#Leadership and biblical principle

[igate777]

(via ELISHA'S LEADERSHIP TRANSITION IS A TYPOLOGY OF THE PRESENT THIRD-DAY CHURCH. PT 5.)

[wromchannel]

From Shadows to Spotlight: The Power of Servanthood

Have you ever felt like you’re stuck in the background, serving faithfully without recognition? You’re not alone. Many have walked this path, only to be catapulted into their greatest assignments. Servanthood is never a demotion – it’s a preparation.” This truth is beautifully exemplified in the story of Joshua. Joshua: From Aide to LeaderJoshua was introduced as Moses’ loyal aide, but little…

[iamentertainmentclub-blog]

Proverbs Daily Reflection – February 18, 2025

James Lawson was not drawn to reactionary violence—he understood that true power is found in wisdom and discipline. #josephmekaelpageministries

The Strong Tower: James Lawson and the Power of Divine Refuge Foundational Scripture: Proverbs 18:10 (KJV)“The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.” The Civil Rights Movement was more than a fight for justice. It was a spiritual battlefield. Men and women of God took refuge in the Lord to withstand unspeakable violence. James Lawson was one of those…

[pastordin]

Commands of the King: Work and Vocation

Life Areas Application: Work and Vocation | Pastor Aamir Din Home | Media | Contact Life Areas Application: Work and Vocation “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” — Colossians 3:23-24 (NIV) Part III: Life Areas…

[underestimated-strength]

Don't let one bad apple spoil the whole bunch. Discover biblical strategies to identify and overcome team sabotage. Tune in now! 🎧✨ Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show52udcUIBL8UGoWtiaSUBA8 iHeartRadio:  https://iheart.com/podcast/199908313 Amazon Music / Audible:  https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/74a0c09e-3d14-469d-acc7-bee016b53dce Castbox:  https://castbox.fm/channel/id6235532 Deezer:  https://www.deezer.com/show/1001116721 Podcast Addict:  https://podcastaddict.com/podcast/victorious/5211314 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/victorious-2757397 JioSaavn:  https://www.jiosaavn.com/shows/Victorious!/1/5x2bY6hXIGM_  Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/victorious-2757397 JioSaavn:  https://www.jiosaavn.com/shows/Victorious!/1/5x2bY6hXIGM_ Tumblr: https://evonika.tumblr.com/ Facebook:  https://www.facebook.comVictoriousThroughChristEveryday?mibextid=LQQJ4d #VictoriousThroughChrist #BiblicalLeadership #TeamDynamics #Influence #Integrity #Sabotage  #sabotage

[thinkingonscripture]

God Uses Bible Teachers to Help Us Grow Spiritually

Almost anyone can be used by the Lord to communicate divine revelation. Even a jackass can be the mouthpiece of God (Num 22:28-30). Biblically, Christians are directed to “teach and admonish one another” (Col 3:16), which shows that all believers can teach and counsel one another with the Word of God. Of course, this assumes they’ve been “constantly nourished on the words of the faith and of the…

[thatgentlewife]

Welcome to My Blog!

Hi there, lovely! I’m so glad you’re here. I’m a young wife, homemaker, and most importantly, a follower of Jesus. I was blessed to marry my wonderful husband in November 2024, and every day, I strive to honor God by embracing biblical womanhood, nurturing my marriage, and cultivating a home filled with love, warmth, and faith. We want to have a large family, I currently have two babies in heaven. If it’s Gods will we will be blessed with more earth-side babies ❤️

I believe in living a life that reflects God’s perfect design, one of gentleness, purity, and devotion. My heart is set on serving Christ first and foremost, and second to Him, my husband, whom I joyfully submit to as my leader and protector. I cherish the beauty of traditional values, which shape every part of my life, spiritually, emotionally, and physically.

I used to identify as nonbinary, gay, a feminist, and a witch. During that time, I struggled deeply with depression, anxiety, and constant spiritual oppression. But Jesus met me in my brokenness, rescued me from darkness, and completely transformed my life. I no longer live in confusion, He gave me peace, identity, and freedom. Glory to God.

What I Stand For

✨ The Sanctity of Life

This blog is pro-life, because every child is fearfully and wonderfully made by God (Psalm 139:13-16). Life begins at conception, and every baby has a God-given purpose. I believe in supporting women with love, resources, and guidance so that no mother feels alone in choosing life.

✨ The Dangers of Pornography

This blog is anti-porn, because pornography destroys hearts, marriages, and intimacy as God intended it. It turns real love into something selfish and empty, leading to addiction, shame, and broken relationships. I believe in fighting for purity and God-honoring relationships that reflect true, selfless love.

✨ Biblical Marriage & Submission

I believe in God’s design for marriage—a covenant between one man and one woman. As a wife, I embrace submission as a beautiful, biblical calling, trusting my husband’s leadership and honoring him in my words, actions, and heart. Love, respect, and obedience to God’s Word create a strong, joyful, and lasting marriage.

✨ Domestic Discipline

I believe that domestic discipline is a personal choice that should be made mutually and consensually between a husband and wife. While it’s not for everyone, I support a couple’s right to practice it if they believe it strengthens their marriage. When approached with love, respect, and biblical principles, it can provide structure, accountability, and deeper trust. As long as both spouses agree and it is done in a way that honors their relationship, I see it as a valid and beneficial dynamic for those who choose it.

✨ Biblical Womanhood & Femininity

I am passionate about biblical femininity, modesty, and creating a home that reflects Christ’s love. I believe true beauty isn’t just about how we look, but about having a gentle, quiet spirit (1 Peter 3:4). In a world that devalues womanhood, I strive to embrace my role as a wife and future mother with joy and grace.

✨ My Perspective on Feminism

I do not agree with today’s version of feminism, which rejects traditional femininity, submission, and the beauty of God’s design. However, I do believe women should have the right to vote and make choices for themselves. Women are not less valuable than men, but we are beautifully different, and our strengths should be celebrated rather than diminished by a culture that seeks to erase them.

✨ My Beliefs on Gender & Sexuality

I personally do not believe men can become women or that women can become men. I do not agree with the LGBTQ lifestyle, and you will not find me in support of it on this blog. However, I have nothing against those who choose to live this way—you are a valuable human being, just like the rest of us. My belief is simply that marriage was created by God to be between a biological man and a biological woman. If you disagree, this may not be the blog for you.

A Few Things About Me

• I love to cook! (I once dreamed of being a chef, but my heart is too tender for the food industry.)

• Children are my joy! I work in childcare and find so much fulfillment in nurturing little hearts.

• I love reading! (The Phantom Tollbooth is my favorite book!)

• I enjoy poetry, songwriting, and drawing. (I may not be the best artist, but I love creating beauty in every form!)

• I make soap, lotion, and tinctures as I learn more about natural living.

• I strive to be a good, submissive wife and grow in grace, patience, and humility every day.

Why I Started This Blog

Marriage is a journey, and I want to share mine with you—the joys, the lessons, and the ways God is shaping me into a better wife and homemaker. My goal is to encourage other women to embrace biblical womanhood, cherish their marriages, and build homes that reflect God’s love. ❤️

If you value faith, femininity, and the beauty of a God-centered life, you’re in the right place. I pray that this blog blesses and encourages you as we grow together in grace and truth.

With love,

thatgentlewife

[mybeautifulchristianjourney]

The Bible means what it says—even in Genesis!

When you’re driving and see a sign that says STOP, do you think, “It says, ‘Stop,’ but what does that really mean? My personal interpretation is that it means slow down and stop only if you see other cars coming.”

We know better. We’re supposed to think, “Oh, a stop sign. I have to obey what it clearly says. It means to come to a full stop.”

Sadly, we see Christians applying this sort of interpretative approach to the Bible, particularly to the book of Genesis—and specifically to the age of the earth and universe. “I know it says six days, but that’s not what it means.”

Many different views persist within the church, particularly among church leadership and academics, on how to take Genesis. The list of positions includes theistic evolution, evolutionary creation, progressive creation, framework hypothesis, day-age theory, local flood, gap theory, and new ideas like Genesis 1 describes the creation of some “cosmic temple.”

Here’s what’s so disheartening to me and all of us Answers in Genesis

Many Christian leaders and academics who hold one of these positions on Genesis would, by and large, take God’s Word the same way I do from Genesis 12 onward! Yes, we may have some theological disagreements arguing from within Scripture, and we may differ on the book of Revelation. But from Genesis 12 onward, we don’t use outside beliefs from the secular world to force a particular view on God’s Word—but this is what they are doing in Genesis with the millions of years belief.

And therein lies the issue—they have one hermeneutical principle for interpreting Genesis 1–11 (forcing man’s beliefs in millions of years into Scripture) and a different one for the rest of God’s Word (taking God’s Word as written and interpreting Scripture with Scripture).

And yet most of them can’t see this or don’t want to. Why not? I believe it’s primarily because of academic peer pressure, academic pride, and a desire for academic respectability.

Yes, there are difficult passages in Scripture. And yes, having an understanding of Hebrew and Greek will add depth to one’s understanding of what God’s Word is teaching us. But God’s Word is for all people, for all time. God has communicated the basic message in a way we can understand.

If we let God’s Word speak to us, keeping in mind the aim of various types of biblical literature, anyone can understand the basic message in the same way we can understand a traffic manual. That’s called the perspicuity of Scripture, a big word for a simple concept that the message is clear. It means what it says. – Ken Ham

[ministershara-blog]

The Church: The Kingdom's Lighthouse

Imagine the Church as a network of Lighthouses strategically positioned along the Shoreline of Humanity, guiding ships safely to the harbor of salvation and godly living amidst the turbulent Seas of the World.

I. The fivefold offices visualized within this analogy.

A. The Apostle

The Visionary Architect and Foundational Builder.

1.Lighthouse Role

The "Coastal Surveyor and Lighthouse Founder." Apostles are like the initial surveyors who identify critical locations for new lighthouses. They lay the foundational blueprints and oversee the initial construction, ensuring the lighthouse is strategically placed and built on a solid foundation to withstand the storms. They establish new centers of light where there was darkness before.

2.Biblical Context

Pioneers of the faith, establishing churches in new territories, setting foundational doctrine, and exercising broad leadership. Think of Paul planting churches across the Roman Empire.

B.The Prophet

The Clear-Sighted Beacon Clarifier and Warning Sounder.

1.Lighthouse Role

The "Beacon Clarifier and Foghorn Sounder." Prophets are responsible for ensuring the "light" (the Gospel message) is clear, untainted, and powerfully communicated. They also act as the "foghorn," discerning the spiritual climate and sounding warnings of impending dangers, deviations from truth, or times of obscured vision, guiding the "ships" (believers and the lost) through perilous conditions.

2.Biblical Context

Those who speak God's truth with clarity, often challenging the status quo, calling for repentance, and revealing future implications of present actions. Think of Elijah confronting Ahab or John the Baptist preparing the way for Jesus.

C.The Evangelist

The Urgent Signal Sender and Rescue Operator.

1.Lighthouse Role

The "Urgent Signal Sender and Rescue Boat Dispatcher." Evangelists are driven by a passion to reach those still lost at sea, far from the safety of the shore. They powerfully project the "light" outwards, sending urgent signals of hope and salvation. They are also like the dispatchers of rescue boats (ministries and individuals) to bring those struggling in the waves to the safety of the "lighthouse" (the church).

2.Biblical Context

Passionate proclaimers of the good news of Jesus Christ, compelling people to faith and leading them into the church. Think of Philip sharing the Gospel in Samaria and with the Ethiopian eunuch.

D.The Pastor

The Compassionate Resident Lightkeeper and Harbor Guide.

1.Lighthouse Role

The "Compassionate Resident Lightkeeper and Harbor Guide." Pastors have a deep, ongoing responsibility for the well-being of the "lighthouse" (the local congregation) and those within its immediate reach. They diligently maintain the "light," provide nourishment and care for those within the structure, and act as guides, helping those who have reached the shore to navigate the harbor of Christian community and growth.

2.Biblical Context

Shepherds of the flock, providing spiritual care, teaching, guidance, and fostering community within the local church. Think of the elders overseeing the church in Ephesus.

E.The Teacher

The Skilled Chart Reader and Navigator Instructor.

1.Lighthouse Role

The "Skilled Chart Reader and Navigator Instructor." Teachers are dedicated to thoroughly understanding and explaining the "charts" (the Scriptures). They equip the "navigators" (believers) with the knowledge and skills to accurately interpret these charts themselves, enabling them to navigate their own faith journey, avoid hazards, and understand the principles guiding the "lighthouse" and the way to the ultimate destination.

2.Biblical Context

Those gifted in explaining and applying the Scriptures, bringing clarity and understanding to complex truths, and equipping believers for maturity. Think of Apollos, who was mighty in the Scriptures.

II. Beyond the fivefold offices, this analogy recognizes that every member of the "lighthouse" community functions as vital support

A. Servant Members

The Essential Support Structure and Crew.

1. Lighthouse Role

The "Essential Support Structure and Crew." These are the individuals who maintain the lighthouse structure, provide hospitality, offer practical help, and contribute their unique gifts to ensure the smooth operation of the entire "lighthouse," allowing the "light" to shine effectively. They are the foundation, the walls, the welcoming presence, and the helping hands.

2. Biblical Context

All believers are called to serve one another using their spiritual gifts for the building up of the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12, Romans 12).

III. Bible verses that, through their themes and imagery, can be seen as analogous to the role of a lighthouse.

A. Matthew 5:14-16 (The Church as a Light on a Hill)

"You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."

This passage speaks of believers and the church as a visible source of light, guiding others. A lighthouse is also a prominent, visible structure emitting light for guidance.

B. Psalm 119:105 (God's Word as a Lamp)

"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path."

Just as a lighthouse provides light to navigate physical paths, God's Word illuminates the spiritual path, guiding us away from danger and towards safety.

C. Isaiah 60:1-3 (Zion as a Light to the Nations)

"Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you. See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness covers the peoples, but the Lord rises upon you and his glory appears over you. Nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn."

This prophecy speaks of a central point of light drawing people from darkness. A lighthouse serves a similar purpose, attracting and guiding those at sea.

D. John 8:12 (Jesus as the Light of the World)

"Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, 'I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.'"

Jesus himself is presented as the ultimate source of light, guiding people out of spiritual darkness, much like a powerful lighthouse guides ships away from perilous shores.

E. Psalm 27:1 (The Lord as Light and Salvation)

"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?"

This verse connects light with safety and security. A lighthouse provides both illumination and a sense of security for sailors.

F. 2 Samuel 22:29 (God as a Lamp)

"For you are my lamp, O Lord, and my God lightens my darkness."

God's presence is described as a source of light that dispels darkness, mirroring how a lighthouse pierces through the darkness of night.

IV. Conclusion

This analogy highlights how each of the fivefold offices, along with the vital contribution of every member, works together like a well-maintained network of lighthouses, strategically placed and diligently operated, to bring the light of the Gospel to a dark world and guide people safely to God's harbor. Each role is distinct yet interdependent, contributing uniquely to the overall mission of illuminating the way.

Blessing's,

Love & Light!

Shara Massey

[influencingforjohn]

According to the Bible, a relationship that glorifies God should exhibit the following characteristics:

1. Love and Respect (Ephesians 5:25-33): Treat each other with love, respect, and kindness, just as Christ loves and respects the church.

2. Selflessness and Sacrifice (Philippians 2:3-5): Put each other's needs before your own, just as Christ put our needs before His own.

3. Forgiveness and Understanding (Ephesians 4:32): Forgive each other and show understanding, just as God forgives and understands us.

4. Communication and Honesty (Ephesians 4:25): Communicate openly and honestly with each other, without hiding behind masks or pretending to be someone you're not.

5. Trust and Loyalty (Proverbs 3:3-4): Build trust and loyalty in your relationship, just as God is faithful and loyal to us.

6. Purity and Holiness (1 Corinthians 6:18-20): Keep your relationship pure and holy, avoiding sexual immorality and honoring God with your bodies.

7. Prayer and Spiritual Growth (1 Peter 3:7): Pray together and support each other's spiritual growth, seeking to deepen your relationship with God.

8. Servant Leadership (Mark 10:42-45): Lead each other with a servant's heart, putting each other's needs before your own desires.

9. Gratitude and Appreciation (1 Thessalonians 5:18): Show gratitude and appreciation for each other, acknowledging the blessings in your relationship.

10. Covenant Commitment (Malachi 2:14-15): View your relationship as a covenant commitment, promising to love and cherish each other for a lifetime.

By embracing these biblical principles, you can build a relationship that glorifies God and reflects His love and character.

[fillejondrette]

a small selection of some of the more disturbing position statements from the 2024 Texas Republican platform https://texasgop.org/official-documents/#platform

Support restoring state sovereignty with the repeal of the 17th Amendment of the US Constitution and the appointment of US Senators by the state legislatures

We support affirmation of God, including prayer, the Bible, and the Ten Commandments being returned to our schools, courthouses, and other government buildings.

We urge lawmakers to enact legislation to abolish abortion by immediately securing the right to life and equal protection of the laws to all preborn children from the moment of fertilization, because abortion violates the United States Constitution by denying such persons the equal protection of the law.

We oppose environmentalism, or “climate change“ initiatives, that obstruct legitimate business interests and private property use, including the regulatory use limitation and confiscation by governmental agencies. We support the reclassification of carbon dioxide as a non-pollutant, abolition of the Environmental Protection Agency, and repeal of the Endangered Species Act.

We support legislation to prohibit the use of any government funds, as well as the transportation of pregnant women across Texas’ state lines, for the purpose of procuring an elective abortion and for the provision of a private right of action against all persons and organizations who aid and abet in the harming of the woman, and the killing of her pre-born child.

We urge the Legislature and the State Board of Education to require instruction on the Bible, servant leadership, and Christian self-governance. We support the use of chaplains in schools to counsel and give guidance from a traditional biblical perspective based on Judeo-Christian principles with the informed consent of a parent.

As long as parents are responsible for an adult child, through college or the age of 26 when children are on the parents’ insurance, the parents must have access to medical information, grades, and other information normally afforded to parents of minor children.

We support abolishing the Texas Child Mental Health Care Consortium, the trauma-informed care policy, school-based mental health providers, school-based or school-connected mental health interventions, and any other public school programs that serve to expand access to minors. Legislators shall prohibit all reproductive healthcare services in public schools.

We believe the Obergefell v. Hodges decision, overturning the Texas law prohibiting same-sex marriage in Texas, has no basis in the Constitution and should be nullified.

The Texas Family Code shall be completely rewritten with regards to No-Fault Divorce and Child Custody. Suits related to these topics shall be delineated in such a way as to remove the need for any but the most minimal judicial interaction, and promote the maintenance of the traditional family via required intervention or counseling prior to any decree of divorce. We urge the Legislature to rescind unilateral no-fault divorce laws, to support covenant marriage, and to pass legislation extending the period of time in which a divorce may occur to six months after the date of filing for divorce.

We recognize that we are living in a time of geopolitical upheaval and unprecedented complexity of threats to our liberties, constitutional governance, and national sovereignty. These threats emanate from “globalist” agents both within and outside our borders. The United States is a sovereign nation founded on the principles of freedom. We reject any assertion of authority over our nation or its citizens from foreign individuals or entities, such as the World Economic Forum, World Health Organization, and the United Nations. We stand firmly against the concept of a One World Government or The Great Reset.

[fallenlines-inpleasantplaces]

thoughts on my experience in college ministry

So this topic has been on my mind lately, go figure. My church recently restructured their college ministry in order to align with the purpose of being one ministry inside a church rather than mini church for college-age people, a move by which I am immensely impressed. Now, it has me thinking.

What makes a college ministry truly God-honoring, purposeful, or worthwhile? Does every age group truly need its own dedicated ministry sub-group? I do think there is value in dedicating resources to address the unique challenges each age group tends to face. Ultimately, though, God calls Christians to be part of the Church, not just an age-group meet-and-greet. Thus, I began to wonder what purpose a college-age ministry fulfills in serving the greater church as a whole. I then looked at what I admired about my church's college ministry and built backwards to some key principles for successful college-age ministry.

First, as the pastor of my church's college ministry rightfully declared during the restructuring announcement, a successful ministry is a part to the whole of, not a replacement for, the greater church body. College ministry independent from a healthy local church is bound to lose sight of what the Christian needs, since God has declared that the Christian needs the church. Many a pastor has outlined God's commandments to be a present part of a local gathering of fellow Christians, so I will not venture to argue these points again. Instead, I will stress that as God has made his will known that we be involved in a local gathering of believers, then a college ministry cannot be an exception.

Let me expand on this point by raising a situation I experienced where I took part in a college ministry that had been divided from the local church. In this ministry, a few paid post-college adult staff manage a campus ministry 100-200 strong from afar. On campus, students form a volunteer leadership team and make most of the planning and other administrative/executive decisions for the ministry. Over the course of my years there, I watched a slow transition from a focus on the spiritual health of the ministry to an emphasis on increasing the headcount at our large-group gatherings. Gradually, we considered less how to stir one another up to love and follow God, and began to grow complacent, assuming that regular attendance would suffice as a catalyst for spiritual development.

All this, I would assert, was the result of being apart from a local healthy church body. The adult staff were not grounded in their own discipleship at a local church, so the spiritual-milk-level theology presented to the students was the primary source of teaching and growth for some of them. Students too, without the example of biblical discipleship, also began to adopt immature beliefs and deprioritize their personal spiritual disciplines, having no model of accountability or groundedness. The local church, offering a space to be held accountable for regular attendance and involvement, a refuge from which to seek wisdom in hard years of ministry, a source of teaching and correction as needed, and in general, a place where one is stirred up to recenter one's life around the Gospel, is essential to any successful ministry work. Otherwise, why would God demand it in his word? College ministry, like any other ministry, needs to be faithfully tethered to a local church.

Secondly, and just as if not more importantly, a good college ministry trains up its students with a right view of God. College-age students are in a state of life where for the first time they feel themselves to be the masters of their future. They make decisions for themselves about where to live, what to eat, what to study, where to work someday, and much more. I know, having been in this state recently, how easy it is to either become puffed up with self-congratulating arrogance, or crippled with self-doubting anxiety. This is why I think there is merit to a dedicated age-group ministry as a part of a greater church body, because college students can benefit from targeted teaching about particularly relevant topics, such as submitting to God's will, marriage and singleness, finances, or making other important decisions. This transformation only occurs in the heart, when students are consistently fed a healthy dose of fear of and reverence for the Lord. Sure, have a sports night for the Lord if that's what will win people to Christ, but I truly believe we are doing college students a grave disservice by treating college (and youth ministry before that but that's a whole different story) only as a casual hang-out. Every Christian needs to be regularly recaptured by the surpassing worth of Christ and his death and resurrection, and college students are consistently sidelined with a dissmissive "they're young and stupid, they'll figure it out." To that I say, how will they hear, unless someone tells them?

One final point, which stems from a combination of the previous two, is that college ministry leaders, like all leaders, must be subject to accountability. Paul's words "imitate me as I imitate Christ" feel incredibly relevant, but the counterpoint "if the blind lead the blind they both will fall into the pit" serves as a reminder to take responsibility for the soul in our charge. As soon as we remove ourselves from this chain of imitation, we are lost. Leaders with no one to whom they are accountable will not be able to lead for long, and the students in their charge will follow the example. Recently I was reminded at Bible study that if your trajectory (in theology, habits, etc) as a leader is a straight line, and then veers off at a small angle, it doesn't seem so bad at first, but if you continue on that path for a while, you travel further and further away from the right path. The mechanism of accountability is the local church, and the reason for it is the preciousness of the souls in one's care. Leaders need to be responsible for realigning with proper teaching in such a way that stokes the fire of their affection for the Lord, in order to be spent in ministry stirring up students to do so in kind. This process is crucial, and the absence of it has devastating consequences.

So what's the point?

Speaking as someone still in the throes of college ministry, who spent the better part of her undergraduate years craving real sound teaching and community, these students need so much more. Maybe it's a product of the geographic region where I live, but I have seen an epidemic of degrading, unbiblical college ministries, and yet we have the gall to wonder why young people leave the church or else fall into false teachings. College ministry is not some holding pen before our young adults reach "the real world," it's valuable time where students can be molded into Christ followers for God's glory and their ultimate good and joy, if only we have the wit and care to reach them.

[iamentertainmentclub-blog]

Proverbs Daily Reflection – February 12, 2025

Good morning, and thank you for reading the Word of God with me. It is a blessing, a pleasure, and an honor to bring you the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and words of wisdom every morning! #josephmekaelpageministries

Proverbs 13:22 & The Power of COGIC, Black Wall Street, and Generational Wealth “A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children’s children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just.” – Proverbs 13:22 (KJV) My Journey in the COGIC Faith & The Pursuit of Wealth with Purpose I stand today as a product of the Church of God in Christ (COGIC). I carry the spiritual heritage passed…

[arron2024]

Team-Based Deliverance Ministry: Building Accountability and Oversight Structures for Integrity

Deliverance ministry is one of the most spiritually intense and deeply personal areas of Christian service. Because it involves vulnerability, spiritual authority, and confidential matters, it must be conducted with the highest degree of integrity, humility, and accountability. One of the most effective ways to protect both ministers and those receiving care is by adopting a team-based model of deliverance ministry.

Let's, we’ll explore how team-based deliverance enhances spiritual discernment, protects against misuse of authority, and builds the healthy oversight structures necessary for long-term credibility and impact.

1. Why Accountability is Essential in Deliverance Ministry

Deliverance involves prayer, confession, sometimes manifestations, and spiritual warfare. These sacred moments can also be spiritually and emotionally charged—which is why no one should engage in them alone.

Without accountability, ministries are vulnerable to:

Spiritual pride or burnout

Unintended emotional or physical harm

False accusations or misunderstandings

Overdependence from those receiving ministry

Unbiblical practices or rogue theology

Scripture reminds us that “two are better than one” (Ecclesiastes 4:9) and that every word should be “established by the testimony of two or three witnesses” (2 Corinthians 13:1). A team-based approach isn’t just wise—it’s biblical.

2. The Key Roles in a Deliverance Ministry Team

Effective deliverance teams are built around clear roles and shared responsibility. A standard structure might include:

✅ Lead Minister

Responsible for:

Guiding the overall session

Initiating prayer or deliverance directives

Communicating clearly with the recipient

✅ Intercessor

Prays silently (or softly) throughout the session

Listens for spiritual impressions or discernment

Covers the team in prayer before, during, and after

✅ Observer / Scribe

Takes confidential session notes

Monitors time and session flow

Notices non-verbal cues or emotional distress

✅ Support Minister (Optional)

Provides aftercare support

Encourages grounding or calming if needed

Follows up gently as part of pastoral care

Every member should operate under mutual submission, ready to defer to spiritual insight or pastoral authority when needed.

3. Oversight Structures that Ensure Integrity

Deliverance ministry should never function in isolation. Churches must create spiritual and administrative oversight frameworks that govern every aspect of the ministry.

a. Pastoral or Elder Oversight

All deliverance ministers must be vetted and approved by church leadership

Regular check-ins or reviews should be conducted

Reports of misconduct or doctrinal issues should go directly to pastoral oversight

b. Written Ministry Policies

Establish formal guidelines for:

Who may participate in ministry

Consent forms and confidentiality policies

How notes and records are kept

What theological framework the team uses

Referral procedures for mental health or trauma

Having written policies strengthens credibility, limits legal risk, and protects participants from spiritual abuse or misinformation.

c. Debriefing Protocols

After each session, the team should meet to:

Discuss observations

Pray for closure and clarity

Identify any concerns that need pastoral review

Plan for appropriate follow-up

This also protects the emotional and spiritual well-being of the team members.

4. Benefits of a Team-Based Approach

Adopting a team model brings practical and spiritual benefits:

🔒 Safety and Protection

Reduces opportunity for inappropriate conduct

Minimizes false accusations

Ensures no one is spiritually or emotionally overwhelmed

🧠 Discernment and Wisdom

Combines multiple spiritual gifts and perspectives

Allows confirmation before declaring breakthroughs or interpretations

Reduces reliance on one person’s authority

📖 Biblical Alignment

Models early church principles of collaborative ministry

Reflects the humility and interdependence of the Body of Christ

��� Support and Debriefing

Prevents isolation or burnout

Encourages peer encouragement and spiritual growth

Helps manage complex or emotionally charged sessions

5. Training and Equipping Your Team

A team is only as effective as it is trained and unified. Build a strong foundation by:

Holding regular ministry training sessions

Studying scriptural foundations for deliverance

Providing trauma-awareness and mental health basics

Hosting theological alignment workshops

Practicing mock sessions with feedback

Creating a mentorship track for new ministers

Also, require ministers to agree in writing to a shared code of conduct, doctrinal beliefs, and accountability plan.

Conclusion: Deliverance with Integrity and Unity

Team-based deliverance ministry isn't about complicating the process—it's about strengthening the outcomes. It protects the vulnerable, guards the ministers, and glorifies Jesus through order, accountability, and love.

A deliverance team led by the Holy Spirit and grounded in mutual submission reflects the unity and humility of Christ Himself. By building the right structure around this powerful ministry, churches can ensure it remains fruitful, faithful, and above reproach for generations to come.

Need resources to build your own deliverance ministry team? Visit our website to download team guidelines, consent forms, and oversight tools designed to keep your ministry Spirit-led and ethically sound.

[asksuraj]

Exploring the Biblical and Historical Perspectives on Greed

~ By Suraj Sukumaran

Understanding Greed Through a Biblical and Historical Lens

Throughout history, greed has been a subject of deep reflection and caution, particularly within biblical narratives and historical accounts. Greed, often depicted as an intense desire for material wealth, extends beyond mere acquisition—it is a profound moral and spiritual challenge that has confronted humanity across the ages. The biblical and historical frameworks provide an essential context for comprehending how greed influences individuals and societies, illustrating its consequences and the warnings it carries.

The Bible, a foundational text for many cultures, addresses greed not only as a social issue but also as a spiritual challenge. It portrays greed as a root of strife, corrupting hearts and leading people away from righteous paths. From the very beginning, biblical wisdom literature emphasizes contentment and warns against the endless pursuit of possessions at the expense of one's soul. Historically, societies that ignored these warnings faced social unrest, inequality, and moral decay, highlighting the enduring relevance of these teachings.

This understanding lays the groundwork for examining how ancient leaders, prophets, and biblical figures provided guidance and examples regarding greed. Their stories and proclamations serve as mirrors reflecting the dangers of valuing wealth over justice, compassion, and spiritual integrity.

Historical Warnings About the Dangers of Greed

Throughout history, the dangers of greed have been explicitly cautioned against by various cultures and leaders. These warnings illustrate that greed disrupts social harmony and often precipitates downfall. In many ancient civilizations, leaders recognized that the pursuit of excess wealth could lead to corruption, exploitation, and ultimately, societal collapse.

In the biblical context, these warnings are pronounced particularly in the narratives of Israel. Prophets frequently condemned greed as an obstacle to justice and true worship. Greed was seen as synonymous with selfishness and injustice, undermining the welfare of the community and violating divine principles. These insights reflect a deep awareness that uncontrolled desire for material gain can destroy not only personal character but also communal bonds.

The lessons drawn from history accentuate that unchecked greed fosters inequality and tension. Economies and governments built on greed rather than fairness tend to marginalize the poor and weaken social cohesion. Historical examples reveal how rulers who succumbed to greed often faced rebellion or downfall, reinforcing the enduring wisdom to guard against avarice.

Insights from the Kings and Prophets of Israel

The stories of Israel’s kings and prophets offer significant lessons about greed’s impact on leadership and society. Kings who prioritized wealth accumulation often met tragic ends, serving as cautionary figures in biblical history. Their reigns highlight how greed can impair judgment, lead to injustice, and alienate a ruler from their people and from God.

Prophets, on the other hand, acted as voices of moral clarity, calling out greed and demanding a return to righteousness. They urged kings and the people to reject selfishness and to practice generosity and fairness. Their teachings revealed that true prosperity lies not in material riches but in a just and faithful life.

One notable example is King Solomon, renowned for his wisdom yet also remembered for the consequences of his love for wealth and luxury. His story illustrates the tension between earthly riches and spiritual fulfillment, warning leaders and followers alike about the pitfalls of placing wealth above divine guidance.

Prophets such as Amos and Micah vigorously condemned social injustice linked to greed. They portrayed greed as a betrayal of God’s covenant and emphasized that ethical behavior must accompany economic activity. Their admonitions underscore that spiritual health and social justice are intertwined, and ignoring greed’s destructive power threatens both.

The Story of the Rich Young Ruler and Its Lessons on Wealth and Faith

One of the most striking biblical narratives addressing wealth and its spiritual implications is the story of the Rich Young Ruler. In this account, a wealthy man approaches Jesus, seeking guidance on achieving eternal life. Despite his adherence to the commandments, he struggles with surrendering his wealth, which ultimately hinders his spiritual progress.

This story reveals a profound truth: wealth can create barriers to spiritual growth. The Rich Young Ruler’s attachment to his possessions prevents him from embracing a fuller commitment to faith and the kingdom of God. His inability to part with his riches highlights how material attachments may obstruct the path to spiritual freedom and moral integrity.

The narrative invites reflection on what truly matters in life. It challenges the notion that wealth equates to divine favor or spiritual success. Instead, it underscores that faith often requires sacrifice and prioritizing relationships and values over material gain.

How Wealth Can Hinder Spiritual Growth and Entry into the Kingdom

The issue of wealth serving as a hindrance to spiritual growth recurs throughout biblical teachings. Wealth, while not inherently evil, can foster a false sense of security and independence that distances individuals from spiritual realities. A strong attachment to possessions sometimes replaces trust in spiritual principles and reliance on divine provision.

The Bible offers several teachings that highlight the challenges wealthy individuals face in entering the kingdom of heaven, emphasizing the importance of humility, generosity, and detachment from material wealth. Wealth can breed complacency, pride, and neglect of the needy traits that conflict with the values promoted by faith traditions.

Moreover, spiritual growth requires an openness to transformation and often involves renunciation or redistribution of resources for the common good. When wealth becomes a central focus, it may stifle these processes, obstructing deeper spiritual development and community participation.

This understanding encourages a balanced view of wealth, recognizing its potential for good and the risks it poses when pursued for selfish motives or at the expense of ethical conduct.

Applying Historical and Biblical Lessons to Modern Life

Lessons about greed and wealth from biblical and historical sources remain highly relevant today. Modern society faces complex economic challenges, with wealth disparities and consumerism often influencing social and personal values. Reflecting on these ancient warnings provides critical perspectives for contemporary life.

One practical application involves cultivating contentment and generosity. Learning from prophets’ calls for justice, communities can strive towards fairness and support for the vulnerable rather than indulgence in excess. This encourages policies and personal choices that prioritize social welfare alongside material well-being.

In leadership and governance, recognizing the dangers of greed supports ethical decision-making and accountability. The historical records of Israel’s kings provide timeless examples of what happens when leaders prioritize personal gain over the public good.

On a personal level, the story of the Rich Young Ruler invites introspection regarding one’s relationship with wealth. Individuals may benefit from assessing how possessions influence priorities and whether they facilitate or hinder spiritual and moral growth.

In summary, these lessons promote a holistic approach to wealth—one that combines ethical responsibility, spiritual awareness, and social concern. By doing so, the challenges posed by greed can be met with wisdom and compassion.