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  • God used a Muslim to reach Muslims for Christ!

    Gabriel 0 Comments

    Once one of my dearest friends told me, Gabriel, that God really works in a funny way. I asked how. He answered, God used a Muslim to reach Muslims for Christ and spread the gospel." Isn’t it funny yet interesting? 

     Is it funny? I don’t know. Interesting, for sure. I used to be an anti-Christian. And, to be very honest, so-called preachers were responsible for this. They used to come and give Bible and leave. They were acting crazy. This kind of act doesn’t really work in a Muslim country. I thought these people were crazy.

    Now I am a preacher for Christ. My way of preaching Jesus is different. I make friends. I talk about God. I talk about the similarities between Jesus and both religions, and then I hit the button where we should know why Jesus is God. It makes sense, right? The moral is that you have to make friends and find your own space with the other person. No debate; pure thoughtful talks.

    Life took me to another Muslim country, where I visited a coastal village. Everyone was Muslim there. My God, they were remote, backdated, and lovely. There were lots of youth to meet, and we made amazing friendships. Shared the gospel, and many people had a positive response. We bought a few Bibles and went to the village. The idea was to give it to whoever we talked to, but I never thought giving a Bible to someone would change my life.

    I mean it. Growing up as a Muslim kid, I was awfully ill-informed about God, and I wanted someone to help. Nine years ago, a friend of mine gave me a Bible. I saw the smile on his face. I never thought someone would be this happy to give me something.

    But now I know. We were all packed to leave, and I asked one of my friends from that village to come meet me for the last time. He said he just woke up, and we were ready to take the vehicle to leave. But he said, I am coming no matter what. I gave him a Bible and told him to read it, and I hugged him. He was looking at the book and said, “I am a Muslim." I replied, Yes, it’s Torah and Enjiel. Read it. He liked the approach.

    When he left, he said, “Thanks for the book." I was stunned and had tears in my eyes. I mean, that was just too sweet, and some random sinner like me doing this godly work was such an amazing feeling. I bowed down to God and thanked him for choosing me. I shared this story with Michael Bond, and he said, They are now your disciples; take care of them.

    Now, that was way too much for me. I was overwhelmed and full of joy. Am I doing something in life? Am I the chosen one? Jesus indeed chose a Muslim (ex-Muslim) to reach Muslims for him.

     

    Life is unpredictable, like Jesus’s second coming. You never know what is happening. You can be anty Christian yesterday and pro-Christian the next day. It’s his choice. 

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  • Jesus and the meaning of Life.

    Gabriel 0 Comments

    Introduction

     

    The question of the meaning of life has been a profound inquiry that has intrigued humanity for centuries. Among various perspectives, the teachings of Jesus Christ offer a compelling viewpoint. This article explores the meaning of life through the lens of Jesus' teachings, his life, and his ultimate sacrifice, providing insights into how his message can shape our understanding of purpose and fulfillment.

    1. The Life and Teachings of Jesus

    Jesus of Nazareth, a central figure in Christianity, is known for his profound teachings and miraculous works. Born in Bethlehem and raised in Nazareth, Jesus began his public ministry around the age of 30. His teachings, captured in the Gospels of the New Testament, revolve around love, compassion, and the pursuit of righteousness. Jesus’ parables, sermons, and dialogues with his disciples and followers provide a roadmap to understanding the deeper questions of existence.

    2. Love and Compassion as Central Tenets

    At the heart of Jesus' message is the commandment to love one another. In Matthew 22:37-39, Jesus summarizes the entire law with two commandments: to love God with all one's heart, soul, and mind, and to love one's neighbor as oneself. This emphasis on love transcends mere emotion, advocating for selfless actions and compassion towards others. Jesus exemplified this through his interactions with the marginalized, healing the sick, and offering forgiveness.

    3. The Kingdom of God

    A significant aspect of Jesus' teachings is the concept of the Kingdom of God. Jesus described it as both a present reality and a future promise. The Kingdom of God is characterized by justice, peace, and the reign of divine love. It calls for a transformation of the heart and mind, urging individuals to live in a way that reflects God's will on earth. This vision of the Kingdom provides a sense of purpose, encouraging believers to contribute to a world that aligns with divine principles.

    4. Sacrifice and Redemption

    Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection are pivotal events in Christian theology. His sacrifice is seen as an act of ultimate love, offering redemption to humanity. According to Christian belief, Jesus' death atones for the sins of humanity, and his resurrection conquers death, providing the hope of eternal life. This narrative of sacrifice and redemption underscores the belief that life’s meaning is found in a relationship with God, characterized by forgiveness and grace.

    5. Hope and Eternal Life

    Jesus' teachings promise hope and eternal life. In John 14:2-3, Jesus assures his followers of a place in his Father's house, signifying eternal life with God. This hope extends beyond the temporal challenges and sufferings of this world, offering a vision of eternal peace and joy. The assurance of eternal life shapes the Christian understanding of existence, suggesting that life on earth is a journey towards a divine destiny.

    6. Practical Implications for Today

    The teachings of Jesus have practical implications for contemporary life. They call for a life of service, humility, and integrity. By following Jesus' example, individuals can find purpose in serving others, advocating for justice, and living ethically. The message of love and compassion promotes social harmony and personal fulfillment. Moreover, the hope of eternal life provides comfort and motivation, encouraging believers to persevere through life's challenges with faith and trust in God's promises.

    Conclusion

     

    In conclusion, the teachings of Jesus offer a profound and transformative understanding of the meaning of life. Through his life, death, and resurrection, Jesus provides a model of love, sacrifice, and hope. His emphasis on loving God and others, the vision of the Kingdom of God, and the promise of eternal life offer a pathway to a meaningful and purposeful existence. By embracing these principles, individuals can find fulfillment and direction in their lives, contributing to a world that reflects divine love and justice.

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  • Jesus: Central to Christianity and respected in Islam

    Gabriel 0 Comments

    Introduction

    Jesus of Nazareth, also known as Jesus Christ, is a figure who holds a central place in Christianity and a significant, albeit different, position in Islam. Christians believe Jesus is the Son of God and the savior of humanity, a belief that forms the core of Christian theology. In contrast, Muslims recognize Jesus as a prophet and a revered messenger of God, but not divine. This article explores the perspectives of Christians and Muslims on Jesus and explains why Christians assert that Jesus is wholly a Christian figure.

     

     

    Jesus in Christianity: the Core of Christian Belief

     

    In Christianity, Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of the faith. Christians believe Jesus is the Messiah (Christ), the Son of God, who was sent to Earth to save humanity from sin. This belief is rooted in several key doctrines. Christians believe that God took human form in Jesus, making Him both fully divine and fully human.

     

    Jesus's death on the cross is seen as the ultimate sacrifice for the sins of humanity. His resurrection from the dead is celebrated as proof of His divine nature and the promise of eternal life for believers.

     

    Central to Christian theology is the belief in the Trinity, which describes God as three persons in one essence: the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit.

     

    The New Testament

     

    The New Testament of the Bible is the primary source of knowledge about Jesus's life and teachings for Christians. It includes: The Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John): These books provide accounts of Jesus’s life, ministry, death, and resurrection.

     

    The Acts of the Apostles: This book describes the early Church's formation and the spread of Jesus's teachings after His ascension.

     

    The Epistles: Letters written by early Christian leaders, such as Paul, to various Christian communities, offering theological insights and guidance.

     

    The Teachings of Jesus

     

    Jesus’s teachings, as recorded in the Gospels, emphasize love, forgiveness, and the Kingdom of God.

     

    The Sermon on the Mount: This collection of sayings and teachings includes the Beatitudes, which highlight humility, mercy, and peacemaking.

     

    Parables: Jesus often taught in parables, simple stories that illustrate moral or spiritual lessons, such as the Parable of the Good Samaritan and the Parable of the Prodigal Son.

     

    Commands to Love: Jesus emphasized the importance of loving God with all one's heart and loving one's neighbor as oneself.

     

    Jesus in Islam: A Revered Prophet

     

    In Islam, Jesus (known as Isa in Arabic) is considered one of the greatest prophets, but not divine.

     

    The Virgin Birth: Similar to Christianity, Islam teaches that Jesus was born to the Virgin Mary (Maryam) through a miraculous birth.

     

    Miracles: Jesus performed miracles, such as healing the sick and raising the dead, by God's permission.

     

    The Messiah: Jesus is recognized as the Messiah, but this term does not imply divinity in Islam.

     

    The Quranic Perspective

     

    The Quran, Islam's holy book, mentions Jesus in several passages, highlighting aspects of His life and mission:

     

    Surah Maryam (Chapter 19): This chapter provides an account of Jesus’s birth and His role as a prophet.

     

    Surah Al-Imran (Chapter 3): This chapter discusses Jesus's miracles and His status as a messenger of God.

     

    Surah An-Nisa (Chapter 4): This chapter asserts that Jesus was not crucified but was raised to heaven by God.

     

    Differences in Beliefs

     

    While Muslims respect Jesus and hold Him in high regard, key differences from Christian beliefs include-

     

    Divinity: Muslims do not believe Jesus is the Son of God or divine in any way.

     

    Crucifixion: Islam teaches that Jesus was not crucified; instead, it is believed that God saved Him and raised Him to heaven.

     

    Role in Eschatology: Muslims believe that Jesus will return at the end of times to restore justice and defeat the false messiah (the Antichrist).

     

     

    Why Jesus is 100% a Christian Figure: historical and theological foundations

    From a Christian perspective, Jesus is inherently a Christian figure because the entire foundation of Christianity is built upon His life, teachings, death, and resurrection. Several reasons support this assertion:

     

    Origin of Christianity: Jesus’s life and teachings are the bedrock of Christianity. His followers, known as Christians, derived their faith directly from His instructions and the events of His life.

     

    Christian Scriptures: The New Testament, composed of writings by Jesus’s apostles and early Christians, centers around Jesus as the Christ and Savior. These texts were written within the context of Christian belief and practice.

     

    Creeds and Doctrines: Christian creeds, such as the Nicene Creed, affirm the belief in Jesus as the Son of God, who was crucified, died, and rose again. These creeds have shaped Christian identity and theology for centuries.

     

     

    Unique Christian Beliefs

     

    Certain beliefs about Jesus are uniquely Christian and are not shared by Islam or any other religion:

     

    The Trinity: The concept of the Trinity is central to Christianity and defines Jesus as one person of the triune God.

     

    Atonement: The belief that Jesus’s death on the cross atones for humanity's sins is a distinctly Christian doctrine.

     

    Resurrection: The resurrection of Jesus is a foundational event in Christianity, celebrated as proof of His divine nature and the hope of eternal life for believers.

     

    Influence on Christian Worship and Practice

     

    Jesus’s influence on Christian worship and practice further underscores His centrality to the faith:

     

    Sacraments: Christian sacraments, such as baptism and the Eucharist (Holy Communion), are instituted based on Jesus’s teachings and actions.

     

    Liturgical Calendar: Major Christian celebrations, such as Christmas (celebrating Jesus’s birth) and Easter (commemorating His resurrection), are centered on events from Jesus’s life.

     

    Prayer and Worship: Christians pray in Jesus’s name and worship Him as God, reflecting their belief in His divinity.

     

    Conclusion

     

    While Jesus is a significant figure in both Christianity and Islam, He is wholly a Christian figure from the perspective of Christian theology and practice. Christianity is fundamentally based on the belief in Jesus as the Son of God, the savior of humanity, whose life, death, and resurrection provide the path to salvation. These beliefs are not shared by Islam, which respects Jesus as a prophet but does not recognize His divinity or His role in salvation. Thus, Jesus's identity and significance are uniquely and fully encapsulated within the Christian faith, making Him 100% a Christian figure.

     

     

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  • Closer to Christ: The power of Christian community

    Gabriel 0 Comments

    Intro


    In a world that often feels disconnected, the idea of community is a source of hope, offering a place where we can connect, support each other, and feel like we belong. For Christians, community is not just a nice idea; it’s an essential part of growing closer to Christ. The Christian community, often called the body of Christ, helps believers deepen their relationship with Jesus, strengthen their faith, and live out their calling. This article explores the power of Christian community and how it helps us grow closer to Christ.

     

    The Biblical Foundation of Christian Community

    The idea of community is deeply rooted in the Bible. From the very beginning, God showed us that we’re not meant to be alone. In Genesis, God says, "It is not good for man to be alone" (Genesis 2:18), showing that we need companionship and community. The Israelites, God’s chosen people, lived as a close-knit community, united by their faith in God.

    In the New Testament, the early church gives us a powerful example of Christian community. Acts 2:42-47 describes how the first believers "devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer." They shared everything, supported each other, and grew in their faith together. This early model shows us that spiritual growth happens best in a community.

     

    How Community Helps Us Grow Spiritually

    Christian community plays a big role in helping us grow spiritually. Our faith journey is not something we do alone; it’s something we do together with others who can encourage us, teach us, and hold us accountable.

     

    1.Encouragement and accountability

     

    In a Christian community, we find encouragement to live out our faith. Hebrews 10:24-25 tells us to "consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, but encouraging one another." This encouragement helps us keep going, especially when life is tough.

     

    Accountability is another key part of spiritual growth. Proverbs 27:17 says, "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." In a Christian community, we challenge each other to grow, to avoid sin, and to strive to live holy lives. This kind of accountability helps us stay on track and grow closer to Christ.

     

    2. Teaching and Discipleship

     

    Christian community is also a place where we learn and grow through discipleship. Jesus told His followers to "go and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19). This mission happens within the community, where older or more experienced Christians can mentor and guide others.

     

    Discipleship happens in many ways, like in small groups, Bible studies, or one-on-one mentoring. These settings allow us to have deep conversations, get personalized advice, and build close, Christ-centered relationships.

     

    How Community Strengthens Our Faith

     

    Faith is like a journey, and it’s easier to travel with others. The Christian community helps keep our faith strong, especially when we face challenges.

     

    1. Shared Faith and Worship

    Worshiping together is a powerful way that Christian community strengthens our faith. When we gather to worship God—through singing, praying, and reading Scripture—we’re reminded that we’re part of something bigger. We’re part of a global body of believers, all united in our love for Christ.

    Shared faith also gives us support during times of doubt or spiritual dryness. When our faith feels weak, the community can remind us of God’s faithfulness and encourage us to keep going. The experiences and stories of others in the community can inspire us and give us hope.

     

    2. Carrying Each Other’s Burdens

    The Christian community is a place where we can share our struggles and get support. Galatians 6:2 tells us to "carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." Whether we’re dealing with emotional, spiritual, or physical challenges, the community is there to offer comfort, prayer, and practical help.

    This kind of support helps us feel connected and loved. Knowing that others are praying for us and walking with us through tough times gives us strength. It also reflects Christ’s love, who calls us to "love one another as I have loved you" (John 13:34).

     

    Community Helps Us Live Out Our Christian Calling

    Christian community isn’t just about growing and finding support; it’s also about living out our calling as followers of Christ. In the community, we’re equipped, encouraged, and sent out to serve others and share the Gospel.

    Service and Mission

    Christian communities often get involved in service projects and missions, both locally and globally. These activities allow us to put our faith into action by serving others in the name of Christ. Whether it’s feeding the hungry, caring for the sick, or spreading the Gospel, the community gives us opportunities to live out Jesus’ teachings.

    Serving others within the community also teaches us humility and selflessness. Jesus set the example by washing His disciples’ feet, saying, "Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet" (John 13:14). By serving others, we learn to put others’ needs before our own and show Christ’s love to the world.

    2. Evangelism and Witness

     

    The Christian community is a powerful witness to the world. Jesus prayed for the unity of His followers, so "that they may be one as we are one—I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me" (John 17:22-23). The love and unity within the Christian community show the world the truth of the Gospel.

    Evangelism is often most effective when done in community. When non-believers see the genuine love and support within a Christian community, they’re often drawn to learn more about the faith that brings the community together. The community acts as a living example of Christ’s transforming power.

    3. Challenges and the Need for Authenticity

    While Christian community has great power to bring us closer to Christ, it also faces challenges. Because it’s made up of people, conflicts, misunderstandings, and disappointments can happen. It’s important for Christian communities to deal with these challenges with grace, forgiveness, and a commitment to being real and honest with each other.

    1. Handling Conflicts

    Conflict is a normal part of any community, but how we handle it can either strengthen or weaken our relationships. The Bible teaches us how to resolve conflicts by talking directly, forgiving each other, and seeking reconciliation (Matthew 18:15-17). When we address issues openly and with humility, Christian communities can grow stronger.

    Being real and vulnerable

    For a Christian community to truly be effective, it needs to be a place where people can be real and vulnerable. Believers should feel safe to share their struggles, doubts, and failures without fear of judgment. This level of honesty helps build deep relationships and allows the community to support each other better.

    Being real also means recognizing that no community is perfect. As Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote in his book *Life Together*, “He who loves his dream of a community more than the Christian community itself becomes a destroyer of the latter.” True community isn’t about being perfect; it’s about walking together in faith, love, and grace, even when things aren’t perfect.

     

    Conclusion: Drawing Closer to Christ through Community

    The power of Christian community lies in its ability to help us grow closer to Christ. Through shared faith, encouragement, accountability, and service, the community helps us grow spiritually and strengthens our faith. It also provides a supportive environment where we can carry each other’s burdens, live out our Christian calling, and be a witness to the world.

    But for a Christian community to be effective, it must be committed to being real, united, and loving. By embracing these principles and dealing with challenges with grace, Christian communities can fulfill their role as the body of Christ, helping each member grow closer to Him.

    In a world that often values individualism and self-reliance, the Christian community stands out as a place where we can find strength, support, and encouragement. It’s within this community that we find the help we need to draw closer to Christ and to show His love to the world around us.

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