YOU ARE THE BIBLE IN LIVING COLOURS



By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi
1corinthians 11:1" Be ye followers of me, even as I also  am of Christ."
     The Christian influence is the impression we create in the minds of those who do not have a personal relationship with Christ. We epitomize the Christ-like nature and are the embodiment ; a proof of the functionality of the scriptures. We also influence heaven through our worship of the almighty Father.
           The scriptures describes the church as the light of the world ; illuminating the minds and hearts of men  to be more conscious of the consequences of human actions .This aids in making right choices in life. The church is also described as the salt of the earth (Mathew 5:13-14). We give flavour to the dreams and aspirations of men. Salt is a food seasoning that harmonizes the various tastes, preserves food and eliminates nausea. This is a summary of our impact in the lives of men. We are peacemakers and help people reconcile with God through the proclamation and demonstration of the life -changing power of the gospel.
            We are the bible the world sees. We are to show the world godly examples of the efficacy of the gospel, the scriptures says in   1Tim.4:12" Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example  of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith,  in purity." more exemplary living  is demanded of church leaders : bishops,pastors,evangelists etc 1 Peter 5:2-4 says " Feed the flock of God which is among you,  taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for  filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords over  God’s  heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. And when the chief  Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth  not away." Preachers are enjoined not to allow the quest for material wealth be their motivation for serving God. Whenever preachers measure God's blessing by material possession , it results in covetousness ,social imbalance and general moral decay in society. Such preachers are synonymous with endless conferences because of money gotten from such gatherings from the merchandising of the gospel. They often claim a monopoly of certain spiritual virtues. Such a preaching is not of God and we should avoid such preachers 1Tim.6:5  says "Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself." No christian or church is more blessed than another (Ephesian1:3).
        Societal reformation starts from preachers,they determine the texture of the moral fabric of society. Apostle Paul’s leadership example and high moral standard changed the sociopolitical landscape of Macedonia and Asia. Till this day, these regions of the world are known for hard work and development .The scriptures speaks of apostle Paul’s inputs in 1 Thessalonians.1:5-7" For our gospel came not unto you in  word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much  assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for  your sake. And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having  received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost: So  that ye were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia. " Our doctrines forms the building block that make up the prevailing culture in our communities ,thus, institutionalized corruption ,poverty, racism, starts from and ends in the church.
    We should be bold enough to say 'imitate me' like Paul did in1Cor.4:15-16, he said in 1Cor.11: 1 "Be ye followers of me, even as I also  am of Christ." and in 2Thess 3:7 he said "...you ought to follow our examples ". Our Christian practice should not become a stumbling block to others. Knowledge is both liberating and intimidating, and if not properly managed  could cause more harm than good. Liberty without restraints is counter-productive resulting in bondage  ,it brings shame to the church ( 1Cor.8:1-13, Romans 14:1-21.) Jesus warns us never to set a bad example and cause others to live in error ( Matthew 5:19, Matthew 18:6) He said in Luke 17:1-3 "  Then said he unto the disciples,  It is impossible but that offences  will come: but woe unto him, through whom they come!   It were  better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he  cast into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones."
   Prayer : Heavenly Father forgive me of my sins against you, I believe Jesus Christ died and was raised again for my salvation, I receive him as lord and saviour and receive the Holy Spirit and grace to be a shining role model for Christian discipleship in Jesus name .
Free prayer / counseling + 2348098536911 + 2348035536911 Email : Michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com

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