OH, FOR A FAITH THAT WILL NOT SHRINK

 

Kkk

The lessons of the early church in the book of Acts are for the church today. It is said, "The whole of the book of Acts should receive careful study." It is full of precious instruction; it records the passionate faith in God of His people. It records the experiences in evangelistic work, educational history in practical godliness, and a strong community of believers in the kingdom of God with missionary living.

According to Acts 1:1-5, the author of the book is Dr. Luke. The book was addressed to Theophilus, with whom he was pleasantly associated to him who received much instruction and great light.

The history of the early church focuses on its struggles against apostasy. This was a time described by a period of decline from the purity. This time was also marked by the introduction of pagan practices and doctrines, culminating in the establishment of the Roman Catholic Church.

This was also a time described by great prosecution. Despite this ultimate challenge, the early church held fast to the Bible, which was their ultimate source of truth and light in a world of confusion and darkness.

These are the ten key takeaways from the early church.

1. They had a passionate Faith:

The early Christians had a deep, transforming encounter with the risen Christ, staking their lives on their faith.

 

2. They were a community church and rich with fellowship:

They were deeply committed to one another, sharing meals and resources, and supporting each other.

 

3. They worship GOD only:

Early Christian worship was simple, powerful, and focused on praising God and expressing gratitude.

 

4. They were encouraged by God and encouraged one another under Persecution:

The early church thrived despite facing persecution, demonstrating resilience and a steadfast faith.

 

5. They were full of unity in diversity:

The early church included people from various backgrounds and social classes, demonstrating that all are one in Christ.

 

6. They were a living church of which everyone was a missionary:

Early Christians actively shared the Gospel with those outside their community, seeing themselves as ambassadors for Christ.

 

7. The church was a formation of growing disciples:

New believers underwent a period of teaching and training before being baptized, emphasizing the importance of spiritual growth.

 

8. The early church had radical generosity:

They cared for the poor and needy, demonstrating a practical expression of their faith.

 

9. They had strong Leadership:

The early church had clear leadership structures, with elders and deacons providing guidance and care.

 

10. The early church had eschatological hope:

The early church lived in anticipation of Christ's return, which shaped their perspective and actions.

 

Yes, the early church highlighted to the world through the power of the Holy Spirit the importance of self-distrust, humility, and a teachable spirit, drawing parallels between the early church's experiences and the challenges facing God's church today.

The early church emphasized that harmony and unity among believers, despite differences in personalities, they served together as a powerful witness to the world.

The early church took time to warn all against disunity and strife, because these things, if permitted, would weaken the church.

The early church stressed the importance of brotherly love, sympathy, and empathy among its believers, which would bind the church together in love.

The early church encouraged all believers to "keep close to the Word of GOD" in the practice of their faith and allow GOD to lead them. For they who are led by the spirit of the LIVING GOD are the sons and daughters of GOD.

"The hymn "O for a Faith That Will Not Shrink" was written by William Hiley Bathurst, an Anglican clergyman, in the 19th century. He was inspired by the biblical verses in 1 John 5:4, which speaks of faith overcoming the world, and Luke 17:5, where the apostles ask Jesus to increase their faith. The hymn explores the qualities of a strong, enduring faith, particularly in the face of trials and adversity."

"The hymn's lyrics express a longing for a faith that is steadfast and resilient, one that doesn't waver or succumb to fear or doubt when confronted with challenges. It speaks of a faith that can endure trials, remain steadfast in the face of adversity, and find strength in God during difficult times."

The lyrics of the song are:

1

"O, for a faith that will not shrink,

Though pressed by many a foe,

That will not tremble on the brink of poverty,

Of poverty or woe; Of poverty or woe;

2

That will not murmur or complain

Beneath the chastening rod,

But in the hour of grief or pain, of grief or pain

Can lean upon its God; Can lean upon its God.

3

A faith that shines more bright and clear

When tempests rage without;

That when in danger knows no fear, knows of no fear,

In darkness feels no doubt; In darkness feels no doubt.

4

That bears unmoved the world’s dread frown,

Nor heeds its scornful smile;

That sin’s wild ocean cannot drown, no, cannot drown,

Nor its soft arts beguile; Nor its soft arts beguile.

5

Lord, give me such a faith as this,

And then, whate’er may come

I’ll taste, e’en here the hallowed bliss, the hallowed bliss

Of an eternal home; Of an eternal home."

In closing let us never forget the history of the early church.

The early church studied the word of GOD for themselves to know Him and trust in His holy promises and use them as weapons against false theories and temptations.

The early church emphasized to one another the importance of self-distrust, and recognizing that true wisdom comes from GOD alone.

The early church encouraged unity in diversity and for all to develop their gifts and talents for the finishing of the work of God on the earth.

The early church encouraged all to cultivate moral energy and a sense of individual responsibility.

The early church encouraged the youth to take up their responsibilities and show loving interest in their parents, relieving them of burdens. Teach the youth to have self-control and be willing to be guided by the Spirit of God in making wise decisions.

As we go through our day, let us focus on these lessons from the early church. Now, may we all be watchful, be kind, be unified, be more loving to all men as we seek to strengthen the faith of another. Lastly, let us avoid controversy while clinging to our faith in GOD and HIS WORD.

May the peace of the Lord go with you. 

By GARDEN MINISTRY 

THE REAL HEROES’

TODAY'S MESSAGE COVERS SOME OF BERMUDA'S HISTORY AND THE REWARD OF THE FAITHFUL. 

"National heroes are generally beneficial for societies as they can inspire positive values, offer role models, and foster a sense of unity and national identity. However, the concept of a hero and their actions can be complex and subject to reinterpretation over time." This is why "A balance approach that recognizes both the positive contributions and potential pitfalls of celebrating national heroes is crucial for fostering a healthy and informed society." 

National Heroes Day in Bermuda is celebrated on the third Monday in June. On this day, Bermudians honor individuals who have made significant contributions to the island's society and development. This day was first established in 2008 to replace the Queen's Official Birthday holiday, initially observed in October. The day serves to recognize the legacies of National Heroes and their impact on Bermuda's history, heritage, and culture. 

(Mr. John Richardson - Professional carpenter of Bermuda)

Throughout history, we have seen or read about the works of many great leaders and heroes. Some of these great leaders and heroes could be members of our household. They could have been our mother, father, aunt, or uncle. They could have been a grandmother, a grandfather, a sister, or a brother. They could have been a cousin, a neighbor, a work colleague, or a friend. 

They could have been someone you read about through history, whose life stood out as a beacon that lit the path of those who followed their honesty, positivity, righteousness, and truth. “Some of these Bermudian National Heroes include Dame Lois Browne-Evans, Dr. Edgar Fitzgerald Gordon, Dr. Pauulu R. N. O. B. Kamarakafego, Sir Henry James "Jack" Tucker, Mary Prince, Gladys Misick Morrell, Sir Edward Richards, and Sir John W. Swan.”

Throughout history, the greatest leader and example the world has ever known is Jesus. Jesus was also the greatest teacher the world ever knew. He presented truth in clear, forcible statements, and the illustrations He used were of the purest righteousness and highest order. Because He was honest, He never mingled cheap symbols and figures with His divine instruction, or sought to pander to curiosity or to gratify the class that will listen simply to be amused. He did not bring sacred truth down to the level of the common men.

His positive words were of the purest and most elevated... He did not humble the truth to meet man in his fallen condition, and lower the standard of righteousness to suit his degradation; but He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross, in order that He might save the race that had been degraded by transgression. It was not His purpose to abolish by His death the law of God, but rather to show the immutability of its sacred claims. It was His purpose to “magnify the law, and make it honourable,” so that everyone who should look upon Him who died on the cross of Calvary should see the unanswerable argument of the perfect truth of the law...

He rescued truth, eternal truth, from the base companionship of error, and commanded it to shine forth in all its brightness and heavenly luster. He set the truth on high, in order that like a light it might illuminate the moral darkness of the world.... Jesus restored truth that had been cast out, to its royal order, and invested it with its true importance and dignity.

Today, as we reflect upon these heroes of our past and present who have crossed the path of enduring great hardship and victories through time, bringing words of encouragement, their lives serve as an example of hope and action for us who live in this generation. 

True leaders and heroes do not serve for money or fame. They served because it is the right thing to do! TRUE LEADERS AND HEROES ALLOWED GOD TO USE THEIR TALENTS AND GIFTS FOR THE FURTHERING OF TRUTH AND THE UPLIFTING OF ALL MANKIND. 

The Bible says that it is at the second coming of Jesus that the saints shall receive their great reward. These humble, true leaders and heroes will exclaim, free at last, free at last, thank God Almighty free at last. 

The second coming of Jesus Christ is the "keynote" of the Bible, meaning it's the central, foundational message of the scriptures. It is not just one doctrine among many, but the central theme that unifies and gives meaning to all other biblical teachings. 

The promise of Christ's return is also a source of hope and a driving force for believers, highlighting its importance for both the individual and the church. It is not just a theological point, but a call to action, encouraging believers to live holy lives and share the message of hope with others. The song, the MID-NIGHT CRY, echoes the theme of this hope.

If you would like to listen to the song, go to the link below and copy it. 

Watch Midnight Cry - Chaplain Kevin Santucci on YouTube Musichttps://music.youtube.com/watch?v=gYshoipFB3E&si=WONgVn_wVykRt-wB 

HAPPY HEROES’ DAY AND MAY GOD BE WITH YOU. Blessings, Blessings, Blessings 

By GARDEN MINISTRY