against error in all its forms? Why does it have so little victory over the world, the flesh, and the devil.’”

“Why is the average church member living on such a low plane of Christian living? Why does the Lord Jesus Christ get so little honor from the state of the church today? And, again, God replies: ‘Neglect of prayer. You have not, because you ask not.’”

So, our coming together shouldn't be about some live band which is followed by an hour-long message and then out the door you go. For we should be spending more time in prayer as God’s word says. For according to God’s word, prayer shouldn’t be some weekly or bye weekly thing we do, but a daily activity instead. Now, I can tell you from my own personal experience that there is nothing more important than our time in prayer. For even in my own life, I felt the results of brothers and sisters in Christ praying for me. And let us remember that it was our prayer to God that helped changed our own lives in the first place.

Therefore, I encourage all of you to go through the bible and read for yourselves the prayers of God’s Saints such as Solomon, Daniel, Hannah, Abraham’s servant, and Nehemiah to name a few. For all of these through faith and prayer, not only impacted their own lives, but the lives of others as well. And most importantly, let’s not forget about our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ: “Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared; Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him; Called of God an high priest after the order of Melchizedek.” (Hebrews 5:7-10 CSB)

Yes, it says that Jesus was heard and became victorious. And let us thank God and give him praise for that. So, if Jesus felt the need to pray to God the Father, shouldn’t we his disciples be doing the same as well? So, fellow Christians, let us be praying on a daily basis. This we should do, not only for our family and ourselves, but also for our brothers and sisters in Christ around the world. Oh, and let's not forget about those lost sinners out there well. For we should be praying that God would cause them to see the truth. This should be true even for our worst enemies.

“But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.” (Matthew 5:44-45 NKJV)

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“Now I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all agree and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be made complete in the same mind and in the same judgment.” (1 Corinthians 1:10 NASB20)

According to that passage above, there is to be no divisions within the body of Christ. For we are to be in unity not only within our own churches, but with all our brothers and sisters in Christ around the world. But unfortunately, we have created so many Denominations and Associations which may seem like there is divisions among us.  For Paul the apostle first said: “My brothers and sisters, some from Chloe's household have informed me that there are quarrels among you. What I mean is this: One of you says, "I follow Paul"; another, "I follow Apollos"; another, "I follow Cephas"; still another, "I follow Christ." Is Christ divided?

Was Paul crucified for you? Were you baptized in the name of Paul?” (1 Corinthians 1:11-13 NIV) Yes, it's this kind thinking that can cause divisions among us.

So, let's be careful not favor one church leader over another as the church of Corinth did. For we can see that this was a big issue in their church. For Paul the apostle summed it up best when he said: “So, brothers and sisters, I could not speak to you as spiritual people, but instead as people of the flesh, as infants in Christ. I fed you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready. In fact, you are still not ready, for you are still influenced by the flesh. For since there is still jealousy and dissension among you, are you not influenced by the flesh and behaving like unregenerate people? For whenever someone says, "I am with Paul," or "I am with Apollos," are you not merely human? What is Apollos, really? Or what is Paul? Servants through whom you came to believe, and each of us in the ministry the Lord gave us.” (1 Corinthians 3:1-5 NET)

So, according to what Paul said above, it’s not about following him nor any other person except one, and that is our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Therefore, we shouldn't be guilty of bragging about teachers and preachers of today and yesterday. For God’s word tells us who we should be bragging upon and following. For we read: “While walking by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon (who is called Peter) and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Immediately they left their nets and followed him. (Matthew 4:18-20 ESV) Yes, we should be bragging and following Jesus himself. Amen.

Now, it may be true that we love our God from the heart. We may also be totally sincere in our faith as Christians, loving each other and praying and reaching out to the lost as well. However, at the same time we could be building these invisible walls of separation by labeling ourselves. And the sad part of it all, we do it in plain view of the world who could be watching and maybe even mocking us. (See Romans 2:23-24) For if we would examine most of the early churches in the New Testament, we would see that they were only referred to according to their locality such as a name of the city or of a person who owned the house. So, these types of labeling were not to show a distinction from one another but to aid the reader to understand their locality.

Therefore, God calls us to be one in Christ and to dwell in unity with fellow believers. Jesus prayed for this Christian unity so that the world could see our love for one another. And not only that, but he also prayed for oneness so that the world would recognize that he truly came from the Father. For Jesus said: “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” (John 17:20-21 KJV) And again, this unity can only be accomplished if we obey God by breaking down any dividing walls that we may have made. Because let’s face it, if we don’t do it, God may do it in such a way that would surprise us all.

Below are some passages that show references to church locations:

• “Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus: Who have for my life laid down their own necks: unto whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles. Likewise greet the church that is in their house. Salute my well beloved Epaenetus, who is the firstfruits of Achaia unto Christ.” (Romans 16:3-5 KJV)
• “For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you.” (1 Corinthians 1:11 KJV)
• “The churches of Asia salute you. Aquila and Priscilla salute you much in the Lord, with the church that is in their house.” (1 Corinthians 16:19 KJV)
• “Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, unto the church of the Thessalonians in God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (2 Thessalonians 1:1-2 KJV)
• “Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy our brother, unto Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellow labourer, And to our beloved Apphia, and Archippus our fellow soldier, and to the church in thy house” (Philemon 1:1-2 KJV)

A few years back, the Syrian Christians were praying for revival and believing that God would do a great work in their land. They like us had their churches along with their different denominations. And then came the war with its bombings and terrorists. Churches were destroyed and down came their denominational barriers that separated believers. Those Syrian Christians groups who at one time may have questioned each other’s salvation are now gathering together. This they are doing with weekly prayers, asking God to move in their nation and in their churches. Now, these same Christians continue to spread hope in the face of hopelessness, holding high not a political or denominational banner but the banner of Jesus Christ.

And let’s not forget what happened when persecution broke out against the early church as described in the book of Acts. For we read that: “As for Saul, he made havock of the church, entering into every house, and haling men and women committed them to prison. Therefore they that were scattered abroad went everywhere preaching the word.” (Acts 8:3-4 KJV) So, even though Saul caused havoc for these Christians, it worked out for the good. For we read that these believers were scattered everywhere, spreading the good news of Jesus Christ to the world. Now, we read that Saul (who is also called Paul) later on converted over to Christianity after having an encounter with Jesus himself. And let’s thank God for that. For he wrote a good portion of the New Testament epistles.

We cannot put God in our own little theological box. Yes, sometimes we get up on our little “soapbox” and act like we know everything. However, we know that God’s ways and thoughts are much higher than ours. For we read: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” (Isaiah 55:8-9 ESV) So fellow Christians, instead of causing divisions, let’s just humble ourselves before God and be the body of Christ that we’re called to be. For we must embrace one another as brothers and sisters in Christ and seek unity for God’s Church. Amen.

“Who comprehends the mind of the LORD, or gives him instruction as his counselor? From whom does he receive directions? Who teaches him the correct way to do things, or imparts knowledge to him, or instructs him in skillful design? Look, the nations are like a drop in a bucket; they are regarded as dust on the scales. He lifts the coastlands as if they were dust. Not even Lebanon could supply enough firewood for a sacrifice; its wild animals would not provide enough burnt offerings. All the nations are insignificant before him; they are regarded as absolutely nothing.” (Isaiah 40:13-17 NET)

• “Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways! "For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been his counselor?" "Or who has given a gift to him that he might be repaid?" For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.” (Romans 11:33-36 ESV)
• If anyone imagines that he knows something, he does not yet know as he ought to know. (1 Corinthians 8:2 ESV)

We Christians must always keep our eyes stayed upon the Lord. This way we can be led by his Holy Spirit into all truth. And let’s always remember that we are called to be one in Christ. For Jesus said: “I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; "that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me. "And the glory which You gave Me I have given them, that they may be one just as We are one: “I in them, and You in Me; that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that You have sent Me, and have loved them as You have loved Me.” (John 17:20-23 NKJV)

And let us also remember what we are commissioned to do. For Jesus said: “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, “teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20 CSB) Yes, we are to be the light and salt to this lost world. Therefore, let us stop causing divisions and be soul winners for Christ instead. Amen.

Below are some references concerning what was mentioned above:

• “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1 KJV)
• “Again, I tell you the truth, if two of you on earth agree about whatever you ask, my Father in heaven will do it for you. For where two or three are assembled in my name, I am there among them.” (Matthew 18:19-20 NET)
• “Greet Prisca and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, who risked their own necks for my life. Not only I, but all the churches of the Gentiles are grateful to them. Also greet the church in their house. Greet my dear friend Epenetus, who was the first convert to Christ in the province of Asia.” (Romans 16:3-5 NET)
• “If anyone thinks that he knows anything, he has not yet known as he ought to know; but if anyone loves God, he is known by Him.” (1 Corinthians 8:2-3 NASB20)
• “For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.” (1 Corinthians 12:12-13 KJV)

God bless you as you seek to do his will. Amen.

(Note: Text used in this article are shown below to assist you in your study of God’s word. Therefore, I urge you to: “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” - 2 Timothy 2:15 KJV)

• KJV = The Authorized Version or King James Version (KJV), 1611, 1769. Outside of the United Kingdom, the KJV is in the public domain. Within the United Kingdom, the rights to the KJV are vested in the Crown.
• ESV = The Holy Bible, English Standard Version copyright © 2001, 2007, 2011, 2016 by Crossway Books and Bibles, a Publishing Ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
• CSB = Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017, 2020 by Holman Bible Publishers.
• NET = The NET Bible®, New English Translation Copyright © 1996 By Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. NET Bible® is a registered trademark The NET Bible® Logo, Service Mark Copyright © 1997 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. All rights reserved.
• NIV = THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by Permission of Biblica, Inc.® All rights reserved worldwide.
• NKJV = Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved
• NASB20 = New American Standard Bible 2020 Copyright (c) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, Calif. All rights reserved. 

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“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV)

We Christians are so blessed because we have God’s Holy Spirit dwelling within us. Therefore, those fruits listed above should be displayed in our daily lives. And the first fruit we come to is LOVE. “And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' The second is this: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no other commandment greater than these.” (Mark 12:30-31 ESV)

Next, we have JOY. “You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever.” (Psalm 16:11 LSB) Then we have PEACE: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27 NIV) Then of course we have all the other fruits which are patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, self-control. All of these are essential in order for us to have a sound Christian walk.

“Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing.” (1 Corinthians 13:1-3 NKJV)

Now, shouldn’t we as Christians be examining our own lives to see if we are displaying all the fruits of the Spirit? Because even though we may be doing great works, it could profit us nothing if it’s being done with the wrong motivation as Paul the apostle said above. Therefore, everything we do must be done in love. This would be true even if we get angry at those who are committing evil. For even our Lord Jesus got angry at those Pharisees who believed it was wrong to heal on the Sabbath. For we read: “And he saith unto them, Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath days, or to do evil? to save life, or to kill? But they held their peace. And when he had looked round about on them with anger, being grieved for the hardness of their hearts, he saith unto the man, Stretch forth thine hand. And he stretched it out: and his hand was restored whole as the other. (Mark 3:4-5 KJV).

Therefore, because of his love for God his Father and mankind, it was okay for him to get angry at those who were doing wrong. However, we shouldn’t hold a grudge but seek reconciliation after things change or settle down. For God’s word says: “Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil.” (Ephesians 4:26-27 KJV) Therefore, let us always make sure our actions are being done in love. For we must walk after the Spirit in everything we think, say, and do. Amen.

“But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. For to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, and to another the word of knowledge according to the same Spirit; to another faith by the same Spirit, and to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, and to another the effecting of miracles, and to another prophecy, and to another the distinguishing of spirits, to another [various] kinds of tongues, and to another the interpretation of tongues. But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually just as He wills.” (1 Corinthians 12:7-11 NASB95)

Now we come to the Gifts of the Spirit. For Jesus said: “Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father. Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it.” (John 14:12-14 ESV) Wow, Jesus said that we would be doing even greater works than what he was doing. We can see happening by Paul the apostle where we read: “Now God worked unusual miracles by the hands of Paul, so that even handkerchiefs or aprons were brought from his body to the sick, and the diseases left them and the evil spirits went out of them.” (Acts 19:11-12 NKJV)

We can see happening with Peter as well: “And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women.) Insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that at the least the shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow some of them. There came also a multitude out of the cities round about unto Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed every one.” (Acts 5:14-16 KJV)

Again, during one of Peter sermons, three thousand souls were saved. “And Peter said to them, ‘Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.’ And with many other words he bore witness and continued to exhort them, saying, ‘Save yourselves from this crooked generation.’ So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls.” (Acts 2:38-41 ESV) Now, all those gifts displayed above are impressive by the early believers. But where are they today? Well, keep reading.

“Lord,” he said, “have mercy on my son, because he has seizures and suffers terribly. He often falls into the fire and often into the water. “I brought him to your disciples, but they couldn't heal him.” Jesus replied, “You unbelieving and perverse generation, how long will I be with you? How long must I put up with you? Bring him here to me.” Then Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of him, and from that moment the boy was healed.” (Matthew 17:15-18 CSB)

So, the question. Why don’t we see more miracles happening in our lives today? For Jesus did say that we will be doing greater works than what he did. Could it be because we Christians today have such little faith like those disciples whom Jesus rebuked above? I personally believe so my fellow Christians. For even today some teachers are preaching that the gifts of miracles have ceased after the completion of the bible. But this is not what the bible teaches. For this is nothing more than a lame excuse to cover up our lacking of faith. For we can see this happening where we continue to read: “Then the disciples approached Jesus privately and said, “Why couldn't we drive it out?” “Because of your little faith,” he told them. “For truly I tell you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will tell this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” (Matthew 17:18-20 CSB)

So, there you have it. Jesus himself said it’s because of our lacking in faith that we don’t see many miracles being performed today. Therefore, I pray that God would help us to have much faith so that we can do the same works today. For we need to be a people who are willing to step out in faith as the early church did. However, we must make sure that God gets all the glory and praise in these acts as well. For it is easy for us to get prideful and take the glory upon ourselves. 

First, let’s look at some scriptures that speak of our little faith:

• “But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?” (Matthew 6:30 ESV)
• “He said to them, “Why are you afraid, you men of little faith?” Then He got up and rebuked the winds and the sea, and it became perfectly calm. The men were amazed, and said, “What kind of a man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey Him?” (Matthew 8:26-27 NASB20)
• “Aware of this, Jesus said, “You of little faith, why are you discussing among yourselves that you do not have bread? “Don't you understand yet? Don’t you remember the five loaves for the five thousand and how many baskets you collected? “Or the seven loaves for the four thousand and how many large baskets you collected? “Why is it you don't understand that when I told you, ‘Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees,’ it wasn't about bread?” (Matthew 16:8-11 CSB)
• “Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, “Why couldn’t we cast it out?” He told them, “It was because of your little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; nothing will be impossible for you.” (Matthew 17:19-20 NET)
• “And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who draws near to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him. (Hebrews 11:6 LSB).

Now, let us look at what the scripture says concerning miracles:

• “And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.” (Mark 16:17-18 KJV)
• “Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know” (Acts 2:22 KJV)
• “And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles.” (Acts 2:43 KJV)
• “And now, Lord, consider their threats, and grant that your servants may speak your word with all boldness, “while you stretch out your hand for healing, and signs and wonders are performed through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” When they had prayed, the place where they were assembled was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak the word of God boldly.” (Acts 4:29-31 CSB)
• “So they stayed there a long time and spoke boldly for the Lord, who testified to the message of his grace by enabling them to do signs and wonders.” (Acts 14:3 CSB)
• “The whole group kept quiet and listened to Barnabas and Paul while they explained all the miraculous signs and wonders God had done among the Gentiles through them.” (Acts 15:12 NET)
• “For I will not be bold to speak of anything except what Christ has brought about through me, leading to the obedience of the Gentiles by word and deed, in the power of signs and wonders, in the power of the Spirit; so that from Jerusalem and all around as far as Illyricum I have fully preached the gospel of Christ.” (Romans 15:18-19 LSB)
• “And God has placed in the church first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, of helping, of guidance, and of different kinds of tongues.” (1 Corinthians 12:28 NIV)
• “I have become a fool in boasting; you have compelled me. For I ought to have been commended by you; for in nothing was I behind the most eminent apostles, though I am nothing. Truly the signs of an apostle were accomplished among you with all perseverance, in signs and wonders and mighty deeds. (2 Corinthians 12:11-12 NKJV)
• “For since the message declared by angels proved to be reliable, and every transgression or disobedience received a just retribution, how shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation? It was declared at first by the Lord, and it was attested to us by those who heard, while God also bore witness by signs and wonders and various miracles and by gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to his will.” (Hebrews 2:2-4 ESV)
• “Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit.” (James 5:14-18 KJV)

“Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father.” (John 14:12 ESV)

According to that passage above, we Christians should be doing the works that Jesus himself did. That’s because just like Jesus, we are to be filled and led by Holy Spirit. For all the works that Jesus did was through the Spirit of God that dwelt within him. We can see this first happening after he was baptized by John the Baptist where we read: “When all the people were baptized, it came to pass that Jesus also was baptized; and while He prayed, the heaven was opened. And the Holy Spirit descended in bodily form like a dove upon Him, and a voice came from heaven which said, “You are My beloved Son; in You I am well pleased”.” (Luke 3:21-22 NKJV)

So, what happened after this? “And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordon and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness for forty days, being tempted by the devil." (Luke 4:1-2 ESV) And let’s take note to what Jesus himself said: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” (Luke 4:18-19 ESV) Now, we must remember that Jesus was our “Forerunner” who set us an example of how we should be living our lives. So, let’s be diligent to always walk after the Holy Spirit and bear much fruit according to God’s word. And again, this can only take place by us walking after the Holy Spirit daily. Therefore, let's take heed to what Jesus said below.

• “I am the true vine and my Father is the gardener. He takes away every branch that does not bear fruit in me. He prunes every branch that bears fruit so that it will bear more fruit. You are clean already because of the word that I have spoken to you. Remain in me, and I will remain in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it remains in the vine, so neither can you unless you remain in me. “I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in me - and I in him - bears much fruit, because apart from me you can accomplish nothing. If anyone does not remain in me, he is thrown out like a branch, and dries up; and such branches are gathered up and thrown into the fire, and are burned up.” (John 15:1-6 NET)

Yes, brothers and sisters in Christ. We should be bearing “much fruit” as Jesus said. Therefore, let’s always be: “Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:2 KJV)

Below are some scriptures that show Jesus relying on God to do his works:

• “But if I with the finger of God cast out devils, no doubt the kingdom of God is come upon you.” (Luke 11:20 KJV)
• “So Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of his own accord, but only what he sees the Father doing. For whatever the Father does, that the Son does likewise.” (John 5:19 ESV)
• “Then said Jesus unto them, When ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am he, and that I do nothing of myself; but as my Father hath taught me, I speak these things.” (John 8:28 KJV)
• “For I spake not from myself; but the Father that sent me, he hath given me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak. And I know that his commandment is life eternal; the things therefore which I speak, even as the Father hath said unto me, so I speak.” (John 12:49-50 ASV)
• “Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I say unto you I speak not from myself: but the Father abiding in me doeth his works. Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else believe me for the very works’ sake.” (John 14:10-11 ASV)
• “Ye men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God unto you by mighty works and wonders and signs which God did by him in the midst of you, even as ye yourselves know; him, being delivered up by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye by the hand of lawless men did crucify and slay: whom God raised up, having loosed the pangs of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it.” (Acts 2:22-24 ASV)

“And they went forth, and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen.” (Mark 16:20 KJV)

So, that all being said, shouldn’t we be practicing and displaying all the gifts of the Spirit? And let us remember that miracles are not just to heal and deliver people from bondage, but also to validate what we are preaching. For we can see this to be true in that passage above. So, shouldn’t we be following our Lord and Saviors footsteps as did the early believers? For all these gifts are still available for us today just as they were back then. So, let us pray that God would give us the strength to step out in faith, trusting him to do his mighty works through us. Amen.

God bless you as you seek to do his well. Amen.

(Note: The bible versions used in this article are listed below in more detail to assist you in your study of God’s word. Therefore: “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” - 2 Timothy 2:15 KJV)

• KJV = The Authorized Version or King James Version (KJV), 1611, 1769. Outside of the United Kingdom, the KJV is in the public domain. Within the United Kingdom, the rights to the KJV are vested in the Crown.
• ESV = The Holy Bible, English Standard Version copyright © 2001, 2007, 2011, 2016 by Crossway Books and Bibles, a Publishing Ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserve.
• CSB = Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017, 2020 by Holman Bible Publishers.
• NET = The NET Bible®, New English Translation Copyright © 1996 By Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. NET Bible® is a registered trademark The NET Bible® Logo, Service Mark Copyright © 1997 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. All rights reserved.
• NIV = THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by Permission of Biblica, Inc.® All rights reserved worldwide.
• NKJV = Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
• ASV = New American Standard Bible Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, Calif. All rights reserved.
• ASB20 = New American Standard Bible 2020 Copyright (c) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, Calif. All rights reserved.
• NASB95 = New American Standard Bible 1995 Copyright (c) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, Calif. All rights reserv
• LSB = Copyright ©2021 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved. Managed in partnership with Three Sixteen Publishing Inc. LSBible.org. 

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“There remains then a sabbatism to the people of God. For he that has entered into his rest, he also has rested from his works, as God did from his own. Let us therefore use diligence to enter into that rest, that no one may fall after the same example of not hearkening to the word.” (Hebrews 4:9-11 DBY)

Now, when you think of someone that is resting, what example comes to mind? Could it be a person kicking back under a shady tree with a hat pulled over their face? Or even better yet, could it be someone on a vacation getaway relaxing on a white sandy beach on some tropical island? Well, even though these may seem to be good examples, the truth may be just the opposite. You see, being under a shady tree or on a get-away vacation does not promise you relieve from anxieties or feelings of restlessness and fear. Because no matter where you’re at your problems could still follow you there.

So then, true rest is not some outward condition as we read above, but that inward condition which is of the heart. For it can only come from the Holy Spirit dwelling within, given us comfort and hope regardless of our outward condition. Oh, what peace and joy we have in Jesus, for in him we have true rest indeed. So, why not put all your trust in God the Father today? For he truly knows best and will direct all your paths by his Holy Spirit. And let us remember what our Lord and Savior Jesus said: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30 NIV) 

Now, it must be understood that we Christians are a work in progress. So, please do not lose heart if you do make a mistake now or then. For we need to repent and keep persevering by walk after the Holy Spirit. For his word does say: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9 KJV) However at the same time, let’s be diligent not to keep making that same mistake over again. Therefore, let us always keep our mind stayed on the Lord. And the more we do, the deeper we will fall in love for him. And the deeper we fall in love with him, the more we can’t help but keep our mind stayed on him. Amen.

Oh, and for those of you who do not know Jesus as your Lord and Savior, please turn your life over to him today. Confess that you have sinned against God: “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God” (Romans 3:23-25 KJV) Yes, God will forgive you of your sins and give you “New Life” through Jesus Christ. And not only that, God will fill you with his Holy Spirit and you will be therefore, “Born Again.”

Below, you will find some scriptures on this topic of peace, hope, and rest:

• “I sought the LORD's help and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.” (Psalm 34:4 NET)
• Then he said to them, "Go your way. Eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions to anyone who has nothing ready, for this day is holy to our Lord. And do not be grieved, for the joy of the LORD is your strength." (Nehemiah 8:10 ESV)
• Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore." (Psalm 16:11 KJV)
• Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and bless his name. For the LORD is good, and his faithful love endures forever; his faithfulness, through all generations." (Psalm 100:4-5 CSB)
• Happy are the people who are in such a state; Happy are the people whose God is the LORD!" (Psalm 144:15 NKJV)
• You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD GOD is an everlasting rock." (Isaiah 26:3-4 ESV)
• Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." (John 14:1-3 KJV)
• Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid." (John 14:27 ESV)
• These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33 KJV)
• There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God. For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from his. Let us labor therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief." (Hebrews 4:9-11 KJV)
• DBY = In 1867, John Nelson Darby translated the New Testament from Greek into English. Further revisions were done in 1872 and 1884. Darby’s work was first published as The Holy Scriptures: A New Translation from the Original Languages by J. N. Darby. After Darby’s death in 1882, some of his students worked together to produce the complete Darby Bible based on the Masoretic Hebrew text, Darby’s German (Elberfelder), and the French (Pau) translations. In 1890, the first complete Darby Bible was published in English. This translation of the Bible is in the public domain.

God’s word can truly keep us on the right path. And by keeping our minds stayed on him, we can have joy and be victorious in every situation. For in him and him alone is true peace and rest. For Jesus said: “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33 KJV) So then, let us completely rely on him to show us the way. For we must not lean on our own understanding. I say this because it’s so easy to be led astray by worldly deception. Therefore: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV)

God bless you as you always seek to do his will. Amen.

(Note: The different translations used in this article are listed below in more detail to assist you in your study of God’s word. Therefore, I encourage you to: “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” - 2 Timothy 2:15 KJV)

• KJV = The Authorized Version or King James Version (KJV), 1611, 1769. Outside of the United Kingdom, the KJV is in the public domain. Within the United Kingdom, the rights to the KJV are vested in the Crown.
• ESV = The Holy Bible, English Standard Version copyright © 2001, 2007, 2011, 2016 by Crossway Books and Bibles, a Publishing Ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
• CSB = Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017, 2020 by Holman Bible Publishers.
• NET = The NET Bible®, New English Translation Copyright © 1996 By Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. NET Bible® is a registered trademark The NET Bible® Logo, Service Mark Copyright © 1997 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. All rights reserved.
• NIV = THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by Permission of Biblica, Inc.® All rights reserved worldwide.
• NKJV = Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

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He will Joy over You with Singing

“The LORD your God in your midst, The Mighty One, will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing.” (Zephaniah 3:17 NKJV)

According to the “Genesius' Hebrew-Chaldee Lexicon and Strong’s Definitions, the Hebrew word for “he will rejoice” above can express different emotions.  For it can mean to leap for joy, be excited, dance, or even to spin around. Now, we need to remember that this passage is speaking about our God and Creator. So, we must grasp the reality that God our Father does show this kind of emotion over us? Therefore, let us do away with the mentality that thinks God is some killjoy who wants to stripe us of all joy and pleasure. Because according to scripture, the opposite is true. For we read: “Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.” (Psalm 16:11)

So, brothers and sisters in Christ. If God shows this kind of emotion over us, shouldn’t we be singing and getting emotional over him as well? We need to be rejoicing over the fact that he is our Awesome God and Creator. And not only that, but we who are in Christ Jesus will be spending eternity with him in paradise. Oh, how wonderful that day will be.

“And David danced before the LORD with all his might, wearing a priestly garment. So David and all the people of Israel brought up the Ark of the LORD with shouts of joy and the blowing of rams' horns. (2 Samuel 6:14-15 NLT)

So, when it comes to worshiping our God, how should we be conducting ourselves? Should we be reserved, showing little or no emotions at all? Or, should we be like David who was displaying joy and excitement, dancing before the Lord? Well for me, I believe that we should follow what the bible says and be like David. Because let’s face it, our God is worthy of all our praise. And let’s remember that God himself does joy over us with singing as well.

Okay, I do have to admit if you totally let loose at your next church gathering, you may be escorted out the door. However, it only takes a few people getting excited to get others going as well. So, go ahead and show a bit more excitement for God at your next assembly. Who knows, you may eventually have the whole church dancing before the Lord. For His joy is contagious, so let us pray that everybody would catch on it. Amen.

“Then I was by him, as one brought up with him: and I was daily his delight, rejoicing always before him; Rejoicing in the habitable part of his earth; and my delights were with the sons of men.” (Proverbs 8:30-31)

Here in Proverbs chapter 8, we have wisdom being displayed as someone who is reaching out to us sinners. Also, we in the New Testament we have Paul the apostle saying: “but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.” (1 Corinthians 1:24 ESV) Now, there are a few who claim that these scriptures in Proverbs are referring to Jesus himself. So, because I may not be classified as a biblical scholar, I will only show what these few teachers have to say. And I must say, it does sound rather convincing. Below are their comments.

• For Wisdom here has personal properties and actions; and that intelligent divine person can be no other than the Son of God himself” – Matthew Henry.
• Jesus explained to the men on the road to Emmaus that everything that was written in the Psalms (Scriptures) was written about Him (cf. Luke 24:27). In Proverbs He is the wisdom of God” – Dave Shirley.
• The LORD possessed me in the beginning of his way, before his works of old,” this is the Lord Jesus, this is Wisdom” - The Late Dr. J Vernon.
• In Christian theology, Jesus Christ is revered not only as the Savior and Redeemer but also as the ultimate source of wisdom. This understanding is deeply rooted in Scripture, where Jesus is depicted as embodying divine wisdom and imparting it to His followers – Click this link to read more at the: Bible Hube Topical Encyclopedia

“Can a woman forget her nursing child, that she should have no compassion on the son of her womb? Even these may forget, yet I will not forget you. Behold, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are continually before me.” (Isaiah 49:15-16 ESV)

Above is another passage that has more than one witness proclaiming its meaning. For there are learned men who say that this passage above is in reference to the nail scared hands of our Savior Jesus Christ. Again, I do agree with them on this as well. For our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ loved us so much that he allowed himself to be nailed to a cross. For Paul the apostle himself said: “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless, I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh, I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20 KJV)

So, brothers and sister in Christ, let us forever be grateful that Jesus does love us. For he was sent from God for our salvation. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.” (John 3:16-17 KJV)

• This: ‘I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands,’ quoted above, has obvious and beautiful fulfillment in the nail-scarred hands of Jesus. As Jesus told Thomas in a post-resurrection appearance, look at My hands. (John 20:27) When we see the nail-scarred hands of Jesus, we see how He has inscribed us on the palms of His hands. With such love, how could God ever forget His people?” Quoted by David Guzik.
• Yet, me thinks, there may be a prophetic reference here to a later writing of the names, when Jesus Christ submitted his outstretched palms to those cruel graving-tools -tools, the nails. Then was it surely, when the executioner with the hammer smote the tender hands of the loving Jesus, that he engraved our names upon the palms of his hands, and to-day when he points to those wounds, when by faith he permits us to put our fingers into the prints of the nails, he may still say to us — “Deep on the palms of both my hands I have engraved thy name.” Charles Haddon Spurgeon May 31, 1863, From: Metropolitan Tabernacle Pulpit Volume 9

“That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” (John 17:21 KJV)

Let us always remember how much both God the Father and our Lord Jesus loves us. And in like manner, we should be totally in love with them. Also, let us also be aware of God’s Spirit that dwells within us. “Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own? For you have been bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body.” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20 NASB95) Amen to that.

 Below are some scriptures concerning joy and being excited about our Lord:

• “Nehemiah said, "Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength." (Nehemiah 8:10 NIV)
• “Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.” (Psalm 16:11)
• “Be glad in the LORD, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all [ye that are] upright in heart.” (Psalm 32:11 KJV)
• “Rejoice in the LORD, ye righteous; and give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness.” (Psalm 97:12 KJV)
• “Praise ye the LORD. Sing unto the LORD a new song, [and] his praise in the congregation of saints. Let Israel rejoice in him that made him: let the children of Zion be joyful in their King. Let them praise his name in the dance: let them sing praises unto him with the timbrel and harp. For the LORD taketh pleasure in his people: he will beautify the meek with salvation. Let the saints be joyful in glory: let them sing aloud upon their beds.” (Psalm 149:1-5 KJV)
• “Praise ye the LORD. Praise God in his sanctuary: praise him in the firmament of his power. Praise him for his mighty acts: praise him according to his excellent greatness. Praise him with the sound of the trumpet: praise him with the psaltery and harp. Praise him with the timbrel and dance: praise him with stringed instruments and organs. Praise him upon the loud cymbals: praise him upon the high sounding cymbals. Let every thing that hath breath praise the LORD. Praise ye the LORD.” (Psalm 150:1-6 KJV)
• “a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;” (Ecclesiastes 3:4 ASV)
• “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.” (Philippians 4:4 ESV)
• “The meek also shall increase their joy in the LORD, and the poor among men shall rejoice in the Holy One of Israel.” (Isaiah 29:19 KJV)
• “I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels.” (Isaiah 61:10 KJV)
• “Then shall the virgin rejoice in the dance, both young men and old together: for I will turn their mourning into joy, and will comfort them, and make them rejoice from their sorrow.” (Jeremiah 31:13 WEB)
• “Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the LORD your God: for he hath given you the former rain moderately, and he will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain in the first month.” (Joel 2:23 KJV)
• “Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation.” (Habakkuk 3:18 KJV)
• “And they of Ephraim shall be like a mighty man, and their heart shall rejoice as through wine: yea, their children shall see it, and be glad; their heart shall rejoice in the LORD.” (Zechariah 10:7 KJV)

Thank you for reading this article and God bless you as you seek to do his well. Amen

(Note: Text used in this article are listed below in more detail to assist you in your study of God’s word. Therefore: “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” - 2 Timothy 2:15 KJV)

• KJV = The Authorized Version or King James Version (KJV), 1611, 1769. Outside of the United Kingdom, the KJV is in the public domain. Within the United Kingdom, the rights to the KJV are vested in the Crown.
• ESV = The Holy Bible, English Standard Version copyright © 2001, 2007, 2011, 2016 by Crossway Books and Bibles, a Publishing Ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
• NET = The NET Bible®, New English Translation Copyright © 1996 By Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. NET Bible® is a registered trademark The NET Bible® Logo, Service Mark Copyright © 1997 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. All rights reserved.
• NKJV = Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
• ASV = New American Standard Bible Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, Calif. All rights reserved.
• NASB95 = New American Standard Bible 1995 Copyright (c) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, Calif. All rights reserved.
• WEB = The Webster Bible was translated by Noah Webster in 1833 in order to bring the language of the bible up to date. This version of the Bible is in the public domain.

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To the Reader: This article is written with the hope that you have found a church which ministers to you and builds you up in the faith. Therefore, it’s not my intent that you leave your current church which you’re happy with. But on the other hand, if you only attend a church where there is a short prayer, which is followed by a few songs, then an hour-long message and out the door you go; then maybe you should find a new church. So, after you read this article, I encourage you to do your own study of God’s word to see what a biblically sound church should look like.

“Greet the brothers and sisters who are in Laodicea and also Nympha and the church that is in her house.” (Colossians 4:15 NASB20)

Some people may think that a church is a building where people go to worship. However, the opposite is true. For a church is a gathering of people who have come together in the name of our Lord. This would be true whether they’re in a beautiful cathedral, someone’s home, a barn, a rented building, or in an open field. For the word church in the Greek means a “gathering” or an “assembly” of people. For we read in the book of Acts: “And Barnabas went forth to Tarsus, to seek for Saul, and having found him, he brought him to Antioch, and it came to pass that they a whole year did assemble together in the assembly, and taught a great multitude, the disciples also were divinely called first in Antioch Christians.” (Acts 11:25-26 YLT)

So, the word “assembly” in the Young’s Literal Translation above, is normally translated as a “Church” in some other translations. However, if you look at the Greek definition for “Church,” you will see that it simply means “an assembly of people.” So again, whether it’s translated as a “church” or the more understandable word “assembly,” we see that it is not a building but a gathering of God’s people.

So, as already mentioned above, anywhere Christians are gathered, there you would have a church. And for me, I believe the ideal place would be ether in a small rented building or even in someone’s home. This would allow not only prayer needs being met, but more personnel interactions to take place as well. And not only that, the service can be easily tailored to meet any current situations that are happening. This would be hard to do in a mega church that has a set rigged agenda to stick to. Also, people can engage in a more personal time of worship as well. And not only that, but a smaller building (whether it’s rented or fully owned) has a cheaper overhead with less staff and not some big mortgage to be meet. This would even be even more true if you’re meeting in someone’s home.

Now, I do realize that there are those traditional Sunday churches that also gather during the week in people’s homes. And in these smaller groups, people can focus on prayer and personal interactions as well. And that’s what I have been involved in for several years in the past. However, the problem is that some of these traditional churches (especially the Mega ones) may tend to water down God’s word. I say this because for some, it’s all about how big they can grow their church. So, if the truth did get preached as it should, these leaders may end up not only losing their position in the church, but half their attendees as well.

Below are some videos concerning churches that gather in people's homes:

• Why do We do House Church
• Why a House Church?
• How to Start a Biblical House Church
• How to start a House Church 
• What it like being part of a House Church

Below are some scriptures concerning Christian assembling in people’s homes:

• “And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James. These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren.” (Acts 1:13-14 KJV)
• “Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord was adding to their number day by day those who were being saved.” (Acts 2:46-47 NASB95)
• “As for Saul, he made havoc of the church, entering into every house, and haling men and women committed them to prison.” (Acts 8:3 WEB)
• “Greet Prisca and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, who for my life risked their own necks, to whom not only do I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles; also greet the church that is in their house. Greet Epaenetus, my beloved, who is the first convert to Christ from Asia.” (Romans 16:3-5 NASB95
• “Salute the brethren which are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church which is in his house.” (Colossians 4:15 KJV)
• “Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy our brother, unto Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellow laborer, And to our beloved Apphia, and Archippus our fellow soldier, and to the church in thy house: Grace to you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (Philemon 1:1-3 KJV)
• “Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him. And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison. And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from his hands. ... And when he had considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying.” (Acts 12:5-7, 12 KJV)

“And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:11-13 KJV)

Now, a church should be an active group of people who are practicing the gifts of the Spirit. Therefore, our coming together should not be for musical entertainment. Nor should it be to have our ears tickled by some make me feel good message. For our coming together is for the building up of our faith as the Paul the apostle said above. So then, the church exists to equip one another with the tools and strength needed to spread the gospel to the world. This would be true even in the face of persecution and possibly death. Because if we are not being persecuted in one form or another, are we really living our life according to the bible? And yes, I’m preaching to myself as well.

Paul said to Timothy: “Now you followed my teaching, conduct, purpose, faith, patience, love, perseverance, persecutions, and sufferings, such as happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, and at Lystra; what persecutions I endured, and out of them all the Lord rescued me! Indeed, all who want to live in a godly way in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” (2 Timothy 3:10-12 NASB20) So, let’s not be afraid that we’re going to get some lash-back for preaching the truth. For Jesus said this could and even will happen. And we know that he himself was persecuted for our sake, even to the point of death.

• “Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.” (Matthew 5:10-12 KJV)

“And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” (Colossians 3:15-17 NKJV)

According to that passage above, we as a church should also be encouraging each other in the faith. This we need to do in order to brings souls into God’s kingdom. For we read: “When they had preached the gospel to that city and had made many disciples, they returned to Lystra and to Iconium and to Antioch, strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying that through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.” (Acts 14:21-22 ESV) We can see this again happening after an uproar to place: “After the uproar ceased, Paul sent for the disciples, and after encouraging them, he said farewell and departed for Macedonia. When he had gone through those regions and had given them much encouragement, he came to Greece.” (Acts 20:1-2 ESV)

• “In Iconium they entered the synagogue of the Jews together, and spoke in such a manner that a large number of people believed, both of Jews and of Greeks. But the Jews who disbelieved stirred up the minds of the Gentiles and embittered them against the brethren. Therefore they spent a long time there speaking boldly with reliance upon the Lord, who was testifying to the word of His grace, granting that signs and wonders be done by their hands.” (Acts 14:1-3 NASB95)
• “As usual, Paul went into the synagogue, and on three Sabbath days reasoned with them from the Scriptures, explaining and proving that it was necessary for the Messiah to suffer and rise from the dead: “This Jesus I am proclaiming to you is the Messiah.” Some of them were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, including a large number of God-fearing Greeks, as well as a number of the leading women.” (Acts 17:2-4 CSB)
• “So when God desired to show more convincingly to the heirs of the promise the unchangeable character of his purpose, he guaranteed it with an oath, so that by two unchangeable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement to hold fast to the hope set before us. We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain, where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on our behalf, having become a high priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.” (Hebrews 6:17-20 ESV)
• And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. (Hebrews 10:24-25 ESV)

“First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, for kings and all those who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. This is good, and it pleases God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all, a testimony at the proper time.” (1 Timothy 2:1-6 CSB)

So, are you in a church group that puts prayer in the forefront of your gathering? And no, I’m not talking about the three-minute prayer that almost all churches do. But I’m talking about a prayer that reflects that which is mentioned above. Also, is your fellowship one where you can easily get lost in the crowds; where you sing a few songs, hear an hour-long sermon and out the door you go? Then I would encourage you to consider finding a new Church. I say this because it’s not matching the church we see in the New Testament. For our time together should consist of much prayers as well. This way if an unbeliever stepped into our church and sees us praying, weeping and pleading to God for our families, congregation, community, governing leaders, our nation and for the rest of this world, wouldn’t they realize that God is alive in our hearts and in this place?

Now, as mentioned earlier, there are those large organized churches that have smaller groups that meet during the week. This would be fine because in these smaller groups you can encourage each other and even immerse yourselves in prayer and worship. This way you can come together on a Sunday and then attend your smaller groups during the week.

“Let your women keep silent in the churches, for they are not permitted to speak; but they are to be submissive, as the law also says. And if they want to learn something, let them ask their own husbands at home; for it is shameful for women to speak in church.” (1 Corinthians 14:34-35 NKJV)

According to that passage above, the bible is clear that women cannot be leaders in the church. Also, we read: “Let a woman learn in silence with all submission. And I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man, but to be in silence. For Adam was formed first, then Eve. And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived, fell into transgression.” (1 Timothy 2:11-14 NKJV)

Now, the bible is also clear on what should be the standard for these leaders in the Church. For we read: “It is a trustworthy statement: if any man aspires to the office of overseer, it is a fine work he desires to do. An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, skillful in teaching, not overindulging in wine, not a bully, but gentle, not contentious, free from the love of money. He must be one who manages his own household well, keeping his children under control with all dignity (but if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of the church of God?), and not a new convert, so that he will not become conceited and fall into condemnation incurred by the devil.” (1 Timothy 3:1-6 NASB20)

“In the same way, deacons are to be worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons. … “Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well.” (1 Timothy 3:8-10, 12 NIV)

In those passages above, we have scriptures mentioning the qualifications for those deacons who are men. However, there is a debate on what verse 11 is saying in this same chapter (which I didn’t include in that passage above). For some translations say it’s about deacons’ wives, while others say it’s taking about women deacons. Now, we must remember that there is no specific word for “wives” in the Greek. For the Greek word used can ether mean a single woman or one who is married. So, it’s all up to the translators to figure out what word to use.

So, let’s look at what two different translations have to say. The first translations says: “Likewise, their wives must be reverent, not slanderers, temperate, faithful in all things.” (1 Timothy 3:11 NKJV) The second says: “Likewise, women deacons must be dignified, not slanderers, clearheaded, faithful in all things.” (1 Timothy 3:11 REV) Now, I personally believing this second translation got it right. I say this because the requirement for deacons’ wives is not required for the Elders in this same chapter.

Below are a few other translations that show that there were woman deacons serving in the churches.

• I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a deacon of the church in Cenchreae. (Romans 16:1 NIV)
• I commend to you our sister Phoebe, who is a deacon in the church in Cenchrea. (Romans 16:1 NLT)
• Now I am introducing and commending to you Phoebe our sister, who is a deacon of the church at Cenchreae (Romans 16:1 REV)
• And the women also who serve the church should be dignified, faithful in all things, having their thoughts set on truth, and not known as those who gossip. (1 Timothy 3:11 TPT)
• Likewise, women deacons must be dignified, not slanderers, clearheaded, faithful in all things. (1 Timothy 3:11 REV)
• “Deaconesses, in the same way, must be sober-minded women, not slanderers, but in every way temperate and trustworthy.” (1 Timothy 3:11 Weymouth)
• “The deaconesses too must be serious, not gossips; they must be temperate and perfectly trustworthy.” (1 Timothy 3:11 Williams)

Please take not to what the “Jamieson-Fausset-Brown” commentary has to say:

• their wives - rather, “the women,” that is, the deaconesses. For there is no reason that special rules should be laid down as to the wives of the deacons, and not also as to the wives of the bishops or overseers. Moreover, if the wives of the deacons were meant, there seems no reason for the omission of “their” (not in the Greek). Also the Greek for “even so” (the same as for “likewise,” 1Ti_3:8, and “in like manner,” 1Ti_2:9), denotes a transition to another class of persons. Further, there were doubtless deaconesses at Ephesus, such as Phoebe was at Cenchrea (Rom_16:1, “servant,” Greek, “deaconess”), yet no mention is made of them in this Epistle if not here; whereas, supposing them to be meant here, the third chapter embraces in due proportion all the persons in the service of the Church. Naturally after specifying the qualifications of the deacon, Paul passes to those of the kindred office, the deaconess. “Grave” occurs in the case of both. “Not slanderers” here, answers to “not double-tongued” in the deacons; so “not false accusers” (Tit_2:3). “Sober” here answers to “not given to much wine,” in the case of the deacons (1Ti_3:8). Thus it appears he requires the same qualifications in female deacons as in deacons, only with such modifications as the difference of sex suggested.

“And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.” (Ephesians 4:11-13 WEB).

Now, those who are leaders should keep the gatherings organized and focused on Christ as we read above. Also, leaders are to remove anyone within the assembly that refuses to put away their sin after being warned. (1 Corinthians 5:9-13). I know this may be hard to do, however it is necessary because: “A little leaven leavens the whole lump.” (Galatians 5:9 ESV)

And yes, leaders should also bring us words of exhortation and encouragement from God’s word as well. Also, through their study of God’s word, they may have more insight to certain passages that can help us in our walk with Christ. Therefore, we do need sound church leaders in every assembly. However, it’s the Holy Spirit who open our eyes to God’s truths being preached. For Jesus himself said: “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.” (John 14:26 ESV) As well as: “It is written in the prophets, 'And they shall all be taught by God.' Every one who has heard and learned from the Father comes to me.” (John 6:45 RSV)

And finally, we have John addressing his disciples whom he calls, his “little children” saying: “But the anointing that you received from him abides in you, and you have no need that anyone should teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about everything, and is true, and is no lie - just as it has taught you, abide in him.” (1 John 2:27 ESV) So again, it’s the Holy Spirit that opens our eyes to God truths that we may read and hear.

• τεκνίον, τεκνιου, τό (diminutive of τέκνον, which see; (on the accent, cf. Winers Grammar, 52; Chandler § 347)), a little child; in the N. T. used as a term of kindly address by teachers to their disciples (always in the plural little children: Mark 10:24 Lachmann); John 13:33; Galatians 4:19 (where L text T Tr WH marginal reading τέκνα); 1 John 2:1, 12, 28; 1 John 3:7 (WH marginal reading παιδία),1 John 3:18; 1 John 4:4; 5:21. (Anthol.)

Therefore, brothers and sisters in Christ. We are to test everything including what our church leaders say to us. This is what those of Berea did, for we read: “These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.” (Acts 17:11 KJV) Pray to God that we all would be as noble as they were.

That all being said, if you’re being ministered to in your traditional church and are happy there, then I encourage you to stay there. For you may have made friends and even gather together during the week in other members homes. This is what I believe Christians should be doing, no matter how big their traditional Sunday church is. One the other hand, let’s make sure we’re not stuck in a church that mimics some social club. For it shouldn’t be about some live band, key motivational speaker who talks for an hour, takes your money and out the door you go. And yes, I have attended some large Christian events which can be a blessing to attend. But that shouldn’t replace our more personnel weekly gatherings.

And for those of you who are looking for a church. I hope you would find one that would bless you and minister to you and reflect those churches that are laid out in God’s word. For Jesus told us to: “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” (Mark 16:15 KJV) Therefore, let us make sure we are in a church that encourages us to do just that. Amen.

God bless you as you seek to do his will.

(Note: Bible versions used are listed below in more detail to assist you in your study of God’s word. Therefore: “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” - 2 Timothy 2:15 KJV) *

• KJV = The Authorized Version or King James Version (KJV), 1611, 1769. Outside of the United Kingdom, the KJV is in the public domain. Within the United Kingdom, the rights to the KJV are vested in the Crown.
• REV = The REV® (Revised English Version®) copyright © 2014 by Spirit & Truth Fellowship International, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
• ESV = The Holy Bible, English Standard Version copyright © 2001, 2007, 2011, 2016 by Crossway Books and Bibles, a Publishing Ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
• CSB = Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017, 2020 by Holman Bible Publishers.
• NIV = THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by Permission of Biblica, Inc.® All rights reserved worldwide.
• NKJV = Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
• NASB20 = New American Standard Bible 2020 Copyright (c) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, Calif. All rights reserved.
• NASB95 = New American Standard Bible 1995 Copyright (c) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, Calif. All rights reserved
• YLT = The Young’s Literal Translation was translated by Robert Young, who believed in a strictly literal translation of God's word. This version of the Bible is in the public domain.
• WEB = The Webster Bible was translated by Noah Webster in 1833 in order to bring the language of the bible up to date. This version of the Bible is in the public domai
• RSV = The Holy Bible: Revised Standard Version containing the Old and New Testaments, translated from the original tongues: being the version set forth A.D. 1611, revised A.D. 1881-1885 and A.D. 1901: compared with the most ancient authorities and revised A.D. 1946-52. — 2nd ed. of New Testament A.D. 1971. There should be enough in the rest of the description to identify the text.
• Weymouth = Published in 1912; Public Domain.
• Williams = Published in 1937; Public Domain.

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