Monday, April 14, 2008
Friday, April 11, 2008
EQUIPPED FOR EVERY GOOD WORK
EQUIPPED FOR EVERY GOOD WORK
2 Tim. 3: 16-17
Teaching Presented at the Student Body Spiritual Retreat, February 13, 2008
- Simon A. Kolawole
INTRODUCTION
We thank God for this Second Semester and for how far the Lord has helped us in the year 2008. We commend the Student Body for this retreat, which undoubtedly will help set a spiritual tone for the Semester and further help us to be choice instruments in God’s hands.
The theme of the retreat, “Doing Exploits in the Ministry,” should be our perennial desire and prayer. The topic for discussion, “Equipped for Every Good Work,” can be seen as a way to achieve the great goal.
THE NEED TO BE EQUIPPED FOR EVERY GOOD WORK
2 Tim. 2:15; Col. 3:17
1. The Nature of the Assignment
2. The Challenges of the Ministry
3. The Stakes of the Work
THE MEANS OF BEING EQUIPPED FOR EVERY GOOD WORK
1. The Word, Text. Josh.1: 8
2. Holy Spirit, John 16:12-14; I Cor. 12:7
3. Prayer, Is. 40:31; Js. 1:5; Jer. 33:3
4. Spiritual Watchcare, I Thess. 2:10-12
5. Life/Ministry Experience, Heb. 5:8; Jh. 15:1-2
6. Discipline/Sacrifice, Is. 53:10-12; I Cor. 9:24-27
RESULTS OF BEING EQUIPPED FOR EVERY GOOD WORK
1. A Vessel Unto Honor, 2 Tim. 2:20-21 (Distinguished, special class, high quality).
2. Doing Exploits for the Lord (Accomplish much more Resourceful) Dan. 11:32
3. Competent (Skillful) 2 Tim. 2:15; Text
4. Bringing Glory by God, Matt. 5:16
5. A Life of Inspiration, I Tim. 4:12
CONCLUSION
The challenge to be equipped for every good work is a challenge we must take very seriously as individuals. In view of the results, we should continue to develop ourselves physically, academically, ministerially and spiritually so that we can be mighty instruments in God’s hands, distinguish ourselves and make a great impact on our generation. GO AND DO EXPLOITS FOR THE LORD.
2 Tim. 3: 16-17
Teaching Presented at the Student Body Spiritual Retreat, February 13, 2008
- Simon A. Kolawole
INTRODUCTION
We thank God for this Second Semester and for how far the Lord has helped us in the year 2008. We commend the Student Body for this retreat, which undoubtedly will help set a spiritual tone for the Semester and further help us to be choice instruments in God’s hands.
The theme of the retreat, “Doing Exploits in the Ministry,” should be our perennial desire and prayer. The topic for discussion, “Equipped for Every Good Work,” can be seen as a way to achieve the great goal.
THE NEED TO BE EQUIPPED FOR EVERY GOOD WORK
2 Tim. 2:15; Col. 3:17
1. The Nature of the Assignment
2. The Challenges of the Ministry
3. The Stakes of the Work
THE MEANS OF BEING EQUIPPED FOR EVERY GOOD WORK
1. The Word, Text. Josh.1: 8
2. Holy Spirit, John 16:12-14; I Cor. 12:7
3. Prayer, Is. 40:31; Js. 1:5; Jer. 33:3
4. Spiritual Watchcare, I Thess. 2:10-12
5. Life/Ministry Experience, Heb. 5:8; Jh. 15:1-2
6. Discipline/Sacrifice, Is. 53:10-12; I Cor. 9:24-27
RESULTS OF BEING EQUIPPED FOR EVERY GOOD WORK
1. A Vessel Unto Honor, 2 Tim. 2:20-21 (Distinguished, special class, high quality).
2. Doing Exploits for the Lord (Accomplish much more Resourceful) Dan. 11:32
3. Competent (Skillful) 2 Tim. 2:15; Text
4. Bringing Glory by God, Matt. 5:16
5. A Life of Inspiration, I Tim. 4:12
CONCLUSION
The challenge to be equipped for every good work is a challenge we must take very seriously as individuals. In view of the results, we should continue to develop ourselves physically, academically, ministerially and spiritually so that we can be mighty instruments in God’s hands, distinguish ourselves and make a great impact on our generation. GO AND DO EXPLOITS FOR THE LORD.
THE KINGDOM KEYS: RELEASING HEAVENLY TREASURES - ELIJAH AS A CASE STUDY
KINGDOM KEYS: RELEASING HEAVENLY TREASURES-
ELIJAH AS A CASE STUDY
- Simon A. Kolawole
INTRODUCTION
Thanks be unto God for leading our great Convention from glory to glory and for the opportunity of this year’s session. Our theme for this year again is very relevant indeed. It challenges us to have greater expectations of what the Lord can do in our lives and ministries. The theme thus enables us to have a better quality of life and greater results in ministry as we bring heavenly treasures to bear on the many challenges we and our members face.
The truth I want to emphasize in this article is that a minister is a channel of releasing heavenly treasures and I shall use Elijah to identify some keys for a minister to channel heavenly treasures to others.
THE MINISTER AS A CHANNEL OF RELEASING HEAVENLY TREASURES
The minister is God’s representative among His people. He stands between God and His people. He declares God’s counsel to the people and he is also expected to take the people’s burdens and problems to God who is in charge of heavenly treasures and is able to do all things. He is expected to have a shepherd’s heart and to be concerned about the utmost well being of his people. Otherwise he makes himself unworthy of his position and may even incur God’s judgment upon himself (cf. Ezek. 34:9-10).
It must be stressed that as ministers of the Convention we need to grow in our awareness of this truth in practical terms of trusting God to use us to bless our people especially with reference to the miraculous. Our people need to see more of God’s reality in signs and wonders.
KEYS FOR THE MINISTER TO RELEASE HEAVENLY TREASURES
Five keys, that is, requirements can be identified from Elijah’s life which are worthy of our consideration.
1. Time with God
The sudden appearance of Elijah on the Israelite prophetic scene is an indication that he had spent quality time with God in secret. Time with God in secret leads to making impact in public. At the point where Jacob’s destiny was changed the angel told him, “Your name shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel; for you have struggled with God and with men, and have prevailed” (Gen. 32:28, NKJV). Many who cannot pay the price of seeking God’s face in secret want to display in public. As ministers, we are generally busy and thus our theme calls us to re-order our priorities so that we can have quality time for prayer (cf. Acts 6:2). The more we pray, the greater peace we shall experience, the greater results we shall have and the more we shall see God’s glory and power in our lives and ministries.
A great advantage of having quality time with God is intimacy. Elijah was one of those who had a very intimate relationship with God in the Bible (I Kgs. 17:2-4, 8-9; 19:5-18). When we hear from God, we can take steps boldly and have success and breakthrough. Otherwise, we may have uncertainty or even be plagued with fear.
2. Consecration
This is how Elijah is introduced in Scripture: “And Elijah the Tishbite, of the inhabitants of Gilead said to Ahab, ‘As the LORD God of Israel lives, before whom I stand, there shall not be dew nor rain these years except by my word” (I Kgs. 17:1, NKJV). The phrase “before whom I stand” shows that Elijah was confident of his relationship with God. He was consecrated to the One who called him. Here the contrast between him and the temple prophets can be seen most clearly. He had literally abandoned himself to God and His cause. No wonder God responded to him again and again. Consecration produces power. It moves God to act on one’s behalf. In the words of the hymn writer,
You have longed for sweet peace, and for faith to increase,
And have earnestly, fervently prayed;
But you cannot have rest or be perfectly blest
Until all on the altar is laid.
Oh, we never can know what the Lord will bestow
Of the blessings for which we have prayed,
Till our body and soul He doth fully control
And our all on the altar is laid.1
We must check our devotion to the Lord continually and ensure that we maintain sinsleness of heart in our service for the Master.
3. Faith
Faith is absolute trust in God that He will do what He has said. It has great power because faith honors God and God honors faith. Elijah’s declaration is an evidence of his absolute trust in God’s power to do all things. He believed God would back up what he said. This is a great challenge for us, an area of operation all of us need to develop. We need to grow in making declarations believing that God will back us up. We need to grow in faith so that we expect and affirm God’s intervention when we confront difficult situations.
Faith provides a new perspective for our lives and a different basis of operation. According to Paul Little, “faith recognizes the realities that have now been revealed in the Lord Jesus Christ; faith takes hold of them and lives in their light.”2 And emphasizing faith as a daily reality he said, “Living by faith is a day-by-day experience. Yesterday’s leftover manna cannot satisfy us today. We must continue in God’s presence everyday… it is a simple, but profound fact – and a crucial one in our lives with God.”3 We do well to pray like the disciples, Lord, “increase our faith” (Luke 17:5) because as He said, “if (we) can believe, all things are possible to him who believes” (Mark 9:23, NKJV).
4. Obedience
Another quality necessary to be a channel of heavenly treasures is obedience. Again and again Elijah was asked to take steps that do not make sense from human perspective. However, he obeyed (I Kgs. 17:5-6, 10; 18:1-2). His intimate relationship with God was an advantage in this regard. His dynamic relationship with God made him to know that God can be relied upon. He was content to leave the results to God and sure enough God fulfilled His word.
We should be ready to obey God no matter what so that we can experience more of His blessings. As J.I. Packer noted:
Throughout the Bible story it is obedience to God’s revealed will
that pleases him, and that brings his blessings of health, wealth, liberty,
security and tranquility…. Without obedience there is no pleasing of God,
and failure to please God forfeits blessing.4
As ministers we should model radical obedience to God so that we can also help our members to walk with God in obedience.
5. God’s Glory
Elijah was a man who had a great desire for the glory of God. Most especially in the contest on Mt. Carmel with the Baal prophets, Elijah’s supreme concern was to restore God’s true worship and lead the people back to God. Thus, after the people saw the great demonstration of God’s power they said, “The LORD, He is God! The LORD, He is God!” (I Kings 18:39).
Again and again we must check our motives for desiring the Kingdom Keys. Are we filled with a desire for our people to see God’s glory? Are we burdened with the condition of our people that we want God to use us to deliver them? Do we want our generation to see God’s power through us?
CONCLUSION
As channels, the power and the glory are not ours. God just wants to pass them through us. Our challenge is to make ourselves fit for Him to “flow” through and remove “blockages” that may hinder Him (2 Tim. 2:20-25). In concluding this article, I want us to ponder over Charles Hodge’s comments on miracles thus:
The point which miracles are designed to prove
is not so much the truth of the doctrines taught as the divine
mission of the teacher. What a man teaches may be true, although
not divine in its origin. But when a man presents himself as a
messenger of God, whether he is to be received as such or not depends
first on the doctrines which he teaches and secondly, upon the
works which he performs. If he not only teaches doctrines conformed
to the nature of God and consistent with the laws of our own
constitution, but also performs works which evince divine power,
then we Know not only that the doctrines are true, but also that the teacher is
sent by God.5
Certainly miracles impact our ministry greatly. While we need not have an obsession for them, their manifestations will affect the degree of the impact of our ministry for time and eternity. May more signs and wonders manifest in our ministries, churches and the Convention.
END NOTES
1Elisha A. Hoffman, “Is Your All on the Altar?” Baptist Hymnal ed. By Walter Hines Sims (Nashville: Convention Press, 1950, No. 350.
2Paul Little, How To Give Away Your Faith ed. By Marie Little (Downers Gove; InterVasity Press, 1988), 170.
3Little, 171.
4J.I. Packer, “Obedience” in New Dictionary of Biblical Theology, ed. (Leicester: Inter-Varsity Press, 2000), 681.
5Charles Hodge, Systematic Theology ed. By Edward N. Gross (Phillipsburg; P & R Publishing 1992), 230.
ELIJAH AS A CASE STUDY
- Simon A. Kolawole
INTRODUCTION
Thanks be unto God for leading our great Convention from glory to glory and for the opportunity of this year’s session. Our theme for this year again is very relevant indeed. It challenges us to have greater expectations of what the Lord can do in our lives and ministries. The theme thus enables us to have a better quality of life and greater results in ministry as we bring heavenly treasures to bear on the many challenges we and our members face.
The truth I want to emphasize in this article is that a minister is a channel of releasing heavenly treasures and I shall use Elijah to identify some keys for a minister to channel heavenly treasures to others.
THE MINISTER AS A CHANNEL OF RELEASING HEAVENLY TREASURES
The minister is God’s representative among His people. He stands between God and His people. He declares God’s counsel to the people and he is also expected to take the people’s burdens and problems to God who is in charge of heavenly treasures and is able to do all things. He is expected to have a shepherd’s heart and to be concerned about the utmost well being of his people. Otherwise he makes himself unworthy of his position and may even incur God’s judgment upon himself (cf. Ezek. 34:9-10).
It must be stressed that as ministers of the Convention we need to grow in our awareness of this truth in practical terms of trusting God to use us to bless our people especially with reference to the miraculous. Our people need to see more of God’s reality in signs and wonders.
KEYS FOR THE MINISTER TO RELEASE HEAVENLY TREASURES
Five keys, that is, requirements can be identified from Elijah’s life which are worthy of our consideration.
1. Time with God
The sudden appearance of Elijah on the Israelite prophetic scene is an indication that he had spent quality time with God in secret. Time with God in secret leads to making impact in public. At the point where Jacob’s destiny was changed the angel told him, “Your name shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel; for you have struggled with God and with men, and have prevailed” (Gen. 32:28, NKJV). Many who cannot pay the price of seeking God’s face in secret want to display in public. As ministers, we are generally busy and thus our theme calls us to re-order our priorities so that we can have quality time for prayer (cf. Acts 6:2). The more we pray, the greater peace we shall experience, the greater results we shall have and the more we shall see God’s glory and power in our lives and ministries.
A great advantage of having quality time with God is intimacy. Elijah was one of those who had a very intimate relationship with God in the Bible (I Kgs. 17:2-4, 8-9; 19:5-18). When we hear from God, we can take steps boldly and have success and breakthrough. Otherwise, we may have uncertainty or even be plagued with fear.
2. Consecration
This is how Elijah is introduced in Scripture: “And Elijah the Tishbite, of the inhabitants of Gilead said to Ahab, ‘As the LORD God of Israel lives, before whom I stand, there shall not be dew nor rain these years except by my word” (I Kgs. 17:1, NKJV). The phrase “before whom I stand” shows that Elijah was confident of his relationship with God. He was consecrated to the One who called him. Here the contrast between him and the temple prophets can be seen most clearly. He had literally abandoned himself to God and His cause. No wonder God responded to him again and again. Consecration produces power. It moves God to act on one’s behalf. In the words of the hymn writer,
You have longed for sweet peace, and for faith to increase,
And have earnestly, fervently prayed;
But you cannot have rest or be perfectly blest
Until all on the altar is laid.
Oh, we never can know what the Lord will bestow
Of the blessings for which we have prayed,
Till our body and soul He doth fully control
And our all on the altar is laid.1
We must check our devotion to the Lord continually and ensure that we maintain sinsleness of heart in our service for the Master.
3. Faith
Faith is absolute trust in God that He will do what He has said. It has great power because faith honors God and God honors faith. Elijah’s declaration is an evidence of his absolute trust in God’s power to do all things. He believed God would back up what he said. This is a great challenge for us, an area of operation all of us need to develop. We need to grow in making declarations believing that God will back us up. We need to grow in faith so that we expect and affirm God’s intervention when we confront difficult situations.
Faith provides a new perspective for our lives and a different basis of operation. According to Paul Little, “faith recognizes the realities that have now been revealed in the Lord Jesus Christ; faith takes hold of them and lives in their light.”2 And emphasizing faith as a daily reality he said, “Living by faith is a day-by-day experience. Yesterday’s leftover manna cannot satisfy us today. We must continue in God’s presence everyday… it is a simple, but profound fact – and a crucial one in our lives with God.”3 We do well to pray like the disciples, Lord, “increase our faith” (Luke 17:5) because as He said, “if (we) can believe, all things are possible to him who believes” (Mark 9:23, NKJV).
4. Obedience
Another quality necessary to be a channel of heavenly treasures is obedience. Again and again Elijah was asked to take steps that do not make sense from human perspective. However, he obeyed (I Kgs. 17:5-6, 10; 18:1-2). His intimate relationship with God was an advantage in this regard. His dynamic relationship with God made him to know that God can be relied upon. He was content to leave the results to God and sure enough God fulfilled His word.
We should be ready to obey God no matter what so that we can experience more of His blessings. As J.I. Packer noted:
Throughout the Bible story it is obedience to God’s revealed will
that pleases him, and that brings his blessings of health, wealth, liberty,
security and tranquility…. Without obedience there is no pleasing of God,
and failure to please God forfeits blessing.4
As ministers we should model radical obedience to God so that we can also help our members to walk with God in obedience.
5. God’s Glory
Elijah was a man who had a great desire for the glory of God. Most especially in the contest on Mt. Carmel with the Baal prophets, Elijah’s supreme concern was to restore God’s true worship and lead the people back to God. Thus, after the people saw the great demonstration of God’s power they said, “The LORD, He is God! The LORD, He is God!” (I Kings 18:39).
Again and again we must check our motives for desiring the Kingdom Keys. Are we filled with a desire for our people to see God’s glory? Are we burdened with the condition of our people that we want God to use us to deliver them? Do we want our generation to see God’s power through us?
CONCLUSION
As channels, the power and the glory are not ours. God just wants to pass them through us. Our challenge is to make ourselves fit for Him to “flow” through and remove “blockages” that may hinder Him (2 Tim. 2:20-25). In concluding this article, I want us to ponder over Charles Hodge’s comments on miracles thus:
The point which miracles are designed to prove
is not so much the truth of the doctrines taught as the divine
mission of the teacher. What a man teaches may be true, although
not divine in its origin. But when a man presents himself as a
messenger of God, whether he is to be received as such or not depends
first on the doctrines which he teaches and secondly, upon the
works which he performs. If he not only teaches doctrines conformed
to the nature of God and consistent with the laws of our own
constitution, but also performs works which evince divine power,
then we Know not only that the doctrines are true, but also that the teacher is
sent by God.5
Certainly miracles impact our ministry greatly. While we need not have an obsession for them, their manifestations will affect the degree of the impact of our ministry for time and eternity. May more signs and wonders manifest in our ministries, churches and the Convention.
END NOTES
1Elisha A. Hoffman, “Is Your All on the Altar?” Baptist Hymnal ed. By Walter Hines Sims (Nashville: Convention Press, 1950, No. 350.
2Paul Little, How To Give Away Your Faith ed. By Marie Little (Downers Gove; InterVasity Press, 1988), 170.
3Little, 171.
4J.I. Packer, “Obedience” in New Dictionary of Biblical Theology, ed. (Leicester: Inter-Varsity Press, 2000), 681.
5Charles Hodge, Systematic Theology ed. By Edward N. Gross (Phillipsburg; P & R Publishing 1992), 230.
THE PASTOR AND HIS EDUCATIONAL CAREER
THE PASTOR AND HIS EDUCATIONAL CAREER
A Lecture Delivered at Ayo Oluwa Baptist Association Pastors’ Fellowship Meeting at Surulere Baptist Church, Awe, February 28, 2008
- Rev. Simon A. Kolawole, Ph.D
INTRODUCTION
Thanks be to God for sustaining us thus far in the year. I commend you for your efforts in your respective churches. No matter the external situation where you are, be reminded that you occupy strategic positions and are very important for Kingdom work. May the Lord empower you continually for your respective ministries. I appreciate the invitation to deliver this lecture, “The Pastor and His Educational Career,” whose purpose is to increase our awareness of our educational development as Pastors.
THE PASTOR AND EDUCATION
As a denomination, we believe in trained ministry, whereby we emphasize training for those who will be ministers. While not disregarding the gifts of the Holy Spirit for ministry, our conviction is that training will make a minister more effective as an instrument in the hands of the Holy Spirit. The following can be identified as providing the rationale for emphasizing education for ministers.
1. Education Enhances the Pastor’s Ministry
Education improves the Pastor’s ministry as it impacts positively on him and his skills. Consequently, education enhances the Pastor’s competence and effectiveness thus making him more result-oriented.
2. Education Helps the Pastor Face Ministerial Challenges
Even the basic ministerial education is a training programme designed to equip, prepare the minister for the challenges in the church. At higher levels, education can help a minister to meet certain ministerial challenges. Indeed, the growing sophistication of the society in which the Pastor ministers and the increased educational development of members can be a basis for higher education for the Pastor (cf. Jesus and the Apostles, Matt. 4:19).
3. Education Is A Mark of Personal Development
Education is a means of personal development as it broadens one’s horizon. Due to the dynamics of earning a degree, education enhances the development of the human person, most especially intellectual development.
4. Education Is An Index of Fulfillment
Education brings fulfillment because of what it involves and what it helps one to achieve. Education is a mark of achievement as it reflects, among other qualities, patience, hard work, sense of purpose and desire to make contributions. No wonder the Bible says, “knowledge puffs up” (I Cor. 8:1).
5. Education Increases the Pastor’s Usefulness
Education makes one a “skilled” worker and thus increases one’s usefulness. In other words, education enlarges one’s possibility of making contributions. This is especially true of higher education as it leads to greater specialization making one to be looked up to or regarded as an expert. With reference to the Nigerian Baptist Convention, educational qualification is a factor for some offices. The presupposition is that one who is more educated will be better qualified, all things being equal (Re: Moses, Acts 7:22; Paul, Acts 22:3).
THE PASTOR AND HIS EDUCATIONAL CAREER
Certain factors should be borne in mind with reference to the Pastor’s educational career. Five of these are discussed below
1. Planning
Due to the investment involved, education, especially at higher levels, requires planning. Ideally, adequate preparation should be made before one embarks on an educational programme (Re: The idea of Blueprint).
2. Interest and Information
The individual’s academic interest is important in educational career. Similarly, adequate information is necessary. The issue of “secular” and theological degrees is pertinent here.
3. Family
Family needs must be kept in focus as one seeks additional knowledge, especially when there are young children in the family. Whereas family members will make sacrifices, getting education should not be used as an excuse to “abandon” one’s family. Family consideration can influence the programme and the place of study.
4. Ministry
Also, the Pastor’s ministry is another factor for consideration in his educational career. The Pastor must be ready to make sacrifices and should make adequate arrangements for services he would unavoidably miss. Furthermore, sufficient time should be given before starting a programme of study when one gets to a church or before continuing another one.
5. Denominational Needs
Sometimes, the needs of the denomination may be the motivation for a Pastor to seek higher education. This reflects having a “global” perspective and the understanding that ultimately our gifts and training are meant to bless God’s people, the Church.
CONCLUSION
Each Pastor needs education that will sustain him through his ministerial career and/or enable him to function in some additional capacities and denominational responsibilities. Nevertheless, education must not be seen as an end in itself or a substitute for the anointing of the Holy Spirit. Thus a balance of academics and anointing is imperative for maximum usefulness in the ministry (Re: Motto - Academic excellence and spiritual maturity; cf. Duet 34:10-12; Acts 19:11-12).
A Lecture Delivered at Ayo Oluwa Baptist Association Pastors’ Fellowship Meeting at Surulere Baptist Church, Awe, February 28, 2008
- Rev. Simon A. Kolawole, Ph.D
INTRODUCTION
Thanks be to God for sustaining us thus far in the year. I commend you for your efforts in your respective churches. No matter the external situation where you are, be reminded that you occupy strategic positions and are very important for Kingdom work. May the Lord empower you continually for your respective ministries. I appreciate the invitation to deliver this lecture, “The Pastor and His Educational Career,” whose purpose is to increase our awareness of our educational development as Pastors.
THE PASTOR AND EDUCATION
As a denomination, we believe in trained ministry, whereby we emphasize training for those who will be ministers. While not disregarding the gifts of the Holy Spirit for ministry, our conviction is that training will make a minister more effective as an instrument in the hands of the Holy Spirit. The following can be identified as providing the rationale for emphasizing education for ministers.
1. Education Enhances the Pastor’s Ministry
Education improves the Pastor’s ministry as it impacts positively on him and his skills. Consequently, education enhances the Pastor’s competence and effectiveness thus making him more result-oriented.
2. Education Helps the Pastor Face Ministerial Challenges
Even the basic ministerial education is a training programme designed to equip, prepare the minister for the challenges in the church. At higher levels, education can help a minister to meet certain ministerial challenges. Indeed, the growing sophistication of the society in which the Pastor ministers and the increased educational development of members can be a basis for higher education for the Pastor (cf. Jesus and the Apostles, Matt. 4:19).
3. Education Is A Mark of Personal Development
Education is a means of personal development as it broadens one’s horizon. Due to the dynamics of earning a degree, education enhances the development of the human person, most especially intellectual development.
4. Education Is An Index of Fulfillment
Education brings fulfillment because of what it involves and what it helps one to achieve. Education is a mark of achievement as it reflects, among other qualities, patience, hard work, sense of purpose and desire to make contributions. No wonder the Bible says, “knowledge puffs up” (I Cor. 8:1).
5. Education Increases the Pastor’s Usefulness
Education makes one a “skilled” worker and thus increases one’s usefulness. In other words, education enlarges one’s possibility of making contributions. This is especially true of higher education as it leads to greater specialization making one to be looked up to or regarded as an expert. With reference to the Nigerian Baptist Convention, educational qualification is a factor for some offices. The presupposition is that one who is more educated will be better qualified, all things being equal (Re: Moses, Acts 7:22; Paul, Acts 22:3).
THE PASTOR AND HIS EDUCATIONAL CAREER
Certain factors should be borne in mind with reference to the Pastor’s educational career. Five of these are discussed below
1. Planning
Due to the investment involved, education, especially at higher levels, requires planning. Ideally, adequate preparation should be made before one embarks on an educational programme (Re: The idea of Blueprint).
2. Interest and Information
The individual’s academic interest is important in educational career. Similarly, adequate information is necessary. The issue of “secular” and theological degrees is pertinent here.
3. Family
Family needs must be kept in focus as one seeks additional knowledge, especially when there are young children in the family. Whereas family members will make sacrifices, getting education should not be used as an excuse to “abandon” one’s family. Family consideration can influence the programme and the place of study.
4. Ministry
Also, the Pastor’s ministry is another factor for consideration in his educational career. The Pastor must be ready to make sacrifices and should make adequate arrangements for services he would unavoidably miss. Furthermore, sufficient time should be given before starting a programme of study when one gets to a church or before continuing another one.
5. Denominational Needs
Sometimes, the needs of the denomination may be the motivation for a Pastor to seek higher education. This reflects having a “global” perspective and the understanding that ultimately our gifts and training are meant to bless God’s people, the Church.
CONCLUSION
Each Pastor needs education that will sustain him through his ministerial career and/or enable him to function in some additional capacities and denominational responsibilities. Nevertheless, education must not be seen as an end in itself or a substitute for the anointing of the Holy Spirit. Thus a balance of academics and anointing is imperative for maximum usefulness in the ministry (Re: Motto - Academic excellence and spiritual maturity; cf. Duet 34:10-12; Acts 19:11-12).
THE POWER OF REVELATION IN ACCESSING KINGDOM BLESSINGS
THE POWER OF REVELATION IN ACCESSING KINGDOM BLESSINGS
(Delivered at the Emmanuel Ajayi Dahunsi Baptist Association Quarterly Meeting Held at Golden Gate Baptist Church, Seme on February 2, 2008
- Rev. Simon A. Kolawole, Ph.D.
INTRODUCTION
We give thanks to God for the grace to witness another year. Let us rededicate ourselves to the Lord so that we can enjoy more of His blessings. I thank the Association for this invitation and I pray that the Lord will take the Association to greater heights.
Our topic, “The Power of Revelation in Accessing Kingdom Blessings,” focuses on how revelation can help us to access kingdom blessings. Revelation is taken primarily as the word of God and secondarily as some other messages the Lord may give us from time to time. The topic is very relevant not only because it is closely related to our Convention theme for the year but also because whereas God’s blessings are inexhaustible many Christians are rather impoverished and our lives do not commensurate with the glorious riches of God which are ours in Christ Jesus. Therefore through the topic, we shall be able to access kingdom blessings more than we have done hitherto. May this be our portion in Jesus’ name.
THE POWER OF REVELATION IN ACCESSING KINGDOM BLESSINGS
1. Revelation Assures Us of Kingdom Blessings
We need assurance in accessing kingdom blessings and revelation gives this assurance. Through revelation we know for sure that kingdom blessings are real and they are meant for us. Thus we are encouraged in seeking them because we know we shall not be disappointed in so doing (Heb. 11:6; 2 Cor. 1:20; Heb. 10:23). The assurance we have in God’s promises is grounded on God who is ever faithful (I Cor. 1:9; Num. 23:19; Tit. 1:3).
2. Revelation Shows Us Conditions for Kingdom Blessings
Revelation also helps us to know what we must do to enjoy God’s blessings. Whereas God’s blessings are inexhaustible, there are conditions to be met before they can become ours. Thereby we can prepare ourselves to receive the blessings. As we remove the barriers to God’s blessings, they flow unhindered to us. By implication, we determine how much of the blessings we shall enjoy as individuals. Fulfill God’s conditions and enjoy His blessings (Is. 1:19-20; John 2:5; 2 Cor. 9:6-8).
3. Revelation Gives Us Confidence to Claim Kingdom Blessings
In addition to being assured of Kingdom blessings revelation makes us confident to claim them. Through revelation we have boldness to lay hold on kingdom blessings because we know that He who promised is faithful. A great challenge to us is appropriating the blessings of God. Through revelation we can possess our possessions and enjoy our blessings more. This is God’s intention and a means of demonstrating His gory in the world (Heb.4: 14-16; 10:35-36; 2 Cor. 4:13).
4. Revelation Shows Examples of Those Who Accessed Kingdom Blessings
The scripture declares: “For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope” (Rom. 15:4, NKJV). To further strengthen our faith to lay hold on God’s unchanging promises, the Scriptures provide examples for us of those who accessed kingdom blessings (Rom.4:19-21; James 5:17-18; Hebrews 11:32-35). So both in confirming the reality of the blessings and in exemplifying receiving them, the Biblical characters provide patterns for us. Thus they challenge us to follow their examples and enjoy the blessings meant for us (cf. Rom. 8:19).
5. Revelation Sensitizes Us to Specific Blessings
Even today God can reveal some specific blessings to us believing which we can claim them for ourselves or for others. This can be through dream, revelations, prophecy, etc. We should remember that what God has done before He can do again (Heb. 13:8). Therefore, let us be more open to God’s revelation in our situations for our good and/or for the sake of others.
6. Revelation Exposes Hindrances to Accessing Kingdom Blessings
Sometimes kingdom blessings are obstructed by the forces of darkness. God reveals such hindrances so that we confront the enemy, gain victory over him and obtain our blessings (Dan. 10:12-14; Luke 11:20-21). It is significant to stress that this is one area we should turn our searchlight more than we have done. Many blessings are being blocked by Satan and his agents and we must be ready to confront them before we can obtain such blessings (Matt. 11:12).
CONCLUSION
God, the El Shaddai wants us to have life in its fullness (John 10:10; 2 Pet. 1:2-4). Appropriate God’s blessings to have an enriched life and be a greater channel of blessings to others. You are a special person chosen to manifest God in the world.
(Delivered at the Emmanuel Ajayi Dahunsi Baptist Association Quarterly Meeting Held at Golden Gate Baptist Church, Seme on February 2, 2008
- Rev. Simon A. Kolawole, Ph.D.
INTRODUCTION
We give thanks to God for the grace to witness another year. Let us rededicate ourselves to the Lord so that we can enjoy more of His blessings. I thank the Association for this invitation and I pray that the Lord will take the Association to greater heights.
Our topic, “The Power of Revelation in Accessing Kingdom Blessings,” focuses on how revelation can help us to access kingdom blessings. Revelation is taken primarily as the word of God and secondarily as some other messages the Lord may give us from time to time. The topic is very relevant not only because it is closely related to our Convention theme for the year but also because whereas God’s blessings are inexhaustible many Christians are rather impoverished and our lives do not commensurate with the glorious riches of God which are ours in Christ Jesus. Therefore through the topic, we shall be able to access kingdom blessings more than we have done hitherto. May this be our portion in Jesus’ name.
THE POWER OF REVELATION IN ACCESSING KINGDOM BLESSINGS
1. Revelation Assures Us of Kingdom Blessings
We need assurance in accessing kingdom blessings and revelation gives this assurance. Through revelation we know for sure that kingdom blessings are real and they are meant for us. Thus we are encouraged in seeking them because we know we shall not be disappointed in so doing (Heb. 11:6; 2 Cor. 1:20; Heb. 10:23). The assurance we have in God’s promises is grounded on God who is ever faithful (I Cor. 1:9; Num. 23:19; Tit. 1:3).
2. Revelation Shows Us Conditions for Kingdom Blessings
Revelation also helps us to know what we must do to enjoy God’s blessings. Whereas God’s blessings are inexhaustible, there are conditions to be met before they can become ours. Thereby we can prepare ourselves to receive the blessings. As we remove the barriers to God’s blessings, they flow unhindered to us. By implication, we determine how much of the blessings we shall enjoy as individuals. Fulfill God’s conditions and enjoy His blessings (Is. 1:19-20; John 2:5; 2 Cor. 9:6-8).
3. Revelation Gives Us Confidence to Claim Kingdom Blessings
In addition to being assured of Kingdom blessings revelation makes us confident to claim them. Through revelation we have boldness to lay hold on kingdom blessings because we know that He who promised is faithful. A great challenge to us is appropriating the blessings of God. Through revelation we can possess our possessions and enjoy our blessings more. This is God’s intention and a means of demonstrating His gory in the world (Heb.4: 14-16; 10:35-36; 2 Cor. 4:13).
4. Revelation Shows Examples of Those Who Accessed Kingdom Blessings
The scripture declares: “For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope” (Rom. 15:4, NKJV). To further strengthen our faith to lay hold on God’s unchanging promises, the Scriptures provide examples for us of those who accessed kingdom blessings (Rom.4:19-21; James 5:17-18; Hebrews 11:32-35). So both in confirming the reality of the blessings and in exemplifying receiving them, the Biblical characters provide patterns for us. Thus they challenge us to follow their examples and enjoy the blessings meant for us (cf. Rom. 8:19).
5. Revelation Sensitizes Us to Specific Blessings
Even today God can reveal some specific blessings to us believing which we can claim them for ourselves or for others. This can be through dream, revelations, prophecy, etc. We should remember that what God has done before He can do again (Heb. 13:8). Therefore, let us be more open to God’s revelation in our situations for our good and/or for the sake of others.
6. Revelation Exposes Hindrances to Accessing Kingdom Blessings
Sometimes kingdom blessings are obstructed by the forces of darkness. God reveals such hindrances so that we confront the enemy, gain victory over him and obtain our blessings (Dan. 10:12-14; Luke 11:20-21). It is significant to stress that this is one area we should turn our searchlight more than we have done. Many blessings are being blocked by Satan and his agents and we must be ready to confront them before we can obtain such blessings (Matt. 11:12).
CONCLUSION
God, the El Shaddai wants us to have life in its fullness (John 10:10; 2 Pet. 1:2-4). Appropriate God’s blessings to have an enriched life and be a greater channel of blessings to others. You are a special person chosen to manifest God in the world.
Friday, March 21, 2008
A WORD ON EASTER SEASON
AS CHRISTIANS ALL OVER THE WORLD CELEBRATE THE DEATH AND RESSURECTION OF JESUS CHRIST, IT IS GOOD TO REFLECT ON SOME OF THE LESSONS OF THE SEASON TO US. THREE OF SUCH LESSONS ARE DISCUSSED BELOW.
ONE, DOING GOD'S WILL : DOING GOD'S WILL IS THE BEST FOR US. IT LEADS TO THE REALISATION OF GOD'S PURPOSE FOR OUR LIVES AND IT IS THE PATH OF DIVINE FULFILLMENT. THEREFORE DO GOD'S WILL NO MATTER WHAT IT COSTS.
TWO, PAYING THE PRICE : WHATEVER WE WANT TO BECOME OR ACHIEVE WE SHOULD BE READY TO PAY THE PRICE. SACRIFICES ARE NECESSARY TO ACHIEVE OUR VISIONS IN LIFE, GOALS AND OBJECTIVES. WHAT SACRIFICE ARE YOU READY TO MAKE TO ACCOMPLISH YOUR VISION IN LIFE?
THREE, HOPING AGAINST HOPE : NO MATTER THE SITUATION WE ARE PASSING THROUGH, WE SHOULD HOPE IN GOD. YOU WILL OVERCOME. GOD WILL CHANGE YOUR SITUATION. IT WILL BE WELL. DO NOT EVER LOOSE HOPE. GOD IS WITH YOU AND YOU WILL MAKE IT.
CHRIST DIED TO SAVE US FROM SIN AND DELIVER US FROM THE POWERS OF DARKNESS. ACCEPT HIM AS YOUR LORD AND SAVIOR TODAY SO THAT YOU WILL BE SAVED, LIVE A MEANINGFUL LIFE AND SPEND ETERNITY WITH GOD.
ONE, DOING GOD'S WILL : DOING GOD'S WILL IS THE BEST FOR US. IT LEADS TO THE REALISATION OF GOD'S PURPOSE FOR OUR LIVES AND IT IS THE PATH OF DIVINE FULFILLMENT. THEREFORE DO GOD'S WILL NO MATTER WHAT IT COSTS.
TWO, PAYING THE PRICE : WHATEVER WE WANT TO BECOME OR ACHIEVE WE SHOULD BE READY TO PAY THE PRICE. SACRIFICES ARE NECESSARY TO ACHIEVE OUR VISIONS IN LIFE, GOALS AND OBJECTIVES. WHAT SACRIFICE ARE YOU READY TO MAKE TO ACCOMPLISH YOUR VISION IN LIFE?
THREE, HOPING AGAINST HOPE : NO MATTER THE SITUATION WE ARE PASSING THROUGH, WE SHOULD HOPE IN GOD. YOU WILL OVERCOME. GOD WILL CHANGE YOUR SITUATION. IT WILL BE WELL. DO NOT EVER LOOSE HOPE. GOD IS WITH YOU AND YOU WILL MAKE IT.
CHRIST DIED TO SAVE US FROM SIN AND DELIVER US FROM THE POWERS OF DARKNESS. ACCEPT HIM AS YOUR LORD AND SAVIOR TODAY SO THAT YOU WILL BE SAVED, LIVE A MEANINGFUL LIFE AND SPEND ETERNITY WITH GOD.
SOME FUTURE EVENTS
EASTER BREAK - March 21 - 24, is Easter Break. We wish our students/staff happy Easter and we pray that we shall experience renewal in all areas of our lives.
MILLION LEADERS' MANDATE SEMINAR - On March 25 - 27 , we shall conduct Million Leaders' Mandate Seminar 11. Like the first part conducted last year we beleive the seminar will further impact our students and give them added advantage in their leadership development.
MILLION LEADERS' MANDATE SEMINAR - On March 25 - 27 , we shall conduct Million Leaders' Mandate Seminar 11. Like the first part conducted last year we beleive the seminar will further impact our students and give them added advantage in their leadership development.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
