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Showing posts from July, 2025

VBS MATHARE NORTH

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  God’s Big Story of Redemption Theme Verse: “That in all things he might have the preeminence.” — Colossians 1:18 (KJV) Big Idea: The Bible is one great story—from creation to new creation—showing how God is saving sinners through Jesus Christ. Day 1: Creation – God Made Everything Good Main Text: Genesis 1–2 Memory Verse: “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.” — Genesis 1:1 Key Truths: God is the Creator of all things—He made the world, animals, and people. Everything God made was “very good” (Genesis 1:31). God made man in His image to know Him and glorify Him (Genesis 1:26–27). Application: God made you and knows you. Your life has value because you're made in His image. We are made to worship and obey God. Day 2: The Fall – Sin Entered the World Main Text: Genesis 3 Memory Verse: “Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin...” — Romans 5:12 Key Truths: Adam and Eve disobeyed God’s command and sin...

Church History 1

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  CHURCH HISTORY INTRO SERIES Lesson 1: The Origin and Meaning of the Church Objective: To understand what the “church” means, its origin, and how God’s people have gathered for worship throughout the Bible, leading up to the church in the New Testament. 1. What Is the Church? Definition of "Church" in Different Languages: Hebrew (קָהָל - qahal ) – means an “assembly” or “gathering.” It referred to the people of Israel when they assembled before God (e.g., Deut. 9:10). Greek (ἐκκλησία - ekklēsia ) – literally means “called out ones” or “assembly.” Used in the New Testament to refer to the community of believers in Christ (Matt. 16:18). Latin (ecclesia) – adopted from Greek, keeping the same meaning. English (Church) – comes from the Greek word kyriakon meaning “belonging to the Lord.” So the Church is “the people who belong to the Lord.” ✅ Key Verse (Memory) : Matthew 16:18 – “And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will buil...

Alcoholism In The Bible

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Alcoholism in the Bible: A Biblical and Cultural Examination Introduction Alcohol is one of the oldest substances known to man, mentioned throughout the Bible. While Scripture does not explicitly forbid the use of alcohol, it clearly and repeatedly warns against abuse —especially drunkenness (alcoholism) . In this paper, we will examine the biblical view of alcohol, show how alcoholism is portrayed as sinful and ungodly , and address confusing passages that some may wrongly interpret as allowing unrestricted drinking. We will also contrast the biblical cultural context with contemporary attitudes toward alcohol. 1. Defining Alcoholism Biblically The Bible does not use the modern word alcoholism , but it describes the behavior and its effects. In Scripture, drunkenness refers to the state of being controlled or impaired by wine or strong drink. The modern term alcoholism refers to habitual and uncontrolled drinking that impairs judgment, destroys health, and leads to sinful be...

Holiness Vs Righteousness

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  Biblical Distinction Between Righteousness and Holiness An Examination from Hebrew, Greek, Latin, and English Usage Introduction In Christian theology and biblical interpretation, the terms righteousness and holiness are often used together and sometimes interchangeably. However, Scripture treats them as distinct concepts with different emphases. Both are attributes of God and essential aspects of Christian life, yet they differ in meaning, origin, and application. This paper explores the linguistic and theological distinction between righteousness and holiness , drawing from Hebrew (Old Testament), Greek (New Testament), Latin (Vulgate), and English to give a precise understanding rooted in Scripture. I. Righteousness in Scripture A. Hebrew: צֶדֶק ( tsedeq ) / צְדָקָה ( tsedaqah ) Meaning : Conformity to a standard; that which is morally right or just. Used of both God’s justice (Gen. 18:25, Ps. 11:7) and man's upright conduct (Deut. 6:25). Also conveys legal...

Church and State

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CHURCH AND STATE  One Lord, Two Realms: Guarding the Distinction Between Church and State In every age, the Church is tested—not only by persecution or false teaching, but by the subtle temptation to merge with political power. This often comes as opportunity: when the State favors the Church or offers to fund its work. At times, Christian leaders, though well-intentioned, seek spiritual influence through political alliances. Recent remarks by Kenya’s president about building a multi-billion-shilling church in State House are one example of this ongoing challenge. The goal here is not to judge his intentions, but to use this moment to stir the Church toward truth, clarity, and doctrinal faithfulness. What does Scripture teach about the relationship between Church and State? How have God’s people misunderstood or abused this relationship? And why must we guard this distinction—not only for the Church’s purity but also for society’s peace? In Matthew 22:21 , Jesus gives one of t...

1st Corinthians

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Introduction to 1st Corinthians 1. Understanding the City of Corinth: The World the Church Lived In To understand the book of 1st Corinthians, we must first understand Corinth , the city where the believers lived. Corinth was not just any city—it was one of the most important and influential cities in the Roman Empire during the time of the Apostle Paul. Location and Importance Corinth was located on a narrow strip of land called the Isthmus of Corinth , between the Aegean Sea and the Ionian Sea in present-day Greece. This location made it a major trade hub . All ships traveling from east to west passed through Corinth. Goods from across the empire—Italy, Asia Minor, Egypt, and beyond—flowed in and out of its ports. Economic Life Corinth was a wealthy city , full of traders, business people, craftsmen, and sailors. Because of trade, the city became rich, and many people came seeking fortune. However, with wealth came pride, luxury, and indulgence in sin. The rich flaunted thei...